How to Use the OXO Cold Brew Coffee Maker

What’s the hottest thing in coffee culture these days? Cold brew.

Whipping up a cold brew coffee might take a little longer than traditional methods, but it creates coffee that’s less acidic, and therefore less bitter. Cold brew can also stay fresher longer than regular coffee. Just keep it in the refrigerator in an air-tight carafe. Wondering how to use the OXO Cold Brew Coffee Maker to brew yourself a cup? Here’s our guide.

“Love it! The cold brew coffee maker is easy to use, easy to clean, and the coffee is great.” —Mirian M., verified buyer

“If you do your own cold brew, this is the tool you need.” —Harry L., verified buyer

How to use the OXO Cold Brew Coffee Maker to Make Cold Brew Concentrate:

1. Flip Brewing Container upside down and set Mesh Filter so that it sits flat in base.
2. Screw on filter cap until secure, then place brewing container on the stand. Set the brew-release switch to the off (up) position.

3. Add 10 oz/284 grams coarsely ground coffee to the brewing container and place the rainmaker on top. If using an OXO Conical Burr Grinder, this will be 11-15 on the grind setting. We recommend weighing your coffee, but for reference, 10 oz is roughly 3.5 cups.

4. Pour 40 oz/1200 ml (5 cups) of water over the rainmaker in a circular motion to ensure even distribution. If coffee is freshly ground, allow coffee to  “bloom” after a portion of water is poured on to it.

5. Remove rainmaker and gently stir grounds. Let brew at room temperature for 12-24 hours.

6. Once brewing is finished, slide glass carafe underneath stand. Press brew-release switch down to drain. Draining will take approximately 20 minutes, but could vary based on ground size.

7. To enjoy concentrate before draining is complete, pull out the glass carafe or flip up brew-release switch to stop the drip.
8. Use a stopper to seal the glass carafe and store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

How to Make a Single Serving of Cold Brew Using Your Concentrate

For iced coffee

• Pour 2 oz/60 ml (¼ cup) concentrate into a cup
• Add 4-6 oz/120-180 ml (½ - ¾ cup) cold water or milk, plus ice

For hot coffee

• Pour 2 oz/60 ml (¼ cup) concentrate into a cup
• Add 4-6 oz/120-180 ml (½ - ¾ cup) hot water or milk

Check out the OXO Cold Brew Coffee Maker full instruction manual or these specialty cold brew recipes for additional ideas. 

“Makes delicious super caffeinated cold brew, I had no idea it could be so easy.” —Colette F., verified buyer

“Couldn't do without it! I've had this for several years and love it! Easy to use and store. A batch of cold brew concentrate makes over a week of hot coffee for me. I'm spoiled by the smooth taste. Highly recommended!”—Jane Z., verified buyer

Cold Brew FAQs

Ready to brew? Here are some frequently asked questions!

How is cold brew coffee different from regular coffee?

When making a pour-over coffee, drip coffee, or using a coffee maker, hot water is added to dry coffee grounds for a short time, resulting in a flavorful, steaming hot cup of rich coffee. With cold brew, however, room temperature water is added to coffee grounds and then left to steep for 12-24 hours. The end product is a delicious concentrate that can be used for iced coffee and coffee cocktails.

Is cold brew healthier?

Some experts argue that brewing coffee with cold or room temperature water rather than exposing it to heat can preserve some of coffee’s antioxidant properties, which can protect against chronic health conditions.

Is cold brew hard to make?

Nope. It’s actually easier. Just measure out the correct amount of coffee grounds for the portion size you want and add water. Then let it steep.

Why does coffee need to bloom?

When water is added to coffee, the grounds start to expand, which releases the coffee’s aroma and flavor. So pour in a small amount of water to start and allow it to rest for up to 30 seconds so that the bloom can work its magic. Then continue pouring in the rest of the water you need to make the amount of coffee you desire.

Why does cold brew need to steep so long?

Since there’s no heat involved, it takes longer for the water to extract flavor from the coffee beans. Letting it steep at least 12 hours ensures enough taste comes through. Brew it even longer for a richer flavor.

Can cold brew be used for hot coffee?

Absolutely! Just add some of your cold brew concentrate to a coffee cup, then add a few ounces of boiling water plus your preferred creamer or sweetener. The result? A cozy cup of coffee with that mellow cold brew flavor. 

Now, let’s get brewing!

Ultimately, every day is a good day to enjoy a great coffee at home whether you prefer a rapidly brewed cup of joe in an insulated mug on the go or want to take your time with a rich cup of coffee made in a French press. And now that you know how to use your OXO Cold Brew Coffee Maker, you’ve added another delicious brewing method to your repertoire. Sounds like the perfect time to celebrate with a pumpkin spice cold brew!

Additional reporting by Audrey D. Brashich.