Best Coffee for Cold Brew
Have you ever found yourself craving a caffeinated beverage that wakes you up like no other while offering a delectable flavor for your taste buds? For many people, a simple cup of black coffee does the trick, but that's not the case for everyone.
The caffeine kick that drip coffee for pour overs offer isn't always enough. Thankfully, for those of you who desire a drink with a stronger kick without compromising on taste, cold brew exists. The main difference that sets cold brew apart from the crowd is its brewing process, which starts with choosing the right coffee.
In fact, your choice of beans can impact your taste profile and overall experience with cold brew, so it's important to know how to choose the best coffee for cold brew. Keep reading to catch a glimpse of the full picture and understand why cold brew is gaining so much popularity these days — and rightfully so!
Cold Brewing vs Other Methods: Why Choosing the Right Coffee Beans Matter
Cold brewing is one of many options when it comes to making coffee. There are a few fundamental characteristics of cold brewing that set it apart from other brewing methods. When it comes to extraction, cold brewing extracts flavors differently than hot brewing, which inherently alters the taste of the beans.
Additionally, cold brewing yields lower levels of acidity and less bitterness than other ways of brewing coffee. In turn, the flavor of the beans is often more pronounced in cold brew than cups of coffee prepared in other ways.
That's partly why it's so important to be mindful about the type of coffee beans for cold brew. The roast level will significantly influence the flavor of the cold brew. As a general rule of thumb, lighter roasts exhibit subtle notes while darker roasts carry deep richness.
Do You Need Special Coffee for Cold Brew?
No, you don't need special coffee for cold brew. You can technically use any beans that your heart desires. However, there are a handful of considerations worth keeping in mind if you want to yield the tastiest results possible.
For starters, reflect on your personal taste preferences. How do you like your coffee? Many people prefer a smooth and sweet flavor profile rather than bitter or acidic coffee. If that sounds like you, then the best coffee beans for cold brewing are medium to dark roast and coarsely ground coffee beans!
Speaking of coarsely ground coffee, the grind size is a detail worth paying attention to as well. Since cold brewing involves steeping coffee for long periods of time, a coarse grind is key because coarsely ground beans will prevent over extraction. In turn, the final product won't taste bitter. On a similar note, always use the freshest coffee possible!
Yet another factor to think about is whether you'll opt for a blend of coffee beans or stick with a single origin option. While blends are admirable for their diverse array of flavors all in one place, single origin beans are typically preferred thanks to how robust and potent the individual flavors are.
For the most exquisite and desirable experience, try using dark roast single-origin arabica beans for cold brew coffee. Not only will these beans generate a smoother taste but they also contribute to a sweeter flavor profile without any unwanted acidity.
Nitro Cold Brew Vs. Cold Brew
The main differences between nitro cold brew and regular cold brew boil down to texture and flavor. Nitro cold brew is infused with nitrogen, which establishes a creamy and smooth texture. Meanwhile, regular cold brew has a thinner and more traditional cold-coffee consistency. In terms of flavor, the infusion of nitrogen often imparts a sweeter taste, which reduces the bitterness that the more straightforward and robust flavor of regular cold brew may elicit.
Both brewing methods can use similar beans. As we mentioned, medium to dark roast and coarsely ground coffee beans are often the best coffee for cold brew, including nitro. Just note that the nitrogen infusion might enhance the flavors of the coffee beans, making them taste sweeter and emphasizing the chocolaty undertones.
What Coffee Is Best for Cold Brew?
Cold brew coffee is known for its smooth and refreshing flavor. However, it can only taste that way if the right beans are used in the process. If you ask us, it is best to use coarse-ground coffee. Also, for optimal results, choose sweeter beans with less acidity for optimal results.
That said, feel free to play around with different coffee beans in your quest for the best coffee for cold brew! Just make sure you always consider the flavor profile that will result from a particular bean before selecting it for cold brew. Also, think about how that type of coffee is roasted.
How We Tested the Best Coffee for Cold Brew
We like to consult with fellow fans of cold brew by gathering recommendations from baristas and coffee editors. It has also been helpful to conduct extensive research on top-reviewed coffee brands. Last but not least, we've tested over 24 types of coffee from diverse companies, including major chains and smaller businesses! Together, these efforts have contributed to our understanding of the best coffee for cold brew.
