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Cold brew coffee is a refreshing and increasingly popular way to enjoy coffee, especially during warmer months. But achieving that smooth, low-acid flavor profile hinges on one crucial factor: the quality of your coffee beans.
Not just any bean will do; selecting the best coffee beans for making cold brew is paramount. The extended steeping process of cold brew extracts different compounds than hot brewing, making bean selection even more critical.
Choosing the wrong beans can lead to a muddy, bitter, or simply unremarkable final product. This review dives deep into the world of best coffee beans for making cold brew, helping you navigate the options and discover beans that deliver exceptional value and flavor.
We’ll explore the key characteristics to look for, empowering you to brew consistently delicious cold brew at home. —
IN THIS ARTICLE
Top 10 Best Coffee Beans For Making Cold Brew Compared
π BEST OVERALL Bizzy Organic Cold Brew Coffee | Smooth & Sweet Bl
- Optimized coarse grind for cold brew extraction
- Micro-sifted to reduce sediment
- Certified USDA Organic and Kosher
- 100% Organic Arabica beans
4.7/5
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π₯ 2ND RUNNER UP Organic Cold Brew Coffee Coarse Ground 1 LB – CRANK High Voltage Caffeine Dark Roast
- High caffeine content for enhanced focus.
- USDA certified organic and responsibly sourced.
- Coarse ground specifically for cold brew preparation.
- Resealable bag to maintain freshness.
4.4/5
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οΏ½ BEST VALUE Cold Brew Organic Coffee Beans
- Crafted specifically for cold brewing.
- Uses 100% Arabica Colombian, USDA certified organic coffee.
- Dark roast blend provides a bold and smooth flavor.
- Comes in a 1lb whole bean bag for at-home grinding and freshness.
4.7/5
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Organic Cold Brew Coffee – Guatemalan Coffee Beans Crafted For Cold Brewing – Whole Bean
- Sourced from Guatemalan high-elevation farms.
- Offers a sweet and balanced flavor profile with milk chocolate, caramel, and orange notes.
- Medium roast suitable for both hot and cold brew.
- Small-batch roasted in New England.
4.7/5
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Fresh Roasted Coffee
- Whole bean allows for customized grind size.
- Organically certified.
- Versatile β suitable for cold brew, drip, and espresso.
- Available in multiple sizes (12 oz, 2 lb, 5 lb).
4.5/5
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Bulletproof Original Medium Roast Coarse Ground Cold Brew Coffee
- Convenient pre-ground coffee specifically for cold brew.
- Described flavor profile is appealing (cinnamon, plum, orange, cocoa, hazelnut).
- Sustainably sourced (Rainforest Alliance Certified).
- Tested for toxins, ensuring a cleaner coffee experience.
4.6/5
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Cold Brew Coffee, Whole Bean
- Specifically designed for cold brewing.
- Rigorous testing for mold, quality, and safety.
- Freshly roasted and immediately sealed.
- Medium roast to bring out natural flavors.
4.5/5
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Bodum Roasting Cold Brew Coffee
- Well-balanced flavor profile with appealing tasting notes.
- Blend of beans from three distinct origins adds complexity.
- Suitable for those who enjoy darker roasts.
- Utilizes both washed and natural processing methods.
4.6/5
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Bulletproof The High Achiever Coarse Ground Cold Brew Coffee
- Includes Lion’s Mane, B Vitamins, and Coffeeberry for added benefits.
- Pre-ground for easy cold brew preparation.
- Sustainably sourced, Rainforest Alliance Certified Arabica beans.
- Tested for toxins, ensuring quality and safety.
4.6/5
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GRADYβS COLD BREW, New Orleans Style
- Convenient cold-brew method with no special equipment needed
- Unique flavor profile from Arabica coffee, chicory, and spices
- Versatile concentrate for various drinks and recipes
- Saves time with pre-brewed concentrate lasting two weeks
4.4/5
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Detailed Reviews of the Best Coffee Beans For Making Cold Brew
Bizzy Organic Cold Brew Coffee | Smooth & Sweet Bl – Optimized coarse grind for cold brew extraction
This cold brew coffee promises a smooth and flavorful experience, tailored specifically for cold brewing methods. The coarse ground and micro-sifted process aim to optimize extraction and reduce sediment, which is a plus for cold brew enthusiasts. Being certified USDA Organic and Kosher assures consumers of the product’s quality and ethical sourcing.
