My fear of cold brew began in college. It was finals week, and coffee wasn’t a luxury but a lifeline. My best mate, Alex, handed me a cup of cold brew, promising it would change my coffee world.
It did, but not in the way he thought. It was bitter, almost sour, unlike the experience I had hoped for, and that moment stuck with me. For years, I avoided cold brew as much as I could.
But one fine day, when I was working as a barista, my boss handed me a cold brew he’d made himself. Of course, I couldn’t have turned my boss down.
That sip of cold brew was eye opening. It was smo-oth and rich, with a hint of natural sweetness and none of the bitterness I had come to associate with cold brew.
My boss, seeing my surprised reaction, shared his secret with me. He explained that his beans were specially selected for cold brew. It's not the brewing process; it's the beans!
And today, I’m here to share all the secrets of the best coffee for cold brew in the UK with you. Over time, I’ve tested and evaluated many beans and am finally sharing the top cold brew coffee brands.
What Is Cold Brew Coffee?
Cold brew coffee is a smooth, rich coffee concentrate that is less acidic and bitter than traditional hot brewed coffee.
It is made by steeping coarsely ground coffee beans in cold water for an extended period, usually 12-24 hours.
Cold Brew Making Method
You must know how to brew the best cold brew beans right to make the most out of the best cold brew beans. And if you’re looking for DIY cold brew coffee techniques, I’ve got you covered.
Cold brew is super easy and perfect for those lazy, sunny days. There are two main ways to do it: Immersion and Cold Drip.
Let me use my professional barista experience, but in easy words, to walk you through it so you can easily recreate it at home.
Cold Brew Immersion Method.
The Immersion Method for cold brew coffee is like making a big jug of sun tea.
You just mix coarsely ground coffee with cold water and let it sit. Usually, you leave it in your fridge overnight or for about 12-24 hours.
The longer it steeps, the stronger it gets. Then, just strain out the grounds, and voila – you've got a smooth, rich cold brew ready to drink!
Cold Brew Cold Drip Method
Now, the Cold Drip Method is more fancy. You need special equipment, including a cold drip tower and other cold brew coffee accessories.
Water drips slowly over the coffee grounds, taking about 3-5 hours. This method gives you a coffee that's lighter and more nuanced in flavour compared to immersion. It's a fun way to impress your friends with your barista skills!
Both methods are great, and it's all about your taste and how much time you want to spend.
I’ll share a complete, step-by-step guide on how to make cold brew at home with you later in this post. So keep going; many cold brew coffee tips are coming your way.
Pros of Cold Brew Coffee:
Can cold brew be your next favourite coffee beverage? Here are some cold brew coffee benefits to help you make up your mind:
| Pros | Description |
|---|---|
| Cold brew coffee flavours | Less acidic and bitter, offering a naturally sweeter, smoother taste. |
| Less Acidity | It is easier on the stomach and ideal for those with acid sensitivity. |
| Versatility in Strength | Can be diluted to the preferred strength without losing flavour |
| Long Shelf Life | Can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks (you should have access to the best coffee storage containers to keep your coffee fresh) |
| Refreshing Quality | Especially enjoyable in warm weather, served over ice. |
| Low Heat Preparation | It is ideal for warm climates or environments where heating is an issue. |
Cons of Cold Brew Coffee
Here are some cons of home brewing cold brew:
| Cons | Description |
|---|---|
| Time-Consuming Preparation | It takes 12-24 hours to steep, requiring planning. |
| Special Equipment (Cold Drip) | Cold drip method may require special, potentially expensive equipment. |
| Less Aromatic | Lacks the rich aroma associated with hot brewed coffee. |
| Higher Coffee-to-Water Ratio | Uses more coffee grounds than traditional brewing methods. |
| Limited Varietal Flavours | Some of the complex flavours in the coffee beans may need to be more pronounced. |
| Requires Refrigeration | It takes up fridge space and needs to be kept cold. |
Where To Buy Coffee Beans For Cold Brew (Top 3 Picks)
Finding the best coffee for cold brew is no walk in the park. Wondering why?