DALL·E 2023-12-21 12.18.24 – A vibrant landscape image that illustrates the selection process for the best coffee beans for cold brew. The image showcases a variety of coffee bean Cropped
The Best Coffee for Cold Brew
1. Starbucks Caffè Verona
Are you someone who likes routine? Would it bother you if one day your coffee tastes bitter and the next morning it's sweet as can be? If so, you might end up falling in love with Starbucks Caffè Verona cold brew beans because they are known for their consistent quality.
As a result, they are viewed as the best coffee for cold brew by those who value a reliable taste. People know what to expect every time, and this level of consistency keeps them coming back for more! Deemed some of the best coffee for cold brew, you can give this cold brew recipe a whirl to see what the hype is all about for yourself.
Pros:
- Perfect for cold brew
- Has an amazing taste
Cons:
- Might be too coarse of a grind
2. Death Wish Dark Roast
As one of the best coffee for cold brew options, Death Wish Dark Roast is known for its strong and robust flavor. It's a preferred choice amongst those who enjoy a more intense level of cold brew. If you already know that you have an affinity for Starbucks coffee beans, you'll be pleased to hear that Death Wish Dark Roast is often considered an alternative to Starbucks.
Pros:
- Fantastic taste and aroma
- Perfect for non-bitter cold brew
Cons:
- Might taste too bitter for some people
- More expensive than other options
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3. Folgers Black Silk
For anyone in search of coffee beans for cold brew, Folgers Black Silk is recognized for its reliability and widespread availability. It's highly appreciated by cold brew drinkers who appreciate a smooth and rich taste.
Pros:
- Noticeably robust taste
- Sold for an affordable price on Amazon
Cons:
- Reports of having an average flavor profile
- Might not have the wow factor you're looking for
4. Kicking Horse Coffee, Three Sisters, Medium Roast
If you are on a mission to find the best beans for cold brew, don't overlook Kicking Horse Coffee: Three Sisters Medium Roast. Applauded for its rich and full-bodied flavor profile, this coffee is worth trying the next time you cold-brew a batch of beans.
Pros:
- Has a pleasantly flavorful kick
- Yields a desirable taste
Cons:
- Flavor profile might lack complexity
5. Java House Cold Brew Coffee Concentrate Single Serve Liquid Pods
Shenandoah Joe's "Brain Freeze" Espresso is technically designed to be ground for use as espresso. However, it offers a rich and intense flavor, making it some of the best coffee beans for cold brew. An excellent option for both cold brew and nitro cold brew alike, this coffee is recognized for its deep and robust flavor profile. You can expect to indulge in hints of caramel and chocolate notes when you make cold brew with Java House Cold Brew Coffee Concentrate Single Serve Liquid Pods.
Pros:
- Impressive quality and convenience
- Has a spiced taste reminiscent of autumn
Cons:
- More expensive than other coffee beans
- Mild flavor that might be too weak for some
Java House Cold Brew Coffeee
6. Counter Culture Hologram Medium Roast
On the list of options for the best coffee for cold brew, Counter Culture Hologram Medium Roast is celebrated for its dynamic range of flavors. Offering notes that transition from fruity to chocolatey, this medium-roast coffee strikes a balance between the brightness of light roasts and the boldness of dark roasts. The flavor profile is ideal for nitro cold brew, making it a versatile choice for various palates.
Pros:
- Makes some of the best cold brew around
Cons:
- Might taste less chocolatey than preferred
7. Bizzy Organic Cold Brew Coffee
On the hunt for ground coffee for cold brew? Bizzy Cold Brew's "Brew It Yourself" collection offers a variety of coarsely ground coffee blends specifically designed for making cold brew at home.
These blends cater to different taste preferences while simultaneously providing cold brew enthusiasts with a convenient way to craft their preferred coffee. The standout feature of this collection is its specialized coarse grind. Not only is it perfect for cold brewing, but it also ensures optimal flavor extraction, resulting in nothing but a smooth coffee experience.
Pros:
- Delicious and smooth flavor
- Most ideal for cold brew coffee
- Arrives pre-ground for convenience
Cons:
- Could be less sweet than expected
8. Stone Street Cold Brew Reserve Blend
Stone Street Cold Brew Reserve Blend features supremo beans from Colombia, which are known for their high quality and smooth flavor profile. The company offers specialized grind options as well as subscription services, making it a convenient choice of beans for cold brew coffee drinkers who value both quality and convenience.
