The Coffee Kits

Why Blade Grinders are Not Ideal for Cold Brew Coffee

Cold brew coffee has become increasingly popular in recent years, especially during the hot summer months. The slow brewing process of cold brew coffee results in a less acidic and smoother cup of coffee. However, the method of grinding coffee beans for cold brew can greatly affect the taste and quality of the final product. Blade grinders, which are commonly used for drip coffee, are not ideal for cold brew coffee. In this article, we will explore why blade grinders are not suitable for cold brew and what type of grinder is best for this brewing method.

The Problem with Blade Grinders

Blade grinders are the most common type of coffee grinder found in households. They work by using a blade to chop the coffee beans into smaller pieces. However, the problem with blade grinders is that they produce inconsistent grind sizes. This inconsistency is due to the fact that the blade chops the beans into pieces of varying sizes, resulting in some pieces being over-extracted while others are under-extracted. This can lead to a bitter and sour taste in the final cup of coffee.

The Importance of Consistent Grind Size for Cold Brew Coffee

Cold brew coffee requires a consistent and coarse grind size. The coarse grind allows for a slow and even extraction of the coffee flavors, resulting in a smooth and less acidic cup of coffee. In contrast, a fine grind size will result in over-extraction, which can lead to a bitter and sour taste in the final cup of coffee. Therefore, it is important to use a grinder that produces a consistent and coarse grind size for cold brew coffee.

The Best Type of Grinder for Cold Brew Coffee

The best type of grinder for cold brew coffee is a burr grinder. Burr grinders work by crushing the coffee beans between two burrs, resulting in a consistent and even grind size. This consistency is essential for cold brew coffee, as it allows for an even extraction of the coffee flavors. In addition, burr grinders allow for more control over the grind size, allowing you to adjust the grind to your desired coarseness.

Conclusion

If you want to make the best cold brew coffee possible, it is important to use the right type of grinder. Blade grinders, which are commonly used for drip coffee, are not suitable for cold brew coffee due to their inconsistency in grind size. Instead, it is recommended to use a burr grinder, which produces a consistent and coarse grind size. By using the right type of grinder, you can ensure that your cold brew coffee is smooth, less acidic, and full of delicious coffee flavors.