Just think about it. To find the best coffee beans for cold brew, inspect each brand's reputation and online reviews before spending money on them. And take it from me, a coffee expert; that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
And to choose the best cold brew brand, you must spend loads of time researching, which eats into your already hectic schedule. I’ve been through this, so I know.
It is quite an unproductive journey because many brands claim to have the best coffee for cold brews. It overwhelms you, and you don’t know which one to try first.
And most of these brands are expensive, so one wrong move and you’ll lose money too.
But don’t worry!
I’ve got you. I used my decade long professional coffee industry experience and knowledge to do the legwork for you.
Using well-thought-out evaluation criteria, I have researched and meticulously analysed the best coffee for cold brews for you.
Check it out for yourself:
| Criteria | Description | How It Helps You |
|---|---|---|
| Quality and Freshness of Beans | Beans should be freshly roasted and of speciality grade. | Fresh beans of speciality grade give maximum flavour and aroma. |
| Bean Type | Arabica or Robusta, or a blend. | Arabica is typically smoother; Robusta is more robust. |
| Roast Type | Preference for light, medium, or dark roast. | Affects the flavour intensity and acidity level. |
| Flavour Profile | Look for flavour notes like chocolate, nutty, fruity, etc. | Ensures the brew matches your taste preferences. |
| Grind Size | Suitable for coarse grinding. | Coarse grounds are ideal for cold brew extraction. |
| Ethical Sourcing | Beans should be ethically and sustainably sourced. | Supports responsible farming practices and sustainability. |
| Customer Reviews | Feedback from other consumers. | Provides real-world insights into the quality and experience. |
This is how I chose the best coffee beans for cold brew in the UK. Do you know what the best part is? The top brands in this table also give FREE shipping!
What’s more? Each brand recommended below are ones I have personally bought and used. the deliveries are FAST.
Here are my top three picks.
These three brands were rigorously tested against the criteria and outperformed all, just like in my experiment for the best coffee beans in the UK.
And brand like Balance Coffee offer a £5 discount to 1st time customers to enjoy a smooth rich cup of cold brew coffee free from mould.
| Product | Benefits | where to buy |
|---|---|---|
Dark Fire Energy |
|
Save £5 Now |
Origin Coffee |
|
Shop Now |
House Espresso |
|
Shop Now |
What Type of Grind is Best for Cold Brew?
A coarse grind for cold brew is ideal. This larger grind size allows for a slower extraction process, which is key for cold brewing and makes it the best grind size for cold brew.
It prevents over-extraction and bitterness, ensuring a smooth, rich flavour in your final cup of cold brew coffee.
What Kind of Roast is Best for Cold Brew?
Medium to dark roasts are best for cold brew. These roasts bring out rich, chocolatey, and nutty flavour profiles that cold brew is known for.
Light roasts can be used but often yield a more acidic and fruity cup, which might not be preferred in cold brew.
What Origin of Coffee is Best for Cold Brew?
Based on my coffee industry experience, there’s no single best origin for cold brew, depending on your taste preference. Some people prefer single-origin coffee for cold brews.
For example, beans from Latin America and Africa are popular choices.
Latin American beans have chocolate and nutty notes, while African beans provide fruity and floral flavours, adding complexity to cold brew.
10 Brands That Sell the Best Coffee Beans For Cold Brew
And now, for the moment that you’ve been waiting for, what's the best coffee for cold brew at home? Below, you’ll find my top ten picks.
Each brand delivers the best coffee for cold brew in the UK. Their beans are fresh, of premium quality, have delicious flavour profiles, and have earned the stamp of approval of customers.
I tried and tested each one (some more than once), so you have nothing to worry about. So let’s jump in, shall we?
1. Balance Coffee UK: Halcyon Decaf
- What I Like:
- Healthy and speciality grade coffee, free of the nasties
- Best organic coffee for cold brew
- The rich, balanced flavour with chocolate, plum, and spice notes.