Pros:
- Emits a delicious scent
- Amazing flavor profile
- Exceeds high expectations
Cons:
- Not the right flavor for everyone
- Might be too bitter for some
9. Copper Moon Guatemalan Antigua Blend
Copper Moon Guatemalan Blend is a rich and full-bodied coffee sourced from Guatemala. Known for its smooth taste and diverse flavor profile, there's no doubt that this is some of the best coffee for cold brew.
This coffee reflects the unique soil and climate of the region. Its key feature is the way it is sustainably sourced from Guatemala. As a result, it can offer a distinct flavor, unparalleled richness, and undeniable smoothness, which is why it appeals to those who appreciate a nuanced coffee experience.
Pros:
- Long lasting for multiple uses
- Creates impeccable cold brew
Cons:
- Unbeatable flavor and freshness
- Easy to use for at-home cold brew
10. San Francisco Bay Ground Coffee - Cold Brew
San Francisco Bay Ground Coffee Cold Brew is a blend of the best cold brew coffee beans. Specifically created for cold brew enthusiasts, it features a smooth and well-balanced profile. Made from 100% Arabica beans sourced from Africa, its best feature is the uniquely coarse grind. With a grind size that provides easy filtration and a consistently smooth flavor, this ground coffee is ideal for cold brew.
Pros:
- Excellent when grounded for cold brew
- Has a nice roasted chocolate flavor
Cons:
- Has some bitterness to it
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Revolutionizing Cold Brew Experience with Brood's Specialty Equipment
In the ever-evolving world of coffee, staying ahead of the curve is essential. For those who are captivated by the idea of crafting at-home cold brew beverages, Brood will pique your interest because it's leading the way in terms of innovative solutions tailored for cold brew coffee.
Brood offers a range of cutting-edge equipment, all of which is specifically designed to enhance the experience of making cold brew. By automating the process and making it easy for everyday coffee drinkers to craft cold brew from home, Brood's equipment won't let you down.
DRNX: The Drink Dispensing Dynamo
To start with, the DRNX nitro coffee machine automates the process of dispensing beverages. In turn, it reduces individual wait times while ensuring impressive pouring and a consistent cold brew flavor. This is an especially beneficial perk when using the DRNX nitro coffee machine during peak hours at busy bars.
Not only can coffee bars benefit from DRNX's rapid drink preparation but staff members at sports bars and nightclubs will appreciate its user-friendliness, too. Instead of having to pour all of their attention into crafting coffee drinks, employees can focus more on customer interactions.
Plus, the DRNX nitro coffee machine can help you keep your customers happy. Since this product makes it easy to experiment with a broader range of cocktails and mixed drinks without increasing complexity, you can expand your menu options. It's a win-win for everyone involved!
DRNX Duo: The Portable Bar Companion
The portability of the DRNX DUO elevates this nitro infusion machine into a versatile mobile bar that you can take with you to pop-ups or outdoor serving areas. It's the perfect way to attract more customers during special events or seasonal promotions.
Even better, the setup process is a walk in the park, making it an ideal choice for beach bars, rooftop venues, and temporary pop-ups. By improving the on-site service that you can provide, your overall customer satisfaction levels will spike now that you can serve patrons in various locations, ranging from beaches and rooftops to large-scale events and exciting get-togethers. Simply pair it with the best coffee for cold brew and the drink options are endless!
DRNX BRW: The Nitro Coffee Maestro
Does improving the type of coffee drink options that you offer at bars appeal to you? Wine bars and cocktail lounges are known to be places where you can order a vast array of alcoholic beverages, but why not mix things up by serving nitrogen-infused cold brew coffee for those who want a boost of caffeinated energy?
With the DRNX BRW Nitro Cold Brew Coffee Maker, you can do exactly that. It opens up a world of possibilities, and you can even get creative by pairing the best coffee for cold brew with nitro-infused cocktails alongside unique coffee drinks. The nitro infusion process adds a mesmerizing cascading effect, which is sure to enhance the visual appeal of your customers' bar experience.
Parting Words
As a chilled, refreshing, and uplifting beverage, cold brew coffee is typically consumed in the summertime, but it's not only suited for warmer months. You can sip on cold brew no matter the time of year! It's a versatile choice for any season, and it's customizable, meaning you can experiment with different types of coffee beans in your quest for the best beans for cold brew coffee to tantilize your taste buds. From there, you'll get to savor each cup of cold brew that you craft. It's all about enjoying the rich array of flavors that cold-brewed coffee has to offer.