Cold Brew Espresso Recipe: The Refreshing Alternative to Hot Coffee

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Have you ever wondered what would happen if you combined the smooth and bold flavor of espresso with the refreshing chill of cold brew? Well, wonder no more because I have an ultimate cold brew espresso recipe that will have you feeling like a barista in no time.

Picture this: a delicious beverage with a “wine-like” taste, perfectly balanced between bitter and sweet, served in a clear-stemmed glass or a coupe glass, garnished with some beans, and you’re sipping it while enjoying a giant cinnamon roll cake. Sounds amazing, right?

In this recipe, we will explore the world of coffee brewing methods, types of coffee beans, coffee extraction processes, and coffee ratios, all to achieve the perfect cold brew espresso. But first, let’s answer some questions you might have, like what is the difference between cold brew and iced coffee? And why should you try the cold brew version instead of just making a regular espresso and adding ice cubes?

With this recipe, you’ll discover that the cold brew espresso is not just a beverage substitute for hot coffee, but it’s a beverage that has its spectrum, ranging from concentrated shots to a delicious and refreshing cold foam. Plus, with the addition of sugar, oat milk, almond milk, or even a bit of milk, you can customize your drink to your personal taste.

So grab your mason jar, coffee grinder knob, coffee beans, and let’s get started on our coffee journey together. Are you ready to up your coffee game? Let’s dive into the world of cold brew espresso!

What is espresso cold brew?

cold brew espresso recipe
Unlock the Secrets to a Delicious Cold Brew Espresso recipe

Let me tell you about espresso cold brew, the magical beverage that combines the intensity and flavor of espresso with the smoothness and refreshment of cold brew. If you’re a coffee aficionado like me, you might be wondering how this is possible. Let me explain.

Espresso cold brew is a type of cold brew coffee that is made with espresso coffee beans instead of regular coffee beans. This means that the brewing process is slightly different, but the result is a delicious and intense flavor that will awaken your taste buds.

One of the most significant advantages of espresso cold brew is that it has a higher caffeine content than regular cold brew or even iced coffee. This means that if you’re looking for a caffeine boost to get you through the day, this beverage is an excellent option. Plus, with the addition of coffee liqueur or a bit of sugar, you can take your drink to the next level.

But what about the difference between cold brew and iced coffee? While they may seem similar, the brewing process and taste are entirely different. Cold brew is made with coarser ground coffee beans and brewed for an extended period in cold water, resulting in a smoother and less acidic taste. On the other hand, iced coffee is regular hot coffee that is chilled and served over ice, which can result in a more bitter taste.

Espresso cold brew, with its balanced taste and bolder flavor, is the perfect alternative to both iced coffee and hot coffee. It’s also an excellent substitute for those who don’t enjoy the bitter taste of regular cold brew. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be used in iced drinks, hot lattes, or even as a cocktail mixer.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a new coffee experience, I highly recommend trying out espresso cold brew. With its “wine-like” taste and intense flavor, it’s sure to become a staple in your coffee journey. So why settle for a bland and boring cup of coffee when you can indulge in the deliciousness of espresso cold brew? Give it a try and thank me later!

What’s the difference between cold brew and iced coffee?

While both are served cold, the brewing process and taste are entirely different. In this section, we will explore the technical differences between these two popular coffee drinks.

  • Brewing Process: Cold brew is made by steeping coarser ground coffee beans in cold water for an extended period, typically 12-24 hours. This slow extraction method results in a smoother, less acidic taste and a cloudy liquid. On the other hand, iced coffee is brewed using hot water and is then chilled and served over ice. The hot water results in a faster extraction process, resulting in a more bitter taste.
  • Coffee Ratio: The ratio of coffee to water is also different for cold brew and iced coffee. Cold brew typically uses a higher ratio of coffee to water, usually one cup of coffee per batch, resulting in a more concentrated coffee extract. In contrast, iced coffee usually uses a lower ratio, resulting in a more diluted coffee taste.
  • Grind Size: The grind size of the coffee beans is also different for cold brew and iced coffee. Cold brew requires a coarser grind size to prevent the coffee particles from passing through the regular coffee filter. In contrast, iced coffee uses a finer grind size, similar to that used for hot coffee.
  • Temperature: Cold brew is brewed using cold water and is usually served at room temperature or chilled, while iced coffee is brewed using hot water and then chilled before serving.
  • Taste: The taste of cold brew and iced coffee is vastly different. Cold brew has a smoother and less acidic taste, with a subtle, chocolatey coffee flavor that is less bitter than regular coffee. On the other hand, iced coffee has a more bitter taste due to the faster extraction process and higher temperature of the water used.

