Cold Brew Coffee with Instant Coffee: A Quick and Easy Guide
Cold brew coffee is a popular, refreshing way to enjoy coffee, especially during warm months. Traditionally made by steeping coarse ground coffee in cold water for 12-24 hours, it’s known for its smooth, low-acid flavor. However, if you’re in a hurry or don’t have ground coffee on hand, you can still make a delicious cold brew coffee with instant coffee. This method is quick, convenient, and yields a rich, flavorful coffee without the long steeping time.
What is Cold Brew Coffee?
Cold brew coffee is made by steeping ground coffee in cold water for an extended period, usually 12 hours or more. This results in a smooth, less acidic cup of coffee that’s perfect for serving over ice. Unlike iced coffee, which is brewed hot and then cooled, cold brew coffee is brewed entirely with cold water, preserving a sweeter, milder taste.
Why Use Instant Coffee for Cold Brew?
Instant coffee is made by brewing coffee and then drying it into granules that dissolve easily in water. While it’s often used for a quick cup of hot coffee, instant coffee can also make a fantastic cold brew. The convenience of instant coffee allows you to bypass the traditional brewing process while still achieving a bold and satisfying cold brew experience. Plus, it’s a great option for those who want to make cold brew without the need for special equipment like a coffee grinder or French press.
Ingredients for Cold Brew Coffee with Instant Coffee:
- 2 tablespoons instant coffee
- 1 cup cold or room temperature water
- Ice cubes
- Milk, cream, or sweetener (optional)
How to Make Cold Brew Coffee with Instant Coffee:
- Combine Instant Coffee and Water
Start by adding 2 tablespoons of instant coffee to a cup or jar. Pour in 1 cup of cold or room temperature water. Stir well to dissolve the instant coffee completely. You can adjust the amount of instant coffee based on your preferred strength. - Let It Steep
Unlike traditional cold brew that needs to steep for hours, instant coffee dissolves quickly. However, for a richer flavor, let it sit for 15-30 minutes in the fridge. The longer it sits, the more concentrated the flavor will be. - Stir and Adjust
After the coffee has steeped, stir it again to ensure everything is well-mixed. If you find the coffee too strong, add more water to dilute it to your desired taste. - Serve Over Ice
Fill a glass with ice cubes, and pour your cold brew over the ice. The ice will slightly dilute the coffee, balancing the flavor. - Add Your Favorite Mix-ins
Customize your cold brew by adding milk, cream, or a sweetener of your choice. You can also try flavored syrups like vanilla or caramel for a different twist. For a dairy-free option, try almond milk or coconut milk. - Enjoy!
Stir your cold brew to combine everything, and enjoy a smooth, refreshing cup of coffee without the long wait.
Tips for the Best Cold Brew with Instant Coffee:
- Experiment with Ratios: The ratio of instant coffee to water can be adjusted depending on how strong you like your cold brew. For a more robust flavor, increase the instant coffee to 3 tablespoons per cup of water.
- Chill the Coffee: Although instant coffee dissolves easily, allowing the mixture to chill in the fridge for at least 15 minutes will enhance the flavor and help the coffee fully develop its taste.
- Use Filtered Water: The quality of water affects the flavor of the coffee. Using filtered or bottled water will give you a cleaner, more vibrant cold brew.
- Try Different Instant Coffees: Not all instant coffees are created equal. Experiment with different brands or varieties to find the one that best suits your taste.
- Make It Ahead: If you enjoy cold brew coffee often, prepare a larger batch by simply multiplying the ingredients. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days for an easy, on-the-go caffeine fix.
Why Cold Brew with Instant Coffee is Great for Busy Days
This quick method is perfect for busy mornings or when you need a pick-me-up without the hassle of brewing coffee the traditional way. It’s also a great option if you’re looking to avoid any extra equipment or preparation time, as all you need is instant coffee and water.