How to Make Starbucks Cold Brew Coffee at Home: The Ultimate Guide

Starbucks Cold Brew Coffee has become a favorite among coffee lovers due to its smooth, rich, and naturally sweet flavor. The good news is that you don’t need to visit a Starbucks every day to enjoy this refreshing drink. With the right ingredients, techniques, and a little patience, you can easily recreate the same high-quality Cold Brew in the comfort of your own home. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also have complete control over the flavor, strength, and customizations of your coffee.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making Starbucks-style Cold Brew coffee, from choosing the best beans to mastering the steeping process. We’ll also share expert-backed insights and practical tips to help you achieve the perfect brew every time.

What is Cold Brew Coffee?

Cold Brew Coffee is a brewing method that involves steeping coarsely ground coffee beans in cold or room-temperature water for an extended period - typically between 12 to 24 hours. Unlike traditional hot brewing methods, Cold Brew relies on time rather than heat to extract the flavors from the coffee grounds. This slow extraction process results in a smooth, well-rounded coffee with low acidity and a natural sweetness. Once the coffee is brewed, it can be enjoyed as a concentrate or diluted with water, milk, or sweeteners, making it a versatile beverage for any coffee enthusiast.

Benefits of Making Cold Brew Coffee at Home

• Cost-Effective: Purchasing Cold Brew from coffee shops regularly can be expensive. Making your own allows you to enjoy premium coffee at a fraction of the price.

• Customizable: You can adjust the strength, flavor, and mix-ins to match your personal preferences, whether you like it strong and bold or smooth and mellow.

• Convenience: By preparing a batch in advance, you’ll always have a refreshing and energizing coffee ready to enjoy straight from your fridge.

• Less Acidity: Cold Brew is naturally less acidic than hot coffee, making it a great choice for those with sensitive stomachs.

How to Make Starbucks Cold Brew Coffee at Home

Ingredients and Equipment Needed

To make a Starbucks-style Cold Brew, you’ll need the following:

• Fresh coffee beans – Medium to dark roast works best for a rich, bold flavor.

• Filtered water – Enhances the purity and taste of your Cold Brew.

• Brewing container – A mason jar, French press, or any sealable container will work.

• Fine mesh strainer and coffee filters – Essential for filtering out coffee grounds and achieving a smooth texture.

• Measuring scale or spoon – Helps maintain the correct coffee-to-water ratio.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Starbucks Cold Brew Coffee

1. Grind Your Coffee

• Use a coarse grind (similar to sea salt) to prevent over-extraction and bitterness.

• A good starting ratio is 1 cup of coarsely ground coffee to 4 cups of water.

2. Combine Coffee and Water

• Place the ground coffee into your brewing container.

• Add cold, filtered water and stir gently to ensure all grounds are saturated.

3. Steep for 12-24 Hours

• Cover the container and let it steep in the refrigerator.

• A longer steep time results in a stronger and more concentrated flavor.

4. Strain the Coffee

• Use a fine mesh strainer or coffee filter to remove the grounds, ensuring a smooth, clean coffee concentrate.

5. Serve and Enjoy

• Dilute the concentrate with equal parts water or milk, add ice, and enjoy!

• Sweeten to taste with simple syrup, vanilla, or flavored creamers.

Pro Tips for the Best Starbucks-Style Cold Brew

• Use High-Quality Beans: Single-origin coffee or specialty blends like Bazan Coffee’s Specialty Arabica from Cầu Đất provide exceptional flavor and aroma.

• Experiment with Ratios: Adjust the coffee-to-water ratio to match your preferred strength.

• Store Properly: Cold Brew concentrate stays fresh in the fridge for up to one week.

• Add Flavors: Try adding cinnamon, vanilla extract, or caramel syrup for a Starbucks-inspired twist.

How Much Caffeine in Starbucks Cold Brew?

Understanding the caffeine content in Starbucks cold brew coffee can help you manage your intake:

• Tall (12 fl oz): Approximately 155 mg of caffeine.

• Grande (16 fl oz): Approximately 205 mg of caffeine.

• Venti (24 fl oz): Approximately 310 mg of caffeine.

• Trenta (31 fl oz): Approximately 360 mg of caffeine. 

These figures indicate that Starbucks cold brew coffee is a potent source of caffeine, making it a popular choice for those seeking a substantial energy boost.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What coffee does Starbucks use for their cold brew? 

A: Starbucks utilizes a custom blend specifically designed for cold brewing, known for its smooth and rich flavor profile.

Q: How is Cold Brew different from Iced Coffee? 

A: Cold Brew is made by steeping coffee grounds in cold water for several hours, resulting in a smooth, naturally sweet coffee with low acidity. Iced Coffee, on the other hand, is brewed hot and then chilled, often leading to a slightly bitter and more acidic taste.

Q: Can I use pre-ground coffee for Cold Brew? 

A: Yes, but it’s best to use coarsely ground coffee for optimal extraction. Pre-ground coffee tends to be too fine, which can result in over-extraction and a bitter taste.

Q: Does Cold Brew have more caffeine than regular coffee? 

