At GoodBrew, we often get asked whether iced coffee and cold brew coffee are the same. The answer is no. Iced coffee is made by brewing hot coffee and then cooling it or pouring it over ice, while cold brew is made by steeping coarsely ground coffee in cold water for an extended period of time. This results in a smoother and less acidic flavour profile compared to iced coffee.
Apart from its great taste, cold brew coffee has several benefits. It is rich in antioxidants such as chlorogenic acid, cafestol and caffeic acid that may help protect against cellular damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Cold brew coffee also tends to have higher caffeine content than regular coffee because it's brewed with a higher coffee to water ratio and the brewing process extracts caffeine more efficiently at lower temperatures. Additionally, because it's less acidic, cold brew may be easier on the stomach for those with sensitive digestive systems.
Different ways to make cold brew coffee
There are several ways to enjoy your GoodBrew cold brew. Here are some ideas:
- Over ice: Pour your cold brew concentrate over ice and dilute with milk or water for a refreshing drink
- Sweetened or flavoured: Add a touch of agave, maple syrup, or honey for a sweet taste
- With flavourings: Experiment with different flavours like vanilla extract, cinnamon, or cocoa powder to add a twist to your cold brew
- Blend it, baby: Blend your ready-to-drink mocha or latte with ice for a delicious and healthy 'fakeuccino'
Is cold brew coffee just for summer?
While cold brew coffee can often be associated with summer, it can be enjoyed anytime. Many people prefer the refreshing energy kick from cold brew all year round, while some stick with hot coffee in the morning during colder months and reach for a GoodBrew for their afternoon energy boost.