Ingredients you need

Let’s talk about the ingredients you need to make a delicious cold brew espresso. As a coffee connoisseur, I can tell you that the quality of the ingredients you use is crucial to achieving the perfect taste. Here are the ingredients you will need for this recipe:

  • Coffee Beans: To make cold brew espresso, you will need to use dark roast espresso coffee beans. These beans are specially roasted to produce an intense and rich flavor that is perfect for making espresso. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try using a blend of coffee beans to add complexity to your drink.
  • Water: The water you use to make cold brew espresso should be cold and filtered to ensure that there are no impurities that could affect the taste. You will need three cups of water to make one cup of coffee concentrate.
  • Simple Syrup: Simple syrup is made by dissolving sugar in water and is used to add sweetness to the cold brew espresso. You can make your simple syrup by mixing equal parts of water and sugar or purchase it pre-made.
  • Coffee Liqueur: Coffee liqueur is an optional ingredient that you can add to your cold brew espresso to give it an extra kick. I recommend using Bittermens New Orleans Coffee Liqueur for its rich and complex flavor.
  • Milk: Milk is also optional and can be added to your cold brew espresso to make it creamier. You can use regular milk, unsweetened almond milk, unsweetened oat milk, or any alternative to cow’s milk.
  • Ice Cubes: Finally, you will need some ice cubes to chill your cold brew espresso and keep it refreshing.

When it comes to making the perfect cold brew espresso, the quality of the ingredients you use is essential. Make sure to use dark roast espresso coffee beans, cold filtered water, simple syrup, coffee liqueur, milk (if desired), and ice cubes to achieve the perfect taste. With these ingredients, you’ll be able to make a delicious and refreshing cold brew espresso that will have you feeling like a coffee professional.

How to make cold brew espresso recipe?

Now that we’ve gone over the ingredients you need let’s dive into the process of making cold brew espresso. The process may seem daunting at first, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll be able to make a delicious beverage in no time.

  • Step 1: Grind the Coffee Beans
    The first step in making cold brew espresso is to grind the coffee beans. You’ll want to use a coffee grinder and set it to a coarse grind size to prevent the coffee particles from passing through the regular coffee filter.
  • Step 2: Mix the Coffee and Water
    Next, mix the coffee grounds and water in a mason jar or a large glass container. The ratio of coffee to water should be one cup of coffee per three cups of water. Stir the mixture until the coffee is fully immersed in the water.
  • Step 3: Steep the Mixture
    After stirring, let the mixture steep for 12-18 hours. You can leave it at room temperature or place it in the refrigerator to steep, depending on your preference.
  • Step 4: Filter the Mixture
    Once the coffee mixture has steeped, it’s time to filter it. Use a mesh strainer or a regular coffee filter to remove any coffee particles. You can also use a coffee brewer or a cold brew coffee maker to simplify the process.
  • Step 5: Add the Sweetener and Milk (if desired)
    Once the coffee concentrate is filtered, add simple syrup to sweeten the beverage. If you prefer a creamier taste, add milk of your choice. Stir the mixture until everything is well combined.
  • Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
    Finally, serve the cold brew espresso over ice cubes in a chilled glass or a martini glass, and enjoy the delicious beverage.

Making cold brew espresso may seem complicated at first, but it’s a relatively simple process that requires a bit of patience. Just remember to use a coarse grind size, mix the coffee and water, steep the mixture for an extended period, filter the coffee concentrate, add sweetener and milk (if desired), and serve over ice cubes in a chilled glass. With these steps, you’ll be able to make a delicious and refreshing cold brew espresso that will impress any coffee lover.

