From lattes to espresso, there are so many types of coffee out there, each with a different method of how to make it.  

Cold brew has steadily become one of the most popular ways to consume coffee. Though the beverage may appear to be just like iced coffee, cold brew has its own method.  

Making cold brew coffee is easier than it looks. Once you master your inner-barista skills, you’ll be making the perfect cup of (cold) joe in no time, whether it is a hot summer day or a chilly winter afternoon. 

How to make cold brew coffee 

To get started, you will need coarsely ground coffee. You can ground your coffee at home if you prefer, but store-bought ground coffee will work just fine.  

The ratio of ground coffee to water is adjustable, but the rule of thumb is for  every 1 cup of water, you will need 1 ounce (by weight) of ground coffee.

In a mason jar or any wide-mouth, large jar, add the desired amount of water and coffee grounds together and stir (Tip: If you are trying for the first time, use 3 cups of water to 1 ½ cup of coffee grounds).  

Cover the jar and allow this mixture to steep overnight, or for about 12 hours and up to 24 hours. Once the coffee and water mixture is done steeping, pour it into a coffee filter placed in a strainer over a bowl or measuring cup.  

The liquid that strains from the mixture will be the cold brew concentrate which you can dilute with water or milk to taste. Serve with ice or any other add-ins and enjoy. 

What is the difference between iced coffee and cold brew?

Iced coffee and cold brew look the same upon first glance, but the two beverages are made differently.  The cold brew process as explained above is unlike making iced coffee which just consists of brewing a regular pot of drip coffee and adding ice.  

Cold brew is steeped for longer than iced coffee. But hot brewed coffee brings out additional flavors, such as bitterness and acidity, in comparison with the cold brewed, according to Taste of Home.

Does drinking coffee have health benefits?

Coffee does have benefits that can improve your day and health, more than just a morning caffeine pick-me-up.  Studies have found that two cups of coffee daily has decreased the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes, Parkinson’s disease and kidney disease for women, according John Hopkins University School of Medicine.

Source: https://www.usatoday.com/