- Ethically sourced from Fair Trade cooperatives in Colombia.
- Decaffeinated using the natural CO2 method.
- What I Don't Like:
- The price is higher because of premium quality.
Okay, so full disclosure: I own the brand, but that’s not why I think it has the best coffee for cold brew. So, what makes my coffee so good?
What Makes It One of The Best Cold Brew Coffee Beans in the UK?
I founded Balance Coffee in 2020 after discovering that 95% of our coffee is commercial grade with nasties like mould, mycotoxins and pesticides.
At Balance, I source 100% premium Arabica and speciality grade coffee beans. My coffee has 1000 antioxidants and Vitamin B3.
The beans are fresh, mouthwateringly delicious, healthy, and give you a burst of energy. It is also sourced ethically from the top 5% of global coffee suppliers.
It's stellar quality, has amazing reviews, and is perfect for a healthy boost. It's the kind of coffee you can count on daily and never feel disappointed.
Making and Drinking Experience:
Preparing this coffee was a breeze, whether ground fresh or pre-ground (you can order both). The brewing process was straightforward and enjoyable.
I’ve always loved my Halycon coffee, but I particularly enjoyed how it matched up to cold brew this time.
The first sip of the cold brew revealed a smooth, rich flavour with a delightful balance of sweet and spicy notes.
It showcases the depth of its Colombian origins and is one of the best coffee gifts you can share with your loved ones.
Before and After Taste:
Initially, the chocolate notes hit the palate, followed by a subtle sweetness reminiscent of stone fruits.
The aftertaste brought a pleasant hint of spice, adding complexity to the overall flavour profile. It was an experience that evolved with each sip.
Customer Reviews and My Verdict:
Customer reviews echoed my sentiments, praising the beans' well-rounded flavour and ethical sourcing.
Many of my customers also love how my healthy coffee helps them focus better and leaves them feeling more energised.
The only small downside is that it is slightly pricier than the average coffee bag on store shelves. However, it's worth the quality.
And for those seeking a decaf option without sacrificing taste, Balance Halcyon Decaf is a winner. Its unique flavour profile and ethical sourcing make it a standout choice for cold brew enthusiasts.
Click here to try out the Halycon Decaf Beans For Yourself
You can also get some big savings for your pocket by getting our coffee subscription. It also means you’ll get a regular and fresh supply of healthy coffee, so you never run out!
2. Pact Coffee: Chapada Brazil
- What I Like:
- The complex flavours of milk chocolate, jam, and biscuit.
- Directly sourced from Marcus Carvalho's farm in Brazil.
- The ethical and direct relationship approach of Pact Coffee.
- What I Don't Like:
- Limited options for those who prefer a lighter roast.
Having personally tested the Pact Coffee Chapada Brazil for cold brew, it is one of the best choices, especially for those who enjoy a medium roast.
What Makes It One of The Best Cold Brew Coffee Beans in the UK?
With the mission to reduce intermediaries in the supply chain, Pact Coffee offers an impressive selection of beans, including the Chapada Brazil.
This particular variety is not just the best coarse ground coffee for a cold brew but also suitable for those who fancy an espresso-based cold brew.
Making and Drinking Experience:
Brewing the Chapada Brazil was an experience in itself. Suitable for whole and ground use, the beans offered a rich, aromatic brewing process.
The drink was exceptionally smooth when I prepared it as a cold brew. I also enjoyed the robust flavour profile when I drank it with milk.
Before and After Taste:
The initial taste was a delightful blend of milk chocolate and jam. This then transitioned into a subtle biscuit-like aftertaste.
For me, it was reminiscent of a decadent Black Forest gateau, a treat for the taste buds.
Customer Reviews and My Verdict:
Customers have raved about the unique flavour profile and the ethical sourcing of the beans.
While some may find the lack of lighter roast options a drawback, the overall quality and taste experience make it a top choice.
The Pact Coffee Chapada Brazil is a testament to the brand's commitment to quality and ethical practices, making it a superb pick for coffee lovers like us.
