Cold brew coffee has become increasingly popular in recent years, thanks to its smooth, low-acid flavor profile and versatility. But did you know that you can easily make your own delicious cold brew coffee at home?
In this article, we’ll explore the top 5 cold brew coffee makers available, catering to budgets of all sizes. Let’s dive in!
The Cold Brew Process
Before we jump into our top picks, let’s quickly review how cold brew coffee is made. Cold brew is created by steeping coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period, typically 12-24 hours. This method extracts the natural flavors of the coffee beans without the bitterness and acidity associated with hot brewing methods.
Why Choose a Cold Brew Coffee Maker?
Investing in a cold brew coffee maker allows you to create consistently delicious cold brew at home, saving money and reducing waste from disposable cups. Plus, it’s a fun and easy way to experiment with different coffee beans and flavor profiles.
The 5 Best Cold Brew Coffee Makers
The Takeya Deluxe Cold Brew Coffee Maker is a simple, affordable option that doesn’t compromise on quality.
With its patented airtight seal and fine mesh filter, this pitcher-style coffee maker is perfect for those new to cold brewing or looking for an easy-to-use solution.
Just add your favorite coffee grounds, fill it with cold water, and let it steep in the fridge for 12-24 hours.
Full Feature:
- Easy to use
- Makes up to 4 servings at a time
- Airtight lid and non-slip handle
- Fine-mesh filter for smooth coffee
Warranty & Service: The Takeya Deluxe comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
Other Users Opinion: Users love the budget-friendly price tag and ease of use. However, some have noted that the carafe is made of plastic and may not be as durable as other models.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Easy to use
- Airtight lid and non-slip handle
- Fine-mesh filter
Cons
- Made of plastic
- May not be as durable as other models
OXO Cold Brew Coffee Maker
The User-Friendly Choice
The OXO Good Grips Cold Brew Coffee Maker offers a sleek, user-friendly design with a built-in stainless steel mesh filter.
Its innovative Rainmaker™ technology ensures even water distribution over the coffee grounds, resulting in a rich, flavorful cold brew.
Plus, it comes with a convenient glass carafe for storing and serving your cold brew.
Full Feature:
- Makes up to 34 ounces of coffee at a time
- Perforated rainmaker for even water distribution
- Airtight lid and non-slip handle
- Borosilicate glass carafe
Warranty & Service: The OXO Good Grips comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
Other Users Opinion: Users love the user-friendly design and easy-to-use features. However, some have noted that the carafe is a bit on the small side and may not be suitable for larger groups.
Pros
- User-friendly design
- Perforated rainmaker for even water distribution
- Airtight lid and non-slip handle
- Borosilicate glass carafe
Cons
- Small carafe size
- May not be suitable for larger groups
KitchenAid KCM4212SX
The High-End Choice
If you’re willing to splurge on a high-quality cold-brew coffee maker, the KitchenAid KCM4212SX is a fantastic choice.
This premium model features a stainless steel steeper, a sleek glass carafe, and a convenient tap for easy dispensing.
With its large capacity, you can make up to 28 ounces of cold brew at once – perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a fresh cup every day.
Full Feature:
- Capacity of 28 ounces
- Built-in stainless steel tap for easy dispensing
- Removable stainless steel steeper
- Modern design and glass carafe
Warranty & Service: The Kitchenaid MCM4212SX comes with a one-year limited warranty.
Other Users Opinion: Users love the premium features and stylish design of this coffee maker. However, some have noted that the steeping process can take longer than other models.
Pros
- High-end features
- Built-in stainless steel tap for easy dispensing
- Removable stainless steel steeper
- Stylish design and glass carafe
Cons
- Steeping process can be longer than other models
- Pricey
The Japanese Style Choice
For those with limited kitchen space, the Hario Mizudashi Cold Brew Coffee Maker is a great option.
This compact, Japanese-designed coffee maker features a slim, minimalist design and a reusable mesh filter.
It’s perfect for making smaller batches of cold brew and easily fits in most refrigerator doors.
Full Feature:
- Capacity of 32 ounces
- Mesh filter for smooth coffee
- Borosilicate glass carafe
Warranty & Service: The Hario Mizudashi comes with a limited one-year warranty.
Other Users Opinion: Users appreciate the minimalist design and ease of use of this coffee maker. However, some have noted that the carafe is a bit on the small side and may not be suitable for larger groups.
Pros
- Minimalist design
- Mesh filter for smooth coffee
- Borosilicate glass carafe
Cons
- Small carafe size
- May not be suitable for larger groups
Toddy T2N
The Classic Choice
The Toddy T2N is a classic cold brew coffee maker that has been around for over 50 years.
