Cold Brew 101 - Basics to get you cooled down this summer

With the summer temps heating up its a perfect time to start making cold brew coffee at home. If you are new to cold brew - no problem! Here are a few simple methods and helpful hints to get you started! Always remember to have fun and experiment a little to find your own cold brew coffee nirvana... Snag a bag of our signature Oasis Blend and then experiment with the below methods at home! 

Purchase Oasis Blend Here!

1. The Mason Jar Method (No Special Equipment)

What You Need:

• Coarsely ground coffee (medium to dark roast works best)

• Cold or room temperature water

• Mason jar or large container

• Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth

Steps:

1. Combine 1 cup of coarsely ground coffee with 4 cups of water.

2. Stir to ensure all grounds are wet.

3. Cover and steep at room temperature or in the fridge for 12–18 hours.

4. Strain through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into another container.

5. Store in the fridge for up to a week. Dilute with water or milk as desired.

Pros: Inexpensive, simple.
Cons: Requires straining and cleanup.

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2. French Press Cold Brew

What You Need:

• French press

• Coarsely ground coffee

• Water

Steps:

1. Add 1 cup of ground coffee to your French press.

2. Pour in 4 cups of water and stir.

3. Cover (but don’t press the plunger) and steep for 18 hours.

4. Press the plunger down slowly to separate the grounds.

5. Pour and store.

Pros: Easy straining, minimal mess.
Cons: May not filter as cleanly as paper filters.

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3. Cold Brew Maker (e.g., Toddy, Hario, OXO)

What You Need:

• A dedicated cold brew system

• Coffee and water

Steps:

• Follow the device-specific instructions, usually a steeping time of 12–24 hours.

Pros: Cleaner flavor, built-in filters, reusable.
Cons: Requires investment in equipment.

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4. Cold Brew Coffee Bags

What You Need:

• Pre-filled cold brew bags (or make your own using disposable tea filter bags)

Steps:

1. Place the bag in a pitcher with cold water.

2. Steep for 12–18 hours in the fridge.

3. Remove the bag, serve, and enjoy.

Pros: Super convenient and clean.
Cons: Slightly less control over brew strength.

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Tips for Great Cold Brew:

• Grind: Use coarse grind to avoid over-extraction and sediment.

• Coffee-to-Water Ratio: Start with 1:4 for concentrate (strong) or 1:8 for ready-to-drink.

• Steep Time: 12–18 hours is ideal; longer = stronger.

• Storage: Keep it refrigerated and consume within 7–10 days.