If you’re looking for a delicious, refreshing caffeine fix this summer, you might be wondering whether to try cold brew coffee or cold brew concentrate. While you’re exploring these options, have you considered the cold brew and espresso comparison?
Now, back to our main topic, what’s the difference between cold brew and cold brew concentrate? Both are coffee drinks made with cold water, but they have distinct characteristics.
Cold brew is a weaker, more diluted drink, while cold brew concentrate is a stronger, more intense version of the same drink.
Many coffee shops and cafes are now selling their own cold brew, and you can also buy cold brew concentrate in stores. If you’re looking for a caffeine boost during the summer, then cold brew or cold brew concentrate is a great choice.
So, what’s the difference between cold brew coffee and cold brew concentrate? Let’s take a closer look.
What is Cold Brew Coffee?
In recent years, cold brew coffee has become increasingly popular. If you’re not familiar with it, cold brew coffee is simply coffee that is brewed using cold water instead of hot.
For those interested in diving deeper into the world of cold brew, our cold brew method guide offers a comprehensive look at the brewing techniques and variations. This guide ensures you get the most flavorful and refreshing cup every time.
This brewing method results in a less acidic, smoother cup of coffee that many people find to be more enjoyable than traditional brewed coffee.
In addition, because the beans are never exposed to heat during the brewing process, cold brew coffee also retains more of its natural nutrients and antioxidants.
Brewing Process
When it comes to cold brew coffee, the brewing process is key. To make your own cold brew at home, you’ll need coarsely ground coffee beans, a Mason jar or French press, and filtered water.
- First, add your desired amount of coffee beans to the jar or press. For every two cups of water you’ll be using, add one cup of beans.
- Then, add enough filtered water to cover the beans and stir well. After that, cover the jar or press it with a lid and let it sit on your countertop for 12-24 hours.
When the brewing time is up, slowly pour the coffee concentrate through a cheesecloth-lined strainer into another jar or glass carafe.
If you used a French press, simply depress the plunger gently until all the liquid has been strained. Once strained, your cold brew concentrate will keep in the fridge for up to two weeks—so feel free to make a big batch at once! When you’re ready to drink it, simply mix equal parts concentrate and water (or milk), add ice, and enjoy.
Recipes to Try
Now that you know how easy it is to make your own cold brew concentrate at home, why not experiment with some fun recipes? Cold brew cocktails are all the rage these days—and for good reason! They’re refreshing, easy to make, and can be tailored to fit any flavor preference. Here are a few recipes to get you started:
- The Classic: Cold brew coffee + milk + sugar (to taste) + ice cubes = one delicious cup of joe! Add a little whipped cream on top for an extra special treat.
- Dirty Chai Latte: 1 part cold brew concentrate + 1 part chai tea + 2 parts milk + sugar (to taste) = a delicious twist on a classic latte recipe. Simply combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Serve over ice for best results.
- Coffee Mojito: 1 part cold brew concentrate + 2 parts sparkling water + mint leaves + lime wedges = the perfect summertime beverage! Simply combine all ingredients (minus sparkling water) in a glass or mason jar and muddle until mint leaves are slightly crushed and lime juice is fully extracted. Add ice cubes and sparkling water, give it a gentle stir, and enjoy!
Coldbrew Coffee is delicious! It has grown significantly in popularity in recent years mainly due to its smooth taste when compared to traditional brewed coffees which can often be quite acidic.
The brewing process for cold brew is also simple if followed correctly as listed above which allows users to maintain control of their level of acidity/smoothness. Recipes are also included for fun ways to turn your boring cup of joe into something new like adding dirty chai tea or even making a glass full of mojito!
What is Cold Brew Concentrate?
Cold brew coffee has become increasingly popular in recent years for its smoother taste and lower acidity. As a result, more and more people are looking for ways to make cold brew concentrate at home.
Cold brew concentrate is coffee that is brewed at a lower temperature over a longer period of time. This results in coffee that is less acidic and has a smoother taste.
In addition, because cold brew coffee is less bitter, many people find that they can drink it black or with minimalitives added and still enjoy the flavor.
Benefits of Cold Brew Concentrate
There are several benefits to cold brew concentrate. In addition to being less acidic, cold brew coffee is also higher in caffeine.
This is because the lower brewing temperature extracts more caffeine from the beans. For those who are trying to cut down on their caffeine intake, cold brew concentrate can be diluted with water or milk to create a beverage with less caffeine.
Unraveling the nuances between cold brew and concentrate? Dive deeper with our cold brew’s standout benefits guide. Discover the wellness perks behind your favorite chilled brew!
How to Make Cold Brew Concentrate at Home
Making cold brew concentrate at home is easy! All you need is coarsely ground coffee, water, and a glass jar or pitcher. Simply combine the coffee and water in a glass container and stir well.
Then cover the container and let it sit overnight (or for at least 12 hours). The next day, strain the mixture using a cheesecloth or fine-mesh strainer.
Tips for Enjoying Cold Brew Concentrate
There are many ways to enjoy cold brew concentrate. If you like your coffee sweetened, simply add some sugar, honey, or your favorite syrup.
For an afternoon pick-me-up, try adding a shot of espresso to your cold brew concentrate. Or, for a refreshing summer treat, mix your cold brew concentrate with seltzer water and serve over ice.
The Difference Between Cold Brew Coffee and Coffee Concentrate
Both methods, cold brew and cold brew concentrate, can be served black or with milk, but the main difference between the two is in the ratio of ground coffee to water.
Cold brew coffee is made with a higher ratio of ground coffee to water, while cold brew concentrate is made with a lower ratio of ground coffee to water.
This results in different flavors – cold brew concentrate is stronger and needs to be diluted before drinking, while cold brew is less strong and can be consumed as-is or diluted.
Coffee concentrates are oftentimes sold in liquid form to be diluted with water or milk depending on personal preference.
The Difference Between Making Cold Brew and Making Cold Brew Concentrate
Cold brew is made by steeping ground coffee in cold water for an extended period of time, usually 12-24 hours. The result is a smooth, rich, and slightly sweet coffee drink that is low in acidity.
Cold brew concentrate is made by brewing ground coffee with cold water as usual, but then straining the coffee grounds out and boiling the liquid down until it is thick and syrupy. This concentrated liquid can be stored in the fridge and diluted with cold water when needed.
Confused about the difference between cold brew and cold brew concentrate? The key might be in the ratio. Dive into our Cold Brew Concentration Ratios guide and master the art of cold brewing.
So which one is better? It really depends on what you’re looking for. Cold brew is great if you want a smooth, low-acidic coffee drink, while cold brew concentrate is perfect if you want a strong, flavorful coffee that you can customize to your own taste.
Unraveling the differences between cold brew and its concentrated counterpart? Enhance your understanding by diving into the Cold Brew Concentrate Vs. Iced Coffee comparison. Discover the depths of these delightful brews!
Unraveling the nuances between cold brew and concentrate? Dive deeper with our health benefits of cold brew guide. Discover the wellness perks behind your favorite chilled brew!
