In the realm of coffee lovers, the quest for the best coffee beans for cold brew is a pursuit steeped in both passion and precision.
Cold brew enthusiasts seeking the epitome of flavor and aroma are perpetually searching for those elusive beans that promise an exceptional iced coffee experience.
Cold brew coffee beans are not just any red cherry beans but the foundation upon which a delectable, chilled brew is constructed. The process of cold brewing is patient alchemy, and choosing the best cold brew coffee beans is the key to success.
These beans, specifically curated for the cold brewing method, unlock a symphony of flavors that marinate gently over time.
One must navigate many options when considering coffee beans for cold brew. From cold brew beans that exude a nuanced sweetness to those acclaimed as the best beans for cold brew coffee, the selection is as diverse as the coffee world itself.
In the comforts of your home, the quest for the best coffee for at-home cold brew beckons exploration. It’s not merely about convenience; it’s about crafting an artisanal experience that begins with choosing the best coffee beans for cold brew coffee.
In this journey, I will delve deeper into the nuances of these best coffee roasts for cold brew, exploring their distinct profiles, origins, and the alchemy they bring to the art of cold brewing. I will find the Best Coffee Beans for Cold Brew in 2024.
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Table of Contents
Top 9 Best Coffee Beans for Cold Brew || A Quick Overview of 5 Standout Products
Discovering the best type of coffee beans for cold brew can transform your caffeinated experience. Explore what kind of coffee for cold brew truly elevates the flavors and aromas of this chilled classic. Here’s a quick overview of five standout products.
Stone Street Cold Brew Coffee, Strong and Smooth Blend
Bizzy Organic Cold Brew Coffee | Smooth and Sweet Blend
Tiny Footprint Coffee – USDA Organic Cold Brew and Press Elixir
Counter Culture Coffee – Whole Bean Coffee – Freshly Roasted Coffee BeansÂ
Lavazza Super Crema Whole Bean Coffee Blend, light-medium Espresso Roast
A Comprehensive Guide to the Best Coffee Beans for Cold Brew
Unlock the full potential of your cold brew with the best coffee beans for making cold brew. Dive into our comprehensive guide to find the perfect cold-brew coffee bean for your taste preferences.
1. Stone Street
Strong & Smooth Blend, Low Acid, 100% Arabica, Gourmet Coffee, Coarse Ground, Dark Roast, Colombian Single Origin, 1 LB
Key Features of Stone Street Cold Brew Coffee
Item Form: Ground
Flavor: Ground Dark Roast
Roast Level: Dark Roast
Package Information: Bag
Navigating the intricate landscape of cold-brew coffee can be complex, particularly for individuals like myself who deal with sensitive stomach issues. Amidst the available options, Stone Street Cold Brew Coffee emerges as a clear frontrunner.
Specifically formulated as a strong and smooth blend, this product captures the best of both worlds, offering robust flavors while being gentle on the stomach. At its core are 100% Arabica beans, renowned for their superior quality and depth of taste.
The beans are sourced from Colombia, recognized as a premier coffee-growing region, and are of the Colombian Supremo variety, known for its richness and complexity.
What sets Stone Street apart from its competitors is its low-acid formulation. Acidic beverages can be particularly harsh for those with gastrointestinal sensitivities, making the low acidity of this blend a key selling point.
The product comes coarse-ground and dark-roasted, optimizing for cold brewing techniques, precisely the standard immersion method. I have tested this coffee blend in various brewing apparatuses and found that it consistently delivers the best flavors and smoothness when brewed using formal immersion.
Moreover, its availability adds another layer of convenience to its long list of attributes. I was pleasantly surprised to find this one-pound bag of coffee beans in my local grocery store. This ease of access enhances its appeal, making it not just a high-quality product but also a highly accessible one, So this is one of the Best Coffee Beans for Cold Brew.
Due to its superior taste profile, low acidity, adaptability to various brewing methods, and widespread availability, Stone Street Cold Brew Coffee has confidently secured its place among my top 09 coffee grounds for crafting the perfect cold brew.