The 100% Organic Arabica beans from Central and South America, combined with the medium roast, suggest a balanced cup with notes of sweet caramel and hazelnut. While the flavor profile sounds appealing, individual preferences may vary. Overall, this coffee seems well-suited for those seeking a convenient and high-quality organic option for their cold brew creations.
Pros
- Optimized coarse grind for cold brew extraction
- Micro-sifted to reduce sediment
- Certified USDA Organic and Kosher
- 100% Organic Arabica beans
- Appealing medium roast with caramel and hazelnut notes
Cons
- Flavor profile might not appeal to all palates
- Price might be higher due to organic certification
Organic Cold Brew Coffee Coarse Ground 1 LB – CRANK High Voltage Caffeine Dark Roast – High caffeine content for enhanced focus.
Stack Street Cold Brew Ground Coffee offers a convenient option for cold brew enthusiasts seeking a high-caffeine kick. The Crank roast aims to provide enhanced focus and clarity through a special blend of beans with a naturally higher caffeine content. The use of supremo beans suggests an emphasis on maximizing flavor.
The coffee is sourced directly from growers and is USDA certified organic, which is a plus for environmentally conscious consumers. The coarse grind is ideal for cold brew preparation using methods like French press or mason jar immersion. The resealable bag is designed to maintain freshness and aroma, featuring a one-way valve.
Overall, it appears to be a decent option for those prioritizing caffeine content and organic sourcing in their cold brew coffee.
Pros
- High caffeine content for enhanced focus.
- USDA certified organic and responsibly sourced.
- Coarse ground specifically for cold brew preparation.
- Resealable bag to maintain freshness.
- Directly sourced from growers, cutting out middlemen.
Cons
- The dark roast may not appeal to all palates.
- The ‘high voltage caffeine’ claim is subjective and effects can vary.
Cold Brew Organic Coffee Beans – Crafted specifically for cold brewing.
Cold Brew Lab’s cold brew coffee offers a convenient option for cold brew enthusiasts. The product highlights its custom crafting for cold brewing, using a blend of medium and dark roasted 100% Arabica Colombian coffee beans. The coffee is USDA certified organic, which is a plus for health-conscious consumers.
The 1lb whole bean bag is suitable for at-home brewing in various methods. The company emphasizes freshness by roasting in NYC. However, the ‘perfect’ and ‘optimal’ claims might be subjective and depend on individual preferences.
The dark roast blend promises a smooth yet bold flavor profile, catering to those who enjoy a richer coffee taste. Overall, it seems like a solid option for those seeking a specifically crafted coffee for cold brewing.
Pros
- Crafted specifically for cold brewing.
- Uses 100% Arabica Colombian, USDA certified organic coffee.
- Dark roast blend provides a bold and smooth flavor.
- Comes in a 1lb whole bean bag for at-home grinding and freshness.
- Roasted fresh in NYC.
Cons
- Dark roast may not appeal to all coffee drinkers.
- Statements about ‘perfect’ extraction may be subjective.
Organic Cold Brew Coffee – Guatemalan Coffee Beans Crafted For Cold Brewing – Whole Bean – Sourced from Guatemalan high-elevation farms.
Cooper’s Cask Guatemalan Cold Brew coffee beans offer a potentially enjoyable experience, particularly for those who appreciate the specific flavor profile described. The beans, sourced from Guatemala, are touted for their sweet, balanced flavor, with notes of milk chocolate, caramel, and orange. The medium roast, handled in small batches in New England, aims to accentuate these natural flavors, making it suitable for both hot and cold brewing methods.
Cooper’s Cask emphasizes the use of Grade 1 single-origin beans to ensure a full-bodied flavor and a gourmet experience. Their commitment to customer satisfaction is reassuring, offering a refund or replacement if the product doesn’t meet expectations. However, individual preferences for coffee flavor can vary significantly, so the described tasting notes might not perfectly align with every palate.
Pros
- Sourced from Guatemalan high-elevation farms.
- Offers a sweet and balanced flavor profile with milk chocolate, caramel, and orange notes.
- Medium roast suitable for both hot and cold brew.
- Small-batch roasted in New England.
- Uses Grade 1 single-origin beans.
