Cold Brew Coffee Ratio Calculator
Calculate the perfect coffee-to-water ratio for cold brew concentrate or ready-to-drink cold brew.
Get amounts in grams, ounces, and milliliters.
What Is Cold Brew Coffee?
Cold brew is made by steeping coarsely ground coffee in cold or room-temperature water for an extended period — typically 12–24 hours. The result is smoother, less acidic, and more highly caffeinated than hot-brewed coffee.
Brew Ratios Explained
The ratio is coffee : water by volume (before steeping).
| Ratio | Type | Use |
|---|---|---|
| 1:4 | Strong concentrate | Dilute 1:1 before drinking |
| 1:5 | Standard concentrate | Dilute 1:1 or 1:2 |
| 1:8 | Ready-to-drink | Drink straight or over ice |
Coffee Weight vs. Volume
Ground coffee is much lighter than water. A practical approximation: 1 gram of ground coffee ≈ 2 ml by volume. For precise brewing, always weigh your coffee.
Steep Time
| Method | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fridge (4°C) | 16–24 hours | Slower extraction, cleaner cup |
| Room temp (20°C) | 1–4 hours | Faster, watch for over-extraction |
| Overnight standard | 12–18 hours | Most popular |
Grind Size
Use a coarse grind (similar to French press). Fine grinds over-extract and make the brew bitter. They also clog filters and make straining difficult.
Serving Concentrate
Concentrate is typically diluted 1:1 with:
- Cold water (lightest, preserves flavor)
- Milk or cream (richer, smoother)
- Oat milk or almond milk (popular dairy-free option)
Cold brew keeps in the fridge for up to 2 weeks in a sealed container.