I have to confess, while I love many things in this life, few bring me as much joy as a tall glass of homemade iced coffee. And once I learned how to make cold brew coffee at home, there was no going back.

This easy cold brew coffee recipe has become a simple staple in our kitchen. Whether I’m sipping it black and bold or dressing it up with a splash of heavy cream, it feels like a little daily ritual. Pumpkin spice? Yes, please. Peppermint mocha? Absolutely. And don’t even get me started on salted caramel. It shows up around here more often than I care to admit.

The best part? Making homemade cold brew coffee concentrate is incredibly simple. No fancy equipment. No coffee shop runs. Just coffee, water, and a little patience.

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Bold and delicious cold brew coffee with almond creamer.

Hello I am Brianna, and I am an iced coffee addict.

No, seriously. If there were a 12-step program for homemade cold brew coffee, I would probably need to join. To me, coffee is more than just a beverage. It is an experience.

Feeling sad? Have a cup. Feeling tired? Have a cup. Running errands, meeting a friend, working on a new project? Have a cup.

There are not many things in life that coffee does not make more enjoyable. Of course, a world without coffee could still be lived well. It just is not the kind of life I am trying to build around here.

Building Our Manor, for instance, requires coffee. All the planning, renovating, DIY projects, and cleaning up after those projects can drain both mental and physical energy. A glass of homemade cold brew coffee is my reset button. It renews my focus and gives me the boost I need to keep moving forward.

Learning how to make cold brew coffee at home has been one of those small, simple skills that supports the bigger dreams. It saves money, tastes better than the coffee shop, and keeps our little homestead running strong.

Coffee beans arranged in a heart shape with a mug and spoon on a white background.

Coffee can also have several benefits:

Reduces Depression (of course it does, it is joy in a cup!)
Boosts energy
Improves focus
Improves physical performance
Reduces risk of heart disease, diabetes, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s
reduces risk of cancer
May aid in weight loss
Full of antioxidants

Of course, we do have to remember, myself included, to enjoy this beverage in moderation. Some of those benefits can quickly disappear if we are constantly filling our cups with sugary syrups and processed creamers.

I am not saying you should never enjoy a flavored latte. Coffee is meant to be savored, and life is meant to be lived. But on an everyday basis, it can be wise to reach for healthier alternatives.

Thankfully, there are so many delicious options that still feel indulgent. I will be sharing more homemade coffee recipes very soon so you can enjoy your daily cold brew without sacrificing flavor.

What is Cold Brew Coffee?

Cold brew coffee is a smooth, rich coffee concentrate made by steeping coarsely ground coffee in cold or room temperature water for an extended period of time. Most cold brew recipes recommend steeping for 12 to 24 hours. The longer it steeps, the bolder and stronger the flavor will be.

Once strained, the cold brew coffee concentrate is diluted with water or milk to taste. It can be served over ice, blended into frozen coffee drinks, or even gently warmed and enjoyed hot.

Cold brew coffee is known for its smooth, naturally sweeter flavor and lower acidity compared to traditional iced coffee. It also has a richer, almost velvety consistency that many people prefer.

Can You Make Cold Brew With Decaf Coffee?

Yes, absolutely.

If you are sensitive to caffeine, you can easily make decaf cold brew coffee at home. I have done this several times myself. Simply prepare it the same way you would with regular beans. The process for making cold brew coffee is exactly the same whether you use fully caffeinated or decaffeinated coffee.

Do I need a cold brewing machine to cold brew coffee at home?

No, you do not need a cold brew machine to make cold brew coffee at home.

One of the best parts about this easy cold brew coffee recipe is that it requires very little equipment. All you truly need is a large jar, coarsely ground coffee, water, a tea towel, and a bowl for straining.

This was how I made homemade cold brew coffee for years. It always turned out delicious, though I will admit it could be a bit messy.

