How to Make Cold Brew at Home
(Easy Guide + Best Gear)
The best part? You don’t need fancy equipment to make it at home. All it takes is the right coffee, a little patience, and a Rambler® Bottle to keep it cold all day.
What You Need to Make Cold Brew
- Coarse-ground coffee (avoid fine espresso grinds — they’ll make it too bitter).
- Cold, filtered water.
- A large jar, French press, or cold brew maker.
- A fine-mesh strainer or coffee filter.
- A Rambler® Bottle or Jug to keep it fresh and icy cold.
Step by Step: How to Make Cold Brew Coffee
Step 1: Use the Right Coffee-to-Water Ratio
The ideal ratio for cold brew is 1:8 — that’s one cup of coffee grounds per eight cups of water.
| Cold Brew Strength | Coffee (Coarse-Ground) | Water |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Strength | 1 cup | 8 cups |
| Stronger Concentrate | 1.5 cups | 8 cups |
| Light & Smooth | ¾ cup | 8 cups |
Pro Tip: Want stronger coffee? Use a higher coffee-to-water ratio, or let it steep longer.
Step 2: Combine Coffee & Cold Water
Pour your coarse coffee grounds into a large jar, French press, or pitcher. Add cold, filtered water and stir to fully saturate the grounds.
Step 3: Let It Steep (12–24 Hours)
Cold brew needs time, not heat.
- Steep for 12 hours for a lighter, smoother brew.
- Steep for 24 hours for a bold, full-bodied flavor.
Pro Tip: Steeping in the fridge slows extraction, making the coffee smoother. Steeping at room temp speeds it up, creating a stronger, more intense flavor.
Step 4: Strain & Store
Once brewed, strain your cold brew using a fine-mesh sieve, coffee filter, cheesecloth, or French press plunger. This removes all the coffee grounds, leaving you with pure, smooth cold brew.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Your cold brew is ready to drink. Here are a few ways to enjoy it:
- For black cold brew: Add ice and a splash of water.
- For a sweeter style: Add cream, milk, or vanilla syrup.
We recommend: Rambler® 20 oz. Stackable Cup with Straw Lid
How Long Does Cold Brew Last?
Cold brew stays fresh in the fridge for up to 10 days — but only if stored properly.
What Rambler® Drinkware Is Right For Your Brew?
| Use Case | Best YETI Option | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Daily cold brew on the go | Rambler® 20 oz Stackable Cup with Straw Cap | Fits in cup holders, keeps ice in your coffee ‘til the last sip. |
| Batch storage for easy refills | Rambler® Half Gallon Jug | Keep plenty of coffee cold for refills on the ranch, job site, or on camp weekend. |
A Rambler® Half-Gallon or Rambler® One-Gallon Jug keeps cold brew fresh, cold, and easy to pour.
Perfect for camping trips or long days on the ranch or jobsite.
Final Thoughts: Cold Brew Made Easy
Use coarse-ground coffee & a 1:8 ratio for the best flavor.
Steep for 12–24 hours depending on your taste preference.
Enjoy iced cold brew coffee in a Rambler® Cup or Tumbler.
Make a big batch once & enjoy cold brew all week long.
Ready to make some brew? Grab a Rambler® Jug and get started.
