If you’re a coffee lover, you may have noticed a growing trend in cold brew coffee. This smooth, refreshing beverage is perfect for warm weather and offers a unique flavor profile that many coffee enthusiasts adore. As the popularity of cold brew continues to rise, more home brewers are looking for convenient ways to make it themselves. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top five cold brew makers for home use, providing detailed reviews, comparisons, and tips to elevate your cold brewing experience.
From sleek designs to functionality and ease of use, our selection covers a range of needs and budgets, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned cold brew aficionado, this guide will help you find the perfect cold brew maker for your home.
Brief History of Cold Brew Coffee
Cold brew coffee isn’t just a trendy beverage; it has a rich history dating back centuries. Originating in Japan in the 1600s, the practice of brewing coffee with cold water was primarily used to create a smoother, less acidic drink. The method gained traction worldwide in the 20th century, and today, cold brew has become a favorite for those looking to enjoy coffee in a new way. With its rising popularity, home brewing has become more accessible, allowing coffee enthusiasts to create their perfect cold brew right in their kitchens.
According to a recent survey by the National Coffee Association, cold brew coffee is consumed by over 20% of coffee drinkers in the U.S., highlighting its status as a staple in modern coffee culture.
Comparison Chart of Cold Brew Makers
To help you make an informed decision, here’s a quick comparison of the top 5 cold brew makers:
- Maker: Takeya Cold Brew Maker
Capacity: 1 quart
Material: BPA-free plastic
Price: $25 - Maker: OXO Good Grips Cold Brew Coffee Maker
Capacity: 12 cups
Material: Glass and stainless steel
Price: $50 - Maker: Filtron Coffee Brewer
Capacity: 1.5 quarts
Material: Plastic
Price: $30 - Maker: COLD BREW Coffee Maker by Coffee Gator
Capacity: 1 liter
Material: Stainless steel
Price: $40 - Maker: Brewista Cold Brew Maker
Capacity: 1.5 liters
Material: Glass
Price: $60
Top 5 Cold Brew Makers for Home Use
1. Takeya Cold Brew Maker
The Takeya Cold Brew Maker is a popular choice for its affordability and ease of use. This 1-quart pitcher is made from BPA-free plastic, making it durable and lightweight. The patented coffee filter allows for smooth brewing and easy cleanup.
To use the Takeya, simply add coarse coffee grounds to the filter, fill with cold water, and let steep for 12 to 24 hours in the refrigerator. The result is a rich, concentrated cold brew that can be diluted to your preference.
“The Takeya Cold Brew Maker is perfect for anyone who wants a simple and effective way to enjoy cold brew at home.” – Coffee Expert
💡 Pro Tip: Always use coarsely ground coffee for the best extraction and flavor balance.
The price point for the Takeya Cold Brew Maker is approximately $25, providing excellent value for the ease and quality it offers.
2. OXO Good Grips Cold Brew Coffee Maker
The OXO Good Grips Cold Brew Coffee Maker stands out with its 12-cup capacity, making it ideal for families or entertaining guests. Its sleek glass and stainless steel design not only looks great but also ensures that your coffee stays fresh.
This brewer features a simple rainmaker design that evenly distributes water over the coffee grounds, resulting in consistent extraction. Brew time is recommended between 12 to 24 hours, depending on your flavor preference.
“The OXO Good Grips Cold Brew Coffee Maker is a game-changer for anyone serious about their cold brew.” – Coffee Connoisseur
💡 Pro Tip: Experiment with different brew times to find your ideal strength—24 hours for a bold brew!
This maker typically retails for around $50, but its quality and capacity make it a worthy investment for serious cold brew drinkers.
3. Filtron Coffee Brewer
The Filtron Coffee Brewer is a classic choice that has been around for decades. Known for its unique design, this maker allows you to brew a concentrated cold brew coffee that can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks.
With a brewing time of 12 to 24 hours, the Filtron uses a simple cold drip method, ensuring a smooth flavor. It can make up to 1.5 quarts of coffee, making it perfect for batch brewing.
“The Filtron is the go-to for anyone who loves a strong, concentrated cold brew.” – Cold Brew Enthusiast
💡 Pro Tip: Store your cold brew concentrate in a sealed container for maximum freshness.
Available at around $30, the Filtron Coffee Brewer offers great value for those looking for a robust cold brew process.
4. COLD BREW Coffee Maker by Coffee Gator
The COLD BREW Coffee Maker by Coffee Gator is crafted from stainless steel, boasting a sleek design that keeps your coffee cold for longer. With a capacity of 1 liter, it’s perfect for personal use or small gatherings.
Brewing time is similar to others, ranging from 12 to 24 hours. What sets this maker apart is its double filter system, which ensures a grit-free cup of coffee.
“If you want a stylish cold brew maker that performs well, the Coffee Gator is a solid option.” – Coffee Blogger
💡 Pro Tip: Try adding spices like cinnamon or vanilla to the grounds for a unique flavor twist.
The price for this brewer is around $40, making it a reasonable investment for a stylish and effective cold brew maker.
5. Brewista Cold Brew Maker
The Brewista Cold Brew Maker is an excellent choice for coffee lovers who prioritize design and functionality. With a 1.5-liter capacity, this glass brewer is perfect for those who want to brew a larger batch.
This brewer features a pour-over style design that allows for an even extraction. Recommended brewing time ranges from 12 to 18 hours, depending on your taste preferences.
“The Brewista combines aesthetics with performance, making it a favorite among baristas.” – Barista Trainer
💡 Pro Tip: Use filtered water to enhance the taste of your cold brew.
This cold brew maker usually retails for about $60, reflecting its premium build quality and design.
Customer Reviews Summary
Here’s a brief summary of customer feedback on each of the top cold brew makers:
- Takeya Cold Brew Maker: Users love its affordability and ease of use, although some note the plastic material may not be as durable as glass.
- OXO Good Grips Cold Brew Coffee Maker: Praised for its stylish design and consistent brewing, with a few mentioning the price as a downside.
- Filtron Coffee Brewer: Customers appreciate its ability to produce a strong concentrate but mention the cleaning process can be cumbersome.
- COFFEE GATOR Cold Brew Maker: Users enjoy its design and effectiveness, but some wish it had a larger capacity.
- Brewista Cold Brew Maker: Highly rated for its aesthetics and performance, but a few have reported issues with the glass construction.
Tips for Selecting Coffee Beans for Cold Brew
Choosing the right coffee beans is crucial for a delicious cold brew. Here are some tips to get you started:
Cold Brew Cocktail Recipes
Once you’ve perfected your cold brew, why not elevate it with some delicious cocktails? Here are a couple of recipes to try:
- Cold Brew Martini: Combine 2 oz of cold brew coffee, 1 oz of vodka, and 0.5 oz of coffee liqueur in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with coffee beans.
- Cold Brew Old Fashioned: Mix 2 oz of cold brew coffee, 1 oz of bourbon, and a dash of bitters in a glass over ice. Stir and garnish with an orange twist.
Cold brew coffee is a delightful way to enjoy your favorite beverage, and having the right maker is essential to achieving the perfect brew. Whether you choose the Takeya for its affordability or the Brewista for its elegant design, the options are plentiful. Remember to consider your personal needs, from capacity to brewing time, and enjoy experimenting with different coffee beans and recipes. Cheers to your cold brew adventures!
