How Long Cold Brew Coffee Will Last In The Freezer
Whipping up a batch of cold brew can be a little more labor intensive than brewing a cup of java or pressing a button on a Keurig machine — the process typically involves steeping coffee grounds in water for a minimum of 12 hours. The good news? Besides having less acidity than hot coffee and often a slightly sweeter taste, cold brew can last for quite awhile when you freeze it.
If you don't get to your full jar in the fridge within a week, you can let it sit in the freezer for up to two weeks. The taste may start to waver slightly afterwards, but if that doesn't bother you, it's typically safe to consume frozen cold brew for up to a few months.
Since this version of coffee is already brewed cold, it's an ideal type to freeze as far as maintaining quality and freshness. When you store it this way, you'll retain all the sweet notes and lack of acidity that you love, along with the same amount of caffeine as when you originally brewed it.
How to freeze your cold brew
One of the most fun and convenient ways to freeze cold brew is by using an ice cube tray. Ideally, you'll want to use a tray with a lid to maintain freshness — and once icy, you can either leave your cubes in the tray or move them to a plastic bag. The next time you want a cup of joe, you can either stack cubes in a glass with a little water and creamer and wait for them to melt, or use them as ice cubes that won't dilute your cup of iced coffee. It's also important to note that you want to freeze cold brew in its original state. If you mix it with milk, creamer, or a sweetener first, it may not last as long.
You can also store your java in a freezer-safe airtight container. Keep in mind that you'll want to completely thaw it out before drinking, however, and the safest way to do so is to let it sit in the fridge overnight. And whether you're using an ice cube tray or another type of container, make sure the rest of the food in your freezer is in sealed bags too, since coffee easily absorbs outside flavors.