Ideal Cold Brew Grind Size: Coarse or Fine?

Coarse Grind

vs

Fine Grind

: What’s the Difference?
Grind size refers to the size of the coffee beans that are used to make a cold brew. Coarser grinds result in larger pieces of coffee, while finer grinds result in smaller pieces. The main difference between coarse and fine grinds is how quickly they extract flavor from the coffee beans.

Coarse Grind

A coarse grind is often used for cold brew because it allows for a slower extraction of flavors. This results in a milder, smoother taste that many people prefer. Coarser grinds also make it easier to strain out the coffee grounds once the cold brew has finished steeping.
However, coarse grinds can sometimes result in a weaker flavor than finer grinds. This is because the larger pieces of coffee don’t absorb as much water as the smaller pieces do. Coarse grinds are also more susceptible to over-extraction, which can result in a bitter or unpleasant taste.

Fine Grind

A fine grind is often used for hot coffee because it allows for a quicker extraction of flavors. This results in a stronger, richer taste that many people prefer. Fine grinds are also more uniform, which can make them easier to distribute evenly when brewing coffee.
However, fine grinds are not suitable for cold brew. They can result in an over-extraction of flavors, which can make the cold brew taste bitter or unpleasant. Fine grinds can also be difficult to strain out once the cold brew has finished steeping, as they tend to be smaller and more tightly packed together.

Choosing the Ideal Grind Size for Cold Brew

When making cold brew, it’s important to choose a grind size that will result in a balanced flavor profile. Coarse grinds are generally recommended because they allow for a slower extraction of flavors and are easier to strain out once the brew has finished steeping.
However, the ideal grind size will depend on several factors, including the strength of your coffee beans, the amount of water you’re using, and how long you want your cold brew to steep. For example, a stronger coffee bean may require a coarser grind to prevent over-extraction, while a weaker coffee bean may require a finer grind to ensure an even extraction of flavors.

The Steeping Time is Also Important

Another important factor to consider when making cold brew is the steeping time. Generally, a longer steeping time will result in a stronger flavor, while a shorter steeping time will result in a weaker flavor. However, it’s important not to over-steep your cold brew because this can result in an unpleasant taste and make it difficult to strain out the coffee grounds.
Real-Life Examples of Coarse vs Fine Grinds
A coarse grind cold brew is typically made using a French press or a large jar with a cheesecloth filter.