Cold Brew: The Trendy Coffee Young People Love – 6 Fun Facts and How to Make It

On a hot day, nothing beats the refreshing sensation of sipping a cold drink. One of the top favorites among coffee lovers is cold brew coffee. 

It’s smoother, less acidic, and offers a fresher experience compared to regular coffee. 

Cold brew is perfect for those who want to enjoy coffee without the overwhelming bitterness. 

Whether you're a coffee or tea enthusiast, cold brew can be your go-to drink for any moment of the day.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know about cold brew, from fun facts to a simple recipe you can try at home!

What is Cold Brew?

Cold brew is a type of coffee made by steeping coffee grounds in cold or room-temperature water for an extended period. 

This process typically takes between 12 to 24 hours and results in a smoother, lighter, and less acidic flavor compared to hot-brewed coffee.

Cold brew coffee is a favorite among many thanks to its gentle flavor and easy-to-drink quality. 

It’s no surprise that this brewing method is growing in popularity, especially among those who crave a refreshing yet caffeinated beverage.

Another great thing about cold brew is its versatility. It can be enjoyed black or mixed with milk and sweeteners. 

It remains flavorful and refreshing, even when served ice-cold under the scorching sun.

For those who prefer to avoid coffee, there’s also a cold brew tea option. Cold brew tea is made by steeping tea leaves in cold water, which results in a smoother, less bitter tea. 

It also contains less caffeine than coffee, making it a great anytime beverage.

Read more: What is Roasting? This is How to Choose the Right Coffee Roasting Machine

Fun Facts About Cold Brew You Should Know

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If you’re a coffee lover and haven’t tried cold brew yet, you’re missing out! Cold brew is quickly becoming a favorite thanks to its smooth, low-acid, and refreshing qualities. 

It’s also perfect for people with an active lifestyle who still want to enjoy quality coffee. Here are some key facts you should know:

1. Cold Brew Is Not Brewed with Hot Water

One of the most unique things about cold brew is that it doesn't involve any hot water. 

The coffee grounds are steeped in cold or room-temperature water for several hours to extract the flavor. 

Without heat, the bitterness and acidity are drastically reduced, resulting in a smoother, more pleasant coffee.

2. It Takes Hours to Brew

Cold brew is known for its long steeping time, ranging from 8 to 24 hours. The coffee is steeped in a sealed container, usually in the fridge. 

This extended steeping enhances the coffee's natural sweetness and creates a rich flavor profile that’s gentle on the stomach.

3. Naturally Sweeter and Smoother Taste

Even without sugar, cold brew has a naturally sweet and smooth taste. The slow extraction process prevents bitter compounds from being released, while enhancing the coffee's inherent sweetness. 

The type of coffee beans also plays a role, natural or honey-processed beans often produce more complex and rich flavors.

4. Ideal for Those with Sensitive Stomachs

Because it’s brewed without heat and steeped slowly, cold brew has a lower acidity level than regular coffee. 

If you have stomach sensitivity or often feel discomfort after drinking coffee, cold brew can be a more stomach-friendly alternative.

5. Cold Brew vs. Cold Drip: They're Different

Although both use cold water, cold brew and cold drip are two different brewing methods. 

Cold brew involves steeping coffee grounds in water, while cold drip slowly drips water through coffee grounds. 

The results differ too, cold brew tends to be bolder and creamier, while cold drip is lighter and more complex.

6. Higher in Caffeine Than Hot Coffee

Cold brew usually contains more caffeine due to its higher coffee-to-water ratio, typically 1:10 to 1:15. That makes it a great pick-me-up if you need an energy boost before a workout or a busy day.

How to Make Cold Brew at Home

Want to try cold brew coffee but don’t feel like going to a café? You can easily make it at home! 

It’s simpler than you think, and you don’t need fancy equipment like a French press or a dedicated cold brewer. 

All you need is a glass jar and a basic strainer. This method is perfect for those who want fresh coffee in a more budget-friendly and efficient way.

Here are the easy steps to follow:

1. Coarsely Grind the Coffee Beans

Choose your favorite coffee beans and grind them to a medium-coarse texture. This texture ensures optimal extraction and a balanced taste. Avoid grinding too fine, as it can result in an overly strong brew and make straining difficult.

2. Mix Coffee Grounds and Water with the Right Ratio

Use a 1:4 ratio of coffee to room-temperature water. For example, if you’re using 50 grams of coffee, you’ll need about 200 ml of water. You can adjust the amount based on your preferred strength.

3. Stir and Store in the Fridge

After mixing the coffee and water in a jar, stir gently until well combined. Seal the jar and store it in the refrigerator for 18 to 24 hours. This steeping time is key to achieving a smooth and refreshing flavor.

4. Strain the Brew

Once it’s done steeping, it’s time to strain. Use a cloth, paper filter, or any fine strainer to separate the grounds from the concentrate. The result is pure cold brew, ready to drink or customize further.

5. Add Water or Milk to Taste

You can dilute the cold brew concentrate with water for a lighter taste. If you prefer a creamy experience, add fresh milk. For extra refreshment, toss in some ice cubes.

6. Store Cold Brew for Later

Cold brew can be stored in the fridge for several days. Keep it in a sealed container to maintain its freshness. This way, you can enjoy it anytime without the hassle of daily brewing.

Read more: F&B Business: Definition, Types, and Tips to Start in 2025

Conclusion

Cold brew is a modern drink that’s not only refreshing but also gentle on the stomach and highly versatile. 

Whether you prefer coffee or tea, both can be brewed cold and enjoyed without fuss. 

If you’re curious about trying coffee in a new way, cold brew is definitely worth a shot.

For F&B business owners, adding cold brew to your menu could be a great way to attract new customers. 

To enhance your customer experience, consider using ESB Lounge, an effective customer queue management system. 

With ESB Lounge, you can display order statuses, promote new offers, and notify customers when their orders are ready, all in real time. 

Take your customer experience to the next level with this easy and practical solution from ESB Lounge. Let’s consult your business today!