How Can You Easily Make Cold Brew Coffee in a Mason Jar?

AvatarByJacob Zitelman Coffee Brewing & Preparation


As the sun rises and the temperature climbs, nothing quite hits the spot like a refreshing glass of cold brew coffee. This smooth, rich beverage has taken the coffee world by storm, offering a delightful alternative to traditional hot brews. But did you know that you can easily craft this café favorite right in your own kitchen using just a mason jar? Whether you’re a coffee aficionado or a casual sipper, making cold brew in a mason jar is not only simple but also a fun and rewarding experience. Get ready to dive into the world of cold brew, where you’ll learn how to unlock the full potential of your coffee beans and enjoy a deliciously chilled drink that’s perfect for any occasion.

Cold brew coffee is known for its low acidity and naturally sweet flavor, making it a favorite among those who prefer a smoother sip. The process involves steeping coarsely ground coffee in cold water for an extended period, allowing the flavors to develop without the bitterness often associated with hot brewing methods. Using a mason jar for this process not only makes it accessible but also adds a touch of rustic charm to your coffee-making routine. Plus, it’s an eco-friendly option that reduces waste, as you can easily reuse the jar for future brews.

In this article, we

Materials Needed

To create cold brew coffee in a mason jar, you’ll require a few essential materials. Having the right tools will ensure a smooth brewing process and the best flavor extraction.

  • Mason Jar: A quart-sized jar is ideal for brewing a larger batch.
  • Coarse Coffee Grounds: Freshly ground coffee beans are preferred; aim for a coarseness similar to that of sea salt.
  • Water: Filtered water is recommended for optimal taste.
  • Strainer or Coffee Filter: To separate the coffee grounds from the brewed liquid.
  • Stirring Spoon: For mixing the coffee grounds and water.

Cold Brew Coffee Ratio

The coffee-to-water ratio is crucial for achieving the desired strength and flavor profile of your cold brew. A common recommendation is a 1:4 or 1:5 ratio of coffee to water, depending on how strong you prefer your brew.

Coffee Grounds (grams) Water (milliliters)
100 400
80 400
60 300

Brewing Process

Follow these steps to brew cold brew coffee in your mason jar:

  • Measure out your coffee grounds based on the desired strength using the recommended ratio.
  • Pour the coffee grounds into the mason jar.
  • Add the filtered water, ensuring all grounds are saturated. Stir gently with a spoon to mix thoroughly.
  • Seal the mason jar tightly with its lid.

Let the jar sit at room temperature or in the refrigerator for 12 to 24 hours. The longer the brew time, the stronger the coffee will be.

Filtering the Brew

Once the brewing time has elapsed, it’s time to filter out the coffee grounds. Follow these steps:

  • Place a strainer or coffee filter over another container or a clean mason jar.
  • Slowly pour the cold brew mixture through the strainer to capture the coffee grounds.
  • If using a coffee filter, you may need to do this in batches to prevent clogging.

After filtering, you may store the cold brew in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Serving Suggestions

Cold brew coffee is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions:

  • Over Ice: Serve it straight over ice for a refreshing drink.
  • With Milk or Cream: Add your choice of milk or cream for a creamier texture.
  • Sweetened: Incorporate flavored syrups or simple syrup to enhance the taste.
  • Coffee Cocktails: Use cold brew as a base for cocktails or coffee-infused beverages.

By following these steps and tips, you can create delicious cold brew coffee in a mason jar, perfect for enjoying at any time of day.

Gather Your Ingredients and Tools

To successfully create cold brew coffee in a mason jar, ensure you have the following items ready:

  • Ingredients:
  • Coarsely ground coffee (1 cup)
  • Cold or room temperature water (4 cups)
  • Tools:
  • A 1-quart mason jar with a lid
  • A stirring utensil (e.g., spoon or stick)
  • A fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
  • A second container for storing the brewed coffee

Prepare the Coffee Mixture

Begin the brewing process by combining the coffee grounds and water in the mason jar. This step is crucial for achieving the desired flavor profile.

  1. Pour the coarsely ground coffee into the mason jar.
  2. Add the cold or room temperature water, ensuring all coffee grounds are fully saturated.
  3. Use a stirring utensil to mix the coffee and water thoroughly, breaking up any clumps of coffee.

Brew the Coffee

After mixing, it is essential to let the coffee steep to develop its flavor. Follow these guidelines:

  • Steeping Time: Let the mixture steep for 12 to 24 hours at room temperature or in the refrigerator. The longer you steep, the stronger the coffee will be.
  • Cover the Jar: Seal the mason jar with its lid to prevent any contaminants from entering and to maintain the temperature.

Strain the Coffee

Once steeping is complete, it is time to strain the coffee to separate the liquid from the grounds.

  1. Place a fine mesh strainer or a piece of cheesecloth over a clean container.
  2. Carefully pour the brewed coffee from the mason jar into the strainer, allowing the liquid to pass through while retaining the grounds.
  3. If using cheesecloth, gather the corners and twist to squeeze out any remaining liquid.

