We all like a hot cup of coffee, but there are also some days that we crave for a cold caffeine-packed drink. In this article, we will talk about iced coffee and the iced coffee maker.
You’ve probably seen cold brew coffee makers and iced coffee makers show up in retail stores in recent years. What’s the difference between the two? We'll answer that question by finding out the drinks that they produce.
Iced Coffee vs. Cold Brew Coffee
An iced coffee is coffee that is brewed through traditional brewing methods (drip coffee, French press, percolator, etc.) and then making the coffee cold by by adding ice or putting it inside an iced coffee maker.
Simply put, iced coffee is just the frosty version of coffee that we love to drink everyday. Think drip coffee, Americanos, cappuccino, and latte with ice.
If iced coffee is really just coffee with ice, then why the need for an iced coffee maker? Isn't it easier to add ice cubes to the coffee? Simply adding ice will dilute the coffee and make it bland. That is why a an iced coffee maker is necessary.
On the other hand, cold brew coffee uses a different method of preparation. It has a lighter taste compared to regular iced coffee.
The cold brew method rose in popularity because famous coffee chains, like Starbucks and Dunkin Donuts added cold brew coffee to their menu. Its existence, however, dates back to the 1600's in Kyoto, Japan.
A cup of fresh cold brew coffee starts with coarse ground beans. These beans are then gently extracted at room temperature (or even colder) for a certain period of time.
The outcome is a lighter, less acidic, and sweeter cup of coffee. The slow extraction of the coffee beans, in the absence of a heating element, takes away the bitter and burnt taste.
Best Iced Coffee Makers
It takes several hours to make cold brew coffee. If you prefer a nice cup of iced coffee and don't really want the hassle that comes with creating a cold brew, then an iced coffee maker is a must-buy.
With the various options that are out there, you must be having a hard time trying to find the best iced coffee maker. We have examined a couple of machines to see which ones work best.
HyperChiller V2 Iced Coffee Maker
This product has a very simple concept. It uses ice to turn your fresh hot coffee into iced coffee without ever diluting or affecting the mixture. The HyperChiller V2 does it with the use of a chamber that directly exposes the coffee to the freezing temperature.
The HyperChiller does not need electricity. Simply put water in the chamber, allow it to freeze for a few hours, and voila! Enjoy your iced coffee. This device is also easy to maintain and is dishwasher safe.
The only downside here is the time it takes for the coffee to freeze.
Ninja CM401 Specialty 10-Cup Coffee Maker
The Ninja CM401 is a sophisticated machine that doesn't just make a cup of hot coffee, but also makes iced coffee. It can produce a cup of coffee in a matter of minutes.
The main disadvantage of this machine is its steep price point. If you are a person who values time and convenience, then this hot and iced coffee maker is a great investment.
Best Cold Brew Coffee Makers
There are different ways to prepare a great-tasting cup of cold brew, depending on what coffee machine is used. These are some of the most popular cold brew coffee makers on the market today:
Takeya Patented Deluxe Cold Brew Iced Coffee Maker
This patented classic cold brew coffee maker has a simple yet purposive design. It creates 8 great tasting cups without a lot of fuss. It also preserves the freshness with its airtight locks.
To make cold brew coffee, put some coarse ground beans on the inner chamber and cold water on the outer part. Leave it for about 12 to 24 hours at room temperature. This allows the coffee beans to have enough time to brew slowly in cold water. Serve and enjoy once done.
Ovalware RJ3 Brewing Glass Carafe
The Ovalware RJ3 Cold Brew Maker is similar to Takeya. Just pour in the ground coffee and water, let sit for a while, and enjoy.
The RJ3 is sleek and professional looking. It comes with a medical-grade stainless steel mesh to make sure that none of those silty coffee sediments reach your cup.
This cold brew maker allows you to store coffee for up to two weeks, provided that you keep it chilled.
Yama Glass 25 Cup Cold Drip Maker
The Yama is the grand daddy of all cold brew coffee makers. It looks like a chemistry lab equipment, but it really makes a flavorful cold brew.
Watch this video to see how it works:
The entire process takes about 3 hours. That’s certainly faster than traditional cold brew methods.
