Whether it’s a cold brew or hot brew coffee, we love our freshly brewed coffee in the morning, but were surprised at how much coffee the US consumes per year! Did you know that the US consumes 146 billion cups of coffee per year! Wow, that’s a lot of coffee!
According to data from the National Coffee Association, Americans consume approximately 400 million cups of coffee per day, or roughly 146 billion cups of coffee per year! This makes the United States one of the largest coffee-consuming countries in the world.
The popularity of coffee in the US has been growing in recent years, with many people turning to coffee as an important part of their daily routine. In addition to traditional hot coffee, there has been a growing trend in the US towards specialty coffee drinks, such as lattes and cold brew, which has helped to drive the overall consumption of coffee even higher.
What is Cold Brew Coffee vs. Hot Brew Coffee?
Cold brew coffee and hot brew coffee are two different methods of brewing coffee that result in different flavors and strengths.
Hot Brew Coffee – Hot brew coffee is the traditional method of brewing coffee where hot water is poured over coffee grounds and the coffee is then filtered to produce a hot cup of coffee. This method is quick and convenient, but the heat can result in a bitter taste if the coffee is left to steep for too long.
Cold Brew Coffee – Cold brew coffee is made by steeping coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period of time, typically 12-24 hours. The result is a smoother and less bitter taste compared to hot brewed coffee, with a stronger flavor due to the extended steeping time. Cold brew coffee is often served over ice, making it a popular choice for hot summer days.
Both methods have their own unique flavors and strengths, and the choice between the two often comes down to personal preference. Some people prefer the smooth and less bitter taste of cold brew coffee, while others prefer the convenience and faster brewing time of hot brewed coffee.
So What’s The Best thing about Waking up to Freshly Brewed Coffee?
There are so many great things about waking up to freshly brewed coffee! Some of our favorites are:
The lovely Aroma – The smell of freshly brewed coffee in the morning can be invigorating and awaken the senses. The aroma alone can be enough to help you start your day on the right foot.
Taste – Freshly brewed coffee has a rich, full flavor that can be hard to beat. Whether you prefer a strong and bold coffee or a smooth and mild one, the taste of freshly brewed coffee can be a real treat.
Yes, Caffeine! – Of course, one of the best things about freshly brewed coffee is the caffeine boost it provides. Whether you need a pick-me-up to start your day or a mid-morning energy boost, coffee can help.
Ritual – Drinking coffee can be a comforting and enjoyable ritual, especially when it is freshly brewed. Whether you prefer to savor your coffee in silence or enjoy it with friends and family, the act of drinking coffee can be a great way to start your day.
Social – Coffee has also become a social event to meet up at Starbucks and have your favorite latte.
Flexibility – There are many different ways to make coffee, and each has its own unique flavor profile. Whether you prefer espresso, pour-over, or French press, there’s a brewing method that’s perfect for you and your taste preferences.
What is Cold Brew?
Cold brew is a type of coffee that is brewed using cold water rather than hot water. The process involves steeping coarse coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period of time, usually 12-24 hours, and then filtering out the grounds to produce a concentrated coffee extract. Because the coffee is brewed with cold water, the flavor profile is different from hot-brewed coffee and is generally characterized by a smoother, less bitter taste. Cold brew coffee is often served over ice and can be enjoyed straight or with milk and sweeteners added. It’s also a popular choice for summertime as it provides a refreshing alternative to hot coffee.
What is the Best Coffee for Cold Brew?
Some of the best coffee varieties for cold brewing include Colombian, Brazilian, Ethiopian, and Sumatran coffees. These coffees have a natural sweetness and a smooth, chocolatey or fruity flavor that complements the smooth and refreshing taste of cold brew coffee.
When choosing coffee for cold brewing, it’s also important to consider the grind size. A coarse grind is best for cold brewing because it will allow the coffee to steep evenly and prevent any bitterness from being extracted.
