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cold brew french press

Cold Brew French Press Coffee

A smooth and gentle cold brew coffee made overnight in a French press using coarse coffee grounds and cold water. This easy homemade cold brew recipe creates a low-acid, refreshing coffee you can enjoy over ice or with milk.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
12 hours
Total Time 12 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Beverage, Coffee, Drinks
Cuisine: American
Calories: 5
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cold Brew Base
  • 1 cup coarse ground coffee
  • 4 cups cold or room-temperature water
For Serving (Optional)
  • Ice cubes – for serving
  • Milk or water – for diluting concentrate

Equipment

  • French press for brewing and straining
  • Spoon for gentle stirring
  • Measuring cup for water and coffee
  • Jar or bottle for storing cold brew in the fridge

Method
 

  1. Add the coarse coffee grounds to the bottom of your French press.
  2. Pour cold or room-temperature water over the coffee grounds, making sure all grounds are fully wet.
  3. Stir gently with a spoon to combine the coffee and water evenly.
  4. Place the lid on the French press without pressing the plunger down. Let the coffee steep for 12 to 24 hours at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
  5. After steeping, slowly press the plunger down to strain the coffee.
  6. Pour the cold brew into a jar or bottle and store it in the refrigerator.
  7. To serve, dilute with equal parts water or milk and pour over ice if desired.

Notes

  • Use coarse coffee grounds only. Fine coffee can make the cold brew bitter and cloudy.
  • For a lighter brew you can drink right away, use 1 part coffee to 12 parts water.
  • Steep for 12 hours for light flavor, 18 hours for balanced flavor, or 24 hours for strong concentrate.
  • Store cold brew in a sealed glass jar in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
  • Always dilute concentrate with water or milk before drinking.