- Company offers a refund or replacement if not satisfied.
Cons
- Flavor profile, while appealing to some, might not suit all taste preferences.
- Price point might be higher compared to commercially available coffee brands.
Fresh Roasted Coffee – Whole bean allows for customized grind size.
This Cold Brew Blend offers the flexibility of whole bean coffee, allowing users to grind it to their preferred consistency for cold brew or other brewing methods like drip or espresso, as suggested by the manufacturer. It is available in 12 oz, 2 lb, and 5 lb sizes. The coffee is organically certified, which guarantees regulation during production and ensures it’s free of GMOs and synthetic substances.
While the description highlights its suitability for cold brew, its versatility for other brewing methods adds value. The roastmaster’s attention to detail suggests a focus on flavor enhancement.
Pros
- Whole bean allows for customized grind size.
- Organically certified.
- Versatile β suitable for cold brew, drip, and espresso.
- Available in multiple sizes (12 oz, 2 lb, 5 lb).
Cons
- Limited details on the specific flavor profile.
- The provided description leans heavily on certifications rather than tangible benefits.
Bulletproof Original Medium Roast Coarse Ground Cold Brew Coffee – Convenient pre-ground coffee specifically for cold brew.
The Original Cold Brew ground coffee offers a convenient way to prepare cold brew at home. The 12-ounce bag provides a pre-ground, coarsely ground coffee blend specifically designed for cold brewing, simplifying the preparation process. The described flavor profile suggests a pleasant, fruity, and slightly nutty experience, with notes of cinnamon, plum, orange, cocoa and hazelnut.
The fact that the beans are sustainably sourced and tested for toxins is a definite plus. The recommended preparation instructions are straightforward, yielding approximately 8 cups of cold brew per batch. While the coffee is pre-ground, offering convenience, it might not appeal to those who prefer grinding their own beans for maximum freshness.
Pros
- Convenient pre-ground coffee specifically for cold brew.
- Described flavor profile is appealing (cinnamon, plum, orange, cocoa, hazelnut).
- Sustainably sourced (Rainforest Alliance Certified).
- Tested for toxins, ensuring a cleaner coffee experience.
- Easy-to-follow preparation instructions.
Cons
- Pre-ground coffee might not be as fresh as whole bean options.
- Only comes in one size (12-ounce bag).
Cold Brew Coffee, Whole Bean – Specifically designed for cold brewing.
This cold brew coffee blend is marketed as a specialized option for cold brewing, boasting a medium roast intended to highlight the coffee’s natural flavors. A key selling point is the rigorous testing for mold, quality, and safety, including phytosanitary checks before export and lab analysis upon arrival. The beans are roasted at over 400Β°F, aiming to ensure a fresh, safe, and impurity-free product.
The coffee is also packaged and sealed immediately after roasting to maintain freshness. While the product description emphasizes quality control and freshness, the actual flavor profile and brewing experience will ultimately determine its overall appeal.
Pros
- Specifically designed for cold brewing.
- Rigorous testing for mold, quality, and safety.
- Freshly roasted and immediately sealed.
- Medium roast to bring out natural flavors.
Cons
- Flavor profile is subjective and may not appeal to all.
- The “100% Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed” claim should be verified by the customer support information.
Bodum Roasting Cold Brew Coffee – Well-balanced flavor profile with appealing tasting notes.
This is a 12oz bag of whole bean coffee, a blend originating from Guatemala, Brazil, and Ethiopia. The tasting notes suggest a rich and well-balanced cup with hints of chocolate, nuts, and juicy fruit, finishing with a smooth sweetness. The roast level is described as a rich dark, placing it at a 4 out of 5 on the darkness scale.
The beans have undergone both washed and natural processing methods. This coffee seems geared toward those who appreciate a darker roast with classic flavor profiles, though individual preferences may vary regarding the intensity of the dark roast.
Pros
- Well-balanced flavor profile with appealing tasting notes.
- Blend of beans from three distinct origins adds complexity.
- Suitable for those who enjoy darker roasts.
- Utilizes both washed and natural processing methods.
Cons
- Dark roast may not appeal to those who prefer lighter, brighter coffees.
- Tasting notes are subjective and may vary.
Bulletproof The High Achiever Coarse Ground Cold Brew Coffee – Includes Lion’s Mane, B Vitamins, and Coffeeberry for added benefits.
