What Is Sweet Cream Cold Brew?
Sweet Cream Cold Brew is a smooth and refreshing coffee drink that combines cold brew coffee with a rich, sweet, and creamy topping. The cold brew provides a mellow, less acidic coffee base, while the sweet cream adds a luxurious texture and a touch of sweetness.
This drink has gained popularity thanks to its balanced flavors and velvety finish. Unlike regular cold brew, which is served black or with milk, sweet cream cold brew features a frothed cream layer that gradually blends into the coffee, creating a dynamic taste experience. It also differs from iced coffee, which is brewed hot and then cooled, often resulting in a more bitter flavor.
Ingredients List
To make the perfect sweet cream cold brew at home, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Cold Brew
- 1 cup (about 80g) of coarsely ground coffee beans
- 4 cups (1 liter) of cold, filtered water
For the Sweet Cream
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons vanilla syrup (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup milk (whole milk or dairy-free alternative)
Optional Ingredients
- Cinnamon or nutmeg for a spiced touch
- Flavored syrups like caramel or hazelnut
- Sugar-free vanilla syrup for a lower-calorie option
Equipment Needed
Having the right tools makes the process easier and ensures a better result:
Coffee Grinder: For grinding whole beans to a coarse consistency
Cold Brew Maker or Mason Jar: To steep the coffee
Fine Mesh Strainer or Cheesecloth: For filtering out coffee grounds
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient portions
Milk Frother or Whisk: To create the perfect sweet cream texture
Step-by-Step Cold Brew Preparation
Making cold brew requires patience, but the result is a smoother, less acidic coffee that pairs perfectly with sweet cream.
Step 1: Choose the Right Coffee Beans
Opt for a medium to dark roast to bring out chocolatey or nutty notes. Light roasts can taste too acidic when cold brewed.
Step 2: Grind the Coffee
Grind your coffee beans to a coarse consistency, similar to sea salt. A finer grind can lead to over-extraction and make the coffee bitter.
Step 3: Combine Coffee and Water
In a large mason jar or cold brew maker, add 1 cup of coarsely ground coffee.
Pour in 4 cups of cold, filtered water.
Stir gently to ensure all coffee grounds are saturated.
Step 4: Steep the Coffee
Cover the container and let it sit at room temperature for 12-14 hours or in the refrigerator for 18-24 hours.
The longer it steeps, the stronger the flavor.
Step 5: Strain the Coffee
Use a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to filter out the coffee grounds.
Transfer the filtered cold brew into a clean container and store it in the fridge.
Making the Sweet Cream
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
- In a small bowl or jar, combine:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons vanilla syrup
- 1/4 cup milk
Step 2: Froth the Mixture
For a light and airy texture: Use a milk frother for about 30 seconds.
For a thicker consistency: Blend it for 10 seconds or whisk vigorously until slightly thickened.
Assembling the Drink
Step 1: Fill Your Glass
Add ice cubes to a tall glass and pour in 8 ounces (1 cup) of cold brew.
Step 2: Top with Sweet Cream
Slowly pour the prepared sweet cream over the coffee. It will float on top and gradually mix into the cold brew.
Step 3: Enjoy or Customize
Stir to combine or let the cream naturally blend for a layered effect.
Customization Tips
Adjusting Sweetness and Strength
For a stronger coffee flavor: Use a higher ratio of coffee to water in your cold brew.
For a sweeter drink: Add more vanilla syrup or a flavored syrup of choice.
For a lighter version: Use half-and-half or a non-dairy creamer instead of heavy cream.
Dairy-Free Options
Use coconut cream or oat milk for a rich dairy-free alternative.
Almond milk or cashew milk also work well for a lighter option.
Seasonal Variations
Pumpkin Sweet Cream Cold Brew: Add a teaspoon of pumpkin spice and a splash of pumpkin puree.
Caramel Sweet Cream Cold Brew: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Serve in a clear glass to highlight the beautiful layering effect.
Sprinkle cinnamon, cocoa powder, or nutmeg on top for added flair.
Use a reusable straw for a café-style experience.
Storage and Freshness
Storing Cold Brew
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
If it tastes stale, try using fresher coffee beans or brewing a new batch.
Storing Sweet Cream
Keep refrigerated in a sealed container for 3-5 days.
Shake or stir before use, as separation is natural.
Conclusion
Making Sweet Cream Cold Brew at home is easy, cost-effective, and allows for endless customization. Whether you like it classic, flavored, or dairy-free, experimenting with different ingredients will help you create the perfect drink. Enjoy the process, and soon, you’ll be crafting coffee shop-quality cold brews right in your own kitchen!
Related topics:
- How to Make Cold Brew Coffee Commercially：A Comprehensive Guide
- How to Make Chocolate Cream Cold Brew at Home
- How to Make Tim Hortons Cold Brew
