The Coffee Kits

Chemex Filters for Cold Brew Coffee: Tips and Tricks

Chemex is a popular brand of coffee maker that is known for producing a smooth and flavorful cup of coffee. One of the best things about Chemex is that it is versatile, and can be used to make both hot and cold coffee. When it comes to making cold brew coffee with a Chemex, however, the choice of filter is critical. In this article, we will explore the use of Chemex filters for cold brew coffee, and share some tips and tricks to help you achieve the perfect cup.

Choosing the Right Filter

When it comes to making cold brew coffee with a Chemex, the choice of filter is critical. The traditional Chemex filters are made of paper and are quite thick, which makes them ideal for hot coffee. However, when it comes to cold brew, these filters can be too dense and can slow down the brewing process.

A better option for cold brew coffee is the Chemex natural fiber filters. These filters are made of a combination of cotton and wood pulp, which makes them thinner and more porous than the traditional paper filters. This allows the water to flow more freely through the filter and extract the coffee flavors more efficiently.

Grinding the Coffee Beans

Another important factor to consider when making cold brew coffee with a Chemex is the grind of the coffee beans. For cold brew coffee, a coarser grind is recommended, as this will help to prevent over-extraction and bitterness in the coffee.

When grinding your coffee beans, aim for a coarse grind that is similar in texture to sea salt. This will ensure that the water can easily flow through the coffee grounds and extract the flavors without over-extracting the coffee.

Measuring the Coffee and Water

The ratio of coffee to water is also critical when making cold brew coffee with a Chemex. The recommended ratio is one part coffee to four parts water.

For example, if you are using 100 grams of coffee, you should use 400 grams of water. This will ensure that the coffee is not too strong or too weak, and will produce a smooth and flavorful cup of cold brew coffee.

The Brewing Process

Once you have chosen the right filter, ground your coffee beans, and measured your coffee and water, it's time to start the brewing process.

Begin by placing the filter in the Chemex and wetting it with hot water. This will help to remove any paper taste from the filter and preheat the Chemex.

Next, add your coffee grounds to the filter and slowly pour in the water. Make sure to pour the water in a circular motion, starting from the center and working your way outwards.

Once all the water has been added, give the grounds a gentle stir to ensure that they are fully saturated. Cover the Chemex with a lid or plastic wrap and let it steep for 12-24 hours at room temperature.

After the brewing process is complete, remove the filter and discard the coffee grounds. The cold brew coffee can be served over ice or heated up for a hot cup of coffee.

Conclusion

Making cold brew coffee with a Chemex can be a delicious and refreshing way to enjoy your coffee. By choosing the right filter, grinding your coffee beans correctly, measuring your coffee and water, and following the brewing process, you can achieve a smooth and flavorful cup of cold brew coffee every time.