Cold brew coffee is all the rage, especially when the thermostat threatens to explode. The brewing process creates a smooth-tasting, low-acidity drink that can stay fresh for up to two weeks in the refrigerator and is higher in caffeine content than regular iced coffee (to which we say, hell yes). The finished product is super concentrated—it’s best to dilute with water or milk and serve over ice. The basic technique varies by gadget but is surprisingly easy—simply combine coffee, water, and time (12 to 24 hours, ideally) to make the concentrate. And you can use it to make a hot mug of coffee too; simply add warm water to the concentrate instead of cold. The result: a full-bodied, rich cup of Joe every time!
Many cold brewers can perform double duty and also make iced tea or fruit infusions (although those drinks won’t last as long in the fridge as the cold brew coffee concentrate).
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Keep the coffee coming all day long with this compact brewer that fits in perfectly in your fridge. The tap on the front makes it easy to dispense and a pop up handle allows for mess-free transport to counter or table. (KitchenAid Cold Brew Coffee Maker, $100, Williams Sonoma)
Make up to 32 oz. of concentrate (which translates to 16 servings of iced coffee) in this easy-to-use system that comes apart for cleaning and storage. An integrated “rainmaker” filter disperses water evenly over the grounds to ensure that they are fully saturated before the brewing process begins. (Oxo Good Grips Cold Brew Coffee Maker, $50, Amazon)
This compact Japanese carafe makes delicious cold brew simply and efficiently, and the sleek shape adds a modern touch to your desk or table. Just pour cold water slowly over grounds in the reusable filter; store in the fridge overnight and it’s ready to go in the morning. (Hario Cold Brewer, $25, MoMA)
Crafted of heavy-duty borosilicate glass with a stainless steel filter, this bottle has a neoprene sleeve and a carrying strap for easy transport. Fill it up the day before and throw in the fridge; your super-robust cold brew elixir will be ready in time for that mid-afternoon slump. (Primula Cold Brew to Go Bottle, $20, Bloomingdales)
A favorite of serious coffee roasters like Stumptown and Blue Bottle, this simple gadget is easy to use and produces a smooth, intense cup of coffee. (Filtron Cold Brewer, $50, Stumptown Coffee)
