Are you a cold brew enthusiast on the search for the best coffee beans? Whether you’re just starting to experience the smooth, slightly sweet taste of cold brew or have already mastered this popular brewing method, finding the perfect bean can take your morning cup of joe from good to great.
With so many types and origins to choose from, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. Read on as we explore some of the best coffee beans available today that are ideal for preparing a rich, delicious cold brew.
What is Cold Brew Coffee?
Cold brew coffee is made by steeping coarsely ground coffee beans in room temperature or cold water for an extended period, usually between 12-24 hours. The result is a smoother, less acidic and less bitter coffee with a naturally sweet flavor profile, perfect for iced coffee drinks. As an added bonus, cold brew typically contains more caffeine than traditional hot brewed coffee.
How to Choose the Perfect Coffee Bean for Cold Brew
When selecting beans for a cold brew, it’s important to consider the type of bean, its origin and roast profile. Arabica beans are generally recommended for cold brewing because they have a higher acidity level which helps extract the flavor and sweetness from the beans.
In terms of origin, African and Indonesian beans are known for their unique flavors while Central American beans have a milder taste that many find appealing. Lastly, lighter roasts tend to work best with cold brew because they retain more of their delicate flavor in comparison to darker roasts which can impart an unpalatable burnt or smoky taste.
Best Coffee Beans for Cold Brew
When it comes to cold brew coffee, choosing the right beans is essential for a perfect cup. The best coffee beans for cold brew are those that have a well-balanced flavor profile, low acidity, and a smooth finish. Here are some of the top options available in the market:
1. Brazilian Coffee Beans
Discover the unique, rich flavor profile of Dark Roast Coffee Bundle of Brazil – the coffee you won’t soon forget! We craft each dark roasted bean with care in small batches for a more even roast and full body. These beans have a nutty and spiced flavor profile that’s soft in texture and ends with a light caramel aftertaste.
Grown at unfriendly high altitudes, these specialty beans are packed with sweetness and perfect to use as a base for flavored coffees or other coffee-based beverages. Make sure you show off your purchase with the coffee’s high quality sunproof and waterproof stickers, featuring an image of Pacific Northwest lush forests & snow capped mountains that make this coffee truly special.
Key & Feature:
- Delicious dark roast coffee beans.
- Free sticker with Oregon’s landscape.
- Get an energizing boost of a delicious cup of sustainable coffee to start your morning with joy and enthusiasm.
2. Counter Culture Coffee Fast Forward
(Exciting Tone) Look no further for a smooth cup of coffee that will tantalize your taste buds while keeping you guilt-free. Counter Culture Coffee Fast Forward Light Roast, Organic is the perfect choice for beverage lovers who care about their impact on the environment. Being ethically sourced and 100% organic, it’s sure to put a smile on your face as well as the environment’s!
Make your morning cup of joe one to savor with this dynamic light roast. Each 12 oz bag boasts nutty and creamy tasting notes with a hint of sweetness that will land you up in flavor town! The lightly roasted blend ensures you’ll get the most out of your coffee experience with its full-bodied flavor and fresh aroma. Fuel up for the day worry-free knowing your sustainable purchase is helping keep Mother Nature in shape!
What we like:
- Provides a smooth dark chocolate flavor profile
- Versatile; can be used for various espresso based drinks or pour over coffees
- Make the perfect cup of coffee to impress your friends
What we don’t like:
- This coffee is a gem with light, sweet, and nutty flavors, but the price prevents it from becoming a regular purchase.
3. KAHAWA 1893 – Whole Coffee Beans
Are you ready for the taste of an exquisitely rich Ethiopian coffee that will tantalize your palate? Our KAHAWA 1893 – Whole Coffee Beans are roasted in small batches to bring out their natural flavors and aromas, making them the perfect choice for any home barista.
The intense flavor and aroma of our KAHAWA 1893 beans showcase a vibrant blend of blackcurrant and apricot balanced with bright acidity. Every sip is like taking a journey through the lush, fertile hills of Kenya on a crisp morning. The complex notes of sweetness and hints of spice will make your freshly-made cup a gustatory experience like no other
Take pleasure in every sip knowing that only the best handpicked beans from Ethiopia make it into your cup. Roasted in precision-controlled batches, every single one is tested and calibrated to guarantee remarkable flavor for maximum satisfaction. Try this delicious single-origin blend today!
What we like:
- Roast fresh beans at home with ease.
- Enjoy a perfect cup of Kenyan coffee every time.
- Indulge in a delicious cup of freshly roasted Kenyan coffee anytime you want.
- Make your morning routine special and unique with the perfect cup of homemade coffee.
