What Is Cold Brew? Your Complete Guide

What Is Cold Brew Coffee?

Cold brew is coffee made by steeping coarsely ground coffee beans in cold or room-temperature water for 12 to 24 hours. Unlike regular iced coffee — which is hot coffee poured over ice — cold brew is never exposed to heat during the brewing process.

This slow, gentle extraction produces a concentrate that's naturally smoother, less acidic, and slightly sweeter than traditional hot-brewed coffee. At Revival Coffee, our cold brew steeps for 18 hours to achieve a rich, bold flavor with a clean finish.

How Does Cold Brew Taste?

Cold brew has a distinctive flavor profile that sets it apart:

• Smooth: Without heat to extract bitter compounds, cold brew tastes remarkably smooth
• Less acidic: Up to 67% less acidic than hot coffee, making it easier on your stomach
• Naturally sweet: The cold extraction brings out natural sweetness in the beans
• Bold: The long steep time creates a strong, concentrated brew

If you've ever found hot coffee too bitter or acidic, cold brew might be the drink that changes your mind.

Cold Brew vs. Iced Coffee: What's the Difference?

These two drinks are often confused, but they're made completely differently:

Cold Brew:

• Brewed with cold water for 12-24 hours
• Smooth, low-acid, naturally sweet
• Concentrate that's diluted with water or milk
• Takes planning (long brew time)

Iced Coffee:

• Hot coffee brewed normally, then cooled and poured over ice
• Can taste more bitter or watery as ice melts
• Same acidity as hot coffee
• Quick to make

Both are delicious — it really comes down to your taste preference. If you like a smoother, bolder cup, go with cold brew. If you want something quick with the classic coffee bite, iced coffee is your pick.

How Is Cold Brew Made?

The process is simple but requires patience:

1. Grind: Coarsely ground coffee (like sea salt texture)
2. Combine: Mix grounds with cold or room-temperature filtered water at a ratio of about 1:5 (coffee to water)
3. Steep: Let it sit for 12-24 hours in the fridge or at room temperature
4. Filter: Strain through a fine mesh or paper filter to remove grounds
5. Serve: Dilute the concentrate with water, milk, or cream to taste

At Revival Coffee, we use a carefully selected blend and a precise 18-hour steep to get the flavor just right — so you don't have to do the work at home (unless you want to).

Why Do Coffee Shops Charge More for Cold Brew?

Cold brew isn't just regular coffee served cold — the process requires significantly more coffee beans (roughly twice as much) and 18+ hours of brew time compared to minutes for drip coffee. The higher bean cost and time investment are why cold brew typically costs a dollar or two more than regular iced coffee.

When to Order Cold Brew

Cold brew is perfect for:

• Hot summer days when you want a refreshing, smooth coffee
• Sensitive stomachs — the low acidity makes it gentler
• Afternoon pick-me-ups when you want bold flavor without bitterness
• Coffee newcomers who find hot coffee too bitter

Stop by Revival Coffee in Richardson, TX and try our signature cold brew. We think it might become your new favorite.