Looking to create the perfect cold brew coffee at home? The key lies in choosing the right coffee beans. With so many options available, finding the best coffee for cold brew can feel overwhelming. The ideal coffee should be low in acidity, smooth, and rich in flavor to ensure a refreshing and delightful beverage. In this guide, we’ve curated a list of top coffee selections that deliver on all these qualities, making your cold brew experience exceptional.
Whether you prefer a bold dark roast or a smooth medium blend, there is something for every palate. Our selections include organic, fair trade options, and even carbon-negative choices for the environmentally conscious. Each of these coffees has been carefully chosen for their unique characteristics and ability to produce a delicious cold brew. Let’s dive into the list and explore these fantastic choices.
Best Coffee For Cold Brew – Our Top Product Picks
- Stone Street Cold Brew Coffee, Strong & Smooth Blend, Low Acid, 100% Arabica, Gourmet Coffee, Coarse Ground, Dark Roast, Colombian Single Origin, 1 LB
- Bizzy Organic Cold Brew Coffee | Smooth & Sweet Blend | Coarse Ground Coffee | Micro Sifted | Specialty Grade | 100% Arabica | 1 LB
- Tiny Footprint Coffee – Organic Cold Brew Cold Press Elixir | Blend of Light & Dark Roasts Whole Bean Coffee | Shade-Grown, Fair Trade & Carbon Negative | 16 Ounce
- Bizzy Organic Cold Brew Coffee | Smooth & Sweet Blend | Coarse Ground Coffee | Micro Sifted | Specialty Grade | 100% Arabica | 1 LB
- Koffee Kult Dark Roast Whole Bean Coffee – Small Batch 100% Arabica Gourmet Blend, Smooth and Well Balanced Artisan Roasted in 32oz Resealable Package
- Death Wish Coffee, Organic and Fair Trade Medium Roast Ground Coffee, 16 Ounce (Pack of 1)
- Cafe Du Monde Coffee Chicory, 15 Ounce Ground
- Stumptown Coffee Roasters, Hair Bender – Whole Bean Coffee – 12 Ounce Bag, Flavor Notes of Citrus and Dark Chocolate
Stone Street Cold Brew Coffee, Strong & Smooth Blend, Low Acid, 100% Arabica, Gourmet Coffee, Coarse Ground, Dark Roast, Colombian Single Origin, 1 LB
Stone Street Cold Brew Coffee offers a robust and smooth drinking experience. Sourced from single-origin Colombian beans, this dark roast blend is specifically crafted for cold brew with a low acid profile, ensuring a gentle yet full-bodied flavor. The coarse grind is perfect for steeping, releasing rich chocolatey notes that balance perfectly with its natural sweetness.
As someone who enjoys a bold cup of cold brew, I found this coffee to be incredibly satisfying. The rich aroma and smooth finish make it an excellent choice for those who love their cold brew strong and flavorful. It’s a great option for making large batches without losing any quality, making it my go-to for entertaining guests.
Bizzy Organic Cold Brew Coffee | Smooth & Sweet Blend | Coarse Ground Coffee | Micro Sifted | Specialty Grade | 100% Arabica | 1 LB
Bizzy Organic Cold Brew Coffee presents a smooth and sweet blend that caters to those who prefer a more subtle flavor profile. Made from 100% Arabica beans, this coffee is micro-sifted and specialty grade, ensuring a high-quality brew every time. The coarse ground texture is optimized for cold brewing, delivering a bright and refreshing taste.
Personally, I appreciate the sweet undertones this coffee brings to the table, making it perfect for those hot summer afternoons. Its balanced flavor is ideal for those who enjoy a lighter coffee but still want the depth and complexity that a good cold brew offers. It’s easy to prepare and consistent in delivering a delightful taste.
Tiny Footprint Coffee – Organic Cold Brew Cold Press Elixir | Blend of Light & Dark Roasts Whole Bean Coffee | Shade-Grown, Fair Trade & Carbon Negative | 16 Ounce
Tiny Footprint Coffee combines environmental responsibility with exceptional taste. This unique blend of light and dark roasts is shade-grown and fair trade, ensuring ethical production practices. As a carbon-negative coffee, it appeals to eco-conscious consumers. The whole bean format allows for fresh grinding, perfectly suiting personal cold brew preferences.
I’ve found this coffee to be both rich in flavor and satisfying in its environmental benefits. The light and dark roast combination offers a complex profile that is both smooth and invigorating. It’s a wonderful choice for those who want a great-tasting cold brew while supporting sustainable practices.
Bizzy Organic Cold Brew Coffee | Smooth & Sweet Blend | Coarse Ground Coffee | Micro Sifted | Specialty Grade | 100% Arabica | 1 LB
Bizzy Organic Cold Brew Coffee repeats on this list for a good reason. Its consistent quality and delightful flavor have made it a staple in my kitchen. The smooth and sweet blend is perfect for those who enjoy a hint of natural sweetness without overpowering bitterness. This coffee is also micro-sifted for an exceptionally clean cup each time.
Having tried many cold brew options, I find Bizzy’s offering to be incredibly reliable. It’s great for experimenting with different cold brew recipes, and its versatility allows for easy customization, whether you prefer it black or with a splash of milk.
