Folgerscoffee

Cold brew coffee has taken the coffee world by storm, offering a smooth, naturally sweet, and less acidic alternative to traditional hot-brewed coffee. If you love the rich flavor of Folgers but haven't tried making cold brew at home, you're in for a treat. This step-by-step guide will show you exactly how to make cold brew coffee with Folgers ground coffee, from choosing the right grind to serving over ice. Whether you're a cold brew novice or a seasoned pro, these tips will help you craft the perfect pitcher of iced coffee.

Why Choose Folgers Ground Coffee for Cold Brew?

Folgers has been a trusted name in coffee for generations, and their ground coffee blends are ideal for cold brew because they are consistent, widely available, and deliver a balanced flavor profile. For cold brew, you want a medium to dark roast that can stand up to the long steeping process without becoming bitter. Folgers Classic Roast and Folgers Coffeehouse Blend are excellent choices. The Folgers Classic Roast Medium Roast Ground Coffee, 9.6 Ounce (Pack of 2) offers a familiar, comforting taste that cold brew enhances beautifully. For a bolder cup, the Folgers Coffeehouse Blend, 22.6oz (2) brings a deeper, more robust character that shines when chilled.

What You Need to Make Cold Brew at Home

Before you start, gather the following equipment and ingredients:

• Folgers ground coffee (coarse grind is best, but regular drip grind works too)
• Cold, filtered water
• A large jar or pitcher (32 oz or larger)
• A fine-mesh strainer, cheesecloth, or a nut milk bag
• A spoon or whisk for stirring
• Ice and your favorite milk or sweetener (optional)

That's it. No special equipment required. If you have a French press, you can also use that to simplify filtration.

The Perfect Cold Brew Ratio

The standard cold brew ratio is 1 part coffee to 4 parts water by volume. For a stronger concentrate (which you can dilute later), use 1 part coffee to 3 parts water. Here's a simple guideline:

• For a mild brew: 1 cup of ground coffee + 4 cups of water
• For a strong concentrate: 1 cup of ground coffee + 3 cups of water

If you're using a 64 oz pitcher, try 2 cups of Folgers ground coffee with 8 cups of water for a standard strength. Adjust to your taste preference on your next batch.

Step 1: Combine Coffee and Water

Add your Folgers ground coffee to the clean jar or pitcher. Slowly pour the cold water over the grounds, stirring gently to ensure all the coffee is saturated. Cover the container with a lid or plastic wrap to keep out dust and odors.

Step 2: Steep at Room Temperature or in the Fridge

Let the mixture steep for 12 to 24 hours. The longer it steeps, the stronger and more concentrated the flavor will be. Room temperature steeping tends to extract more flavor in less time (12–16 hours), while refrigerator steeping is gentler and often yields a cleaner taste (16–24 hours). For the smoothest result, aim for 18 hours using Folgers ground coffee.

Step 3: Strain the Concentrate

After steeping, it's time to separate the liquid from the grounds. Place a fine-mesh strainer lined with cheesecloth (or use a nut milk bag) over a clean pitcher or bowl. Slowly pour the coffee mixture through the strainer. Let it drip naturally; do not press or squeeze the grounds, as this can release bitter compounds. If you want an extra-clear brew, strain a second time through a paper coffee filter.

Step 4: Store and Serve

Transfer the cold brew concentrate to a sealed container and refrigerate. It will keep for up to two weeks. To serve, fill a glass with ice, add cold brew concentrate, and top with water or milk (or both). A typical ratio is 1 part concentrate to 1 part water or milk. Sweeten with simple syrup, honey, or flavored creamer if desired.

Flavor Variations to Try

One of the best things about making cold brew at home is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few ideas using Folgers specialty ground coffees:

• Caramel Cold Brew: Use Folgers Buttery Caramel Flavored Ground Coffee, 9.6 Ounce for a sweet, dessert-like cold brew. Add a splash of vanilla creamer for extra indulgence.
• Classic Iced Latte: Brew cold brew concentrate with Folgers Classic Roast, then serve over ice with your favorite milk and a drizzle of caramel or chocolate syrup.
• Spiced Cold Brew: Add a cinnamon stick or a few whole cloves to the steeping jar for a warm, aromatic twist.
• Mocha Cold Brew: Stir a tablespoon of cocoa powder into the cold brew concentrate before serving, then top with milk.

Tips for the Best Cold Brew Every Time

• Use filtered water: Tap water can introduce off-flavors. Filtered or bottled water ensures a clean taste.
• Grind size matters: A coarse grind (like what you'd use for a French press) filters more easily and produces a smoother brew. If you only have a fine drip grind, reduce the steeping time to 12 hours to avoid over-extraction.
• Don't over-steep: While 24 hours is safe, steeping for longer can make the coffee bitter. Stick to 18 hours for the best balance.
• Store properly: Keep your cold brew concentrate in an airtight container in the fridge to preserve freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Folgers K-Cup pods for cold brew?

While it's possible to open K-Cup pods and use the grounds, it's not recommended because the coffee inside is ground very fine, which can lead to a muddy, over-extracted cold brew. Stick to Folgers ground coffee for best results.

Is cold brew stronger than iced coffee?

Yes, cold brew concentrate is typically much stronger than regular iced coffee. That's why it's usually diluted with water or milk before serving. This also means you get more servings per batch.

Can I heat cold brew?

Absolutely. Cold brew concentrate can be microwaved or mixed with hot water to make a smooth, low-acid hot coffee. It's a great option for those who find hot-brewed coffee too acidic.

Why Cold Brew Is a Game-Changer for Iced Coffee Lovers

Traditional iced coffee is made by brewing hot coffee and pouring it over ice, which can dilute the flavor and introduce bitterness. Cold brew, on the other hand, is never heated, resulting in a silky, naturally sweet concentrate that stays bold even when poured over ice. Plus, you can make a big batch once and enjoy it all week.

By using Folgers ground coffee, you get a reliable, delicious base that's perfect for experimentation. Whether you're a fan of the classic taste of Folgers Classic Roast or the richer notes of Folgers Coffeehouse Blend, cold brew brings out the best in every bean.

Time-Saving Hack: Cold Brew with a French Press

If you have a French press, making cold brew is even easier. Add Folgers ground coffee to the press, pour in cold water, stir, and let it steep for 12–18 hours. Then, simply press the plunger down and pour. No need for extra strainers or cheesecloth. This method works beautifully with any Folgers ground coffee.

Final Thoughts

Making cold brew coffee with Folgers ground coffee is simple, affordable, and endlessly customizable. With just a few minutes of active prep, you can enjoy restaurant-quality iced coffee at home for a fraction of the cost. Start with a classic like Folgers Classic Roast, then branch out into flavored options like Buttery Caramel for a sweet treat. The key is to find the ratio and steep time that suits your palate.

Ready to Brew?

Grab a bag of Folgers Classic Roast Medium Roast Ground Coffee, 9.6 Ounce (Pack of 2) and start your cold brew journey today. With two packs, you'll have plenty of coffee to perfect your technique and enjoy a smooth, refreshing cup every morning.