3. Clumsy Goat: Peruvian Coffee
What I Like:
- The rich, nutty, and caramel flavour profile.
- Sustainably and ethically sourced from cooperatives in Peru.
- Fair Trade certified, ensuring responsible sourcing.
What I Don't Like:
- There is limited variety for those seeking different roast levels or flavour complexities.
After personally trying the Clumsy Goat Peruvian coffee for my cold brew, I was genuinely impressed by its quality and flavour.
These beans reminded me of some of the best coffee beans in the world I tried on my trip to many countries. These beans are unique and worth your money.
What Makes It One of The Best Cold Brew Coffee Beans?
With its medium roast level, clumsy Goat's Peruvian coffee originates from the CECOVASA group in the Lake Titicaca region of Peru.
The coffee, grown on the slopes of the Andes with natural shade, is a testament to the brand's commitment to sustainable and ethical practices.
The beans are also organic and healthy. Speaking of health, you should try out mushroom tinctures for some amazing health benefits.
Making and Drinking Experience:
I found brewing Clumsy Goat Peruvian pretty straightforward and enjoyable. Grinding it fresh for cold brew enhanced the flavours significantly as a whole bean coffee.
The medium-bodied coffee delivered a perfect balance when brewed, whether enjoyed black or with a dash of milk. It had the best coffee bean roast for cold brew.
Before and After Taste:
I loved the initial roasted nuts flavour, which smoothly transitioned into rich caramel notes.
The aftertaste lingered pleasantly, with subtle chocolatey undertones, making each sip a delightful experience.
Customer Reviews and My Verdict:
Customers have praised the Clumsy Goat Peruvian's rich flavour and ethical sourcing.
While some may desire more variety in roast and flavour, you will love the brand's overall quality and ethical commitment to best practices.
But if the Peruvian option differs from what you're looking for, Clumsy Goat offers a range of other single origins and blends. All of them are sustainably sourced and Fair Trade certified.
This coffee is a great choice for those who appreciate a good cup and value ethical practices in their coffee sourcing.
Click here to try Clumsy Goat’s Peruvian Coffee
4. Rave Coffee: Indian Monsoon Malabar Review
What I Like:
- Unique, rich flavour profile with chocolate, cedar, and smoke notes.
- The intriguing historical monsooning process used for the beans.
- Versatility in being available in both whole and ground forms.
What I Don't Like:
- The distinct flavour might not suit everyone’s palette.
While researching more brands to test which coffee bean is the best for cold brew coffee, Rave came to mind. This brand has never disappointed me.
Rave Coffee's Indian Monsoon Malabar was an intriguing addition to my cold brew journey.
What Makes It One of The Best Cold Brew Coffee Beans?
So, like their other beans, this dark roast coffee is freshly roasted. It has a delicious flavour profile because the beans undergo the traditional monsooning process.
This process dates back to the 19th century, but it still does wonders.
It involves exposing the beans to monsoon conditions, increasing their size and reducing acidity. This gives the beans their delectable and unique flavours, which I enjoyed.
Making and Drinking Experience:
Brewing the Indian Monsoon Malabar was an adventure in itself. Once I brewed the beans after grinding them, it gave me woody and smoky aromas.
This then translated beautifully into the cold brew.
Ultimately, I had a smooth beverage with a notable depth in its flavour profile, courtesy of the chocolate undertones.
Before and After Taste:
I loved the smoky and cedar notes, which led to a smooth chocolate finish.
The aftertaste was a pleasant blend of these complex flavours, leaving a memorable impression on the palate.
Customer Reviews and My Verdict:
This coffee has received mixed reviews, largely due to its unique taste.
But if you like a bold, distinctive flavour profile, you will find the Rave Coffee Indian Monsoon Malabar to be a delightful choice for your cold brew.
The rich, smoky flavour makes it a must-try if you love coffee adventures like me.
