3 Best Cold Brew Coffee Makers to Keep You Cool This Summer
When summer hits, having a reliable cold brew maker becomes a game-changer for staying refreshed and energized. Whether you opt for the quick extraction of the VINCI Express, the capacity of a 5-gallon dispenser, or a commercial-grade system like the Toddy, each brings unique advantages—from speed and ease to volume. But how do you choose among these? There’s more to take into account beyond capacity and brew time, and the right choice could transform your entire season.
VINCI Express Cold Brew Coffee Maker
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If you want a cold brew coffee maker that is fast and easy to use, the VINCI Express is a good choice. It makes your coffee in just 5 to 25 minutes. That means you don’t have to wait all night to enjoy your drink. The machine has four brew strength options: Light, Medium, Bold, and Extra Bold. You can pick the strength you like best.
The VINCI Express uses a special Circle Flow technology. This makes sure your coffee is full of flavor, smooth, and without sediment. The glass pitcher holds up to 1.1 liters of coffee. It comes with two lids—one for brewing and one for storing in the fridge. The machine also has a self-cleaning cycle. This makes cleaning quick and easy, so you spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your coffee.
This cold brew maker is best for people who want a fast, simple machine that lets them choose their coffee strength and is easy to clean.
Pros:
- Makes coffee in just 5 to 25 minutes, saving time
- Four brew strength options for different tastes
- Self-cleaning cycle for easy maintenance
Cons:
- Can make only 1.1 liters at a time, so you might need to refill often
- Glass pitcher looks nice but can break if not handled carefully
- Smaller size means fewer features compared to larger systems
5 Gallon Cold Brew Coffee Dispenser with Spigot & Lid
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The 5 Gallon Cold Brew Coffee Dispenser with Spigot and Lid is a great choice for anyone who needs to make a lot of cold brew. It is made in the USA from BPA-free, food-safe plastic, which makes it safe and strong for long-term use. The dispenser has a 5-gallon size, so you can make enough coffee for a big group or for several days. It comes with a reusable filter that catches coffee grounds, so you don’t have to buy extra filters and waste less. The spigot makes pouring easy, and the lid keeps your coffee fresh and free from smells. It’s perfect for parties, small cafes, or family gatherings where you want fresh cold brew in large amounts.
Best For: Coffee fans, small coffee shops, and catering services that need a reliable and affordable way to make large batches of cold brew coffee.
Pros:
- Made in the USA using BPA-free, safe plastic for durability and safety
- Reusable filter helps save money and reduces waste
- Large 5-gallon size works well for many people or multiple days
Cons:
- Some users report minor leaks if not handled carefully
- Needs to steep for at least 16 hours, which is not fast
- When full, it can be heavy and hard to move for some people
5 Gallon Toddy Cold Brew System With Lift, Commercial Brewing System
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- Once brewed, concentrate can stay fresh for up to 2 weeks if stored properly
The Gallon Toddy Cold Brew System With Lift is a handy tool for coffee shops, restaurants, and home brewers who want to make a lot of cold brew easily. It can hold 5 gallons, but it brews about 2.5 gallons of concentrated coffee or tea at a time. The special lift makes it easier to handle during the brewing process. It uses eco-friendly, tree-free filters that help protect the planet. The system is semi-automatic, so it’s simple to use, and the clear design lets you see your cold brew as it drips. It weighs only 4 pounds and measures 12x12x17 inches, making it small enough to fit in many places. But it is built for high volume, so you might need multiple brews if you want even more cold brew at once.
Ideal For: cafes, restaurants, and large home brewers who want an easy and eco-friendly way to make big batches of cold brew.
Pros:
- Easy to use with semi-automatic operation
- Eco-friendly filters that are good for the environment
- Small and lightweight, easy to move and store
Cons:
- Makes only about 2.5 gallons at a time, so you may need to brew more for large needs
- The clear body looks nice but might be less durable than solid models
- Only one review so far, so we don’t know how it performs over a long time
This system gives you a simple way to brew large amounts of cold coffee or tea without a lot of fuss. It’s perfect if you want quick, clean, and eco-friendly brewing.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Cold Brew Coffee Makers for Summer
When choosing a cold brew coffee maker for summer, you’ll want to consider how quickly it brews and how much coffee it can produce in one go, especially if you like your mornings fast and your pitcher full. Ease of use and cleaning are also key—after all, who wants a complicated setup while battling the heat? Finally, think about your budget, storage space, and how long your coffee will stay fresh—because a good deal is only great if it keeps your coffee tasting awesome.
Brewing Speed and Time
Brewing speed and time are important when choosing a cold brew coffee maker. Some models make coffee in just five minutes. They use new technologies like Circle Flow, which keeps the coffee clear of sediment and flavorful. This is great when you need coffee fast, like in the morning.
