Cold Brew vs. Iced Coffee: What Is the Difference?

The world of coffee can be confusing. So today, let’s clear some things up.

While iced coffee and cold brew look very similar, they’re actually a bit different. In fact, both types of coffee have different tastes, effects, and methods of creation. But which one is right for you?

What Is Iced Coffee?

Iced coffee is pretty much what it sounds like; regular brewed coffee poured over ice.

One popular way people enjoy iced coffee is in the form of an iced latte. This drink is made with cold milk, shots of espresso, and sometimes flavoring. And when it comes to caffeine, it averages around 128 milligrams per cup.

What Is Cold Brew?

Cold brew coffee isn’t actually made with any heat. Instead, finely ground coffee is steeped in cold water for 12 hours. Then, the grounds are filtered out, and the remaining coffee can be served over ice.

When it comes to taste, it’s a bit smoother and sweeter than traditional iced coffee. It also has much more caffeine, averaging around 200 to 300 milligrams per cup.

How To Make Iced Coffee

Making iced coffee isn’t hard if you want to give it a try at home. Just brew your favorite coffee, wait for it to cool down, and pour it over ice. Then, you can add milk, sugar, cinnamon, or whatever else you want!

How To Make Cold Brew

Drinking cold brew coffee is even more rewarding when you’ve made it yourself. You will need a cheesecloth (or coffee filter), a jar with a lid, and finely ground coffee to make a cold brew.

Start by putting 1 cup of ground coffee in your jar. Add 4 cups of water and stir. Pop on the lid and let the mix sit in your fridge for at least 12 hours.

When the time is up, slowly strain your mixture using your filter. After that, mix it with ice water or milk and enjoy!

Best Coffee for Making Iced Coffee

Shopping for coffee isn’t as challenging as you might think. It just depends on your roast preference.

If you’re a dark roast lover, the best choice for this drink is the Bonafido Dark Roast. But if you’re more of a light roast person, brew the New Trick Light Roast. And if you don’t want all that caffeine in your system, using Downward Dog Decaf works too!

Best Coffee for Making Cold Brew

If you’re making some special cold brew at home, you’ll have to purchase high-quality beans. The best coffee for this drink is the Dog Daze Cold Brew because it’s pre-ground for you.

And if you’re looking for a super easy brewing experience, get the Dog Daze Cold Brew Packs.

Cold Brew Vs. Iced Coffee: Now You Know the Difference

When it comes to cold brew vs. iced coffee, it all boils down to the brewing process. But no matter which of these popular drinks you choose, you can’t go wrong! Now go sip on that mouth-watering, icy drink.

There’s something for everyone at Hugo Coffee Roasters. Shop our coffee today!