5. Origin Coffee: Cold Brew
What I Like:
- Premium quality, unique washed Ethiopian beans from Konga Washing Station.
- Commitment to environmental sustainability and quality.
- Commitment to premium coffee cultivation
What I Don't Like:
- Limited availability and potential exclusivity of these unique coffees.
I’ve been following Origin Coffee for quite some time. They’ve also supplied me with fresh and premium quality beans, so I had to try out their Cold Brew pack.
What Makes It One of The Best Cold Brew Coffee Beans?
The beans I tried, sourced from the Gedeb, Yiragcheffe region, were washed at the Konga Washing Station.
This gave the freshly roasted beans a unique, bright flavour profile suitable. All in all, it is one of the best coffee beans for cold brew. With these beans, you can expect to enjoy a refreshing cold brew.
Making and Drinking Experience:
Brewing this coffee as cold brew was a transformative experience.
The unique environmental conditions and careful processing of the beans were evident in each sip. I enjoyed the flavour as I simultaneously read up on their rich heritage.
Customer Reviews and My Verdict:
Customers who value their coffee's taste and ethical aspects, like me, will find these beans amazing.
The commitment to quality in every cup makes these coffees a remarkable choice for cold brew lovers looking for something special.
6. Assembly Coffee: House Espresso
What I Like:
- Exquisite tropical fruit and cocoa flavours, ideal for cold brew.
- Ethical and sustainable sourcing from El Guayaquil Farm.
- Unique flavour complexity enhances the cold brew experience.
What I Don't Like:
- The distinct, intricate flavours might overwhelm those who prefer traditional cold brew profiles.
Initially, I got the Assembly House Espresso to brew myself espresso coffee. Then, I decided to try it out for my cold brew recipe, too.
And the results turned out to be a pleasant surprise for me!
What Makes It One of The Best Coffee Beans for Cold Brew?
These coffee beans are sourced from El Guayaquil Farm's caturra lot, which makes their flavour outstanding.
Originating from the fertile region of Cajamarca, Northern Peru, this coffee combines a balanced process of 80% washed and 20% natural methods.
Their unique flavour profile is especially compelling when cold brewed.
Making and Drinking Experience:
Transitioning this coffee from espresso to cold brew was a delightful experiment.
I ground the beans and then brewed them. This released rich flavours, with the cocoa and tropical fruit notes becoming more pronounced and harmonious in the cold brew method.
I loved this refreshingly full-bodied drink.
Before and After Taste:
Initially, I tasted a refreshing burst of tropical fruits.
The aftertaste lingered pleasantly on my taste buds, with the cocoa notes leaving a lasting, sweet impression.
Customer Reviews and My Verdict:
Customers who have tried this as a cold brew, like me, note its unique and complex flavour profile, appreciating the high-quality and sustainable approach of Assembly Coffee.
While some may find the flavour profile a bit adventurous for cold brew, it offers a premium and distinctive experience.
7. Union Roasters: Gajah Mountain Sumatra
What I Like:
- Rich flavour profile with dark chocolate and treacle notes.
- High-quality, speciality coffee at an affordable price.
- Ethical sourcing and fresh, hand-roasted-to-order approach.
What I Don't Like:
- The distinct earthy taste might not suit all palates.
Union Gajah Mountain Sumatra has been a delightful discovery in my cold brew journey.
Union Coffee Roasters are among the best coffee roasters in the UK and have never disappointed me.
What Makes It One of The Best Cold Brew Coffee Beans?
I love how this dark roast, single-origin coffee comes from the mountains of Aceh in Sumatra and boasts a cupping score of 84. This makes it speciality-grade coffee.
The beans undergo a traditional wet-hulling process, typical of Sumatran coffees. This gives the beans a lovely earthy flavour, which I enjoyed.
The brand also has amazing reviews and always uses fresh, premium-quality beans. You should use them in your cold-brew coffee recipes.
Making and Drinking Experience:
So, first things first, I ground the coffee beans using my coffee grinder.
Then, I brewed it. Once I started brewing, the coffee released the rich aromas of dark chocolate and a hint of smokiness.