Koffee Kult Dark Roast Whole Bean Coffee – Small Batch 100% Arabica Gourmet Blend, Smooth and Well Balanced Artisan Roasted in 32oz Resealable Package
Koffee Kult’s Dark Roast Whole Bean Coffee is a favorite among those who appreciate a powerful and intense brew. This artisan roasted coffee is crafted in small batches to preserve its robust flavor. The 32oz resealable package ensures freshness and convenience, making it ideal for dedicated coffee enthusiasts.
In my experience, Koffee Kult delivers a strong and bold cold brew that’s deeply satisfying. The well-balanced flavor profile is perfect for those who enjoy their coffee with an extra kick. The beans retain their freshness and allow for a customizable grind, essential for achieving the perfect cold brew strength.
Death Wish Coffee, Organic and Fair Trade Medium Roast Ground Coffee, 16 Ounce (Pack of 1)
Death Wish Coffee is renowned for its bold and strong flavor. This medium roast ground coffee is both organic and fair trade, appealing to those who appreciate ethical sourcing. Known for its high caffeine content, it’s perfect for those who need an extra boost from their cold brew.
I enjoy the depth and intensity that Death Wish Coffee brings to my cold brew. Its robust character is unmatched, providing a rich and full-bodied experience. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone looking to wake up their taste buds and start the day with a powerful cup of cold brew.
Cafe Du Monde Coffee Chicory, 15 Ounce Ground
Cafe Du Monde Coffee Chicory is a classic choice for those who enjoy a touch of tradition in their cold brew. This unique blend incorporates chicory, offering a distinct and slightly nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with coffee. Its ground format makes it easy to brew and enjoy.
I’ve found that the addition of chicory gives this coffee a rich, earthy tone that sets it apart from typical cold brews. It’s a fantastic option for those who enjoy exploring different flavor profiles and want a unique cold brew experience. The balance of coffee and chicory creates a smooth and enjoyable drink.
Stumptown Coffee Roasters, Hair Bender – Whole Bean Coffee – 12 Ounce Bag, Flavor Notes of Citrus and Dark Chocolate
Stumptown Coffee Roasters’ Hair Bender blend is a delightful option for those who enjoy a complex flavor profile. This whole bean coffee features notes of citrus and dark chocolate, offering a vibrant and refreshing cold brew experience. Its small batch roasting ensures quality and consistency.
From my perspective, Hair Bender is perfect for those who love a nuanced and sophisticated cold brew. The citrus notes add a bright touch, while the dark chocolate undertones provide depth and richness. It’s a versatile coffee that works well for both cold brew and other brewing methods.
Things to consider when buying the best coffee for cold brew
- Bean Type: The type of coffee bean you choose plays a crucial role in the flavor profile of your cold brew. For a smoother and less acidic taste, Arabica beans are often preferred. However, if you are looking for a stronger flavor, Robusta beans might be the way to go.
- Roast Level: Medium to dark roasts are typically recommended for cold brew as they tend to have a richer and more full-bodied flavor. Light roasts can also be used if you prefer a more delicate and fruity taste.
- Grind Size: For cold brew, a coarse grind is essential. This helps in proper extraction and prevents the coffee from becoming bitter. Too fine a grind can lead to over-extraction, resulting in an unpleasant taste.
- Origin: The origin of the coffee beans can impact the flavor notes. For example, beans from Ethiopia often have fruity and floral notes, while those from Brazil might be nuttier and chocolatey.
- Freshness: Always opt for freshly roasted coffee beans. The freshness of the beans can significantly affect the taste of your cold brew. Look for a roast date on the packaging to ensure you are getting the freshest beans possible.
- Price: While premium beans can offer a superior taste, there are plenty of budget-friendly options that still provide a delicious cold brew experience. Consider how much you are willing to spend and look for beans that offer good value for money.
- Ethical Sourcing: If sustainability and ethical sourcing are important to you, look for coffee brands that are certified Fair Trade or Rainforest Alliance. This ensures that the coffee is produced in a socially and environmentally responsible manner.
Frequently Asked Questions
When it comes to finding the best coffee for cold brew, there are always a few questions that bubble up to the surface. Let’s tackle some of the most common ones to help you brew the perfect cup.
What is the best coffee grind for cold brew? The ideal grind for cold brew is coarse. A coarse grind allows the coffee to steep properly without releasing too many bitter compounds, which can happen with a finer grind. This results in a smooth and balanced flavor, which is what makes cold brew so appealing.
Can I use regular coffee for cold brew? Yes, you can use regular coffee beans for cold brew. However, it’s important to ensure that the grind is coarse and the beans are of good quality. Using a coffee specifically labeled for cold brew can often yield better results, as these are designed with the cold brewing process in mind.
How long should I steep cold brew coffee? Generally, cold brew should be steeped for 12 to 24 hours. The longer it steeps, the stronger the flavor will be. Most people find that a steep time of around 16 to 18 hours strikes the perfect balance between flavor strength and smoothness.
Is cold brew stronger than regular coffee? Cold brew is often stronger than regular coffee in terms of caffeine concentration. This is because it is typically brewed with a higher coffee-to-water ratio. However, it’s usually diluted with water or milk before drinking, which can adjust the strength to your liking.
How do I store cold brew? Once brewed, cold brew coffee can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Keep it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and flavor. It’s best to consume it within the first week for the best taste.