The High Achiever cold brew enhanced coffee presents an interesting option for those seeking a functional boost to their daily coffee routine. The 10-ounce bag of ground coffee is designed for cold brew preparation, with a medium-dark roast that aims for a smooth and refreshing flavor profile. The inclusion of Lion’s Mane mushroom, B Vitamins, and Coffeeberry is intended to provide enhanced energy, focus, and cognitive support.
The coffee is pre-ground to a consistency suitable for cold brewing, and the instructions offer a straightforward method for preparing a batch at home. The use of sustainably sourced, Rainforest Alliance Certified Arabica beans is a plus, and the testing for toxins adds a layer of reassurance. However, the taste and effectiveness of the added ingredients may vary from person to person.
Pros
- Includes Lion’s Mane, B Vitamins, and Coffeeberry for added benefits.
- Pre-ground for easy cold brew preparation.
- Sustainably sourced, Rainforest Alliance Certified Arabica beans.
- Tested for toxins, ensuring quality and safety.
Cons
- The taste and effectiveness of added ingredients may vary.
- Requires a 12-hour steep time for cold brew preparation.
GRADYβS COLD BREW, New Orleans Style – Convenient cold-brew method with no special equipment needed
Grady’s Cold Brew Coffee offers a convenient and versatile solution for coffee lovers. The blend of Arabica coffee with French chicory and spices creates a naturally sweeter and more flavorful experience compared to standard coffee. Its cold-brew method, using bean bags steeped in cold water, simplifies the brewing process significantly, eliminating the need for specialized equipment or messy procedures.
The concentrate remains fresh for up to two weeks in the refrigerator, saving time and effort. Its strength allows for diverse dilution options with water, milk, or other beverages, making it suitable for various preferences. While the cost per serving is competitive compared to coffee shop prices, the need for a 12-24 hour steep time might require some planning.
Pros
- Convenient cold-brew method with no special equipment needed
- Unique flavor profile from Arabica coffee, chicory, and spices
- Versatile concentrate for various drinks and recipes
- Saves time with pre-brewed concentrate lasting two weeks
- All-natural, sugar-free, vegan, low calorie, non-GMO, and gluten-free
Cons
- Requires a 12-24 hour steep time
- The taste profile with chicory may not appeal to all coffee drinkers.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best Coffee Beans For Making Cold Brew
Understanding Cold Brew and Bean Selection
Cold brew coffee is made by steeping coffee grounds in cold or room-temperature water for an extended period, typically 12-24 hours. This process results in a smoother, less acidic, and often sweeter coffee concentrate compared to hot brewing methods. Selecting the best coffee beans for making cold brew involves considering factors like roast level, grind size, bean origin, and personal flavor preferences.
Key Factors to Consider
When choosing the best coffee beans for making cold brew, start with roast level. Medium to dark roasts are generally preferred as they offer richer, bolder flavors that hold up well during the long extraction process. Consider grind size too. A coarse grind is essential for cold brew to prevent over-extraction and bitter flavors. Bean origin plays a role in the final flavor profile, with beans from different regions offering unique characteristics. Finally, consider freshness. Freshly roasted beans always yield the best results.
Roast Level and Flavor Profiles
Medium roasts often provide a balanced flavor profile with notes of caramel, chocolate, and nuts, while dark roasts offer a bolder, more intense taste with smoky or earthy undertones. Lighter roasts, while less common for cold brew, can produce a brighter, fruitier cup. The best coffee beans for making cold brew are those that complement your preferred flavors.
Grind Size and Extraction
A coarse grind is crucial for cold brew. A finer grind can lead to over-extraction, resulting in a bitter and muddy brew. A coarse grind allows for a slower, more even extraction, leading to a smoother and more flavorful concentrate. Many brands offer pre-ground coffee specifically for cold brew, but grinding your own beans just before brewing will always provide the freshest and most flavorful results.
Bean Origin and Flavor Variations
Coffee beans from different regions offer unique flavor profiles. Colombian beans are known for their balanced flavor and smooth body, while Guatemalan beans often have notes of chocolate and caramel. Ethiopian beans can offer bright, fruity, or floral notes. Experimenting with different origins is a great way to discover your personal favorite best coffee beans for making cold brew.