Here are A Few Excellent Brands of Coffee for Cold Brew:
There are many great brands of coffee that are ideal for cold brewing. Some popular brands that are known for producing high-quality coffee for cold brewing include:
Stumptown Coffee Roasters – Stumptown is a specialty coffee company that is known for producing coffee with a smooth and well-balanced flavor profile, making it a great choice for cold brewing. https://amzn.to/3YmwRBg
Death Wish Coffee – Death Wish is a coffee brand that is known for its high-caffeine content and bold flavor profile. While it may not be the best choice for everyone, it’s a great option for those who like a stronger, more robust cold brew. https://amzn.to/3YCjuMV
Blue Bottle Coffee – Blue Bottle is a specialty coffee roaster that is known for its commitment to quality and sustainability. They offer a variety of single-origin and blended coffees that are ideal for cold brewing. https://amzn.to/3YHwFMJ
Dunkin’ Donuts Cold Brew Coffee Packs – Dunkin’ Donuts is a popular coffee chain that now offers cold brew coffee packs, making it easy to make cold brew at home. https://amzn.to/3Xkg40n
These are just a few examples of great brands of coffee for cold brewing. There are many other great options out there, and the best brand for you will depend on your personal taste preferences.
What is a Cold Brew Latte?
A Cold Brew Latte is a popular coffee drink that combines cold brew coffee with steamed milk and, sometimes, flavor syrups.
Cold brew coffee is made by steeping coarse coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period, typically 12-24 hours. This method results in a smoother and less bitter coffee compared to traditional hot brewing methods. In a Cold Brew Latte, the cold brew coffee is mixed with frothed milk to create a creamy and refreshing drink, with a mild sweetness from the milk that complements the smooth flavor of the coffee. Some variations of the drink may also include flavor syrups, such as vanilla or caramel, to enhance the taste.
Can Cold Brew Coffee be Heated?
There are a few ways to heat cold brew coffee:
Microwave Method – Pour the cold brew coffee into a microwave-safe mug and heat it in 30-second increments, stirring in between each increment, until it reaches your desired temperature.
Stovetop Method – Pour the cold brew coffee into a saucepan and heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired temperature.
Immersion Heater Method – Fill a saucepan or a French press with water and bring it to a boil. Then, place a heat-proof glass container with the cold brew coffee into the pan or press, making sure the water level is below the lid. Let it sit for a few minutes until the coffee reaches your desired temperature.
It’s important to note that heating cold brew coffee can affect its flavor, so it’s recommended to heat it as little as possible to still achieve the desired temperature.
What is Hot Brew Coffee?
Hot Brew Coffee, also known as traditional coffee or just plain coffee, is the most common way of brewing coffee. It is made by mixing hot water with ground coffee beans, usually in a drip coffee maker, French press, or pour-over, and then allowing the water to filter through the grounds, extracting the coffee’s flavor and caffeine. The resulting coffee is then served hot.
Compared to cold brew coffee, hot brew coffee has a stronger and more robust flavor, as well as a more noticeable bitterness. This is because hot water is better able to extract the flavors and oils from the coffee beans. However, this also means that hot brew coffee can be less forgiving when it comes to the quality of the beans or the brewing method, as a poorly made hot brew coffee can be extremely bitter and undrinkable. Nevertheless, hot brew coffee remains the most popular way to make and enjoy coffee due to its convenience, versatility, and rich flavor.
What is the Best Coffee for Hot Brew?
The best coffee for hot brewing depends on personal taste preferences, but there are a few factors to consider when choosing coffee beans for hot brewing:
Roast level: A medium roast coffee is a good choice for hot brewing as it offers a balanced flavor with a good balance of acidity and bitterness.
Origin: Coffee beans from different regions have different flavor profiles, so choose a coffee bean that originates from a region you enjoy. For example, African coffee beans tend to have bright, fruity flavors, while South American coffee beans are known for their nutty and chocolatey notes.
Blend: A blend of coffee beans from different regions can offer a more complex flavor profile than single-origin coffee.
Quality: High-quality coffee beans are essential for a good hot brew. Look for beans that are freshly roasted and have a consistent grind size.