2. Bizzy
Smooth & Sweet Blend | Coarse Ground Coffee | Micro Sifted | Specialty Grade | 100% Arabica | 1 LBt.
Key Features of Bizzy Organic Cold Brew Coffee
Ingredients:100% ORGANIC
Item Form: Ground
Flavor: Smooth & Sweet
Roast Level: Medium-Roast
Package Information: Bag
The history of Bizzy Coffee can be traced back to its dedication to cold brew coffee aficionados, capturing the market with its specialized coarse-ground coffee specifically engineered for cold brew methods.
Recognizing the demand for a more personalized brewing experience, Bizzy allows consumers to “Brew Your Way,” offering flexibility in the coffee-to-water ratio for a customized beverage strength. Standing out in the crowded marketplace, the brand is committed to ethical practices, sourcing only 100% USDA organic coffee from Guatemala, Peru, and Nicaragua.
This ensures a sustainable product and one that meets the highest quality standards. Further distinguishing itself, Bizzy Coffee employs Arabica beans, which are medium-roasted to reveal notes of caramel and hazelnut, ensuring a smooth and sweet flavor profile that has garnered a following.
The brand’s catchy name, “Bizzy Coffee for Busy People,” encapsulates its ethos, positioning itself as the go-to choice for those seeking high-quality yet convenient cold brew options. With a focus on mastering the cold brew craft, Bizzy Coffee has carved out a unique space, promising top-tier cold brew coffee at competitive prices. These attributes make it the first runner-up in the race of best Coffee Beans for Cold Brew.
3. Tiny Footprint Coffee
USDA Organic Cold Brew & Press Elixir, Blend of Light and Dark Roasts, Shade-Gown Ground Coffee, Carbon Negative, 16 Ounce
Key Features of Tiny Footprint Coffee
Ingredients: 100% Shade Grown Organic Arabica Coffee
Item Form: Ground
Flavor: Ground
Roast Level: Medium-Roast
Package Information: Bag
In exploring premium coffee blends, I came across Tiny Footprint Coffee. This brand offers more than taste; it’s a commitment to the environment with 100% shade-grown organic Arabica beans.
Their Cold Press Elixir, designed specifically for cold brew enthusiasts like me, caught my attention. It’s a balanced mix of light and dark roasts, further enhanced by the finest Ethiopian coffee. I genuinely appreciate its unique flavor, a silky combination of sweet richness with hints of fruit and floral notes grounded in cocoa essence, So this is the 2nd runner-up in the walk of Best Coffee Beans for Cold Brew.
Crafted with precision, every batch is roasted in a classic German Probat drum, ensuring consistency in every cup. With each pound yielding 1.35 gallons of cold brew, I’m not just enjoying a coffee; I’m experiencing a carefully curated blend that speaks of passion and craftsmanship.
4. Counter Culture Coffee
Whole Bean Coffee – Freshly Roasted Coffee Beans – Premium Coffee – Multiple Flavors – One 12 Ounce Bag of Each (Hologram)
Key Features of Counter Culture Coffee
Item Form: Whole Bean
Flavor: Hologram
Roast Level: Medium-Roast
Package Information: Bag
Certifications:Â Kosher
The world of coffee is vast, but every so often, a blend emerges that encapsulates sheer perfection. Hologram is one such blend. Medium-roasted, this coffee is a symphony of flavors, harmonizing the raw essence of the beans with an intricate taste profile. let’s know more about the Best Coffee Beans for Cold Brew.
When I pour myself a cup, I am immediately greeted by tantalizing notes of ripe fruit interwoven with the creamy richness of milk chocolate. It’s not just about taste; it’s an experience.
Each sip is syrupy, echoing the meticulous blend of natural sundried and washed processed beans. Hologram isn’t just a name; it reflects its multidimensional flavor. I use it to kickstart my mornings and to savor quiet moments. Its strong quality and captivating taste make it stand out, offering a truly immersive coffee experience with every brew.