Factors that effect the taste

Factors that affect the taste of cold brew espresso are important to understand when crafting the perfect beverage. As a coffee expert, I know that even small adjustments can make a big difference in taste. In this section, we will explore some of the factors that can affect the taste of your cold brew espresso.

  • Type of Coffee Beans: The type of coffee beans you use to make cold brew espresso can affect the taste. Dark roast espresso coffee beans are recommended for a bold and intense flavor. However, you can experiment with different blends and types of coffee beans to create a unique flavor profile.
  • Grind Size: The grind size of the coffee beans can also affect the taste of cold brew espresso. A coarser grind size will result in a smoother and less acidic taste, while a finer grind size will result in a more bitter taste.
  • Coffee to Water Ratio: The coffee to water ratio is another important factor that can affect the taste of your cold brew espresso. A higher ratio of coffee to water will result in a more concentrated coffee extract and a stronger taste. However, be careful not to use too much coffee, as it can result in an unpleasant and bitter taste.
  • Brewing Time: The brewing time can also affect the taste of cold brew espresso. Steeping the coffee for an extended period, usually 12-18 hours, will result in a smoother and less acidic taste. However, steeping the coffee for too long can result in an undesirable taste.
  • Temperature: The temperature of the water you use to make cold brew espresso can also affect the taste. Cold water is recommended for the brewing process, as it will result in a smoother taste. If the water is too hot, it can result in a more bitter taste.

There are several factors that can affect the taste of cold brew espresso, including the type of coffee beans, grind size, coffee to water ratio, brewing time, and temperature. As a coffee connoisseur, experimenting with these factors can result in a unique and delicious beverage. With a little bit of practice, you’ll be able to craft the perfect cold brew espresso that suits your personal taste.

Pro Tips

Pro tips can take your cold brew espresso game to the next level. As a coffee professional, I have learned several tricks and techniques that can help you achieve the perfect taste. In this section, we will explore some pro tips that will help you make a delicious and refreshing cold brew espresso.

  • Use Freshly Ground Coffee Beans: Freshly ground coffee beans can make a big difference in taste. Make sure to grind the coffee beans just before you brew to ensure the freshest and most flavorful taste.
  • Experiment with Coffee to Water Ratio: Experimenting with the coffee to water ratio can help you find the perfect taste for your personal preference. Start with a one cup of coffee to three cups of water ratio, but feel free to adjust as you go along to find the perfect balance of flavor.
  • Add Coffee Liqueur: Adding coffee liqueur to your cold brew espresso can give it an extra kick and add complexity to the flavor. Bittermens New Orleans Coffee Liqueur is a great choice for a rich and complex flavor.
  • Use Cold Water: Using cold water for the brewing process is essential for a smoother and less acidic taste. Make sure to use cold filtered water to ensure the best quality taste.
  • Try Different Milk Alternatives: Experimenting with different milk alternatives can add a new dimension to your cold brew espresso. Try using unsweetened almond milk, unsweetened oat milk, or any alternative to cow’s milk to create a unique taste.

Experimenting with coffee to water ratio, adding coffee liqueur, using cold water, trying different milk alternatives, and using freshly ground coffee beans can all contribute to a unique and delicious flavor profile. With these tips, you’ll be able to make a balanced coffee cocktail that will impress any coffee aficionado.

FAQs

As a coffee lover, I understand that making cold brew espresso can be a bit confusing at first. In this section, we will address some common questions that may arise when making cold brew espresso.

Can I use regular coffee instead of espresso coffee beans?

Yes, you can use regular coffee beans to make cold brew espresso. However, the taste will be different and less intense than using espresso coffee beans.

How long can I store cold brew espresso?

Cold brew espresso can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. However, it’s best to consume it within the first week for the best quality taste.

Can I make a larger batch of cold brew espresso?

Yes, you can make a larger batch of cold brew espresso. Simply adjust the coffee to water ratio accordingly and use a larger container to steep the mixture.

Can I use a coffee machine to make cold brew espresso?

No, a coffee machine is not suitable for making cold brew espresso. Cold brewing is a different extraction process that requires steeping coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period.

Can I make cold brew espresso without a coffee grinder?

