Cold brew coffee has become a favorite among coffee enthusiasts like me for its rich, smooth flavor and refreshing nature. Now, what is so different about a cold brew? Unlike traditional hot brewing methods, cold brew is made by steeping coarse coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period, typically 12 to 24 hours. And what does it do to your coffee? This method extracts a unique flavor profile that is less acidic and more concentrated, making it ideal for a variety of palates. Read on to know about the best coffee beans for cold brew.
Personally, I don’t like coffee that is too strong, as it badly affects my gut health. So, cold brew is what I choose in my day-to-day life. However, the success of your cold brew depends heavily on the coffee beans you choose. Here, I will share a detailed guide to the best coffee beans for cold brew and how to select the perfect ones for your needs. So, let’s move on to CJ’s beans guide.
Related: Pop and Bottle Cold Brew Coffee | Can it replace Starbucks?
If you don’t want to make cold brew at home, pop and bottle cold brew can be the best option for you. These cold brew coffees come packed with plant-based milk and healthy goodies, making your sipping journey guilt-free.
There are a couple of things you need to keep in mind to have the best cold brew experience, such as:
Degree of Roasting
The flavor of your cold brew is greatly influenced by the roast level:
- Medium to Dark Roasts: These are the most preferred as they provide rich chocolate, nut, or caramel-like flavors. Also, these beans are zealous yet create a smooth brew with suitable sweetness and low acidity.
- Light Roasts: While less common for cold brew, they can work if you enjoy floral and fruity flavors. However, light roasts are acidic in nature, which may disrupt the flavor profile of cold brews due to their abstraction.
Thickness of the Ground
- Grind the coffee on a coarse setting for cold brewing. This limits over-extraction, which enhances bitterness while preserving the flavor. Coarse grinds also make the coffee last longer.
Cold Brew Coffee Sweetening
- Chocolate, nutty, and caramel beans are ideal for cold brews as they complement the general sweetness while providing smooth undertones.
- For those who prefer something more adventurous, fruity and spicy beans can add complexity to the cup.
Rejuvenation of Beans
- Always use fresh beans roasted by reliable suppliers or roasters. This preserves the unique attributes of the coffee and ensures optimal flavor.
8 Best Coffee Beans for Cold Brew
Stone Street Coffee Cold Brew Reserve
- Origin: 100% Arabica beans
- Flavor Profile: Smooth, rich, and low in acidity with chocolatey undertones.
- Why It’s Great: Specially designed for cold brew, these dark-roast beans deliver a consistently velvety texture and deep flavor. Also, perfect for those who love bold yet smooth coffee.
Stack Street Organic Cold Brew Coffee
- Origin: Colombian Supremo
- Flavor Profile: Bold and full-bodied with a low-acid finish.
- Why It’s Great: Organic and single-origin, this coffee is ideal for those who prefer a deep, robust flavor. Also, it’s a reliable choice for a no-fuss, high-quality cold brew.
Cold Brew Lab Organic Coarse Ground Coffee
- Origin: Colombian Supremo
- Flavor Profile: Medium-dark roast with balanced notes of chocolate and caramel.
- Why It’s Great: Specifically designed for cold brewing, this blend ensures a smooth and flavorful cup. And its organic certification adds peace of mind for health-conscious consumers.
Kicking Horse Coffee—Smart Ass Medium Roast
- Origin: A blend from Africa, Central, and South America
- Flavor Profile: A bright and balanced mix of chocolate, sugarcane, and berry notes.
- Why It’s Great: This versatile medium roast is organic and fair trade, making it an ethical and flavorful choice for cold brew enthusiasts who enjoy a slightly fruity twist.
. Lifeboost Organic Medium Roast
- Origin: Nicaragua
- Flavor Profile: Smooth and creamy with chocolate and nutty undertones.
- Why It’s Great: Lifeboost’s beans are low-acid and chemical-free, perfect for sensitive stomachs. The flavor is clean and pairs beautifully with the cold brewing process.
Intelligentsia Frequency Blend
- Origin: A blend from Central and South America
- Flavor Profile: Sweet and balanced with hints of chocolate and mild fruitiness.
- Why It’s Great: Known for its clean, bright flavors, this blend is perfect for coffee lovers seeking complexity in their cold brew.
Verve Coffee Seabright House Blend
- Origin: Central and South America
- Flavor Profile: Milk chocolate, caramel, and subtle red fruit notes.
- Why It’s Great: This blend creates a rich, smooth cold brew with just the right amount of sweetness, making it an excellent choice for beginners and seasoned cold brewers alike.
Blue Bottle Coffee Bright Cold Brew Blend
- Origin: A blend designed specifically for cold brewing
- Flavor Profile: Nutty and slightly fruity with a clean finish.
- Why It’s Great: Crafted by one of the most renowned specialty coffee brands, this blend provides a unique and refreshing cold brew experience.
Tips for Making the Perfect Cold Brew
Use Filtered Water
- Make sure to use filtered water. Also, the quality of water influences the taste of your coffee, and filtered water ensures a consistently clean and strong flavor.
Adjust the Coffee-to-Water Ratio
- A common ratio is 1:4 (coffee to water by weight), but you can dilute the concentrate to your preferred strength after brewing.
Steep Time and Temperature
- Steep your grounds in cold water for 12–24 hours, depending on your flavor preference. Longer steep times yield a stronger and richer brew.
Store Properly
- After steeping, filter the coffee and store the concentrate in an airtight container in a cold area. And consume it within two weeks for optimal taste.
Conclusion
Choosing the right beans is the first step to perfecting cold brew coffee. From the dark, rich aroma of Stone Street Coffee Cold Brew Reserve to the complex notes of Intelligentsia Frequency Blend, there’s a variety of options for every preference. Start with shorter brewing times and experiment until you find your ideal flavor. Remember, the beans make a dramatic difference in the overall taste of your cold brew.