5. Lavazza
Whole Bean Coffee Blend, light-medium Espresso Roast, 2.2 Pounds (Pack of 1) , Premium Quality, Aromatic, Mild, and creamy
Key Features of Lavazza Super Crema
Diet type: Gluten-Free
Item Form: Whole Bean
Flavor: Super Crema
Roast Level: Medium-Roast
Package Information: Bag
Roast: Medium
Origin: Brazil, Central America, Indonesia
Notes: Velvety crema, milder with sweetness, aromas of honey and almonds
Organic: No
Introducing Lavazza’s Super Crema Whole Bean Coffee Blend, a product I ardently advocate for, given the superb quality I’ve experienced every time I use it. This delightful blend encapsulates the perfect medium roast, exuding hints of hazelnut and brown sugar that dance on the palate. The reason why it comes in Best Coffee Beans for Cold Brew.
Embracing a balanced combination of 60% Arabica and 40% Robusta beans, the result is a coffee that embodies a mild and creamy taste profile. Distinctly gluten-free, it adheres to dietary considerations without compromising on flavor. Even more assuring is the purity of the product, which contains solely coffee in its most authentic form.
Designed for the best brewing experience, its optimal use lies in an espresso machine, allowing you to capture its essence in every cup. Packaged in a 2.2 lb bag, the commitment to quality is evident in its taste and presentation. The Lavazza Super Crema stands out in an arena with choices, affirming its position as a premier choice for coffee lovers.
6. San Francisco Bay
Ground Coffee Cold Brew (28-ounce Bag), Light Roast
Key Features of Counter Culture Coffee
Diet type: Kosher
Ingredients: 100% Arabica Coffee
Item Form: Ground
Flavor: Cold Brew
Roast Level: Light_roast
Package Information: Bag
Meet San Francisco Bay Cold Brew—your ticket to a refreshing at-home coffee experience. Dive into the smooth, sweet, balanced notes of 100% Arabica coffee, ground just right for your cold brew maker. Packaged conveniently in a bag, this light roast is your go-to for a hassle-free ritual.
Mix with water (4:1 ratio), stir, refrigerate for 16–24 hours, filter, and enjoy the rich results. Quality is vital, and I’m all about it. Using exclusively 100% Arabica beans, handpicked and grown in high altitudes, a satisfaction guarantee backs my commitment to excellence.
It’s not just coffee; it’s a commitment to sustainability.
Explore a range of sustainably grown, sourced, and packaged coffees that speak to your values. As a family-owned American company, I take pride in my reputation, ensuring your satisfaction. If you’re unhappy, reach out, because at San Francisco Bay Coffee, every cup tells a story of quality, sustainability, and the joy of great coffee.
7. Lavazza
Whole Bean Coffee Blend, Light Roast, Premium Arabica, USDA/Canada Organic, UTZ & Euro Leaf Organic certified;100% sustainably grown,2.2 Pound (Pack of 1)-Package May Vary.
Key Features of Lavazza Organic Tierra!
Brand: Lavazza
Item Form: Whole Bean
Flavour: Organic ¡Tierra! – 2.2 LB
Roast Level: Light_roast
Package Information: Bag
Indulge in the rich and aromatic experience of Lavazza Organic Tierra Italian whole coffee beans, a masterpiece crafted by the renowned brand Lavazza. With a commitment to sustainability, this coffee is USDA Organic, Canada Organic, UTZ, and Euro Leaf Organic certified, ensuring that each cup is a delight to your senses and a conscious choice for the environment.
The 2.2 lb. bag of whole beans offers a light roast that unveils a symphony of flavors, including notes of honey, malt, and chocolate, creating a harmonious blend that embodies the essence of Italian craftsmanship.
Ideal for espresso enthusiasts, these premium Arabica beans are versatile enough to be enjoyed in any coffee maker, from drip coffee machines to French press, pour-over, and even cold brew methods.
Elevate your coffee ritual with Lavazza’s Organic Tierra blend, where every sip transports you to a world of flowers and fruit, delivering a genuinely satisfying and ethically sourced coffee experience. Immerse yourself in the art of coffee with Lavazza, where quality, sustainability, and exceptional taste converge in every bean.
