Who doesn’t like an iced coffee on a sunny day? Well, I do and you probably do too. The only downside is that iced coffees are quite expensive in coffee shops. So we’ve created this step-by-step guide on how to make iced coffee with French press in 6 easy steps.
Using a French press to make iced coffee is a great method because it allows you to extract the full flavor of the coffee beans while keeping the bitterness at bay. Plus, it’s an easy process that requires minimal equipment. Whether you prefer a cold brew or hot brewed coffee, a French press can be used to make both types of iced coffee. So, whether you’re looking to enjoy a refreshing drink on a hot summer day or just want to save some money, learning how to make iced coffee with a French press is a skill worth mastering.
Note:
There are basically two methods to make iced coffee with a French press:
- Cold Brew Coffee:
Cold brew coffee is made by soaking coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period of time, usually overnight. - Traditional Iced Coffee:
Traditional iced coffee is made by brewing hot coffee and then cooling it with ice, resulting in a stronger coffee flavor.
In this blog post, we talk about the traditional iced coffee method.
Basics of Making Iced Coffee with French Press
Iced coffee is made by brewing coffee and then cooling it down with ice. However, not all coffee brewing methods are suitable for making iced coffee. Using a French press is one of the best ways to make iced coffee.
French press coffee is made by steeping coarsely ground coffee in hot water and then pressing the plunger down to separate the coffee grounds from the liquid. The resulting coffee is rich and bold, perfect for iced coffee.
When you make iced coffee with a French press, it is important to use a coarse grind. This is because a coarse grind allows for a slower extraction, which results in a smoother and less bitter coffee. It is also important to use cold water when making iced coffee with a French press. This is because hot water can cause the coffee to become bitter and over-extracted.
Another important factor: When you make iced coffee with a French press, consider the coffee-to-water ratio. The ideal ratio for French pressed coffee is 1:14 to 1:16. But today we make iced coffee in a French press, when making iced coffee, it is recommended to use a lower ratio, such as 1:12, to account for the dilution that occurs when the coffee is cooled with ice.
Why the French Press is Ideal for Iced Coffee
A French press is a coffee brewing device that uses a plunger and a mesh filter to separate the coffee grounds from the water. It is an affordable and convenient way to make coffee, and it is also very easy to use.
One of the most important benefits of using a French press to make iced coffee is that it allows you to control the strength and flavor of your coffee. Unlike other coffee makers, a French press allows you to adjust the coffee-to-water ratio to your liking. This means that you can make your coffee as strong or as weak as you want, depending on your personal preference.
Another great thing about using a French press is that it is very easy to clean. All you need to do is rinse the plunger and the filter with water after each use, and you’re good to go. This makes it a great choice for busy people who don’t have a lot of time to spend cleaning their coffee maker.
Last but not least, you are not stuck with only making iced coffee with a French press. It that can be used to make a variety of different coffee drinks, including iced coffee, hot coffee, and even cold brew coffee. This means that you can use it all year round, no matter if it is sunny or rainy.
- The carafe is made of non-stain, heat-resistant borosilicate glass
- Stainless steel plunger
- BPA-free plastic
Step-by-step Guide on How to Make Iced Coffee with French Press
Now that we are done with the basics: Here it is.
The guide on how to make iced coffee with a French press. Follow this step-by-step instruction and you will be able to create some of the best iced coffees.
1. Choosing your coffee beans
Not all coffee beans are created equal, and some are better suited for iced coffee than others. When selecting coffee beans for your French press iced coffee, you’ll want to look for beans that have a bright, clean, and refreshing taste. These beans will help bring out the best flavors in your iced coffee and prevent it from tasting too bitter or overpowering.
Arabica vs. Robusta Coffee Beans
Arabica and Robusta are the two main types of coffee beans, and they have distinct differences in taste and quality. Arabica beans are generally considered to be of higher quality and have a smoother, more delicate flavor profile. Robusta beans, on the other hand, have a stronger, more bitter taste and are often used in blends to add body and crema.
When it comes to making iced coffee with a French press, we recommend using Arabica beans. They have a more nuanced flavor profile that will complement the cold brewing process and produce a smoother, more refreshing cup of iced coffee.
Light, Medium, and Dark Roast
Another factor to consider when choosing coffee beans for your French press iced coffee is the roast level. Coffee beans are typically roasted to three different levels: light, medium, and dark.
Light roast beans have a lighter, more delicate flavor profile and are often described as having a “bright” or “fruity” taste. Medium roast beans have a more balanced flavor profile, with notes of chocolate and nuts. Dark roast beans have a stronger, more intense flavor profile, with notes of caramel and smokiness.
For iced coffee, we recommend using a medium roast coffee bean. It has a balanced flavor profile that will complement the cold brewing process and produce a smooth, refreshing cup of iced coffee.
