Cold Brew vs Iced Coffee: The Ultimate Showdown
As the mercury rises and the Australian summer heat kicks in, nothing beats a refreshing cold coffee. But when it comes to chilled caffeinated goodness, two contenders stand out: cold brew and iced coffee.
Let’s dive into the differences between these two popular drinks and help you decide which one’s your perfect summer brew.
What’s What?
Iced Coffee
Iced coffee is pretty straightforward. It’s your regular hot coffee that’s been cooled down and served over ice. You can make it with any brewing method – espresso, pour-over, stovetop, Elixir Coffee Capsules, or even our very own instant coffee. It’s quick, easy, and delivers that familiar coffee kick we all know and love.
Cold Brew
Cold brew, on the other hand, is a different beast altogether. It’s made by steeping coarsely ground coffee in cold water for an extended period, usually 12-24 hours. The result? A smooth, less acidic concentrate that’s perfect for those scorching summer days.
Time vs Convenience
When it comes to brewing, iced coffee is the clear winner in terms of speed. You can whip up a batch in minutes, perfect for those mornings when you’re running late but still need your caffeine fix.
Cold brew requires more patience. It’s a “set it and forget it” kind of deal. You’ll need to plan ahead, but the payoff is a ready-to-drink concentrate that can last up to two weeks in the fridge. Check out our guide on making cold brew at home for some top tips.
Smooth Operator vs Bold Kick
Here’s where things get interesting. Iced coffee retains much of the flavour profile of its hot counterpart. It’s bold, can be a bit acidic, and delivers that familiar coffee taste we all love. However, as the ice melts, it can become diluted, potentially leading to a watery drink.
Cold brew, thanks to its long, slow extraction process, offers a smoother, less acidic taste. It’s often described as sweeter and less bitter than regular coffee. This mellow flavour profile makes it a great base for various coffee drinks, from lattes to creative coffee cocktails.
The Energy Factor
If you’re after a serious energy boost, cold brew might be your go-to. Due to its longer steeping time and higher coffee-to-water ratio, cold brew typically packs more caffeine than its iced counterpart. However, this can vary depending on how you dilute your cold brew concentrate.
Iced coffee’s caffeine content is more predictable, usually matching that of a regular cup of hot coffee. It’s worth noting that caffeine affects everyone differently, so listen to your body and adjust your intake accordingly.
Mix It Up
Both cold brew and iced coffee offer plenty of room for customisation. Iced coffee works well with various flavoured syrups, milk alternatives, and even a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Cold brew’s smooth nature makes it an excellent base for experimenting. Try it with a splash of milk, a dash of cinnamon, or even blend it into a frappe. Its versatility shines in both simple serves and more complex coffee creations.
The Verdict
So, which one’s better? Well, it depends on your preferences, really. If you’re after a quick, familiar coffee hit, iced coffee might be your best bet. But if you’re looking for a smoother, less acidic drink that you can prep in advance, cold brew could be your new summer fave.
At Elixir Coffee, we reckon both have their place in a coffee lover’s repertoire. Why not try our Cold Brew Concentrate for an easy way to enjoy cold brew at home? Or grab some of our premium coffee beans to whip up your own iced coffee creations.
Remember, the best coffee is the one you enjoy. So, whether you’re Team Cold Brew or Team Iced Coffee, we’ve got you covered for all your summer coffee needs.
Cheers to staying cool and caffeinated!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the same coffee beans for cold brew and iced coffee?
Yes, you can! However, cold brew often works best with coarser grinds and darker roasts, while iced coffee can be made with any grind size or roast level you prefer.
How long does cold brew last compared to iced coffee?
Cold brew concentrate can last up to two weeks in the fridge when stored properly. Iced coffee is best consumed fresh but can be stored for 1-2 days. Our concentrate lasts 4 weeks in the fridge once opened, and on the slf unopened for up to 12 months.
Is cold brew stronger than iced coffee?
Cold brew concentrate is typically stronger than iced coffee, but it’s usually diluted before drinking. The final strength depends on how you prepare and serve it.
Can I heat up cold brew?
Absolutely! Cold brew can be enjoyed hot by simply adding hot water or milk to the concentrate.
Which is more cost-effective: cold brew or iced coffee?
While cold brew uses more coffee grounds, it produces a concentrate that can be diluted, potentially making it more cost-effective in the long run. Iced coffee requires less coffee per serve but may need to be made more frequently.