Use this Cold Brew Coffee Calculator to instantly calculate the ideal coffee-to-water ratio for smooth, low-acid, and refreshing cold brew. Whether you’re making a ready-to-drink batch or a strong cold brew concentrate, this tool gives you precise measurements in grams, ounces, cups, and liters.
Cold brew is different from iced coffee. It uses long immersion extraction (12–24 hours) at room temperature or in the refrigerator. The right ratio ensures balanced sweetness, low bitterness, and smooth body.
👉 Enter your desired batch size
👉 Choose ready-to-drink or concentrate
👉 Select preferred strength
👉 Get instant coffee measurements
Cold Brew Coffee Calculator
Make concentrate, then dilute for smooth, ready-to-drink cold brew.
What Is the Ideal Cold Brew Coffee Ratio?
Cold brew ratios vary depending on whether you’re making concentrate or ready-to-drink coffee.
Ready-to-Drink Ratio
- 1:12 to 1:15
Example: 100g coffee → 1200–1500ml water
Cold Brew Concentrate Ratio
- 1:4 to 1:8
Example: 100g coffee → 400–800ml water
Concentrate is diluted later with water, milk, or ice.
Cold Brew Ratio Chart
| Coffee | 1:4 | 1:8 | 1:12 | 1:15 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50g | 200ml | 400ml | 600ml | 750ml |
| 100g | 400ml | 800ml | 1200ml | 1500ml |
| 200g | 800ml | 1600ml | 2400ml | 3000ml |
Use coarse grind for best results.
How to Make Cold Brew Coffee (Step-by-Step)
- Use coarse ground coffee (like French press grind)
- Add grounds to jar or cold brew maker
- Pour filtered water evenly
- Stir gently to saturate
- Cover and steep 12–24 hours
- Strain using cheesecloth or fine filter
- Refrigerate and serve
Longer steeping increases strength but may add bitterness.
Cold Brew vs Iced Coffee – What’s the Difference?
| Cold Brew | Iced Coffee |
|---|---|
| Brewed cold for 12–24 hrs | Brewed hot, then cooled |
| Lower acidity | Higher acidity |
| Naturally sweeter | Brighter flavor |
| Smoother mouthfeel | More aromatic |
Cold brew extraction reduces acidic compounds, making it easier on the stomach.
Best Grind Size for Cold Brew
Always use coarse grind coffee. Fine grind causes:
- Over-extraction
- Muddy texture
- Bitter flavor
- Hard filtration
Burr grinders produce more consistent particle size than blade grinders.
How Strong Should Cold Brew Be?
Strength depends on preference and dilution:
- Light: 1:15 ratio
- Medium: 1:12 ratio
- Strong concentrate: 1:5 to 1:8
If using concentrate:
- Dilute 1:1 with water for balanced flavor
- Add milk for smoother taste
- Add ice carefully (it dilutes)
Cold Brew Extraction Time Guide
- 12 hours → Smooth and lighter
- 16 hours → Balanced
- 20–24 hours → Strong and bold
Steeping beyond 24 hours may extract bitterness.
Common Cold Brew Mistakes
- Using fine grind
- Not stirring after adding water
- Under-steeping
- Over-steeping
- Using low-quality beans
- Guessing measurements
A cold brew coffee calculator prevents wasted beans and inconsistent flavor.