As temperatures rise and summer approaches, there's nothing quite like a refreshing cup of cold brew or iced coffee to keep you cool and energized. Whether you're starting your day, taking a break from work, or heading to the beach, these chilled coffee drinks are perfect companions. In this guide, we'll explain the differences between these two drinks, show you how to prepare them, and share some expert tips.
The Difference Between Iced Coffee and Cold Brew
While both iced coffee and cold brew are served cold, they are quite different in preparation and flavor profile. Iced coffee is made by brewing hot coffee and then cooling it down, typically resulting in a lighter and more aromatic drink. Cold brew, on the other hand, is made by steeping coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period, producing a smoother, less acidic, and more concentrated coffee. This difference in preparation means that cold brew often has a richer, deeper flavor, while iced coffee retains more of the original coffee's bright notes.
How to Prepare Cold Brew Coffee
Ingredients:
Coarsely ground coffee (we recommend Taylor Lane's Goat Rock Roast)
Cold, filtered water
A large jar or pitcher
A strainer or cheesecloth
Instructions:
- Measure and Mix: Start with a ratio of 1 cup of coarsely ground coffee to 4 cups of cold, filtered water. Adjust the ratio to taste.
- Combine: In a large jar, pitcher, or cold brew maker, mix the ground coffee with the water. Stir well to ensure all the coffee grounds are saturated.
- Steep: Cover the container and let it steep in the refrigerator for 12-24 hours. The longer it steeps, the stronger the flavor.
- Strain: After steeping, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove the coffee grounds. Transfer the cold brew concentrate to a clean jar or pitcher. Note: you can skip this step if using a cold brew maker.
- Dilute and Serve: Dilute the cold brew concentrate with water or milk to your preferred strength. Serve over ice and enjoy!
How to Prepare Iced Coffee
Ingredients:
Freshly brewed hot coffee (we recommend Taylor Lane's Goat Rock Roast)
Ice cubes
Milk or cream (optional)
Sweetener (optional)
Instructions:
- Brew the Coffee: Brew a pot of hot coffee using your preferred method. Goat Rock Roast’s bold and rich flavor profile makes it an excellent choice for iced coffee.
- Cool Down: Let the coffee cool to room temperature. For faster cooling, you can transfer the coffee to a heat-resistant container and place it in the refrigerator.
- Prepare the Glass: Fill a glass with ice cubes. For a creamier texture, you can fill the glass halfway with ice and halfway with milk or cream.
- Pour and Sweeten: Pour the cooled coffee over the ice. Add sweetener if desired, and stir well. Enjoy your refreshing iced coffee!
Tips for Enjoying Cold Brew and Iced Coffee
Daily Routine: Cold brew and iced coffee are great for your daily routine. Prepare a large batch of cold brew at the start of the week for a quick, energizing morning drink or a refreshing afternoon pick-me-up.
Beach Days: Prepare a large batch of cold brew in advance and store it in a thermos to keep it cold all day. It's a perfect pick-me-up after a swim or a relaxing companion while sunbathing.
Camping Trips: Brew your cold brew or iced coffee at home and pack it in a cooler. It’s a delightful way to start your mornings in the great outdoors. Don’t forget to bring reusable cups!
Picnics: Pour your cold brew or iced coffee into mason jars with lids for an easy-to-transport, spill-proof option. Pair it with your favorite picnic foods for a refreshing treat.
Summer is the perfect time to experiment with cold brew and iced coffee. These methods not only keep you cool but also bring out different flavor profiles in your favorite coffee. Whether you’re enjoying a moment of calm during your busy day or relaxing outdoors, a well-prepared cold brew or iced coffee can elevate your coffee experience. So go ahead, brew up a batch, and enjoy the season’s adventures with a delicious cold coffee in hand. Cheers to a refreshing summer!