- This coffee offers a smooth, sweet cup of coffee with a unique natural sweetness, giving an overall satisfying experience.
What we don’t like:
- I decided to try the Kahawa Kenyan Single Origin medium roast coffee, which comes in a brightly-colored vented bag with flavor notes listed on the front but not much information about the specific blend.
4. Eight O’Clock Coffee The Original
Looking for a coffee that delivers on its promise of quality every single time? Look no further than Eight O’Clock Coffee The Original! For over 150 years, Eight O’Clock has been satisfying customers with its delicious and consistent taste. Using only the best 100% Arabica beans, their master roasters provide expert craftsmanship.
From classic flavors inside each bag to the perfect roast, you’ll never lack for an enjoyable cup of coffee. Whether you choose whole bean or ground; from a bag or from K-Cup packs – rest assured, your cup will be packed with flavor and aroma that could only come from Eight O’Clock Original.
Don’t settle for just any old coffee; get the reliability and flavor of true coffee connoisseurs with Eight O’Clock Original!
Key Features:
- Crafted with only high quality, 100% Arabica coffee
- Roasting done in Maryland, USA under expert supervision of master roasters
- Enjoy the classic flavors you know and love
- Taste the passion we put into every cup of coffee.
What we like:
- Roasted to produce a full flavor
- Natural blend of beans for maximum flavor
- Start your day with a cup of nostalgia
- Enjoy the rich taste and aroma that will instantly put you in good spirits
What we don’t like:
- Our favorite brand of Espresso beans is strong in taste yet not overly bitter, and offers unbeatable value.
5. VitaCup Perfect Low Acid Coffee Beans
Are you looking for the perfect coffee to give you smooth, pure flavor but without the high acidity? Look no further – VitaCup Perfect Low Acid Coffee Beans is your answer! With its all-natural and organic ingredients, this low acid coffee will give you a robust and chocolaty cup each time.
Each bag of our low acid blend contains 100% Arabica dark roast beans that are grown at high altitudes in Guatemala and certified USDA organic. What’s more – VitaCup is 3rd party lab tested and mycotoxin free, giving you a mold-free coffee with lasting energy. Our product is also full of healthy antioxidants like chlorogenic acid that protect cells for overall health benefits.
No matter what type of brewer you prefer, VitaCup Perfect Low Acid Coffee Beans works with all drip coffee makers, French press, electric coffee pots, reusable K-cups, cold brew & iced coffee makers – ultimate convenience for your morning pick-me-up! So why wait? Grab your bag today and experience the amazing taste of true quality low acid coffee.
Key Features:
- High quality and safe ingredients
- Products designed to provide optimum health
- Feel good about what you put in your bodyRejuvenate your energy levels to take on what life throws at you.
6. Amazon Fresh Colombia Whole Bean Coffee
Coffee lovers, rejoice! We’re proud to present Amazon Fresh Colombia Whole Bean Coffee. Sourced from the lush lands of Colombia, and roasted and packed in the U.S., this entirely Arabica blend is as fresh as it gets. Enjoy the balanced, full-bodied medium roast with a smooth finish as your new go-to morning or mid- afternoon pick-me-up. One 32 ounce bag of quality coffee beans means you can get your caffeine fix day after day.
Imagine rising each morning to a warm cup of freshly brewed Colombian coffee, body and soul reinvigorated and ready for the day ahead. Amazon Fresh Colombia Whole Bean Coffee will take your coffee experience to new sophisticated heights.
Key Features:
- Always consult a healthcare professional before ingesting any dietary supplement.
- Read the label for instructions on proper use.
- Feel empowered to take control of your health and wellness journey.
- Discover natural ways to support your body’s needs.
What we like:
- Roast level control for a consistent flavor
- Nutty flavor that is smooth and delicious
- Costs less than similar name brands
- Enjoy a cup of coffee perfected just for you
- Feel espressely satisfied with every cup
- Discover the perfect balance of flavor and price
What we don’t like:
- This light roast coffee is not the preferred choice, but some may still enjoy its bright and acidic taste.
7. Kuma Yirgacheffe
Welcome to the dazzling Ethiopian Yirgacheffe – 100% Pure Ethiopian Coffee Beans for the most discerning coffee lovers. Each fresh-roasted bean offers a medium body and an earthy aroma that couples perfectly with explosive notes of blueberry, blackberry, and lemon. Thanks to our commitment of freshness, these gourmet beans from Antigua Guatemala will provide you with a bold and sophisticated taste in every sip.