Now I personally use a simple cold brew coffee maker jug, which makes the process cleaner and more convenient. They are typically affordable and well worth it if you plan to make cold brew coffee regularly. I will explain both methods below so you can choose what works best for your kitchen.

How to Make Your Own Homemade Iced Coffee

First, choose your favorite coffee. You can freshly grind the beans or get a bag of already ground coffee. I love Death Wish coffee. It is absolutely delicious!

Bag of ground coffee and a cold brew making jug.

Next, pour 1 cup of coffee grounds into the metal strainer of the coffee jug or into your glass jar.

Then add water. If using the coffee jug, fill to the max fill line. If using my original method, add 5 or 6 cups of water directly into the jar with the grounds (the amount is dependent on if you like a really strong brew or not.)

Water is being poured into a strainer with coffee grounds.

Place the lid on and let steep for 12 to 24 hours. The longer you brew, the stronger your coffee will be.

do it yourself cold brew coffee in a coffee jug

Well, look at that. If this coffee were a soap opera, it would be The Bold and the Beautiful.

How To Strain Your Cold Brew Coffee

Once your cold brew coffee concentrate has finished steeping, it is time to strain it.

Using The Coffee Maker Jug

If you are using a cold brew coffee maker jug, this step is very simple. Gently lift the built-in strainer and allow the remaining coffee to drain into the jug. Replace the lid, give it a light shake, and your homemade cold brew is ready to enjoy.

Using the Original Jar Method

If you are using the original jar method, line a large mixing bowl with a clean tea towel. Carefully pour the contents of the jar into the towel-lined bowl.

Gather the edges of the towel together and lift. Twist from the top, allowing the liquid to strain into the bowl while the coffee grounds remain inside. Continue twisting gently until most of the liquid has been extracted. You should be left with a compact bundle of coffee grounds inside the towel.

If you prefer, you can also use a fine mesh metal strainer for this step.

Rinse your glass jar, then pour the strained cold brew coffee concentrate back in. Secure the lid, give it a stir or shake, and it is ready to dilute and serve.

And whatever you do, do not use your favorite tea towels. The original method will likely stain them. I always kept a few simple towels set aside as my “coffee towels” for this exact reason.

One more thing..Do not discard those used coffee grounds! They are incredibly useful in the garden. Read more here about how to use your coffee grounds and food scraps to create a nutrient rich compost for your plants!

Cold brew coffee in a mason jar with ice ready to enjoy as a cozy breakfast beverage.

Enjoy it black, or add your favorite creamers to customize the flavor to match your mood for the day.

I hope you love making your own cold brew coffee at home with this easy method. It is a simple, economical way to support your daily coffee habit without constant trips to the coffee shop. Truly, it feels like having your own little café right in your kitchen. And honestly, what could be better than that?

Like making your own beverages at home? Why don’t you try making your own delicious probiotic rich water kefir soda? Check this easy to make beverage by visiting this post.

Top view of a bubbly red berry drink with blueberries and currants.

How To Make Your Own Cold Brew Coffee

Wouldn't it be amazing to have a coffee shop in your own kitchen? Well, this will not give you that but it is a close second! Cold brew coffee is very easy to make and an economical choice compared to your daily Starbucks trips.

Print Recipe

Prep Time:5

Cook Time:5

Brew Time:1

Total Time:1 10

Equipment

1 Cold Brew Jug I bought mine on Amazon for $20
1 Glass Jar (If using the traditional method)
1 Large Mixing Bowl (original method)
1 Tea Towel (original method)

