What is the difference between iced coffee and cold brew?

These cold cousins are much more distinct than you might imagine. Cold Brew is made with no heat. This creates lower acidity and a naturally sweeter taste. Iced coffee is made by brewing double the amount of coffee and cooling it. This creates a lighter, refreshing cup. Iced coffee is often served with a splash milk and sweetened.

Did you know that there is a difference in these caffeinated favorites? You can see the difference between cold brew and iced coffee.

Although some people may think iced coffee is only for summer, we believe it's acceptable to enjoy this cool, caffeine-rich beverage all year. But when you get to one of your favorite coffee shops, you're presented with two options: cold brew vs. iced coffee. Both come with ice, and both are cold. So what is the difference?

The big difference between the different types of coffee is their preparation. Get the scoop on each type of coffee to find your preference.

What is Iced Coffee?

Iced coffee is simply what it sounds like. It's regular brewed coffee with ice. This method is quick--all you have to do is brew as normal (avoid these coffee brewing mistakes), cool it down and pour over ice. This method will dilute the coffee. Double the amount of ground coffee in your coffeemaker to make it stronger. This will prevent the ice from reducing the strength of your cold cup. Coffee ice cubes are another way to increase the flavor. Place cooled coffee in an ice tray and freeze.

What is Cold Brew Coffee?

Cold brew coffee is not as easy as iced coffee. The key ingredient that makes cold brew coffee delicious is time. To make cold brew, coarse-ground coffee is steeped in cold water for at least twelve hours. The stronger the flavor, the longer the coffee is left to steep. It is best to brew cold coffee with ice, as it tends be stronger.

After the coffee has been steeped, the grounds are filtered and left behind a coffee-concentrate. This can be used to make milk, water, or ice cream. Cold brew is more acidic than iced coffee because it uses heat instead of heat to extract the coffee oils, sugars, and caffeine.

You can also buy pre-made options from your local grocery store if you are short on time. Here are our favorite Best Iced Coffee Maker