Can you make cold brew with normal coffee?

Quick answer: Yes, you can use normal coffee grounds to make cold brew coffee. The key difference lies in the brewing time and temperature, not the coffee beans themselves.

1) The big benefits

• Flavor: Cold brew tends to be smoother and less acidic than hot brewed coffee.
• Convenience: Make a large batch that can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator.
• Versatility: Use any coffee roast or origin according to your preference.

2) Practical guide

• Grind size: Coarse grind is best to avoid over-extraction and bitterness.
• Brew ratio: A general recommendation is 1:8 coffee to water ratio for a balanced flavor.
• Brew time: Steep for 12-24 hours, depending on desired strength.

3) How to choose

• Bean type:
  • Light roast for a brighter, fruitier profile
  • Dark roast for a richer, more chocolatey flavor
• Bean origin:
  • Single-origin for distinct, unique flavors
  • Blends for a balanced, consistent taste

4) Best practices

• Storage: Keep your cold brew in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Maintenance: Clean your brewing equipment thoroughly after each use to prevent off-flavors.
• Tips: Experiment with brewing times and ratios to find your perfect batch.

5) Level up your cold brew

• Consider using a dedicated cold brew coffee maker for ease and consistency.
• Try adding chicory for a New Orleans-style cold brew.
• Infuse your cold brew with spices or citrus peels for a unique twist.

6) Scandalous Coffee picks to

• Black Market Roast – Dark chocolate, caramel notes
• Contraband Blend – Balanced, everyday coffee with chocolate and almond notes
• Encrypted Citrus – Bright and fruity, with lemon and black tea flavors
• Velvet Outlaw – Rich hazelnut and dark chocolate flavors

Bottom line: Making cold brew with normal coffee is not only possible but also offers a customizable, convenient, and delicious way to enjoy coffee. By selecting the right beans, grind size, and brew time, you can create a perfect batch of cold brew that suits your taste preferences.