Ingredients

1 Cup Ground Coffee of choice Can also use decaf coffee
6 Cups Water

Instructions

First, measure 1 cup of ground coffee (you may grind the beans yourself or use pre-ground coffee) and add it to the metal strainer of your coffee jug. If using the Original method, pour grounds directly into your glass jar.
Next, add your water. Fill to the max fill line in the coffee jug. If using the original method, add 5 or 6 cups of water (depending on how strong you want your coffee to be) directly to the jar with the coffee grounds.
Put the lid on and place in your fridge for 12-24 hours. Choose the longer time if you like a bolder taste.
Now that the coffee has slow brewed for several hours, it is time to separate the grounds from the coffee. If you are using the coffee jug, simply remove the strainer from the jug, replace the lid and shake. Enjoy!
If you are using the original method, line a mixing bowl with a tea towel and pour the contents of the jar into the bowl.
Grab the corners of the towel and make them meet. Lift the towel from the bowl and grab the bottom with your hand. Twist until all of the liquid is squeezed back into the bowl. Set aside your coffee grounds.
Pour the bowl contents into the jar, place on the lid, and shake. Enjoy!

Notes

Keep refrigerated. Cold brew coffee will last about a week or so before it starts to lose its flavor.

Course: Beverage, Breakfast

Keyword: breakfast, coffee, cold brew, easy to make, made from scratch

Servings: 6 Cups

Serving Suggestions

Cold brew coffee is wonderfully versatile, and you can enjoy it exactly the way you like. If you prefer to keep things simple, pour it over ice and sip it plain for a smooth, low-acid cup with bold flavor.

For a touch of natural sweetness, stir in a drizzle of honey, maple syrup, or simple syrup. These dissolve much better in cold brew coffee than granulated sugar, making them perfect for iced drinks.

If you want to dress it up a bit, add a splash of cream, half-and-half, or your favorite dairy-free milk. A dash of vanilla extract, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a swirl of homemade flavored syrup can turn your kitchen into a cozy little coffeehouse.

And here is a fun trick. Cold brew coffee is not just for iced drinks. You can gently heat it on the stovetop or in the microwave for a smooth, rich cup of hot coffee that is often less bitter than traditional brewing methods.

Chilled glass of iced coffee on a table with a straw, ideal for a cool refreshment.

Storage & Shelf Life

One of the best things about cold brew coffee is that it keeps beautifully in the fridge. Once strained, your cold brew concentrate will last about 7–10 days in a sealed container. If you’ve already diluted it with water or milk, plan to enjoy it within 2–3 days for the best flavor.

For storage, I love using mason jars, flip-top glass bottles, or any airtight container that fits neatly in your refrigerator door. A spouted dispenser is also handy if you’re making a large batch for the week.

You’ll know your cold brew coffee has gone past its prime if it starts to taste sour, loses its smooth flavor, or develops a strange odor. Trust your senses, and when in doubt, pour it out and make a fresh batch.

Ingredient & Method Variations

Cold brew coffee is wonderfully forgiving, and small adjustments can make a big difference in flavor. Start with a coarse grind for your coffee beans, which helps prevent over-extraction and keeps your brew smooth and balanced.

The water you use also matters. Filtered water will give a cleaner taste, though good-tasting tap water can work as well.

For a little extra flavor, try adding whole spices, a cinnamon stick, or citrus peels to your coffee as it steeps. These subtle additions give your cold brew a cozy, unique twist without overpowering the coffee’s natural richness.

Aesthetic coffee pouring scene with glass, ice, almonds, cinnamon, and rustic decor.

A stylish coffee cocktail served in a glass with a vibrant orange peel garnish.

Close-up view of aromatic roasted coffee beans, perfect for caffeine lovers.

FAQs

Can you make cold brew without special equipment?
Yes, you can! All you need is a jar or pitcher and a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth. Simply combine coarsely ground coffee with water, let it steep in the fridge, then strain out the grounds. No fancy tools required.

Is cold brew less acidic than hot coffee?
Yes, cold brew is naturally lower in acidity than hot-brewed coffee. The slow, cold steeping process extracts fewer acidic compounds, which makes the coffee taste smoother and gentler on the stomach. Many people find it easier to enjoy without the usual bitter or sour notes.

Can you heat up cold brew?
Yes, you can gently heat cold brew on the stovetop or in the microwave. It creates a smooth, low-acid hot coffee that tastes different from traditionally brewed hot coffee but is equally delicious.