Best Slow Drip Cold Brew (Grit-Free)
The Bruer is a slow-drip cold brewer that revolutionizes the way you make cold brew coffee. Unlike traditional methods which involve steeping coffee grounds in water for hours, the Bruer utilizes a gravity-fed system to extract the flavors from the coffee. This innovative approach results in a delightful, concentrated brew that is virtually grit-free.
To use the Bruer, simply fill the bottom of a glass container with coarse coffee grounds. Below the grounds, there is a steel mesh filter that helps to trap any sediment. After dampening the grounds, place a paper filter on top, snap in the silicone seal, and insert the container into the glass carafe. Fill the top section with water and ice, then adjust the knob in the center to control the speed of the drip. The ideal rate is about one drop per second.
However, using the Bruer does require some precision. It is essential to follow the instructions carefully, including the use of ice. If the coffee grind is too fine, it may result in water forming pathways through the grounds, akin to an ant colony. If you notice that the brew is not dark enough or that it is dripping too quickly, adjustments to the setup may be necessary. Additionally, it is important to note that the Bruer has a limited capacity of 20 ounces, and being primarily made of glass, it can be fragile. While some buyers have reported issues with the drip valve, I personally have not encountered any problems.
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Best Designed Cold Brewer (Classiest)
The KitchenAid Cold Brew Coffee Maker may not produce the absolute best cold brew on the market, but it certainly stands out in terms of design and craftsmanship. Constructed with steel and thick glass, this pot exudes elegance. It features a built-in handle and a convenient spigot, making it easy to dispense cold brew, whether you choose to store it in the fridge or display it on a shelf. There is also an XL version available, holding around 40 ounces of coffee, which comes with a countertop stand.
The KitchenAid Cold Brew Coffee Maker consists of a stainless steel grounds tray with a handle that sits within the larger glass container. Once you have dampened your coffee grounds, fill it with water. While the manufacturer claims a capacity of 28 ounces, I have found that it can accommodate up to 32 ounces without any issues. Let the mixture sit for a minimum of 12 hours (or 24 hours if refrigerated) before enjoying your cold brew. The steel filter does allow some sediment to pass through, but the textured bottom of the pot helps to settle the grit on the sides, preventing it from reaching the spigot. After a brief adjustment period, the coffee becomes noticeably smoother and surprisingly rich.
While I have not experienced any issues personally, a few users have reported problems with the spigot leaking. It is important to take this into consideration before making a purchase.
Best for Brewing Large Batches
The County Line Kitchen Cold Brew Maker provides a convenient solution for those who prefer to brew large quantities of cold brew. Made by a family-owned business in Wisconsin, this brewer utilizes a tried and tested 2-quart mason jar and stainless steel filter basket. Similar to the Coffee Gator, the County Line allows you to make a significant amount of coffee in one go. After filling the stainless steel basket with a generous amount of coffee grounds, slowly pour up to 64 ounces of cold water through it. Allow the mixture to sit for 24 hours before removing the filter basket and using the lid to pour the brewed coffee.
During my tests, the County Line produced relatively smooth cold-brewed coffee, although it did have a slightly gritty texture due to the slightly porous steel filter. To minimize this issue, it is recommended to use coarse grounds. The instructions also suggest shaking the jar after adding water, but I found that this can cause slight leakage, even with a tightly sealed lid. However, despite the minor inconvenience of some lingering grounds and occasional leaks, the County Line is an excellent choice for those who desire a week’s worth of cold brew at once.
Classic, Tasty Cold Brew
The Toddy Cold Brew System has been a staple in the coffee industry since the 1960s. It offers a DIY approach to cold brewing, similar to the Oxo brewing system, but with a unique twist.
The Toddy consists of a large plastic brew bucket and a glass carafe to hold the finished coffee. To brew, simply fill the bucket with coffee grounds and add water. The coffee steeps for 24 hours, after which you can drain it by removing a rubber stopper. While this step may be a bit messy and time-consuming, the Toddy is known for producing smooth, flavorful cold brews.
To maintain the quality of the coffee, the Toddy requires the use of paper liners and filter pads, which need to be replaced regularly. The filter pads typically last for about 10 brews or 3 months before needing replacement.
In conclusion, the market offers a variety of cold brew coffee makers to suit different preferences. Whether you prefer a slow-drip method for a grit-free brew, a stylishly designed pot with convenient features, a brewer capable of making large batches, or a classic system that has stood the test of time, there is an option for everyone. Enjoy experimenting with different cold brew makers and discovering your favorite method for creating the perfect cup of cold brew coffee.
