I have always preferred iced coffee over hot, so it quickly became a staple when cold brew coffee hit specialty coffee shops in the early 2010s.
But what’s the difference between cold brew and iced coffee, though?
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How Cold Brew is Made
Cold brew is brewed with cold water over a long period, about 12 – 24 hours. However, ice coffee is brewed with hot water (like hot coffee) and then cooled down. Experts say cold brew is more concentrated, less acidic, and naturally sweeter than regular iced coffee.
You can buy pre-made cold brew at the grocery store for about $5 a bottle or a cup from your local coffee shop for a pretty penny, which gets pretty expensive. So, to save money on my coffee habit, I started to cold brew at home. When I first started, it was pretty messy. I used big mixing bowls to steep the coffee and strain the cold mixture into another container after 12-24 hours. So, I started to use a cold brew maker. Over the years, I have grown quite a collection of cold brew makers, and I am sharing them with you today. Happy cold brewing!
Cold Brew Makers
French Press
The first product I bought to make cold brew was a French press. I know people use French presses for hot coffee and other drinks, but I bought my first French press with the intention of cold brewing. It’s a relatively inexpensive way to begin cold brewing; I got my French press at Starbucks with a gift card; I remember it was about $20.
Not only can you use a French press for other beverages (a couple years ago, it was trendy to make cocktails in a French press), but it’s effortless. Put the coffee grounds in the French press and pour water on top; after 12-24 hours, filter the grounds with the press, and you’ll have some cold brew ready to dilute and drink.
You can buy a French Press on Amazon here.
Ovalware Cold Brew Maker
I am a big fan of this type of cold brew maker. It’s affordable, relatively mess-free, and a great cup of cold brew. Pour the coarsely grounded coffee into the center filter, fill the pitcher with water, and let it brew in the fridge for about 12-24 hours.
There are many versions of this cold brew pitcher, but I love this one by Ovalware. The pitcher is made of glass and has a rubber cushion base. The Amazon listing says it can keep cold brew fresh for up to two weeks, but I drink it too fast to try. Like the French press, you’ll want to dilute the cold brew before drinking.
You can buy the Ovalware Cold Brew Maker on Amazon here.
OXO Brew Compact Cold Brew Coffee Maker
This is my newest cold brew maker, and I love how easy it is!
Start your week with smooth coffee concentrate brewed effortlessly in a 24-ounce container. Add ground coffee, pour water over the perforated rainmaker™ top, and let it brew for 12 to 24 hours on your counter or in the fridge.
Once brewed, place the brewer on the borosilicate glass carafe to drain. The ultra-fine, reusable stainless steel mesh filter ensures a clean brew, and the carafe’s cork stopper with a silicone seal keeps it fresh. When done, the brewer and carafe nest together for neat storage. Enjoy hassle-free, delicious coffee all week long.
Other Cold Brew Maker Options
Keep scrolling below to find other highly rated cold brew makers.
My husband has this as his daily coffee maker, but it also makes a good iced coffee when you need it!
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