There’s something about a steaming cup of coffee in the morning that hits the spot. While I’m a die-hard fan of a strong, black brew to kickstart my day, I’ve come to realize that not everyone shares my love for the bold stuff. Case in point: my husband prefers his coffee with a generous splash of vanilla creamer, much to my taste buds’ dismay—I find it a tad too sweet for my liking.
However, as much as we enjoy our coffee rituals, there’s no denying the health concerns that can arise when we load up our cups with cream and sugar. According to the FDA, the recommended limit for caffeine consumption is under 400 milligrams per day—equivalent to about 4 to 5 cups of coffee. Adding extras like creamer and sugar can quickly bump up the calorie count, potentially leading to weight gain over time.
That’s where homemade cold brew coffee comes into play.
Since my husband switched to cold brew, he’s bid farewell to his beloved creamer, opting instead for the refreshing simplicity of cold brew and milk.
Cold brew involves steeping coarse-ground coffee beans in water at cool temperatures for an extended period. Typically, the beans are soaked in water for approximately 12 to 24 hours. The water used can be at room temperature or chilled. Once the steeping process is complete, the grounds are filtered out using a paper coffee filter, a fine metal sieve (as found in a French press), or felt. This results in a concentrated coffee solution, which can be diluted with water or milk. Cold brew coffee is often enjoyed chilled, over ice, or blended with ice and other flavorings such as chocolate, though it can also be served hot. My favorite dilution method is in an Espresso Martini.
Here are a few reasons why cold brew might be the new morning beverage of choice:
- Lower Acidity: Cold brew coffee tends to be gentler on the stomach thanks to its lower acidity, making it a suitable option for those with acid reflux or sensitive stomachs.
- Smooth Flavor Profile: Cold brewing’s slow extraction process results in a smoother, less bitter flavor profile compared to hot brewing methods, offering a sweeter and more balanced taste.
- Convenience: Can be brewed in large batches and stored in the refrigerator for several days, making it a convenient option for busy mornings or for preparing ahead of time.
- Versatility: Whether enjoyed over ice, diluted with water or milk, or used as a base for various coffee concoctions, cold brew offers endless possibilities for customization.
- Caffeine Content: With a longer extraction time, cold brew typically packs a higher caffeine punch than hot brewed coffee, providing a more substantial energy boost for those who need it.
- Longer Shelf Life: Stored properly, cold brew can maintain its freshness and flavor for up to two weeks, making it perfect for occasional coffee drinkers.
- Summer Refreshment: There’s nothing quite like a cold brew on a hot summer day—its cool and refreshing nature makes it the ultimate summer beverage.
- Reduced Oxidation: Compared to hot brewed coffee, cold brew is less prone to oxidation, ensuring its flavor stays intact for longer.
- Customizable Strength: Adjusting the coffee-to-water ratio or steeping time allows for easy customization of cold brew’s strength and flavor intensity, catering to individual preferences.
In conclusion, cold-brew coffee offers a delightful and practical alternative to traditional hot-brewed coffee. Its smoother flavor, lower acidity, and versatility make it a favorite among coffee enthusiasts looking for a refreshing change in their morning routine.