Before and After Taste:
Initially, I found the dark chocolate notes to be more prominent.
But later on, I was pleasantly surprised by the treacle's deep, molasses-like sweetness. The aftertaste was pleasantly earthy, with a well-rounded, syrupy finish.
Customer Reviews and My Verdict:
Customers have praised Union Gajah Mountain Sumatra's rich flavours and ethical sourcing practices.
While its earthy notes may be an acquired taste for some, the overall experience and value for money make it an excellent choice for us cold brew lovers.
It was one of the best cheap coffees for cold brew I tried for this guide.
8. Coffee Masters: Colombian Cold Brew
What I Like:
- Bright flavour profile with orange, chocolate, and nuts.
- Fair Trade and OF&G Organic certifications ensure ethical and quality sourcing.
- Specifically selected and tested for cold brew.
What I Don't Like:
- It is only available in ground form, which might limit freshness for some enthusiasts
The Coffee Masters Colombian Cold Brew, a light roast selection, has stood out in my cold brew coffee makers list.
What Makes It One of The Best Cold Brew Coffee Beans?
Originating from the Medellin area in Colombia, these beans have delicious fruity and floral tasting notes with chocolatey and nutty qualities.
The premium quality and flavour profile make them well-suited for cold brew, even with its light roast profile.
Making and Drinking Experience:
Brewing this coffee was a refreshing experience. I was halfway through my experiment and wanted to try the best coffee grounds for cold brew.
And despite being available only in ground form, the flavours were vibrant and well-preserved.
I loved the pronounced chocolate notes. Also, they were nicely complemented by a caramel sweetness and had a hint of bright orange acidity.
Before and After Taste:
I got a delightful burst of orange in my first sip. Then, I tasted a deep chocolate flavour.
And the aftertaste was a satisfying mix of nuttiness and caramel sweetness, leaving a lasting impression.
Customer Reviews and My Verdict:
Customers appreciate the unique flavour combination and the ethical credentials of this coffee. Many customers think this is one of the best cold brew coffee grounds.
While some might prefer whole beans for maximum freshness, the overall quality and suitability for cold brew make Coffee Masters Colombian a solid choice.
Its commercial testing ensures a high-quality brew.
You’ll enjoy this coarse ground coffee for your cold brew. It's ideal for you if you’re looking for an ethically sourced, organic, and light-roast option.
9. Cherry Storm: No. 17 Blend
What I Like:
- A rich blend of flavours from Brazil, Peru, and Honduras.
- Versatile chocolate and praline milk profile, enjoyable with or without milk.
- Freshly roasted in small batches in the UK.
What I Don't Like:
- It is not specifically designed for cold brew, which might affect the optimisation of flavours.
Cherry Storm No. 17 has been a delightful discovery in my coffee journey. Although these beans aren’t specifically made
What Makes It One of The Best Cold Brew Coffee Beans?
While single-origin coffees are often preferred for cold brew, Cherry Storm’s No. 17 blend showed me that a well-crafted blend can be just as exquisite.
The combination of beans from Brazil, Peru, and Honduras, all 100% Arabica, results in a beautifully balanced cup.
In my experience, Arabica beans are better than Robusta for cold brew coffee.
Making and Drinking Experience:
Brewing this blend was a treat. The medium roast level gave me enjoyable milk chocolate and praline notes.
The blend worked wonderfully, both black and with milk, offering versatility in taste preferences.
Before and After Taste:
The initial taste was smooth milk chocolate, seamlessly transitioning into a sweet, praline flavour. The aftertaste was pleasant, leaving a sweet, satisfying note on my palate.
Customer Reviews and My Verdict:
Customers love the blend’s rich flavour and freshness thanks to Cherry Storm's small-batch roasting approach.
Although not specifically crafted for cold brew, its chocolatey profile makes it an excellent choice for you if you’re looking for one of the best coffee bean blends for cold brew.
