Difference Between Starbucks Cold Brew And Iced Coffee
When it comes to coffee, many people have their preferences. Some like it hot, while others prefer it cold. Two popular cold coffee options are Starbucks Cold Brew and Iced Coffee. While they may seem similar, there are some key differences between the two. In this article, we'll explore the differences between Starbucks Cold Brew and Iced Coffee.
What is Cold Brew?
Cold Brew is a method of brewing coffee using cold water. Instead of using hot water to extract the coffee flavor, Cold Brew uses time to slowly extract the coffee's flavor. The coffee grounds are steeped in cold water for 12-24 hours, resulting in a smoother, less acidic coffee.
What is Iced Coffee?
Iced Coffee is a traditional hot coffee brewed using hot water, which is then cooled and served over ice. It can be made with any coffee roast or blend and is often served with milk or cream.
The Brewing Process
One of the main differences between Cold Brew and Iced Coffee is the brewing process. As mentioned, Cold Brew uses cold water and a long steeping process, while Iced Coffee is brewed with hot water and then cooled down.
Cold Brew is made by using a high coffee-to-water ratio and steeping the coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period of time. This results in a sweeter, smoother coffee with less acidity. Iced Coffee, on the other hand, is brewed hot and then poured over ice, resulting in a coffee that is slightly more bitter and acidic.
The Flavor Profile
Due to the different brewing methods, Cold Brew and Iced Coffee have different flavor profiles. Cold Brew has a smoother, less acidic taste, making it a popular option for those who find traditional coffee too bitter. Iced Coffee, on the other hand, has a slightly more bitter taste due to the hot brewing process.
The Caffeine Content
Another difference between Cold Brew and Iced Coffee is the caffeine content. Because Cold Brew is brewed using a higher coffee-to-water ratio and is steeped for a longer period of time, it has a higher caffeine content than Iced Coffee. However, the actual caffeine content can vary depending on the type of coffee used and the brewing process.
How They are Served
Cold Brew and Iced Coffee are also served differently. Cold Brew is typically served over ice with no added milk or cream, while Iced Coffee is often served with milk or cream and sweeteners such as sugar or flavored syrups.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Cold Brew and Iced Coffee may seem similar, there are some key differences between the two. Cold Brew is brewed using cold water and a long steeping process, resulting in a smoother, less acidic coffee with a higher caffeine content. Iced Coffee, on the other hand, is brewed hot and then cooled down and is often served with milk or cream and sweeteners. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference when it comes to choosing between Starbucks Cold Brew and Iced Coffee.