8. Lifeboost Coffee
Light Roast Ground Coffee – Low Acid Single Origin Usda Organic Ground Coffee Beans – Non-Gmo Ground Coffee Light Roast Third Party Tested For Mycotoxins & Pesticides – 12 Ounces
Key Features of Lifeboost Coffee
Item Form: Ground
Flavor: GROUND Light Roast
Caffeine Content Per Serving: 105 Milligrams
Roast Level: Light-Roast
Step into the world of Lifeboost’s USDA Organic Ground Coffee, and let ‘I’ guide you through an unparalleled coffee experience. ‘I’ represents not just a brand but a commitment to excellence, ensuring each cup of our Ground Light Roast becomes a symphony of flavor and ethical sourcing. With 105 milligrams of caffeine per serving, ‘I’ brings you the perfect blend of energy and richness.
Nestled in the heights of Nicaragua, our single-origin beans, chosen by ‘I,’ are shaded at high elevations, guaranteeing a taste that’s nothing short of extraordinary. ‘I’ am the essence of ethical practices, cultivating beans in bird-friendly, exclusive Central American farms. ‘I’ am the assurance of purity, with each bean sun-dried and spring water washed straight from nature.
But that’s not all—’I’ am your solution to the acidity problem. As an acid Light Roast, ‘I’ eliminates the discomfort associated with standard coffee, offering a smooth and gentle alternative. Certified USDA Organic and rigorously 3rd Party Tested, ‘I’ ensure your cup is free from mycotoxins, heavy metals, pesticides, and 400 other toxins.
Lifeboost believes so strongly in ‘my’ excellence that ‘I’ challenge you to a 30-day trial. Try ‘me’ out, and if you don’t fall head over heels for ‘my’ award-winning flavor, ‘I’ ‘ll willingly give you your money back. So, let ‘I’ be your guide into the extraordinary, where every cup of Lifeboost coffee is a journey you will want to experience.
9. Stumptown Coffee
 Dark Roast Organic Whole Bean Coffee – French Roast 12 Ounce Bag with Flavor Notes of Clove and Bittersweet Chocolate
Key Features of Stumptown Coffee
Ingredients: 100% Organic Arabica Coffee
Brand: Stumptown Coffee Roasters
Item Form: Ground
Flavor: French Roast
Roast Level: Dark-Roast
Package Information: Bag
Stumptown Coffee Roasters presents an exquisite coffee experience with their French Roast Organic Whole Bean Coffee. Encased in a convenient 12-ounce bag, this dark roast marvels in complexity without the bitterness. Crafted from 100% Arabica beans, the toasty and smoky flavour profile is a testament to Stumptown’s commitment to redefining classic dark roasts.
What sets this coffee apart is not just its rich taste but also its ethical roots. Stumptown’s Direct Trade program ensures quality by paying higher prices, fostering long-term relationships with trusted producers, and establishing collaborative partnerships. This French Roast goes beyond the ordinary, revealing toasted and malty notes that add depth to every sip.
Versatile in brewing, from espresso to cold brew to pour-over, Stumptown encourages coffee enthusiasts to experiment with grind size and water quality for a personalized cup. Elevate your coffee ritual with Stumptown’s French Roast—a symphony of bold flavours, ethical sourcing, and brewing possibilities.
What is a cold brew?
In the world of coffee lovers, cold brew results from a nifty hard water extraction technique. But in simpler terms, it’s letting ground coffee take a leisurely soak in water for an extended period, either at room temperature or chilling in the fridge. Coffee beans can be frozen to preserve their freshness.
What’s great about cold brew is its user-friendly nature—no need for fancy kettles or meticulous scales. It’s a less intricate process compared to other brewing methods.
The prolonged steeping time is the secret sauce, yielding a cup of coffee that’s not just any cup—it’s rich and smooth. Here’s the science part: cold water extracts fewer oils from the coffee, making cold brew less acidic than its hot counterpart. That means it’s kinder to your stomach, too.
