Chilled, smooth, and bursting with flavor – cold brew is far more than just cold coffee. With its mild taste and low acidity, it’s the perfect companion for warm days. Enjoy it pure, with oat milk, or as a base for refreshing and creative cold brew recipes.
What Is Cold Brew Coffee?
Cold brew is coffee that’s brewed without heat. Coarsely ground coffee is steeped in cold water for several hours – usually between 6 and 24 – depending on the method. This gentle extraction process results in a smooth, low-acid brew with a balanced flavor and subtle sweetness, free from bitterness or sharp roast notes.
Why Cold Brew? The Benefits at a Glance
- Up to 70% less acidity and bitterness than traditional coffee
- Naturally fruity, mild flavor without harsh roasted tones
- Gentle on the stomach – especially smooth and easy to drink
- Flavor clarity: discover unique notes like berries, citrus, or caramel
- Batch-friendly: stays fresh for days in the fridge
Cold Brew vs Iced Coffee – What’s the Difference?
Iced coffee is brewed hot, then cooled quickly over ice – it’s fast, but can taste diluted or bitter. Cold brew, on the other hand, is the ultimate slow coffee. By extracting over many hours, it develops a rounded, full-bodied flavor – with no rush, no heat, and maximum smoothness.
Cold Brew Recipe – Step by Step
- 100 g coarsely ground coffee (e.g. Dallmayr Costa Rica Las Nubes or Ethiopia Finchawa)
- 1 liter of cold or lukewarm water (around 30 °C)
- A French press, large jar, or cold brew maker
- Optional: fine sieve or paper filter for straining
Pro tip: The longer your brew time, the coarser the grind should be – this avoids over-extraction and keeps the flavor clean.
How to Make It
- Combine coffee and water, and stir well.
- If using a French press: press the plunger slightly down to submerge the coffee.
- Let it steep covered for 6 to 24 hours, at room temperature or in the fridge – the longer, the more intense the flavor.
- Strain carefully using a filter or press gently – and your cold brew is ready to serve!
The Best Coffee for Cold Brew
Light-roasted, fruity coffees shine in cold brew – their natural flavors come through clearly with cold extraction.
Our top picks:
- Dallmayr Röstkunst Costa Rica Las Nubes – creamy and smooth with notes of salted caramel
- Dallmayr Röstkunst Ethiopia Finchawa – bright and fruity with hints of pineapple and mango
Storing & Serving Cold Brew
Cold brew keeps well in the fridge for 3 to 5 days without losing flavor. Enjoy it straight or over ice, with oat milk, almond milk or classic dairy or as a base for refreshing coffee cocktails.
Our tip:
Add a pinch of salt or a splash of lime or orange juice – it highlights fruity aromas and gives your brew a lively, refreshing edge.
