Cold brew coffee has become a favorite among coffee lovers for its smooth, rich, and naturally sweet flavor. Unlike traditional iced coffee, which is brewed hot and then cooled, cold brew is steeped in cold water for an extended period, resulting in a low-acid, highly caffeinated concentrate that’s both refreshing and versatile.
If you don’t have a fancy cold brew maker, no problem! A French press is one of the easiest and most convenient tools for making delicious homemade cold brew coffee. It’s simple, requires no special equipment, and gives you a bold, flavorful brew without the bitterness of traditional coffee.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to make French press cold brew coffee, share expert tips for the perfect brew, and explore creative ways to enjoy your cold brew.
Why Make Cold Brew Coffee in a French Press?
Using a French press for cold brew offers several benefits:
No Special Equipment Needed – No need for fancy cold brew makers—just a French press and coffee.
Easy to Use & Clean – The built-in plunger makes straining effortless.
Smooth, Less Acidic Coffee – Cold brew is naturally low in acidity, making it easier on the stomach.
Stronger, More Caffeinated – Because it’s a concentrate, you can adjust the strength to your liking.
Versatile & Customizable – Perfect for iced coffee, lattes, and even cocktails.
Now, let’s get started on brewing the perfect French press cold brew!
Ingredients & Equipment
What You’ll Need:
- 1 cup (100g) of coarsely ground coffee beans
- Use coarse coffee grounds to prevent over-extraction and make straining easier.
- Choose a medium or dark roast for a bold, chocolatey flavor.
- 3-4 cups of cold, filtered water
- Cold, filtered water enhances the purity and smoothness of your brew.
- French Press (32 oz or larger)
- A French press makes steeping and straining simple.
- Spoon or Stirrer
- For mixing coffee grounds and water.
- Airtight Jar or Bottle
- For storing your cold brew in the refrigerator.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making French Press Cold Brew
Step 1: Measure & Grind Your Coffee
- Use 1 cup (100g) of coarsely ground coffee for every 3-4 cups of water.
- Grind your beans to a coarse consistency (similar to sea salt) to prevent over-extraction.
Pro Tip: A burr grinder gives the best results, but if using pre-ground coffee, ensure it’s labeled coarse grind.
Step 2: Combine Coffee & Water
- Add the coarse coffee grounds to your French press.
- Pour in cold, filtered water, making sure all the grounds are saturated.
- Stir gently to ensure even extraction.
Step 3: Steep for 12-24 Hours
- Place the lid on the French press, but don’t press the plunger yet.
- Let it steep at room temperature for 12-16 hours or in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
The Longer the Steep, the Stronger the Flavor:
- 12 hours = Lighter, milder cold brew.
- 16-18 hours = Perfect balance of smoothness and strength.
- 24 hours = Bold, highly concentrated cold brew.
Step 4: Plunge & Strain
- After steeping, press the French press plunger down slowly to separate the coffee grounds.
- For an extra smooth cold brew, pour the coffee through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any fine particles.
Step 5: Store & Serve
- Transfer the cold brew into a sealed glass jar or bottle.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
How to Serve & Customize Your French Press Cold Brew
1. Classic Iced Cold Brew
Fill a glass with ice cubes.
Pour in cold brew concentrate.
Add water or milk to taste.
Pro Tip: Use coffee ice cubes (frozen cold brew) to avoid dilution.
2. Cold Brew Latte
Mix equal parts cold brew and milk (dairy or plant-based).
Sweeten with vanilla syrup, caramel, or honey.
3. Mocha Cold Brew
Stir in chocolate syrup or cocoa powder.
Add milk or cream for a chocolatey twist.
4. Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew
Stir in 1 tablespoon of vanilla syrup.
Top with frothed heavy cream for a smooth finish.
5. Cold Brew Coffee Soda
Mix cold brew with sparkling water.
Add a splash of orange or lemon zest for a refreshing kick.
6. Cold Brew Cocktails
Blend cold brew with whiskey, Kahlúa, or Baileys for a bold coffee cocktail.
Pro Tips for the Best French Press Cold Brew
Use Fresh, Quality Coffee Beans – The better the beans, the richer the cold brew.
Go Coarse with Your Grind – Prevents over-extraction and bitterness.
Steep Longer for a Stronger Brew – But avoid going over 24 hours, as it may become too bitter.
Strain Twice for Smoothness – A fine-mesh sieve or coffee filter removes excess sediment.
Store in an Airtight Container – Keeps your cold brew fresh for up to 2 weeks.
Why French Press Cold Brew is Better Than Regular Cold Brew
Many people use special cold brew makers, but the French press method is just as effective—if not better! Here’s why:
| Feature | French Press Cold Brew | Regular Cold Brew Makers |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of Use | Simple and quick | Requires special equipment |
| Straining Process | Built-in plunger for easy filtering | Needs additional straining tools |
| Versatility | Can be used for hot coffee too | Dedicated to cold brew only |
| Cleanup | Quick and hassle-free | Can be messy |
If you already own a French press, making cold brew is effortless, and you don’t need extra equipment!
Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Cold Brew Made Easy
With this French press cold brew recipe, you can enjoy smooth, rich, and naturally sweet coffee without the bitterness of traditional brewing methods. Whether you like it straight, creamy, sweetened, or infused with flavors, cold brew is the perfect refreshing coffee drink for any season.
By making cold brew at home, you’ll save money, customize your flavors, and always have a fresh batch ready to go. So grab your French press, some coarse-ground coffee, and start brewing your own delicious cold brew coffee today!