Yes, you can use pre-ground coffee to make cold brew espresso. However, the taste may not be as fresh as using freshly ground coffee beans.

Can I add sugar instead of simple syrup to sweeten the cold brew espresso?

Yes, you can add sugar instead of simple syrup to sweeten your cold brew espresso. However, make sure to dissolve the sugar in hot water before adding it to the mixture to ensure it fully dissolves.

Can I use regular ice cubes instead of coffee ice cubes?

Yes, you can use regular ice cubes instead of coffee ice cubes. However, using coffee ice cubes will prevent dilution and maintain the flavor profile of the cold brew espresso.

In conclusion

Cold brew espresso is a delicious and refreshing alternative to hot coffee drinks. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a balanced and flavorful beverage that will impress any coffee connoisseur. From selecting the right type of coffee beans to experimenting with the coffee to water ratio, there are several ways to customize the taste to suit your personal preference. Adding pro tips like using freshly ground coffee beans, trying different milk alternatives, and adding coffee liqueur can take your cold brew espresso game to the next level.

Cold brew espresso is perfect for those hot summer days when you need a caffeine boost but don’t want a hot beverage. The extended steeping process results in a smoother and less acidic taste, making it a great option for those who find regular coffee too bitter. Additionally, cold brew espresso can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, making it a convenient and easy beverage option.

Overall, cold brew espresso is a versatile and delicious beverage that coffee lovers of all levels can enjoy. With a little bit of experimentation and practice, you’ll be able to make a balanced and refreshing coffee cocktail that will impress anyone who tries it. So why not give it a try and start your own coffee journey today?

cold brew espresso recipe

Cold Brew Espresso recipe

Servings: 4
Estimated Cost: $10-$15
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12-18 hours
Estimated Calories per Serving: 10 calories (without milk or sugar)
5 from 1 vote
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 18 hrs
Course Beverage
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 227 kcal

Equipment

  • Mason jar or similar container
  • Coffee grinder
  • Coffee filter or cheesecloth
  • Pitcher or carafe

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup coffee grounds
  • 3 cup cold filtered water
  • 4 cubes Ice cube
  • 1/2 cup milk or sweetener sweetener

Instructions
 

  • Grind the Coffee Beans
    The first step in making cold brew espresso is to grind the coffee beans. You'll want to use a coffee grinder and set it to a coarse grind size to prevent the coffee particles from passing through the regular coffee filter.
  • Mix the Coffee and Water
    Next, mix the coffee grounds and water in a mason jar or a large glass container. The ratio of coffee to water should be one cup of coffee per three cups of water. Stir the mixture until the coffee is fully immersed in the water.
  • Steep the Mixture
    After stirring, let the mixture steep for 12-18 hours. You can leave it at room temperature or place it in the refrigerator to steep, depending on your preference.
  • Filter the Mixture
    Once the coffee mixture has steeped, it's time to filter it. Use a mesh strainer or a regular coffee filter to remove any coffee particles. You can also use a coffee brewer or a cold brew coffee maker to simplify the process.
  • Add the Sweetener and Milk (if desired)
    Once the coffee concentrate is filtered, add simple syrup to sweeten the beverage. If you prefer a creamier taste, add milk of your choice. Stir the mixture until everything is well combined.
  • Serve and Enjoy
    Finally, serve the cold brew espresso over ice cubes in a chilled glass or a martini glass, and enjoy the delicious beverage.

Notes

  • Adjust the coffee to water ratio to find the perfect taste for your preference.
  • Experiment with different milk alternatives for a unique taste.
  • Use freshly ground coffee beans for the best quality taste.

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Nutrition

Calories: 227kcalCarbohydrates: 46gProtein: 8gFat: 1gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 4mgSodium: 43mgPotassium: 2140mgSugar: 1gVitamin A: 49IUCalcium: 127mgIron: 3mg
Keyword caffeine-free, Chai latte, Dunkin Donuts, health benefits, vanilla chai
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Lucy

Lucy is a talented barista with a passion for creating the perfect cup of coffee. With years of experience under her belt, she is a master of her craft and has developed a loyal following of coffee lovers who flock to her coffee shop for a taste of her expertly crafted brews.