2. Grinding your coffee beans
For French press coffee, you’ll want to use a coarse grind. This allows the coffee to steep for a longer period of time without over-extracting, resulting in a smoother, less bitter cup of coffee. Aim for a grind that is similar in size to coarse sea salt.
The size of your coffee grounds can have a big impact on the flavor of your coffee. A finer grind will result in a stronger, more intense flavor, while a coarser grind will produce a milder, smoother flavor. When it comes to French press coffee, a coarser grind is generally preferred, as it allows for a longer steeping time without over-extraction.
3. Measuring your coffee
Before you start brewing, it’s important to measure your coffee correctly to ensure that you get the desired strength and flavor.
Our usual recommendation for French press brewing is to use between a 14:1 and 16:1 water to coffee ratio. That means for every one gram of coffee, you should add between 14 and 16 grams of water. When making iced coffee, we recommend sticking to the lower end of that range or using an even lower ratio like 12:1. After all, we will be diluting the coffee with ice later, so it is a smart idea to use a little less water in the beginning.
You could use a kitchen scale to measure your coffee grounds and water. This will ensure that you are using the correct amount of coffee for your French press.
If you prefer a stronger or weaker coffee, feel free to adjust the ratios accordingly. It may take a few tries to find the perfect balance, but with a little experimentation, you’ll be able to create a delicious iced coffee that’s just right for you.
4. Brewing your coffee
Preparations are done. Now the star of today’s show comes into play: The French Press. Fill the French press with your ground coffee and add the hot water. If you want to know what water temperature is best for coffee, we already got you covered. It is mentioned in the linked blog post.
Use a spoon to stir the coffee grounds and water together, making sure that all of the grounds are fully saturated.
5. Cooling your coffee
After you have brewed your coffee in the French press, let it cool down to room temperature. This will prevent the hot coffee from melting the ice, diluting the flavor and strength of the coffee. Pour the coffee into a pitcher or carafe and place it in the refrigerator to chill. Once the coffee has cooled down, slowly press down on the plunger to filter the coffee.
6. Serving your iced coffee
When you’re ready to serve, fill a tall glass with ice cubes and pour the chilled coffee over the ice. Add milk, cream, or sweetener to taste. You can also add a splash of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor. Stir well and enjoy your refreshing iced coffee.
Enhancing the flavor of iced coffee
If you want to take your iced coffee to the next level, try experimenting with different flavors and ingredients. Here are a few suggestions to get you started:
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top of your iced coffee for a decadent treat.
- Mix in a flavored syrup, such as caramel, hazelnut, or chocolate, for a sweet and indulgent iced coffee.
- Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of regular milk for a dairy-free and vegan-friendly iced coffee.
- Try adding a pinch of sea salt or a dash of cocoa powder to your iced coffee for a unique and complex flavor.
Variations like flavored iced lattes or mochas
Once you have mastered the art of making iced coffee with a French press, you can start experimenting with different variations, such as flavored iced lattes or mochas. To make an iced latte, simply add a shot of espresso to your chilled coffee and milk. To make an iced mocha, mix some chocolate syrup or cocoa powder with your iced coffee and milk.
Storing and Preserving Iced Coffee
Now that you know how to make iced coffee with a French press, you might want to store some leftover coffee. There is a way to store your iced coffee properly to maintain its quality. Here are some tips to help you preserve your iced coffee for later use.
When storing iced coffee in the refrigerator, it is best to transfer it to an airtight container. This will help prevent the coffee from absorbing any odors or flavors from other foods in the fridge. Additionally, it will help keep the coffee fresh for longer.
Iced coffee can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours while maintaining its quality. After that, the coffee may start to lose its flavor and become stale.
Searching for other options to brew iced coffee? How about trying to make iced coffee with instant coffee?
FAQ – How to Make Iced Coffee With a French Press
Can You Make Cold Brew Coffee With a French Press?
Yes, you can make cold brew coffee with a French press! You need a French press, coarsely ground coffee, and cold water. Combine the coffee and water in the press, stir, and let it steep in the refrigerator for 12-15 hours. Press the plunger down, pour over ice, and enjoy!
How long do you steep iced coffee in a French press?
It depends: If you intend to make a cold brewed coffee, you need to steep the coffee for at least 12 hours. This allows the coffee to infuse with the water and develop its flavor. If you u want traditional iced coffee, you can brew the coffee with hot water and let it cool to the desired temperature.
How do you make iced coffee with a French press overnight?
1. Grind your coffee beans coarsely and add them to the French press.
2. Pour cold water over the coffee grounds.
3. Stir the coffee and water together.
4. Put the French press lid on, but don’t press down the plunger.
5. Place the French press in the fridge and let it steep for at least 12 hours.
Are French Presses Good for Iced Coffee?
French presses are an excellent brewing method for making iced coffee. Using a French press instead of other brewing methods gives you a more flavorful cup of iced coffee. The coffee grounds steep in the water for a longer time, resulting in a more concentrated and rich coffee flavor.
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