A: Yes! Cold Brew is usually brewed as a concentrate, meaning it has a higher caffeine content per serving than traditional hot-brewed coffee. However, when diluted, its caffeine content is comparable to regular coffee.

Q: Can I heat up Cold Brew Coffee? 

A: Absolutely! If you prefer a warm cup, simply heat up your Cold Brew concentrate and dilute it with hot water. This method gives you a smooth, low-acid coffee experience without the bitterness of traditional hot brewing.

Q: How do I make Starbucks Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew at home? 

A: Simply add vanilla syrup to your Cold Brew and top it with a mixture of heavy cream and milk for a rich, creamy finish. Stir well and enjoy!

By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to craft a delicious Starbucks-style Cold Brew right at home. Whether you prefer it black, with milk, or infused with flavors, this method allows you to enjoy a smooth, refreshing coffee anytime you want. Happy brewing!

Elevate Your Cold Brew Experience with Bazan Coffee

At Bazan Coffee, we believe that the foundation of an extraordinary cold brew experience begins with high-quality coffee beans. While there are many cold brew options available in stores, nothing compares to the rich flavors that come from brewing your own cold brew with specialty-grade beans. With the right choice of beans and brewing method, you can create a smooth, bold cold brew that stands out.

The New Revolution: Fine Robusta from Vietnam

Fine Robusta – Krong Nang is the perfect choice for a bold and flavorful cold brew. This unique coffee is unlike the mass-produced Robusta beans commonly used in commercial cold brew options. It is carefully grown and processed to bring out deep flavors that add complexity and richness to your coffee.

Why Choose Fine Robusta – Krong Nang?

• Grown at 650m in Krong Nang, Dak Lak: The volcanic soil of this region enhances the richness of the coffee, contributing to a deep and complex flavor.

• 72-Hour Natural Anaerobic Fermentation: This unique fermentation process unlocks rich caramelized sweetness, smooth texture, and a creamy body that makes it ideal for cold brew coffee.

• Bold & Full-Bodied: With higher caffeine content than Arabica, Fine Robusta – Krong Nang provides a strong and energizing kick, making it a fantastic choice for a rich cold brew.

If you're looking for a bold, rich cold brew with a deep caramelized sweetness and full-bodied flavor, Fine Robusta – Krong Nang is your ideal match.

Not Just Robusta – The Best of Both Worlds

For a coffee that strikes the perfect balance between smoothness and boldness, Bazan’s Special Vietnam Blend is the perfect choice. This expertly crafted blend combines the vibrant acidity of high-altitude Arabica beans with the rich, full body of Fine Robusta, creating a coffee that’s well-suited for cold brew.

Why Choose Special Vietnam Blend?

• A Fusion of Arabica and Fine Robusta: This blend offers the best of both worlds – the lively acidity of Arabica and the deep, bold richness of Robusta.

• Tasting Note of Pineapple and Floral Aroma: These fruity note and floral aroma provide a natural sweetness and complexity, making it an excellent choice for cold brew.

• Versatile Brewing: Whether you’re brewing cold brew, espresso, or preparing coffee cocktails, Special Vietnam Blend is perfect for a wide range of coffee recipes.

If you prefer a smooth, well-balanced cold brew with natural sweetness and complexity, Special Vietnam Blend will elevate your cold brew experience.

For a More Refined Cold Brew: Specialty Arabica – Cau Dat

If you enjoy a more refined and aromatic coffee for your cold brew, Bazan’s Specialty Arabica – Cau Dat offers a more delicate option. With bright acidity, floral complexity, and a smooth finish, this coffee brings a touch of elegance to your cold brew.

Why Choose Specialty Arabica – Cau Dat?

• Grown at 1,550m in Cau Dat, Da Lat: The cooler climate and mineral-rich soil in this region provide the perfect growing conditions for high-quality Arabica beans.

• Fully Washed Processing: This method ensures a clean, vibrant cup with  caramel notes that create a bright and refreshing cold brew.

• Complex Tasting Notes: Layers of bell pepper, spices, and caramel offer a sophisticated flavor profile, making this coffee perfect for sipping or mixing with coffee liqueur.

If you prefer a bright, complex cold brew with spicy notes, Specialty Arabica – Cau Dat is the perfect choice for your refined taste.

Which Coffee Should You Choose?

• For a bold, full-bodied cold brew with deep caramelized sweetness → Fine Robusta – Krong Nang

• For a smooth, well-balanced cold brew with fruity complexity → Special Vietnam Blend

• For a refined, bright cold brew with floral and spicy notes → Specialty Arabica – Cau Dat

You’re Just One Brew Away from a Better Day

The journey to an exceptional cold brew begins with choosing the right coffee. Whether you're preparing a single cup for yourself or a larger batch for friends, Bazan Coffee ensures that your cold brew experience will be second to none.

Shop Bazan Coffee Today and Brew the Best Cold Brew Espresso!

Explore our premium selection of specialty-grade Vietnamese coffees and take your cold brew game to the next level. Don't settle for anything less than the finest beans from Bazan Coffee - your perfect cold brew is just one brew away!