Ginger Cold Brew Recipe: Refreshing Iced Ginger Coffee

Discover a refreshing ginger cold brew that replaces homemade ginger syrup with zesty ginger beer and a touch of orange juice for natural sweetness.

This vibrant drink is more than a pick-me-up — it’s a flavor-packed refresher with potential health perks. Ginger and orange juice are both known for anti-inflammatory and immune-supporting qualities, so you can enjoy this treat guilt-free.

The finished drink displays a beautiful layered effect: a warm orange base topped by a deep, dark cold brew layer. This recipe uses a Mason jar cold brew, but you can substitute cold brew made in a French press or a store-bought concentrate if you prefer.

Ingredients you need

• Cold brew — homemade (Mason jar or French press) or a convenient store-bought concentrate.
• Ginger beer — provides a lively, spicy fizz that complements the coffee and citrus notes.
• Orange juice — adds bright, natural sweetness and citrus character.
• Cubed ice — to keep the drink chilled and maintain the layered presentation.

How to make ginger cold brew from scratch

Step 1: Fill a serving glass with cubed ice.

Step 2: Pour ginger beer into the glass.

Step 3: Carefully add a layer of cold brew on top of the ginger beer to create a distinct dark layer.

Step 4: Finish by topping the drink with a splash of orange juice for color and brightness. Serve immediately.

About ginger beer

Ginger beer plays a starring role in this recipe. A few key points about it:

1. Not actually traditional beer: While early ginger beer was fermented and could contain trace alcohol, most commercial ginger beers today are non-alcoholic and prized for their spicy, effervescent flavor.
2. Origin: Ginger beer originated in England in the 18th century as a fermented ginger beverage and became popular as a lively, fizzy drink.
3. Cocktail use: It’s a classic ingredient in cocktails like the Moscow Mule, where its spice and fizz pair well with spirits and citrus.
4. Potential benefits: Ginger, the primary flavor, has long been valued for digestive support and anti-inflammatory properties.

Barista tips

• Use filtered water when brewing cold brew to avoid off-flavors and equipment buildup.
• Cold brew ratios typically range from 1:6 to 1:10 (coffee to water) depending on desired strength.
• Use a coarser grind for cold brew than for hot-brew methods to avoid over-extraction.
• Grind coffee just before brewing for the freshest flavor; adjust grinder settings according to your equipment and roast.

Equipment

• Measuring tools
• Serving glass

Recipe: Invigorating Ginger Beer Cold Brew

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