Freshness and Storage
Freshly roasted beans are essential for making the best cold brew. Look for beans that have been roasted within the past few weeks. Store your beans in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to maintain freshness. Avoid storing beans in the refrigerator or freezer, as this can introduce moisture and degrade the flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Coffee Beans For Making Cold Brew
Is pre-ground coffee or whole bean better for cold brew?
Whole bean coffee is generally better for cold brew because you can control the grind size. A coarse grind is essential for cold brew to prevent over-extraction and bitterness. Pre-ground coffee may not always be coarse enough. Grinding your own beans right before brewing also ensures maximum freshness and flavor, contributing to a superior cold brew experience. Selecting the best coffee beans for making cold brew starts with considering the grind.
What is the ideal roast level for cold brew?
Medium to dark roasts are generally preferred for cold brew. These roasts offer richer, bolder flavors that hold up well during the long extraction process. Medium roasts often provide a balanced flavor profile with notes of caramel and chocolate, while dark roasts offer a more intense, smoky taste. Lighter roasts can be used, but they may result in a less pronounced flavor in the final cold brew. Choosing the best coffee beans for making cold brew includes considering the roast.
How does bean origin affect the taste of cold brew?
The origin of the coffee beans significantly impacts the flavor profile of your cold brew. Colombian beans are known for their balanced flavor and smooth body, while Guatemalan beans often have notes of chocolate and caramel. Ethiopian beans can offer bright, fruity, or floral notes. Experimenting with different origins is a great way to discover your preferred taste. Selecting the best coffee beans for making cold brew involves considering the origin.
How long should I steep the coffee grounds for cold brew?
The ideal steeping time for cold brew is typically between 12 and 24 hours. Steeping for too short a time may result in a weak and under-extracted brew, while steeping for too long can lead to a bitter and over-extracted concentrate. Experiment with different steeping times within this range to find the perfect balance for your taste. Remember that the best coffee beans for making cold brew require optimal steeping.
Can I use regular coffee beans for cold brew?
Yes, you can use regular coffee beans for cold brew. However, it’s important to choose beans that are well-suited for the cold brew process. Medium to dark roasts with a coarse grind are generally recommended. Avoid using very light roasts or finely ground coffee, as these may not produce the best results. Finding the best coffee beans for making cold brew involves understanding bean suitability.
What is the best grind size for cold brew?
A coarse grind is essential for cold brew. A grind that is too fine can lead to over-extraction, resulting in a bitter and muddy brew. A coarse grind allows for a slower, more even extraction, leading to a smoother and more flavorful concentrate. Aim for a grind size similar to that of French press coffee. Consider this when selecting the best coffee beans for making cold brew.
How do I store cold brew coffee concentrate?
Cold brew coffee concentrate should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, cold brew concentrate can last for up to two weeks without losing its flavor. Always use a clean container to prevent contamination and maintain freshness. This is important regardless of what best coffee beans for making cold brew you use.
What is the ideal coffee-to-water ratio for cold brew?
A general guideline for the coffee-to-water ratio in cold brew is 1:4 to 1:8, depending on the desired strength of the concentrate. For a stronger concentrate, use a ratio closer to 1:4. For a milder concentrate, use a ratio closer to 1:8. Experiment with different ratios to find the perfect strength for your taste. Using the best coffee beans for making cold brew with the right ratio is key.
Does organic certification matter when choosing coffee beans for cold brew?
Organic certification ensures that the coffee beans were grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers. Choosing organically certified beans can offer peace of mind and contribute to a more sustainable coffee production process. While not essential for taste, it is a factor many consumers consider. Choosing the best coffee beans for making cold brew means considering certifications.
Can I use cold brew coffee for hot coffee?
Yes, you can use cold brew coffee concentrate to make hot coffee. Simply dilute the concentrate with hot water to your desired strength. Cold brew coffee offers a smoother and less acidic alternative to traditionally brewed hot coffee. This is a great way to enjoy the best coffee beans for making cold brew in different ways.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict
The Bizzy Organic Cold Brew Coffee | Smooth & Sweet Bl this cold brew coffee offers a convenient and potentially flavorful option for cold brew lovers. the organic certification and careful processing make it a worthwhile consideration if you value quality and ethical sourcing. recommended for those looking for a specialized organic cold brew coffee.