10. Coffee Bros: Cold Brew Blend
What I Like:
- Unique flavour combination of brown sugar, tart berries, and chocolate.
- 100% Arabica beans, ensuring a high-quality, gourmet experience.
- The roaster's commitment to customer satisfaction.
What I Don't Like:
- There is a need for immediate grinding upon arrival for optimal freshness.
What Makes It One of The Best Coffee Beans for Cold Brew?
Coffee Bros. Cold Brew Blend is hands down one of the best coffee beans for cold brew.
Why, you ask?
Its medium roast, combined with the complexity of 100% Arabica beans for cold brew, gives you an intriguing and satisfying flavour profile.
I also love the blend's unique combination of molasses-like brown sugar, tart berries, and sumptuous chocolate. It's like a mini gourmet experience inside your house while making a cold brew.
Making and Drinking Experience:
I had to grind the beans fresh and then brew them quickly. It took some time, but I liked the process; it was nothing too hard.
The aroma during the grinding process was enticing, and the resulting cold brew was rich and full of depth.
I enjoyed the varied flavour notes.
Before and After Taste:
Upon the first taste, the sweetness of brown sugar was prominent, soon followed by the unexpected tartness of berries.
Then, I tasted a luxurious chocolate finish that created a pleasing, satisfying aftertaste.
Customer Reviews and My Verdict:
Customers love the unique and complex flavour profile and the freshness and quality of the beans. Though the need for immediate grinding might be a slight inconvenience, the overall quality and flavour experience make it worthwhile. Coffee Bros.
This cold brew blend is perfect if you want a gourmet cold brew experience.
Favourite Cold Brew Recipe
My favourite cold brew recipe is made with my Balance Coffee Halcyon Decaf beans. So, what makes this cold brew recipe so special for me?
This recipe stands out because of its rich, balanced flavour profile, which perfectly combines chocolate, plum, and spice notes.
What makes this recipe even more special is the use of these particular beans – they are healthy, speciality-grade, and free from harmful additives.
The beans are ethically sourced from Fair Trade cooperatives in Colombia and decaffeinated using natural CO2.
All of this gives me a guilt-free coffee experience and energises me.
Some More Reasons Why It's My Favorite:
- Flavour Depth and Health Benefits: The Halcyon Decaf beans give the cold brew unparalleled depth of flavour, with a smooth, rich taste highlighted by sweet and spicy notes.
Additionally, these beans are loaded with antioxidants and Vitamin B3, offering a health boost with every sip.
- Ethical and Quality Assurance: Knowing that my coffee is ethically sourced and of the highest quality adds to the enjoyment. These beans are from the top 5% of global coffee suppliers and always give me a premium experience.
- Decaf without Compromise: This recipe is a dream come true for those who love coffee but want to avoid caffeine. The decaf process doesn't compromise the flavour, so I enjoy a rich coffee experience anytime without the caffeine kick.
- Versatility and Ease of Preparation: Whether using freshly ground beans or pre-ground, the brewing process is straightforward and enjoyable. Also, the Halcyon Decaf beans are versatile and adapt beautifully to the cold brew method.
How Do You Make Cold Brew At Home (Step-by-step guide)?
Making cold brew coffee at home is surprisingly simple and requires no fancy equipment. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you create a delicious batch of cold brew in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Coarse-ground coffee: about 1 cup (Use a good quality bean like Balance Halcyon Decaf for best results)
- Cold, filtered water: about 4 cups
- Optional: Milk, sugar, or flavourings to taste
Equipment You’ll Need
- A large jar or pitcher
- A long spoon for stirring
- Fine-mesh sieve or a coffee filter
- Cheesecloth or a nut milk bag (if using a sieve)
- Coffee grinder (if you’re using whole beans, which is recommended)
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Grind Your Coffee Beans (if necessary): If you’re using whole beans, grind them to a coarse consistency, similar to breadcrumbs. This size is ideal for cold brewing, allowing optimal flavour extraction without overdoing it.
