Cinnamon Vanilla Cold Brew

Name: Cinnamon Vanilla Cold Brew
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup coarsely ground coffee; 4 cups cold water; 2-3 tablespoons vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; Milk or cream (optional); Ice cubes

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love starting my day with a refreshing cup of Cinnamon Vanilla Cold Brew. The smoothness of cold brew coffee combined with the comforting warmth of cinnamon and sweet vanilla creates a delightful beverage that’s perfect for any occasion. I often prepare this drink the night before, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully overnight. The result is a chilled coffee that’s not only invigorating but also a real treat to sip on during warm afternoons. Trust me, you’ll never want to go back to regular coffee again!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-09T15:05:27.051Z

My journey with cold brew coffee began when I wanted a refreshing alternative to my usual morning cup. After a bit of experimentation, I found that adding a touch of cinnamon and vanilla really transformed the drink into something special. The cold brew process makes the coffee less acidic, which allows the flavors of cinnamon and vanilla to shine. I was amazed by how such simple ingredients could create such depth in flavor!

After perfecting my recipe, I discovered that letting the brew steep in the fridge overnight makes all the difference. Not only does this method enhance the flavor, but it also gives you a smooth, delicious coffee without the bitterness. Each sip reminds me of cozy bakery mornings, which is why I keep coming back to this recipe!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A refreshing twist to your morning coffee routine
Simple ingredients that create complex flavors
Perfect for warm weather and iced coffee lovers

Key Techniques for Flavorful Cold Brew

The key to a rich and smooth cold brew lies in the coffee-to-water ratio. Using 1 cup of coarsely ground coffee to 4 cups of cold water provides a balanced flavor profile. The coarse grind ensures that the coffee steeping process extracts the desirable compounds without releasing any bitterness, which can occur with finer grounds. If you prefer a bolder taste, consider increasing the coffee to 1.5 cups while keeping the water the same. But be cautious; too much coffee can lead to an overly strong and astringent brew.

When steeping your cold brew, the time you allow the mixture to rest is crucial. Aim for a 12 to 24-hour steep depending on your taste preferences. A shorter steep time (12 hours) will yield a milder flavor, while extending it to 24 hours will enhance depth and intensity. I usually start my brew the night before, so it’s ready for my morning routine. Pay attention to how the brew develops and take notes. It can be a delightful exploration of flavors!

Enhancing Your Cold Brew

The addition of vanilla extract and ground cinnamon not only enhances the overall flavor of the cold brew but also provides a comforting aroma. Vanilla brings a natural sweetness without added sugars; I recommend starting with 2 tablespoons and adjusting to your taste. Ground cinnamon contributes warmth and complexity, balancing the coffee's bitterness. If you're looking to switch things up, consider adding a sprinkle of nutmeg or swapping cinnamon for cardamom for a unique twist.

Serving your cold brew over ice is essential for maintaining its refreshing quality. Use large ice cubes to prevent dilution as they melt slowly. For an extra touch, freeze some coffee in an ice cube tray and use these to chill your drink without watering it down. If you like it sweeter, try flavored creamers or a splash of hazelnut syrup for added richness that complements the vanilla perfectly.

Ingredients for Cinnamon Vanilla Cold Brew

Ingredients

1 cup coarsely ground coffee
4 cups cold water
2-3 tablespoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Milk or cream (optional)
Ice cubes

Mix ingredients thoroughly before steeping!

Instructions

Prepare the Cold Brew

In a large jar or pitcher, combine the coarsely ground coffee and cold water. Stir to ensure all grounds are saturated.

Add Flavors

Add the vanilla extract and ground cinnamon to the coffee mixture. Stir well to combine.

Steep

Cover the jar or pitcher and place it in the fridge. Let it steep for 12-24 hours, depending on your desired strength.

Strain

Once steeped, strain the coffee through a coffee filter or fine mesh sieve into a clean container.

Serve

Serve your cold brew over ice, adding milk or cream if desired. Enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious homemade cold brew!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, try adding whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon on top before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're out of vanilla extract, you can substitute with vanilla bean paste, which will give you a more intense flavor with little effort. Alternatively, try almond extract for a different yet pleasant flavor profile; start with half the amount since it’s stronger than vanilla. Additionally, for a dairy-free option, nut milks like oat or almond can be substituted for milk or cream, providing a creamy texture that beautifully complements the cold brew.

Cinnamon can be easily replaced with other spices like pumpkin pie spice or a dash of cayenne for those who enjoy a spicy kick. These swaps can entirely transform your drink experience, giving you an opportunity to tailor the cold brew to your personal taste preferences.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared your cold brew, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To maintain the best flavor, keep it in an airtight container. Over time, it may start to lose some of its vibrant flavors, so try to consume it within a week for the optimum coffee experience. If you find you have leftovers, use it in smoothies or baking for an added depth of coffee flavor.

For longer storage, consider freezing your cold brew in ice cube trays. Frozen coffee cubes can be a great addition to iced coffee drinks, adding flavor without diluting your beverage. Just pop a few into your glass whenever you need a chilled boost.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular ground coffee instead of coarsely ground?

It’s best to use coarsely ground coffee to avoid a bitter taste and ensure a smoother brew.

→ How long can I store the cold brew?

You can store the cold brew in the fridge for up to two weeks, but it’s best consumed within a week for optimal flavor.

→ Can I adjust the sweetness of the drink?

Yes! You can add sugar, sweetener, or flavored syrups according to your taste preferences.

→ Is this recipe easily adaptable?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors by adding chocolate syrup or other spices.