Cinnamon Vanilla Cold Brew

Name: Cinnamon Vanilla Cold Brew
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup coarsely ground coffee; 4 cups cold water; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Milk or cream (optional); Sweetener of choice (optional); Ice

Highlighted under: Ready-in-Minutes Recipes

I love starting my mornings with a refreshing cup of Cinnamon Vanilla Cold Brew. The rich flavor of cold brew coffee combined with the warmth of cinnamon and a hint of vanilla creates a delightful pick-me-up that’s perfect for any time of day. Making this beverage at home not only saves money but also allows me to customize it according to my taste. Whether I enjoy it as a breakfast companion or an afternoon treat, this cold brew is sure to become a favorite in your home too!

Created by

Sophia

Last updated on 2026-02-09T17:09:27.233Z

When I first experimented with making cold brew coffee, I knew I wanted to add a personal touch. After trying a few different flavors, the combination of cinnamon and vanilla emerged as a standout. The warmth of the spices balances perfectly with the smoothness of the cold brew, creating an invigorating yet comforting drink.

I encourage you to play around with the ratios of cinnamon and vanilla based on your palate—if you love a stronger flavor, add a bit more cinnamon! This recipe is flexible, allowing you to adjust the sweetness and spice until it’s just right for you.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Invigorating blend of spices that enhance the coffee flavor
Refreshing and easy to prepare, perfect for warm days
Customizable sweetness to suit every taste

Getting the Perfect Brew

The key to an exceptional cold brew lies in the steeping process. When combining the coarsely ground coffee with cold water, make sure to stir gently yet thoroughly; you want to ensure that every coffee ground is saturated. If you neglect this step, you may end up with an uneven flavor profile. Allowing the mixture to steep for 12 to 24 hours in the refrigerator provides a controlled environment that enhances the extraction of flavors. I often find that a longer steeping time results in a smoother and more concentrated brew.

For the best flavor, use high-quality, coarsely ground coffee. If possible, grind your coffee beans at home just before brewing, as fresh coffee greatly enhances the taste. A medium to dark roast is often recommended for cold brews, as it yields a richer flavor. Avoid using pre-ground coffee labeled for drip coffee makers as that grind is typically too fine and can lead to bitterness in your cold brew.

Customizing Your Cold Brew

One of my favorite aspects of this Cinnamon Vanilla Cold Brew is how easily it can be customized to fit your preferences. For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of oat milk or almond milk; both add a unique taste. In addition, you can adjust the sweetness by experimenting with various sweeteners. Agave syrup, maple syrup, or simple syrup can all be used, depending on your taste. Adding these in small increments allows you to find the perfect balance for your palate.

If you enjoy experimenting, consider adding other spices like nutmeg or cardamom for an extra layer of flavor. You could also infuse your cold brew with flavored syrups, such as hazelnut or seasonal pumpkin spice. Just remember to start with a small amount and adjust to taste, as these flavors can be quite potent.

Ingredients

For the Cold Brew

1 cup coarsely ground coffee
4 cups cold water
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Serving

Milk or cream (optional)
Sweetener of choice (optional)
Ice

Instructions

Brew the Coffee

In a large pitcher or bowl, combine the coarsely ground coffee, cold water, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Stir gently to ensure all the coffee grounds are soaked. Cover and let steep in the refrigerator for 12 to 24 hours.

Strain the Mixture

After steeping, strain the cold brew through a fine mesh sieve or a coffee filter into a clean pitcher. Discard the coffee grounds.

Serve the Cold Brew

Pour the cold brew over a glass filled with ice. Add milk or cream and sweetener to taste, if desired. Stir and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon. Additionally, you can sweeten your cold brew with flavored syrups for a fun twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serving Cinnamon Vanilla Cold Brew over ice is beautiful, but you can take it a step further. Consider garnishing with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or a cinnamon stick in the glass for a decorative touch. Alternatively, create a fun layered drink by pouring the sweetened coffee over ice before adding cream, resulting in an eye-catching presentation. This drink is exceptionally refreshing during hot summer days, but it can be enjoyed year-round with the right adjustments to your home environment.

Pair the cold brew with a light pastry or breakfast item, such as muffins or croissants, for a perfectly balanced meal. The cinnamon in the coffee complements baked goods beautifully, enhancing your breakfast or snack experience. If you're hosting a brunch, consider making a larger batch of cold brew to serve alongside a spread of pastries.

Storing and Reheating

Once you've brewed your Cinnamon Vanilla Cold Brew, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks without compromising flavor. When stored correctly in an airtight container, the cold brew will maintain its refreshing taste. Just be sure to give it a gentle shake before serving, as some sediment may settle at the bottom over time. If you find the flavor becomes weaker, try using less water during the brewing process next time.

While cold brew is typically enjoyed cold, some people love to experiment with warming it up for a cozy twist. If you want to enjoy it hot, simply pour desired amounts into a small saucepan and warm it over low heat until just heated through. Avoid boiling, as this can alter the flavor profile and make it taste bitter.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use pre-ground coffee for this recipe?

Yes, but for the best flavor, it's recommended to use coarsely ground coffee for making cold brew.

→ How long can I store cold brew coffee?

Cold brew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

→ Can I make this recipe without cinnamon?

Absolutely! You can skip the cinnamon or substitute it with other spices like cardamom.

→ Is cold brew stronger than regular coffee?

Cold brew tends to have a smoother flavor and can be stronger in caffeine content, depending on the coffee-to-water ratio used.