Make your mornings extraordinary with medium-bodied, acidy roughness that’s both tart and winy. With the Ethiopian Yirgacheffe, you get the perfect roast each and every time resulting in unparalleled flavor in every cup. Enjoy rich flavor without any bitterness or aftertaste – just a smooth, aromatic experience that will be sure to delight your senses.
100% customer satisfaction is our guarantee. So make your mornings beautiful – treat yourself to some of the world’s best coffee beans in the form of Ethiopian Yirgacheffe – 16 oz of pure perfection!
Key & Features:
- Medium-bodied and acidy coffee with rough, fruity and winy tones.
- Thick body with an earthy aroma coupled with blueberry, lemon, and blackberry notes.
- Experience a unique flavor that will excite your taste buds.
- Enjoy the aroma of freshly roasted beans in your home.
- Take pleasure in knowing you are drinking the freshest coffee possible.
8. Community Coffee Pecan Praline Flavored Ground Coffee
Community Coffee Pecan Praline Flavored Ground Coffee offers the perfect balance of sweet and creamy flavors reminiscent of Southern pralines. With a medium brightness and full body, it’s sure to please coffee connoisseurs everywhere! We take only the highest quality 100% Arabica beans for our coffee grinds, meticulously roasting and grinding them for an incomparable taste.
But we don’t stop there – Community Coffee also assists military service members, local schools and other causes with our programs that give back to the community. You can brew this versatile ground coffee to suit your individual tastes, whether you prefer hot drinks, iced options or cold brews.
We guarantee superior quality since every batch goes through a stringent scoring system that examines body, balance, flavor and aroma before being approved as true Community Coffee! So whether you’re looking for a unique flavor or just want the best cup of joe out there – look no further than Community Coffee Pecan Praline Flavored Ground Coffee!
Key & Features:
- Deliciously Southern flavored coffee made with 100% Arabica beans
- 12 ounces of ground coffee per pack, enough for multiple servings
- Enjoy a exquisite cup of coffee that takes you back to the flavors and stories of the South.
- Create moments of connection, warmth & joy with every sip.
What we like:
- Automatic delivery of flavorful coffee on your schedule.
- No strange aftertaste or dirt-like taste.
- Enjoy the flavor and aroma of a fresh cup of coffee every morning.
- Indulge in the indulgent flavors that make you feel like royalty.
What we don’t like:
- Despite coming in an unappealing package, the flavor of the product still tastes decent.
What Type Of Coffee Beans Make The Best Cold Brew?
The best coffee beans for cold brew are those that have a higher acidity level and are light to medium roasted. Arabica beans tend to be the most popular choice due to their naturally sweet flavor profile, though some experienced cold brewers may prefer Robusta beans for a more intense caffeine kick.
Some of the best varieties for cold brewing include Kuma Yirgacheffe, Copper Horse Costa Rican and Intelligentsia Black Cat. When selecting a coffee bean for cold brewing, it’s important to consider the origin of the beans in addition to its roast profile for an optimal cup of joe. Whichever beans you choose, with a bit of experimentation you’re sure to find the perfect variety for your cold brew needs.
Related article:
9 Best Dark Roast Coffee Beans in 2023
How do you make Cold Brew?
Making cold brew coffee is a simple and straightforward process that requires few ingredients. To begin, you’ll need coarsely ground coffee beans (approximately 1 cup for every 2 cups of water), filtered water and a container or pitcher for the brewing process.
Start by adding your coffee grounds to the container and slowly pouring room temperature or cold water over them until it’s fully saturated. Stir the mixture and let it sit, covered, in a cool place for 12-24 hours. Once brewed, strain out the grounds using a coffee filter or cheesecloth and your cold brew is ready to enjoy. If desired, you can further dilute with more filtered water or add cream and sugar to taste.
Cold Brew Drip Vs Immersion Method
At the end of the day, it all comes down to personal preference. Both cold brew drip and immersion methods can produce great coffee that’s rich and flavorful, but depending on your taste buds you might prefer one over the other. If you’re new to cold brewing, we recommend experimenting with both methods until you find what works best for you. With a bit of practice and trial and error, you’ll be able to make the perfect cup of cold brew in no time.
The Best Coffees For Cold Brew
Whether you’re a cold brew novice or an experienced barista, finding the perfect bean can take your morning cup of joe from good to great. There are so many types of coffee beans available today that it can be difficult to know which one is right for you.
Fortunately, specialty coffee stores usually have knowledgeable staff who can suggest the best coffees for cold brewing. Additionally, many roasters offer sample packs that allow you to try a variety of unique beans without breaking the bank. With a bit of research and experimentation, you’re sure to find the perfect cold brew coffee for your palate.
