Now that summer is in full swing, you may be considering swapping out a hot cup of coffee for a cold brew to start the day on a more refreshing note. Whether you’re working from home or need to commute, it’ll save a stop if you can make your own cold brew. Here’s what you need to know to select the right coffee beans and turn them into a tasty, chilled beverage.

Why You Should Make Cold Brew

Cold brew is relatively simple to make, though it does require some patience for the lengthy process. The soaking period reduces acidity, bitterness, and sourness, resulting in a smoother, chocolatey taste. By brewing the drink yourself, you can adjust the flavor and caffeine level, with more being infused the longer the coffee grounds are steeped. Cold brew also stays fresh for about a week, letting you enjoy a quick cup whenever you like. You can even warm it up or just toss a few ice cubes in.

How to Make Cold Brew

Coarsely ground coffee beans work the best for cold brew. Espresso grounds are too fine—the particles tend to seep into the coffee and make it sandy—and can produce an overly strong flavor. Either grind the beans yourself or request a coarser grind than the standard. 

The ratio for cold brew will depend on your taste. One part coffee to four or five parts water is a good place to start, then adjust the water as needed. If you intend to drink the coffee black or use a lighter roast, add more water to accentuate the flavor.

First, steep the coffee. Place the grounds in a container, then pour filtered water—which is essential for a cleaner taste—over them. Cover the container and leave it for at least 12 hours but not more than 24 hours.

Once the grounds have been sufficiently steeped, move on to brewing. Cold brewers are available for sale, though you can also filter the grounds yourself. Place a strainer, like a cheesecloth, over a bowl, then pour the saturated coffee grounds in. The cloth will catch the grounds, leaving the cold brew to drip into the bowl. Save the liquid in a bottle or drink it right then. It’s useful for making other beverages as well, like macchiatos or frappes.

If you’re interested in making cold brew and other coffee variations, head to Maui Coffee Roasters in Kahului, HI. They provide a wide selection of locally grown coffee beans as well as coffee supplies and accessories so you can make delicious drinks at home. Call the coffee shop at (808) 877-2877 or visit them online to find out more about their lineup.