Cold brew coffee is one of those caffeinated beverages that have gained major popularity in the past few years. Whether you’re a coffee aficionado or just someone who likes a smoother, less acidic cup of joe, cold brew’s rich and mellow flavor makes it a go-to drink. But if you’re someone who likes to make a large batch of cold brew and have it ready to drink throughout the week, you’ve probably found yourself wondering: how long does cold brew last unrefrigerated?
It’s a valid question—after all, no one wants to drink bad coffee, especially if they’ve gone through the trouble of making it themselves. So let’s dive into the world of cold brew shelf life, talk about how to store it properly, and give you some tips on keeping it fresh for as long as possible.
Cold Brew Coffee: A Quick Overview
Before we get into the specifics of how long cold brew lasts unrefrigerated, let’s quickly go over what cold brew is and how it’s made. Cold brew coffee is brewed by steeping coarsely ground coffee beans in cold or room-temperature water for an extended period (typically 12-24 hours). This slow brewing process results in a concentrated, less acidic coffee that is often smoother and sweeter than hot-brewed coffee.
The key difference between cold brew and iced coffee? Iced coffee is made by brewing hot coffee and cooling it down, while cold brew is steeped in cold water right from the start. This difference in brewing methods affects not only the taste but also the longevity of the coffee. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. For now, you probably just want to know how long you can leave that cold brew sitting on your countertop without ruining it.
How Long Can Cold Brew Last Unrefrigerated?
Okay, so the big question: how long can cold brew sit out unrefrigerated? Unfortunately, cold brew, like any other beverage, is vulnerable to spoiling when left out at room temperature for too long. As a general rule of thumb, cold brew should not be left out at room temperature for more than 12 hours. After that, it starts to lose its flavor and quality, and bacteria may begin to grow, especially if the air in your kitchen is humid or warm.
That said, cold brew coffee is more resistant to spoilage than hot-brewed coffee. The higher concentration of coffee and the lower temperatures involved in the brewing process help to preserve the integrity of the drink. However, after a prolonged period of being left out, even cold brew can go bad, causing unpleasant flavors and potential health risks.
Why Does Cold Brew Spoil So Quickly?
Now you might be wondering why cold brew spoils so much faster when left unrefrigerated. Well, it comes down to a couple of factors. First, cold brew is brewed using water that’s not hot, which means it doesn’t extract certain compounds (like oils) the same way hot brewing does. These compounds are often responsible for helping preserve the coffee’s freshness for longer periods. Without them, cold brew can start to degrade a little faster than hot-brewed coffee.
Secondly, the lack of heat means cold brew coffee is more vulnerable to microbial growth over time. Without refrigeration, bacteria can grow more quickly, leading to spoilage and off-flavors.
How to Store Cold Brew to Maximize Freshness
To make sure your cold brew lasts as long as possible, storage is key. The first thing to keep in mind is that refrigeration is your best friend. After brewing, cold brew should always be transferred to an airtight container and stored in the fridge. This will help keep it fresh for up to 1-2 weeks. If you’re planning to make a large batch and store it for several days, just make sure you’ve got a container that seals tightly to avoid any exposure to air.
If you absolutely need to leave it out for a few hours (for example, if you’re hosting friends or have forgotten to put it in the fridge), the drink should be consumed within 12 hours for the best taste and safety. But once you hit the 12-hour mark, it’s a good idea to toss it out and brew a fresh batch, especially if it’s starting to taste a bit off. The general rule is: When in doubt, throw it out.
The Risks of Drinking Cold Brew Left Out Too Long
If you’ve let your cold brew sit out for too long and you’re considering drinking it anyway, you might want to think twice. While you probably won’t get sick from drinking old cold brew coffee (unless there are visible signs of mold or spoilage), it could taste pretty bad. Over time, the coffee will lose its smooth, rich flavor and become bitter or sour. Plus, there’s always the chance that bacteria could cause mild stomach discomfort, especially if the cold brew has been sitting out for 24 hours or more.
It’s also worth noting that cold brew concentrate can sometimes be a little tricky. If it’s left out at room temperature for too long, even without dilution, the strong, concentrated coffee could go sour faster than you expect. So always err on the side of caution—when it’s not refrigerated, you’re on a ticking clock.
Can You Extend the Shelf Life of Cold Brew?
Good news! You can extend the shelf life of cold brew coffee by freezing it. This method is particularly useful if you’ve made a big batch and want to keep some on hand for a longer period of time. Simply pour your cold brew into ice cube trays or a large freezer-safe container and freeze it. You can then thaw or even use the frozen cubes to chill your cold brew without diluting it.
Another tip is to make your cold brew concentrate, which will have a longer shelf life even when refrigerated. When you’re ready to drink it, simply dilute it with water or milk to taste. This not only extends the freshness of your cold brew but also gives you more flexibility in terms of strength and flavor.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Leave Cold Brew Out Too Long
At the end of the day, the best way to keep your cold brew tasting fresh and delicious is to refrigerate it as soon as possible. Whether you’re making a large batch or just brewing a single serving, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Remember, cold brew coffee is sensitive to temperature, so don’t leave it out unrefrigerated for too long—ideally, try not to exceed 12 hours.