Ultimately, the best coffee for hot brewing is one that you enjoy drinking. Experiment with different types of coffee beans and roast levels to find your favorite hot brew coffee.
What are Some of the Best Brands of Hot Brew Coffee?
Here are some of the best brands we know of for awesome hot brew coffee:
Starbucks – Starbucks is a well-known coffee brand that offers a wide range of coffee blends and roasts for hot brewing. From medium roasts to dark roasts, there is something for everyone. https://amzn.to/3DRKgck
Peet’s Coffee – Peet’s Coffee is known for its high-quality, freshly roasted coffee beans and has a variety of blends and roasts available for hot brewing. https://amzn.to/3DWTHam
Dunkin’ Donuts – Dunkin’ Donuts is another well-known brand that offers a variety of blends and roasts for hot brewing. Their coffee is known for its bold flavor and affordability. https://amzn.to/3YhsuYb
Green Mountain Coffee – Green Mountain Coffee is a popular brand that offers a range of coffee blends and roasts, including organic and fair trade options. https://amzn.to/3Yyuvi4
Eight O’Clock Coffee – Eight O’Clock Coffee has been roasthttps://amzn.to/3DRKgcking coffee since 1859 and offers a variety of blends and roasts for hot brewing, including decaf and flavored options. https://amzn.to/3ljewWZ
These are just a few of the many brands of hot brew coffee available. Ultimately, the best brand for you will depend on your personal taste preferences and the flavor profiles you enjoy.
5 Tips for Brewing the Perfect Cup of Coffee
1 . Use fresh, high-quality coffee beans: The quality of your coffee beans will have a significant impact on the taste of your coffee. Make sure to use freshly roasted beans that are specifically designed for your preferred brewing method.
2. Grind your beans just before brewing: Freshly grinding your beans just before brewing will ensure maximum flavor extraction. The grind size should be appropriate for your brewing method. A fine grind is best for espresso, while a coarser grind is better for French press or pour-over brewing.
3. Use the right water temperature: Water that is too hot can extract bitter flavors from the coffee, while water that is not hot enough will not fully extract the flavors. Aim for a water temperature of around 195 to 205°F for optimal extraction.
4. Measure your ingredients accurately: Using the correct ratios of coffee to water is essential for brewing a good cup of coffee. A general guideline is to use 1 to 2 tablespoons of coffee per 6 ounces of water.
5. Experiment with different brewing methods: Different brewing methods will produce different flavors and strengths of coffee. Try different brewing methods, such as French press, pour-over, or espresso, to find the one that suits your taste preferences the best.
What is the Perfect Water Temperature for Brewing Coffee
The perfect water temperature for brewing coffee is between 195°F and 205°F (91°C and 96°C). This temperature range is ideal for extracting the flavors and aromas of the coffee without extracting bitter or harsh flavors. It is important to use water that is hot enough to fully extract the flavors from the coffee beans, but not so hot that it will negatively impact the taste of the coffee.
Is it better to Drink Organic Coffee?
Whether or not organic coffee is “better” is a matter of personal preference and depends on several factors. Here are some of the benefits and drawbacks of drinking organic coffee:
Benefits of organic coffee:
It is grown without the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, which can be harmful to the environment and to the health of workers and consumers.
Organic coffee farming can also be better for wildlife and biodiversity, as it relies on more sustainable practices.
Some people find that organic coffee has a better taste, as the absence of synthetic chemicals can allow the natural flavors of the coffee to shine through.
Drawbacks of organic coffee:
Organic coffee can be more expensive than conventionally grown coffee.
It can be more difficult to find high-quality organic coffee, as the standards for what constitutes “organic” can vary widely.
Organic coffee farming often yields lower crop yields, which can drive up the cost for consumers.
Ultimately, whether or not organic coffee is “better” for you depends on your personal values and priorities.
If you are concerned about the environmental and health impacts of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, or if you appreciate the taste of chemical-free coffee, then organic coffee might be the better choice for you. However, if price and availability are more important factors, then conventionally grown coffee might be a better option.