Why Choosing the Right Coffee Beans Matter?
Choosing the right coffee beans is crucial to the quality of your cold brew. Because cold brewing extracts coffee differently from hot brewing, it requires coffee beans that are specially suited for the method. The ideal coffee beans for cold brew have certain characteristics that make them stand out from regular coffee beans.
Characteristics of Best Coffee Beans for Cold Brew
When looking for the best coffee beans for cold brew, there are several factors to consider:
Low Acidity
Coffee beans with high acidity can result in an unpleasant sour taste when cold brewed. The best beans for cold brew have a low acidity level and a smooth taste profile.
Coarsely Ground
The coffee beans must be coarsely ground to prevent over-extraction during the brewing process. Fine grounds can result in a bitter taste and cloudy texture in your cold brew.
Freshness
Freshly roasted coffee beans produce the best flavor and aroma. Look for coffee beans roasted no more than two weeks before purchase.
Flavor Profile
Different types of coffee beans come with unique flavor profiles that can impact your cold brew’s taste. Single-origin beans have distinct flavors based on their country of origin. Blends mix different beans to create a unique flavor profile.
How to Use Best Coffee Beans for Cold Brew?
To get the most out of your best coffee beans for cold brew, you need to follow these simple steps:
- Grind coffee beans coarsely.
- Add the grounds to a large container or mason jar and fill with room temperature or cold water.
- Stir gently and cover with a lid.
- Let the coffee steep in the refrigerator for at least 12 hours, up to 24 hours, depending on your preferred strength.
- Strain the coffee through a cheesecloth or coffee filter and enjoy!
Comparing Best Coffee Beans for Cold Brew
When comparing different types of coffee beans for cold brew, it’s essential to consider their origin, roast level, and flavor profile. Single-origin coffee beans provide unique flavors based on their growing region, while blends offer a more complex taste profile with an array of flavors.
Light and medium roast coffee beans have a brighter acidity level and provide a lighter taste profile, while medium-dark and dark roast coffee beans have a more robust flavor with less acidity.
Tips and Advice for Selecting Best Coffee Beans for Cold Brew
Here are some tips and advice to keep in mind when selecting the best coffee beans for cold brew:
- Look for coffee beans that are freshly roasted and packaged in a sealed bag with a one-way valve to preserve freshness.
- Choose coffee beans with a medium to coarse grind size to prevent over-extraction during the cold brewing process.
- Experiment with different types of coffee beans, blends, and single-origin beans, to find your preferred taste profile.
- Store your coffee beans in an airtight container in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Can I use regular coffee beans for cold brew?
A1. While you can use regular coffee beans, they may not produce the best flavor when cold brewed. Regular coffee beans are usually roasted for hot brewing methods, which extract different flavors than cold brewing.
Q2. Should I buy whole beans or pre-ground coffee for cold brew?
A2. It’s better to purchase whole coffee beans and grind them yourself for the best flavor and aroma. Pre-ground coffee can lose its flavor faster and result in a less tasty cold brew.
Q3. What is the ideal water to coffee ratio for cold brew?
A3. The ideal water to coffee ratio for cold brew is between 1:4 and 1:8, depending on your preferred strength. For example, you can use 1 cup of coffee per 4 cups of water.
Q4. Can I store my cold brew in the refrigerator?
A4. Yes, you can store your cold brew in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. It’s best to keep it in an airtight container to prevent oxidation and maintain freshness.
Q5. Can I make hot coffee from cold brew coffee beans?
A5. Yes, you can make hot coffee from cold brew coffee beans by adding hot water to the cold brew concentrate. Keep in mind that the taste profile may be different compared to traditional hot brewed coffee.
Conclusion
In conclusion, selecting the best coffee beans for cold brew requires consideration of several factors such as low acidity, coarse grind size, freshness, and flavor profile. By keeping these factors in mind and experimenting with different types of coffee beans, you can find your perfect cup of cold brew for a delicious and refreshing coffee experience.
Remember to store your coffee beans properly and follow the correct brewing steps for the best results. We hope this expert guide has been helpful in finding the best coffee beans for cold brew and making the perfect cup of iced coffee at home.
I’m Kara Chavez, and I love coffee. I like to create some of the best coffees around – espressos, lattes, macchiatos – you name it. I strive for perfection in my coffee-making skills, and I take great pride in providing a delicious cup of joe to my customers.
I’ve been working in the coffee industry for years now, and I know everything there is to know about making a perfect cup of coffee. My passion for coffee shines through in every cup that I make, and I hope that you’ll stop by soon so that I can share my love of coffee with you!