- Combine Coffee and Water: Combine the ground coffee with 4 cups of cold, filtered water in your jar or pitcher. The general ratio is 1 cup of coffee to 4 cups of water, but you can adjust this depending on how strong you like your cold brew.
- Stir Gently: Give the mixture a gentle but thorough stir to ensure the grounds are wet and begin brewing.
- Let It Steep: Cover the jar or pitcher and place it in the refrigerator. Let it steep for about 12-24 hours. The longer it steeps, the stronger and more flavorful your cold brew will be.
- Strain the Brew: After steeping, strain the coffee using a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth or a coffee filter. You can also use a nut milk bag. This step removes all the coffee grounds from your brew.
- Serve and Enjoy: Your cold brew concentrate is ready. You can dilute it with water or milk according to your taste. Serve it over ice for a refreshing drink. Feel free to add sugar or flavourings as desired.
- Store Remaining Cold Brew: Store any leftover cold brew in the refrigerator. It typically stays fresh and tasty for up to two weeks.
Tips for Success:
- Always use fresh, high-quality beans for the best flavour.
- Adjust the brewing time and coffee-to-water ratio according to your taste preferences.
- Experiment with different coffee beans to find your favourite cold brew flavour.
- Enjoy the process and the delicious result of your homemade cold-brew coffee!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Difference Between Cold Brew And Iced Coffee?
Cold brew is steeped in cold water for 12-24 hours for a smooth flavour, whereas iced coffee is hot brewed coffee cooled and served over ice, typically more acidic and bitter.
What Is The Difference Between Cold Brew And French Press?
Cold brew is coffee grounds steeped in cold water over time, producing a smoother taste while French press uses hot water and a shorter brew time for a more immediate, robust flavour.
What Coffee Does Starbucks Use For Their Cold Brew?
Starbucks uses a specially roasted blend of Latin American and African beans for their cold brew, tailored to enhance its sweet, smooth characteristics.
When Should I Use My Cold Brew Coffee Beans?
Cold brew coffee beans are best used within two weeks of roasting for a smooth, less acidic coffee, ideal for hot days or a gentler coffee experience.
Are Any Specific Brands Or Coffee Blends Known For Producing Exceptional Cold Brew Coffee?
Brands like Balance Coffee, Pact Coffee and Clumsy Goat are renowned for their cold brew blends and premium quality, freshly roasted coffees, offering flavours well-suited for cold brewing.
What Brewing Methods Are Best Suited For Making Cold Brew Coffee At Home?
Immersion brewing in a jar or dedicated cold brew maker and slow drip using a cold drip coffee maker are the best methods for homemade cold brew.
Should I Use A Cold Brew Concentrate Or Regular-Strength Coffee For My Cold Brew?
Use cold brew concentrate for a stronger coffee that can be diluted, offering flexibility in strength and flavour, while regular strength is ready to drink but less adaptable.
Is It Necessary To Use A Specific Roast Level Of Coffee For Cold Brew?
Medium to dark roasts are often preferred for cold brew, as they provide a smoother, more chocolatey flavour profile that suits the cold brewing process.
Can I Use Pre-Ground Coffee For Cold Brew, Or Is Freshly Ground Coffee Better?
Freshly ground coffee is ideal for cold brew due to better flavour retention, but pre-ground coffee can be used conveniently, preferably with a coarse grind.
Conclusion
To wrap it up, my journey with cold brew coffee has been full of surprises and revelations.
From that initial disappointing sip in college to the eye-opening experience under my boss's guidance, I've learned that the secret to a perfect cold brew is the choice of beans.
The best coffee beans for cold brew will make you love this drink, especially on hot summer days.
From evaluating light roast vs dark roast for cold brew and analysing cold brew brands in detail, I’ve done all the legwork for you.
Whether you’re finding the best coffee for nitro cold brew or the ideal coarse ground coffee for cold brew - there's a match for all tastes. And my list of top ten has all this covered.
So, don’t worry and feel free to order the best coffee beans for cold brew today. You won’t be disappointed.
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