Store or Serve the Cold Brew

Your cold brew coffee is now ready for enjoyment. You have the option to store or serve it immediately.

  • Storage: Transfer the strained cold brew into a clean container and refrigerate. It can be stored for up to two weeks.
  • Serving Suggestions:
  • Serve over ice.
  • Dilute with water or milk to taste.
  • Sweeten with simple syrup or flavored syrups as desired.

Adjusting Strength and Flavor

Experimenting with the coffee-to-water ratio can enhance your cold brew experience. Consider the following adjustments:

Ratio Taste Profile
1 cup coffee : 4 cups water Standard brew
1 cup coffee : 3 cups water Stronger, richer brew
1 cup coffee : 5 cups water Milder, smoother brew

Adjusting the steeping time can also impact the flavor intensity. A longer steeping time results in a stronger coffee, while a shorter time yields a milder flavor.

Expert Insights on Making Cold Brew Coffee in a Mason Jar

Jessica Hartman (Coffee Connoisseur and Author, Brewed Awakening). “Using a mason jar for cold brew is not only practical but also enhances the brewing process. The glass material allows for a clean taste, and the wide mouth makes it easy to add coffee grounds and water. I recommend using coarsely ground coffee to prevent over-extraction.”

Dr. Samuel Greene (Food Scientist and Beverage Specialist, Flavor Innovations). “The key to a successful cold brew in a mason jar lies in the coffee-to-water ratio. A ratio of 1:4 is ideal for a rich flavor profile. Additionally, steeping for 12 to 24 hours in the refrigerator will yield the best results, ensuring a smooth and balanced brew.”

Emily Tran (Barista Trainer and Coffee Shop Owner, The Daily Grind). “I always recommend using filtered water when making cold brew in a mason jar. This not only improves the overall taste but also helps to avoid any impurities that may affect the final product. After brewing, strain the coffee through a fine mesh or cheesecloth for a clean finish.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What ingredients do I need to make cold brew coffee in a mason jar?
To make cold brew coffee in a mason jar, you will need coarsely ground coffee beans, cold or room temperature water, and optionally, sweeteners or flavorings.

What is the ideal coffee-to-water ratio for cold brew?
The recommended coffee-to-water ratio for cold brew is typically 1:4 to 1:8, depending on your taste preference. A common starting point is 1 cup of coffee grounds to 4 cups of water.

How long should I steep the coffee in the mason jar?
You should steep the coffee in the mason jar for 12 to 24 hours. Longer steeping times will result in a stronger flavor, while shorter times yield a milder brew.

Do I need to filter the cold brew after steeping?
Yes, it is essential to filter the cold brew after steeping. You can use a fine mesh strainer, coffee filter, or a dedicated cold brew coffee maker to separate the grounds from the liquid.

Can I store cold brew coffee, and if so, how long does it last?
Cold brew coffee can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. However, for the best flavor, it is recommended to consume it within one week.

How can I serve cold brew coffee made in a mason jar?
You can serve cold brew coffee over ice, diluted with water or milk, and sweetened to taste. Additionally, you can add flavorings such as vanilla or chocolate for a customized drink.
making cold brew coffee in a mason jar is a straightforward and rewarding process that allows coffee enthusiasts to enjoy a smooth and refreshing beverage. The method involves coarsely grinding coffee beans, mixing them with cold water in the mason jar, and allowing the mixture to steep for an extended period, typically 12 to 24 hours. This slow extraction process results in a coffee concentrate that can be diluted with water or milk to achieve the desired strength and flavor.

Key takeaways from the discussion include the importance of using high-quality, coarsely ground coffee beans to enhance the final taste of the cold brew. Additionally, the ratio of coffee to water is crucial; a common recommendation is 1:4 for a strong concentrate. After steeping, straining the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or coffee filter is essential to remove the grounds and achieve a clean cup. Finally, serving the cold brew over ice and customizing it with sweeteners or flavorings allows for a personalized coffee experience.

Overall, the mason jar method for cold brew coffee is not only efficient but also allows for easy storage and serving. This technique is perfect for those who prefer a low-acid coffee option, making it an ideal choice for warm weather or

Author Profile

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Jacob Zitelman
Jacob Hurrell-Zitelman is more than just a coffee enthusiast—he’s an innovator in the specialty coffee world with a passion for crafting the perfect cup. Born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, Jacob’s love for coffee started at an early age but took on a new form during his college years at Trinity University, where he turned a simple dorm room experiment into a full-fledged business. What began as an idea for a small coffee cart evolved into Quick Sip Coffee.

His mission is simple: to educate, inspire, and fuel your passion for great coffee. Whether you're a beginner looking for brewing tips or a seasoned aficionado diving deeper into the world of specialty coffee, Jacob’s expertise makes this blog a go-to resource. So grab a cup, explore, and enjoy the journey because great coffee starts with knowledge, passion, and the perfect brew.