Other systems take longer, usually between 12 and 24 hours. They are better if you want to make lots of coffee at once and don’t need it right away. The speed depends on several things. Water temperature, how finely you grind the coffee, and the amount of water used all matter.
Many coffee makers let you change settings. You can control how strong the coffee is and how long it brews. This helps you get fresh, cold coffee that suits your schedule. You don’t have to wait long or sacrifice taste.
Capacity and Serving Size
Choosing the right size for your cold brew coffee maker depends on how many people you want to serve. If you have parties or family get-togethers, pick a bigger one, like a 5-gallon dispenser. It gives you enough coffee so you don’t need to fill it up all the time. For everyday use or small homes, a smaller machine that holds 1 to 2 liters works well. These smaller sizes are easy to store and handle.
Ease of Use and Cleaning
A cold brew coffee maker that’s easy to use and clean helps make your summer mornings simple. Look for models with easy-to-understand buttons and controls. You shouldn’t need a manual to operate them. Choose machines with parts that are easy to take apart and rinse off. Fewer parts make cleaning faster. Some models have automatic cleaning cycles or special features for cleaning. These options make it easy to keep your machine hygienic. Also, check if the parts are dishwasher-safe. Being able to put parts in the dishwasher saves you time and effort. With these features, you spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your cold brew coffee.
Price and Budgeting
When choosing a cold brew coffee maker, start with your budget. There are options that cost less than $30, and others that cost over $200. Pick what fits your money plan. Cheaper models may not have all the features, such as built-in filters or self-cleaning options. But they can still make good coffee if you watch the process. More expensive models usually brew faster, last longer, and may have extra features like different strengths. Think about how often you will use the machine and if there are extra costs to keep it clean. Picking a machine that costs less at first and lasts a long time can save you money. Remember, balancing price with quality will help you find a coffee maker that fits your budget and makes tasty cold brew.
Storage and Longevity
When choosing a cold brew coffee maker for summer, think about how it saves your coffee. Look for models with tight-fitting lids. These lids help keep your coffee fresh for up to 10 days or more. This means your cold brew stays flavorful longer.
The size of the container is also important. Bigger bottles are good if you want to make a lot at once or serve several people. Smaller ones are easier to use daily or for quick drinks.
Use containers that are BPA-free and non-reactive. These keep your coffee tasting good and stop it from getting bad or contaminated, even after many days.
Keep your cold brew in the fridge. Store it at a cold, steady temperature to stop it from spoiling. Some coffee machines come with special storage pitchers. These keep your concentrate fresh and help it stay tasty without losing flavor.
Design and Portability
Choosing a cold brew coffee maker that is small and lightweight makes summer mornings easier. If you are going camping, traveling, or just short on space, a compact machine is a good pick. Smaller models are easy to carry in a bag or store in the fridge. Look for handles and lids that are simple to use. Some machines have built-in handles or stackable parts. Glass carafes or tough plastic are light options that make the machine easy to move without feeling heavy. Think about its size and shape too. It should fit well in your fridge, cabinet, or backpack. The right portable coffee maker helps you enjoy fresh cold brew anywhere. It saves space and feels easy to use, making your summer coffee routine better.
FAQs
How Long Does Cold Brew Typically Stay Fresh in These Dispensers?
Cold brew typically stays fresh in dispensers for up to two weeks if kept refrigerated and sealed properly. To enjoy maximum flavor, try to consume it within this period, avoiding exposure to air and sunlight.
Are These Cold Brew Makers Suitable for High-Volume Commercial Use?
You need commercial-grade cold brew makers for high-volume use; they’re built to handle frequent, large batches efficiently. Look for models with sturdy construction, rapid brewing capabilities, and easy maintenance to keep up with your busy demands.
What Cleaning Procedures Are Recommended for Maintaining These Systems?
To keep your cold brew system in top shape, you should regularly rinse, scrub with food-safe cleaning solutions, and run a water cycle through it. Maintain cleanliness to guarantee great taste and prevent mold or buildup.
Can These Coffee Makers Be Used With Other Beverages Besides Coffee?
You can often use these coffee makers for other beverages like tea, infused waters, or even cold chocolate drinks. Just make certain you thoroughly clean them between uses to avoid flavor cross-contamination, maintaining taste quality and machine longevity.
How Do Temperature Controls Affect the Brewing Process and Flavor?
Temperature controls guide how cold or hot your brew gets, influencing flavor extraction. You can personalize the taste and strength, ensuring your beverage matches your preferences, and affecting the overall richness and smoothness of whatever you make.
Hi, I’m Liza Jensen, your culinary companion here at Recipe by Liza. 🍳🥗Cooking has always been my passion—I find joy in every whisk, every sizzle, and every aromatic spice. As a home cook and recipe developer, I’ve explored flavors from around the world, creating dishes that warm hearts and tantalize taste buds.Join me on this flavorful journey! Let’s swap kitchen stories, share tips, and celebrate the magic of food together.
