Cold brewed coffee is the basis for any number of delicious coffee drink recipes. And its popularity continues to increase among coffee drinkers who favor it for its unique characteristics. Fortunately this low-tech way to make coffee is easy, it just takes a bit of time. And the results as so worth it! Paying premium prices for cold brew in the coffee shop or supermarket becomes a thing of the past when you discover just how effortless it is to make.
Pick the Best Cold Brew Coffee Maker for Your Home:
Highly Rated Models for 2020
Model
Quick Description
| Takeya Cold Brew Iced Coffee Maker | Takeya Cold Brew Iced Coffee Maker |
| Hario Mizudashi Cold Brew Iced Coffee Maker | Another Popular Pick From Hario |
| Mason Jar with Stainless Steel Filter Cold Brew Maker | Attention To High Quality |
| Toddy T2N Cold Brew System | Patented Cold Brew System |
| Coffee Gator Premium Cold Press Coffee Maker Kit | “Drink Better Coffee” |
| Ovalware RJ3 Airtight Cold Brew Iced Coffee Maker | All The Elements Of A Good Cold Brewer |
Cold Brewed Coffee Basics
When the days turn warm, coffee drinkers turn to cold brew. The smooth flavor is enjoyed straight or as the basis for many delicious drink recipes. And for its deliciousness, cold brew is more expensive than regular or iced coffee at your local shop. So when you find how easy it is to make, you’ll want to brew your own and always have it on hand.
What’s Different About Cold Brew Coffee
If it was as easy as adding ice to hot brewed coffee, there would be no need to cold brew. So what is there about this method that has people lining up to drink it?
- The lower acid content results in a smoother coffee with less ‘bite’. Cold brewing extracts flavor while leaving many of the bitter oils and fatty acids behind.
- There is a slightly higher caffeine content because the bean-to-water ratio is higher and there is a longer brew time.
How Cold Brew is Made
The process goes like this: coarsely ground coffee is soaked in water for a minimum of 12 hours, then the grinds are removed and you are left with cold brew coffee.
It can be brewed in any container big enough to hold the water and coffee: a french press, mason jar, stock pot, use your imagination … it doesn’t even need to have a lid. Getting the grounds out is the toughest part, which is where a dedicated cold coffee brewer can make it more convenient. And it stays good to drink for about two weeks with refrigeration.
Why Buy a Cold Brew Coffee Maker?
When you can make cold brew coffee in almost any container, why would you want to buy a special brewer?
In a word … convenience!
- Filtering the grounds after brewing is the most tedious part of the process. A maker with a good filter takes away a lot of the hassle.
- It’s convenient to have a cold coffee maker designed with helpful features that you grow to appreciate.
- Some makers go seamlessly from brewing to storage to serving, actually simplifying the process.
- Some makers are just beautiful to look at and make a nice addition to your decor.
Tips for Best Results
-
Start with the best quality water possible. If you don’t have filtered water, consider a
built-in filter or something like a Brita water pitcher or ZeroWater pitcher. - Use a very coarsely ground coffee.
- Begin with a ratio of 1 cup whole beans for every 4 cups of cold water.
- Give it at least 12 hours (at room temperature or refrigerated), or maybe longer until you’re happy with the strength. Overnight is convenient for a lot of people.
- Remove all the grounds. One effective method is to line a fine mesh strainer with cheesecloth and pour the coffee through it.
Buyer's Checklist
- Size and Shape - Will you be brewing in your refrigerator? Be sure to select a cold brewer that will fit your available space.
- Capacity - How much do you want to brew at a time? This will probably increase with warm weather.
- Materials - Decanters are usually glass or plastic, while filters can be made from a number of materials.
- Filter - Cold brewers generally have reusable filters that can be made of stainless steel, fiber, nylon or plastic. Some people use paper filters in addition to reduce sediment if needed.
Takeya Cold Brew Iced Coffee Maker
BPA-Free Plastic + Nylon Mesh Filter
This popular Takeya model holds 32 ounces of liquid in its BPA-free plastic decanter, which is dishwasher safe. Its reusable filter is made of fine mesh nylon to let the flavor through but keep the grounds where they belong. And for the space conscious, the Takeya is designed to fit in most refrigerator doors, during brewing or for storage.
Hario Mizudashi Cold Brew Iced Coffee Pot/Maker
Another Popular Pick From Hario
Hario’s cold brew model is available in 2 different sizes, 1000ml (about 34 ounces) and 600ml (about 20 ounces). If you’re looking for something to brew or keep in the refrigerator, the slim design should help it fit nicely. The glass decanter is topped with a plastic lid and handle, and the reusable filter is plastic with fiber mesh. Note that the bottom of the filter detaches to make it easier to clean out the grounds. And it’s all dishwasher safe.
Mason Jar with Stainless Steel Filter Cold Brew Coffee Maker
Attention To High Quality
The Mason Jar adapted with a filter for cold brew is a wonderful collision of classic retro style and cutting-edge coffee making. The star of this is the super fine, heavy duty stainless steel mesh filter, which is built to last a lifetime. The filter is smooth, without any sharp edges, thanks to a proprietary process that rolls and folds the seam. The heavy duty glass of Ball jars has been proven sturdy over many decades, and does not leach any chemicals into your liquid. There is no plastic or BPA in this item. The manufacturer states that the “components are all made of inert, FDA compliant glass, stainless steel and silicone rubber.” The 64 ounce jar will give you about 1.5 quarts of cold brew coffee.
Toddy T2N Cold Brew System
Patented Cold Brew System
The Toddy’s patented system is designed to reduce acid 67% below that in hot brewed coffee. The plastic brewing container sits at the top, holding the coffee and water. Reusable fiber filters are included, which the coffee passes through on it way into the glass decanter after brewing is done. The set also includes one rubber stopper, instructions and recipes.
Coffee Gator Premium Cold Press Coffee Maker Kit
“Drink Better Coffee”
Coffee Gator wants you to “drink better coffee” with this 40 oz. BPA-free brewer made from borosilicate glass, with plastic lid and handle. The filter frame is BPA-free plastic and the mesh is nylon. Plus the filter opens on both ends for easy cleaning. And just to sweeten the pot, so to speak, Coffee Gator includes a measuring scoop and collapsible funnel to make filling with coffee mess free.
Ovalware RJ3 Airtight Cold Brew Iced Coffee Maker
All The Elements Of A Good Cold Brewer
The RJ3 has all the components of a good cold brewer, with a streamlined design created to fit on a refrigerator shelf. An extra-thick borosilicate glass decanter features a handle for easy pouring. And the no-spill, leak-proof lid with a BPS-free silicon airtight seal helps you to avoid messes and keep other odors out during storage. You’ll also appreciate the 18/8 stainless steel filter and top cap. All parts are dishwasher-safe. There is a manufacturer’s risk-free purchase guarantee for a full refund, but be aware that it is only eligible for returns within the first 30 days after purchase.
