How Long Does Cold Brew Last in the Refrigerator?

How Long Does Cold Brew Last in the Refrigerator?

Jake Bonneman Jake Bonneman
3 minutes of coffee drinking

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We all love cold brew coffee. Well, the cool ones among us do. (Get it? Me neither.)

It's smooth, it's rich, it's less acidic than regular coffee... and it has more caffeine! It's truly a win-win for America.

What's Cold Brew Coffee all about?

Cold Brew is a refreshing, cold, and caffeinated beverage that is perfect for hot summer days.

And if you're looking for a coffee that is strong, semi-bitter, and will keep you awake on hot summer nights, then cold brew coffee is the best choice.

Cold Brew coffee is made by steeping coffee beans in cold water for an extended period of time, which results in a concentrate that can be diluted with water or milk.

It has a higher caffeine content than regular coffee, and it also has a smoother, less acidic flavor—easier on the stomach too. But if you're looking for a brewing method that is quick and easy, then there are other options available.

But have you ever wondered how long your cold brew coffee can last in the fridge?

Is it still safe to drink cold brew coffee that has been refrigerated?

The answer is yes! Cold brew coffee can last up to two weeks in the fridge, but it is best consumed within the first week.

How long does it last in the fridge?

The answer is, it depends. Ideally, cold brew coffee should be consumed within 2-3 days of brewing.

If you cold brew your own coffee at home, it will taste the best for about a week in the fridge.

If you buy cold brew coffee that is ready to drink, it will only taste great for about the first 2 - 3 days once you've popped it open.

But what happens when you make way too much cold brew and can't drink it all in one sitting?

Hey, it's happened to the best of us. And a lot of the worst of us, too!

To make cold brew coffee last longer, store it in a sealed, airtight container with no air exposure.

Additionally, cold brew coffee concentrate can be stored in the fridge for up to two months. (Don't worry—all that caffeine isn't going anywhere.)

For cold brew coffee that has been diluted with water, add a bit more cold brew concentrate to extend its shelf life.

Finally, cold brew coffee that has been sweetened with sugar or milk will not last as long as unsweetened cold brew.

So, if you really want your cold brew to last as long as possible, avoid adding anything to it that may shorten its shelf life. 

So what are you waiting for? Go make a humongous batch of cold brew coffee this weekend and store it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to two weeks, so you can enjoy delicious cold coffee all week long!

And if you’re feeling really ambitious, why not try freezing some cold brew coffee ice cubes too? They’ll keep your drink nice and frosty without watering it down.

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