I love my morning cup of coffee, especially during the hot summer months. However, the thought of brewing a hot cup of coffee on a scorching day can be a bit off-putting. Thankfully, I’ve discovered a refreshing and simple method to make Folgers cold brew coffee. Cold brew coffee is not only a great way to beat the heat, but it also offers a smoother and less acidic flavor compared to traditional hot brewed coffee. In this article, I will guide you through the process of making Folgers cold brew coffee right at home. So grab your favorite mug and let’s get started!
Gather Your Ingredients and Equipment
Before we dive into the step-by-step process of making Folgers cold brew coffee, it’s essential to have all the necessary ingredients and equipment within reach. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
– 1 cup of coarsely ground Folgers coffee
– 4 cups of cold water
Equipment:
– 1 large pitcher or jar with a lid
– Measuring cup
– Coffee filter or cheesecloth
– Strainer
– Spoon or whisk
Step 1: Measure and Grind the Coffee
To begin, measure out 1 cup of coarsely ground Folgers coffee. It’s important to use coarsely ground coffee to prevent the brew from becoming too bitter. If you don’t have a coffee grinder, you can ask your local grocery store or coffee shop to grind the coffee beans specifically for cold brew. Once you have your coffee grounds, transfer them to the pitcher or jar.
Step 2: Add Cold Water
Next, add 4 cups of cold water to the pitcher or jar containing the coffee grounds. Ensure that the water is cold as this will contribute to the smooth and less acidic flavor of the cold brew coffee. Give it a gentle stir with a spoon or whisk to ensure that the coffee grounds are fully saturated.
Step 3: Steep and Settle
Now that your coffee grounds and water are combined, it’s time to let them steep. Place the lid on the pitcher or jar and let it sit at room temperature for at least 12 to 24 hours. The longer you let it steep, the stronger the coffee flavor will be. I usually prefer to let it steep overnight, allowing me to wake up to a ready-to-drink cold brew coffee in the morning.
Step 4: Filter the Coffee
After the steeping period, it’s time to filter out the coffee grounds. Place a coffee filter or a piece of cheesecloth over a strainer, and position it over another pitcher or jar. Slowly pour the cold brew mixture through the filter, allowing it to strain out any residual coffee grounds. You may need to use a spoon or spatula to gently press down on the coffee grounds to extract all the liquid. This step ensures a smooth and grit-free cold brew coffee.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Congratulations! You’ve successfully made your very own Folgers cold brew coffee. The final step is to simply serve and enjoy this refreshing beverage. You can choose to dilute the cold brew concentrate with water or milk according to your taste preferences. I personally prefer mine with a splash of milk and a touch of sweetness. Feel free to experiment with different toppings like whipped cream, caramel syrup, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Clean-Up Tips
Now that you’ve relished your cup of cold brew coffee, it’s essential to clean up your equipment promptly to ensure its longevity. Here are a few tips to make the clean-up process hassle-free:
1. Rinse the Pitcher or Jar Immediately:
After pouring out the cold brew coffee, rinse the pitcher or jar under warm water to remove any residue.
2. Clean the Strainer and Filter:
Thoroughly rinse the strainer and coffee filter or cheesecloth to remove any leftover coffee grounds. If needed, you can also clean them with a mild detergent.
3. Store Your Cold Brew Coffee:
Transfer any remaining cold brew coffee to a clean jar or airtight container and refrigerate it. Cold brew coffee can stay fresh for up to two weeks when stored in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
Making Folgers cold brew coffee at home is a refreshing and simple process that allows you to enjoy a smooth and flavorful cup of coffee, even on the hottest days. With just a few easy steps, you can have a ready-to-drink cold brew concentrate that can be customized according to your taste preferences. So, give this method a try and awaken your taste buds with the deliciousness of Folgers cold brew coffee. Cheers!