It can make up to 12 servings of coffee at a time and has a patented brewing process that results in a smooth and low-acidic coffee.
The reusable filter and glass carafe make it an eco-friendly choice.
Full Feature:
- Capacity of 1.1 Liter
- Patented brewing process for low-acidic coffee
- Reusable filter and glass carafe
Warranty & Service: The Toddy T2N comes with a limited one-year warranty.
Other Users Opinion: Users appreciate the classic design and smooth coffee produced by this coffee maker. However, some have noted that the brewing process can take up to 24 hours, which may not be suitable for those who want their coffee quickly.
Pros
- Classic design
- Patented brewing process for low-acidic coffee
- Reusable filter and glass carafe
Cons
- Long brewing process
- Pricey
How to Choose the Best Cold Brew Coffee Maker for You
- Consider Your Budget
- When selecting a cold brew coffee maker, it’s essential to consider how much you’re willing to spend. There are quality options available at various price points, so don’t be discouraged if you’re on a tight budget.
- Consider Your Space
- Take note of your available kitchen space before choosing a cold brew coffee maker. If you’re short on storage or counter space, opt for a compact model like the Hario Mizudashi.
- Consider Your Coffee Preferences
- Think about how you like your cold brew – do you prefer a milder, ready-to-drink brew, or a stronger concentrate that you can customize? This preference will help guide your decision when choosing a coffee maker.
FAQs
Do cold brew coffee makers require special coffee grounds?
No, you can use any coffee grounds in a cold brew coffee maker. However, coarser grounds are generally recommended for better extraction and to prevent over-extraction.
How long does homemade cold brew last in the fridge?
Cold brew coffee can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Just be sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Can I make hot coffee with a cold brew coffee maker?
While cold brew coffee makers are designed specifically for cold brewing, you can use the resulting coffee concentrate to make hot coffee by diluting it with hot water or milk.
What’s the difference between cold brew and iced coffee?
Cold brew is made by steeping coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period, while iced coffee is typically brewed hot and then cooled down over ice. Cold brew has a smoother, less acidic flavor profile compared to iced coffee.
Can I use pre-ground coffee for cold brewing?
Yes, you can use pre-ground coffee for cold brewing. However, it’s generally better to use freshly ground coffee for optimal flavor and freshness.
Conclusion
There you have it – the top 5 cold brew coffee makers for every budget! Whether you’re a cold brew enthusiast or a newcomer, there’s a perfect coffee maker out there for you. Consider your budget, space, and coffee preferences to make the best choice for your needs. Happy brewing!
Additional Tips for Making the Perfect Cold Brew Coffee
Now that you’ve chosen your ideal cold brew coffee maker, let’s dive into some tips and tricks to help you brew the perfect cup every time.
- Select the Right Coffee Beans
- When it comes to cold brew, the type of coffee beans you choose can make a significant difference in flavor. Experiment with different roasts and origins to find the one that suits your taste preferences best. Many people enjoy using medium to dark roasts for cold brewing due to their rich, bold flavors.
- Grind Your Coffee Beans Properly
- As mentioned earlier, using coarser coffee grounds for cold brewing is recommended. This helps prevent over-extraction and results in a smoother, more balanced flavor. If possible, grind your coffee beans just before brewing for maximum freshness.
- Use Cold, Filtered Water
- The quality of the water you use can impact the flavor of your cold brew. Opt for cold, filtered water to ensure a clean, crisp taste. Avoid using tap water if it has a strong chlorine taste or odor.
- Experiment with Brewing Time
- The optimal brewing time for cold brew coffee can vary depending on personal preferences and the type of coffee beans used. Most cold brew coffee makers recommend a steeping time of 12-24 hours. Start with a shorter brewing time and adjust it as needed to achieve your desired flavor profile.
- Stir the Coffee Grounds and Water Mixture
- Before placing your cold brew coffee maker in the refrigerator, give the coffee grounds and water mixture a gentle stir. This will help ensure even extraction and result in a more consistent flavor.
- Strain the Cold Brew Properly
- When your cold brew is ready, carefully strain it through the provided filter or use a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth. This will help remove any remaining coffee grounds and create a smoother, more enjoyable beverage.
- Serve Your Cold Brew with Style
- You can enjoy your homemade cold brew straight from the fridge or pour it over ice for a refreshing iced coffee. Get creative with your serving options by adding flavored syrups, milk, or even a scoop of ice cream for a delicious cold brew float!
With these additional tips and your chosen cold brew coffee maker, you’re well on your way to creating a delicious, refreshing, and customizable cold brew coffee experience at home. Enjoy the process and the satisfaction of mastering the art of cold brewing. Cheers!