And here’s the kicker for convenience: a batch of cold brew can hang out in your fridge for 7-10 days. Perfect for anything from hosting a bash to indulging in a personal coffee haven.
Now, when aiming for the pinnacle of cold brew excellence, let’s talk about the best coffee beans for cold brew. Because, let’s face it, the quality of your beans can make all the difference in this delightful brewing adventure.
Are there any drawbacks to consuming cold brew?
Coffee enthusiasts might not favor cold brew due to its perceived absence of acidity and complexity. Cold brew may not be your top pick if you seek a more intricate coffee experience.
Another factor is the extended brewing time required for cold brew compared to traditional hot coffee varieties.
Despite these considerations, there isn’t much to criticize about cold brew! Below, I’ll compare cold brew to two other brewing methods, outlining the differences to help you determine which way suits you best.
How does cold brew differ from iced coffee?
Cold brew is crafted using cold or room-temperature water, whereas iced coffee is prepared by brewing hot coffee and pouring it over ice. One key distinction is the caffeine content, with cold brew typically having a higher concentration than iced coffee. The lower acidity in the cold brew is attributed to hard water extracting fewer acidic and bitter notes than hot water.
In some coffee shops, you might encounter a variation of iced coffee known as the “flash chill” or “flash brew” method. In this technique, the coffee is brewed directly into a cup filled with ice, rapidly reducing the water-to-coffee ratio and immediately cooling down the beverage.
How does cold brew differ from a French press?
Cold brew and French press yield comparable outcomes, but they diverge in several aspects:
Cold brew relies on cold water, while the French press employs hot water.
Cold brew filters water through the grounds, whereas French press steers the grounds in water.
The cold brew method results in a milder, less acidic taste, in contrast to the intense and robust flavour profile of the French press, which extracts all the oils from the beans.
What kind of coffee beans work best for cold brew?
1. Cold Brew Champions: Dark Roast Delight
Experience the magic of cold brew with dark roast beans. Their deep flavour and low acidity create a silky-smooth cold brew.
2. Pure Pleasure: Single Origin Sensation
Discover the true essence of coffee with single-origin beans. Let their unique flavours shine in every sip of your cold brew delight.
3. Arabica vs. Robusta Rumble
In the coffee showdown, Robusta brings more acidity and caffeine. Arabica, though pricier, offers a smoother, sweeter taste, making it the go-to for most coffee shop cold brews.
4. Pricey Elegance: The Arabica Factor
Arabica’s smooth and sweet flavour comes at a cost. The higher cultivation expense translates to a higher price tag for these beans.
5. Coffee Shop Favorite: Arabica All the Way
Most coffee shops stick to Arabica for cold brew, catering to the widespread preference for its elegant and smooth taste.
6. Robusta’s Bold Kick
Robusta is your go-to if you crave a robust and bitter coffee experience. With extra caffeine, it’s your ticket to a quick and potent morning boost.
7. Ground or Whole Bean Dilemma
While cold brew forgives pre-ground coffee, purists opt for whole beans. Invest in a grinder for the freshest and most flavorful cold brew experience.
What is the process for preparing cold-brew coffee?
- Start by grinding your coffee beans coarsely.
- Place the grounds into the cold brew maker, aiming for a 1:8 or 1:9 ratio (8 grams of water for every 1 gram of coffee).
- Pour filtered water over the grounds.
- Let the coffee brew in the refrigerator for 12–24 hours.
- Remove the coffee grounds and discard them.
- Enjoy your cold brew over ice for a refreshing start to your day!
Comparison between Cold Brew Drip and Immersion Brewing Methods
Brew Method | Cold Drip | Immersion |
---|---|---|
Brew Device | Cold Drip Tower | Mason Jar, Pitcher |
Brew Time | 3-12 hours | 12-24 hours |
Brew Difficulty | Difficult | Easy |
Brew Taste | Rich and Full-bodied | Smooth and Sweet |
Cold Brew Immersion Method:
In the immersion approach, coffee grounds are immersed in a pitcher or jar of water and left to steep. This is the prevailing cold brew method and the one I prefer to use.
