DIY Cold Brewed Coffee

Have you ever wondered how to make some delicious tasting coffee for cheaper than what you can get it at your local shop? Well, I have recently discovered Cold Brewed Coffee. I was skeptical at first, but after some research and giving it a try, I will never go back to hot drip coffee. It is *gasp* better than Dutch Bros or Starbucks! And so much cheaper! Here is what I do:

1. Measure out 1/3 cup coffee grounds (coarse are the preferred grind, apparently, but I only have fine ground which has worked just fine for me) and 1 1/2 cups cold water.
2. Add both to a container that you can cover (with a lid or saran wrap). I used a pitcher with a lid.
3. Cover and let sit for 12-24 hours. I put it in the fridge, but I’ve also seen some who put it on the counter.
4. After your time is up (the longer you let it set, the more caffeine it will have, and the richer it will be) use a second pitcher or container and strain it. I used a mesh strainer that fit just right on top of my pitcher and cheesecloth (but I bet a coffee filter would work fine too).
5. Then enjoy!

I serve mine over ice and add flavored creamer. Or you can skip the ice and add milk and caramel syrup. I have a friend who blended it with vanilla ice cream and ice (which sounds delicious! If you want to add sugar, sugar won’t dissolve well since its cold, BUT I would recommend making a simple syrup which would blend nicely. (Dissolve sugar on the stove in boiling water and store in a squeeze bottle or other container) Then you can add it to your cold brewed coffee. You can also serve it hot; just nuke it in the microwave!

Why would someone want cold brewed vs. hot brewed coffee? It is richer, more caffeinated and  has less acidity! Coffee usually can sometimes give people heartburn from the acid, but us coffee drinkers need our caffeine in the morning and this is the perfect fit. This stuff doesn’t give heartburn and it gives even more caffeine! Plus, it’s so delicious! You also don’t need a coffee pot on your counter! Just put that space taking machine away in the cupboard to save space for other things in your kitchen. Another bonus, it’s cheap!  The straining does take some time, but make up a big batch and it will last you 2-3 days so you don’t have to strain every morning. You could also set it up in the morning then do your straining before you go to bed (which should give it at least 12 hours to set) so you just have to pour and enjoy in the morning!

I was a loyal Dutch Bros Coffee drinker. (If you are not familiar with Dutch Bros, you should move to the west coast, as it is fabulous!) This cold brewed coffee is so much better than any coffee shop I have ever tasted, and if you know me that is saying a lot!

By Tiffany, Fun 2B Frugal Contributor