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Creamy Vanilla Cold Brew - Smooth, Simple, and Refreshing

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Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Coarsely ground coffee (medium to dark roast works best)
  • Cold, filtered water
  • Vanilla extract (or vanilla bean, if you want to splurge)
  • Simple syrup (or sugar, maple syrup, or agave)
  • Heavy cream (or half-and-half, or your favorite non-dairy creamer)
  • Ice
  • Optional: Pinch of salt to enhance flavor

Method
 

  1. Grind your coffee coarse. Aim for breadcrumbs, not powder. Finer grinds can over-extract and turn muddy.
  2. Combine coffee and water. Use a ratio of about 1 cup coarsely ground coffee to 4 cups cold water. Stir to wet all grounds. A large jar or French press works great.
  3. Steep 12–18 hours in the fridge. Cover and let time do the work. For a stronger concentrate, go up to 18–20 hours; for a lighter brew, stick to 12–14.
  4. Strain well. If using a French press, plunge slowly, then pour through a fine-mesh strainer lined with a coffee filter or cheesecloth for a clean finish.
  5. Sweeten with vanilla syrup or extract. Stir in 1–2 teaspoons vanilla extract per 4 cups of cold brew to start. For sweetness, add 2–4 tablespoons simple syrup to taste. You can also make vanilla simple syrup by simmering equal parts sugar and water, then stirring in vanilla off heat.
  6. Add a pinch of salt (optional). A tiny pinch smooths bitterness and heightens sweetness without making it salty.
  7. Serve over ice. Fill a glass with ice, pour in cold brew (dilute concentrate 1:1 with water if you brewed extra strong), then top with 2–4 tablespoons cream or to taste. Stir gently to swirl those creamy ribbons through the coffee.
  8. Taste and adjust. Add more vanilla, syrup, or cream until it’s just right for you.