Cold Brew Cold Drip Method:
In the cold drip percolate technique, water gradually drips from a water reservoir or tower through a bed of ground coffee and into a carafe.
My Favourite Cold Brew Recipe
Once you have your cold brew ready, I would like to share my favorite way to drink it. Here is my favorite recipe:
What you’ll need
Ingredients:
1/2 tablespoon Pure Maple Syrup
One tablespoon Coconut Milk
Ice
Optional: Pink Himalayan Salt
Instructions:
Start by pouring your prepared cold brew into a glass filled with ice.
Add 1/2 tablespoon of Pure Maple Syrup and one tablespoon of Coconut Milk to the cold brew for a sweet and creamy flavor.
Optionally, sprinkle a bit of Pink Himalayan Salt for added depth.
For an extra touch:
Combine the brewed coffee, maple syrup, and coconut milk in a cocktail shaker.
Add ice to the shaker, ensure the lid is tightly secured, and shake it vigorously.
Pour the mixture into an ice-filled glass for a refreshing and indulgent treat.
How we shortlisted the Best Coffee Beans for Cold Brew?
To shortlist the best coffee beans for cold brew, I took into consideration several key factors:
- Flavor Profile: The flavor profile of the coffee beans is crucial. Cold brew enthusiasts often prefer a smooth, less acidic taste, so beans with these characteristics were prioritized.
- Roast Level: Cold brew generally works well with medium to dark roast beans. The roasting process contributes to the overall flavor and aroma of the cold brew.
- Bean Origin: Single-origin beans and those sourced from reputable coffee-growing regions often have distinct flavor profiles. The origin of the beans was considered in the selection process.
- Grind Size: Coarse ground coffee is ideal for cold brew to prevent over-extraction and bitterness. Beans that are suitable for coarse grinding were given preference.
- Brand Reputation: Established brands with a reputation for quality coffee were considered. This includes ethical sourcing, sustainability, and fair trade practices.
- Customer Reviews: User reviews and feedback were considered to understand the real-world experiences of consumers with the coffee beans. Positive reviews for flavor, aroma, and overall satisfaction were weighed.
- Brewing Method: The beans had to be suitable for the preferred cold brew brewing methods, whether immersion brewing or cold drip. Beans that performed well in different brewing setups were favored.
- Value for Money: While quality is crucial, the coffee beans’ price point was also considered. A good balance between quality and affordability was considered.
The shortlisted coffee beans represent a diverse range to cater to different preferences, brewing methods, and budgets. The goal was to provide a comprehensive guide for coffee lovers seeking the best beans for their cold-brew adventures.
FAQs || Best Coffee Beans for Cold Brew
What kind of coffee beans are best for cold brew?
You can select light, medium, or dark roast types for your coffee. Opting for a dark roast is typically ideal when preparing a cold brew. Dark roast varieties deliver rich, earthy, and chocolatey flavors to enhance your cold brew experience.
Is there a difference between cold brew coffee beans and regular?
To make cold brew coffee, you soak coffee in cold or room temperature water for hours. This slow, cool method gives cold brew a unique flavor, different from hot-brewed coffee with the same beans.
What size bean is best for cold brew?
For cold brew, grind your coffee beans extra-coarse.
How many times can you use coffee beans for cold brew?
Cold brew is forgiving compared to hot brews due to its extraction method. You can reuse the beans up to three times.
Conclusion
In the realm of coffee lovers, pursuing the best coffee beans for cold brew is a quest marked by passion and precision. Curated specifically for cold brewing, these beans unlock a symphony of flavors. Stone Street, Bizzy, Tiny Footprint, Counterculture, and Lavazza are the top contenders.
Each brand offers a unique profile, from Stone Street’s low-acid Colombian Supremo to Bizzy’s smooth and sweet blend. Exploring cold brew nuances continues with Tiny Footprint’s organic elixir, Counter Culture’s multidimensional Hologram, and Lavazza’s Super Crema. In this quest, the choice of beans transforms cold brewing into an artisanal experience, making the journey as delightful as the destination.