Cinnamon Vanilla Cold Brew

Name: Cinnamon Vanilla Cold Brew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 h
Total time: 12 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup coarsely ground coffee; 4 cups cold water; 1 cinnamon stick; 2 tablespoons vanilla syrup (adjust to taste); Milk or cream (optional, to taste)

Highlighted under: Lean & Light Cooking

I love making my own cold brew coffee at home, and this Cinnamon Vanilla Cold Brew is one of my favorites. The rich flavor of freshly brewed coffee combined with the warming notes of cinnamon and the sweetness of vanilla creates an irresistible drink. I enjoy sipping on this during warm afternoons or serving it to guests for a refreshing twist on the classic cold brew. It’s surprisingly easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for any coffee lover looking to elevate their brewing game.

Created by

Tina

Last updated on 2026-02-09T16:25:27.736Z

When I first tried cold brew coffee, I was hooked by its smoothness and rich flavor. I decided to add my own twist with cinnamon and vanilla, and I was thrilled with the result! By steeping coffee grounds for 12 hours, I get a less acidic, fruity flavor. Always use coarse grounds for optimal extraction; it makes a real difference in the taste.

One of the joys of making this drink at home is the ability to customize it. Adjust the sweetness and spice to your liking, or even try different types of milk for a vegan version. I love adding a pinch of sea salt for an extra depth – it really enhances the flavors!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich coffee flavor combined with comforting cinnamon notes
Refreshing and smooth, perfect for warm days
Easily customizable to suit any taste preference

Choosing the Right Coffee

When it comes to making cold brew, the choice of coffee beans significantly influences the final flavor. I recommend using a medium to dark roast for a balanced, rich flavor that complements the cinnamon. Look for beans labeled as 'for cold brew' if possible, as they are often coarser and designed to extract well during the brewing process. Cold brew tends to bring out sweetness in coffee, so feel free to experiment with different origins to find what you enjoy most.

Coarsely grinding the coffee is a must for this recipe. A burr grinder is ideal as it provides a consistent grind size, preventing over-extraction and bitterness. If you don’t have one, ask your local coffee shop to grind beans for you; just specify that you need them for cold brew. This ensures the extraction stays smooth and flavorful, giving your drink a delightful finish.

A Touch of Cinnamon

The use of a cinnamon stick not only adds flavor but also infuses the cold brew with warmth without overpowering the coffee. As it steeps, the cinnamon releases essential oils that enhance the overall taste. I recommend checking the brew after the first 8 hours; if you prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor, let it steep longer. Just remember to taste as you go, as steeping too long could lead to a stronger spice note than desired.

If you're looking to switch things up, consider trying other spices. Adding a few cardamom pods or a dash of nutmeg can add more complexity to the flavor profile, making this cold brew uniquely yours. Just remember to keep the quantities small—it's easier to add than to adjust if you've added too much.

Customization and Variations

Vanilla syrup is a delightful addition that enhances the sweetness and aroma of the cold brew. You can easily make your own by simmering equal parts sugar and water with vanilla beans for a rich homemade syrup. This allows you to control the sweetness and ensures a fresh flavor. Adjust the quantity based on your personal preference; you may find that less is more, especially with the natural sweetness of the coffee.

For a dairy-free option, try using almond milk or oat milk, which both add creaminess without overshadowing the coffee. Additionally, if you're looking to enhance the nutrition aspect, adding a splash of nut milk can provide beneficial vitamins and help create a smoother finish. Serve this cold brew in your favorite glass with a garnish of cinnamon or a sprig of mint to elevate its presentation!

Ingredients

For the Cold Brew

1 cup coarsely ground coffee
4 cups cold water
1 cinnamon stick

For the Vanilla Flavor

2 tablespoons vanilla syrup (adjust to taste)
Milk or cream (optional, to taste)

Note: Feel free to adjust sweetness by adding more vanilla syrup or sweetener of choice.

Instructions

Prepare the Cold Brew

In a large jar, combine the coarsely ground coffee and cold water. Add the cinnamon stick. Stir well to ensure all the grounds are saturated.

Steep the Coffee

Cover the jar with a lid or plastic wrap and let it steep in the refrigerator for about 12 hours.

Strain the Coffee

After steeping, strain the coffee using a coffee filter or a fine mesh sieve to remove the grounds and cinnamon stick.

Add Flavor

Stir in the vanilla syrup. If desired, you can also mix in milk or cream at this stage.

Serve

Serve over ice and enjoy your delicious cinnamon vanilla cold brew!

For a fancy touch, try garnishing with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg.

Pro Tips

Make sure to use freshly brewed cold brew for the best flavor. You can store the cold brew concentrate in the fridge for up to a week.

Storing Your Cold Brew

Once your cold brew is complete, it can be refrigerated for up to two weeks. This longer shelf life makes it a great make-ahead option for busy weekdays. Just ensure it’s kept in an airtight container to preserve its fresh flavor. If you notice any sediment settling at the bottom, simply give it a gentle swirl before serving to reintroduce it back into the liquid.

If you find that the cold brew concentrate is too strong for your liking after storage, you can dilute it with more water or milk according to your taste. This flexibility allows you to enjoy it in various strengths throughout the week, from a bold morning kick to a lighter afternoon refreshment.

Troubleshooting Cold Brew

If your cold brew tastes overly bitter, it might be that the coffee grounds were too fine, leading to over-extraction. Make sure to use a coarse grind for optimal results. If this happens, you can adjust future brews and even blend your current batch with a fresh, lighter brew to balance the flavor.

Conversely, if the cold brew lacks flavor, it may need a longer steeping time. Every fridge is different, so if it's not strong enough after 12 hours, try extending it to 16 hours for a more robust flavor. Always remember to taste periodically during steeping to find that perfect balance just for you!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular ground coffee?

It's best to use coarsely ground coffee for cold brew to avoid over-extraction and bitterness.

→ How can I customize the sweetness?

You can add more vanilla syrup or use a sweetener of your choice, adjusting to your taste preference.

→ Can I make this dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk for a vegan option.

→ How long does leftover cold brew last?

Cold brew concentrate can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.