If you're a coffee lover looking to elevate your home brewing game, cold drip coffee is a must-try. Known for its smooth, bold flavour and lower acidity, cold drip is the perfect refreshing brew to enjoy over ice (especially during warmer months_Learn how to make smooth, refreshing cold drip coffee at home with this easy step-by-step guide—perfect for coffee lovers and summer sipping!
While it may seem like a cafe-only indulgence, making cold drip coffee at home is simpler than you might think. With the right setup and a little patience, you can craft a delicious, slow-extracted brew right in your own kitchen.
Here is your guide to making delicious cold drip coffee at home - just follow the steps and get ready to enjoy a truly satisfying sip.
Time to Cold Drip!
Step 1: Coffee Prep
- Scoop out 50-60 grams of that air-roasted blend. This amount will give you about 600ml of delicious cold brew.
- Place the beans in your grinder. Aim for a medium-coarse grind - think sea salt texture.
Step 2: Tower set up
- Place the metal filter into the middle chamber.
- Spoon your grounds into the metal filter, ensuring an even bed of coffee
- Place a cold drip filter paper on top of the bed of coffee. This will help disperse the water evenly through the coffee avoiding any channelling.
Step 3: Water Works
- Pour 600-700ml of cold, filtered water into the top chamber.
- Need to keep the water colder? Swap some water for ice. It'll drip slower, giving you a stronger brew!
Step 4: Set Your Drip
- Open the valve and watch the water start to drip.
- Adjust until you see one drip every 1-2 seconds.
- Expect about a cup per hour. Good things come to those who wait!
Step 5: The Waiting Game
- This slow and delicate process takes 5-7 hours. Perfect for setting up in the evening and enjoying the morning.
- Pro tip: Set it up before bed for a ready-to-drink cold brew in the morning
- Check-in occasionally before you go to bed. Make sure it's still dripping steadily.
Step 6: Coffee O'Clock!
- Once the dripping stops, remove the middle chamber.
- Voila! Your cold drip coffee is ready to rock your taste buds.
- Got leftovers? They'll keep for up to 2 weeks in the fridge!
FAQs (Because We Know You're Curious)
Q: Do I need to chill the tower while it's dripping?
A: Nah, not really. But if your place feels like a sauna (looking at you, QLDers), feel free to make some room in the fridge!
Q: Can I use pre-ground coffee?
A: Fresh is best, but we won't judge. Just be ready to fiddle with the drip speed.
Q: How does grind size affect my brew?
A: It's a balancing act! Too fine might clog, too coarse might under-extract. Medium-coarse is your sweet spot.
Q: Can I reuse the grounds?
A: We wouldn't. After hours of dripping, those grounds have given their all. Time to retire them!
Q: How do I keep my tower squeaky clean?
A: After each use, wash it well with warm, soapy water. Rinse well and let it air dry. Show your tower some love!
Remember, cold-drip coffee is part science, part art, and a whole lot of fun. Don't be afraid to experiment - who knows, you might just create your new favourite brew!