Is cold brew caffeine content higher than Regular Coffee?
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Is cold brew caffeine content higher than traditional coffee?
Cold brew is known for its smooth, naturally sweet flavour, but many people wonder whether it also contains a higher caffeine content than traditionally brewed coffee.
The answer depends on how it’s prepared and served. At BREAK, we love answering these kinds of questions because we understand that coffee is more than just a drink—it’s culture, lifestyle, and attitude.
Why do people say cold brew has more caffeine?
Cold brew often has a higher caffeine content per volume than other brewing methods. That’s due to several factors:
Coffee-to-water ratio
Cold brew is made using a higher amount of ground coffee (ratios like 1:8 to 1:10, or even stronger like 1:6), which results in a beverage with a high caffeine concentration.
Extraction time
The slow extraction process (12 to 24 hours) allows water to pull more compounds from the coffee—including caffeine.
How it’s consumed
If you drink it undiluted, you’ll be consuming much more caffeine than in a traditional coffee.
In our experience, cold brew is versatile: you can enjoy it strong or mild, depending on what you need in the moment.
Cold brew caffeine content comparison: Cold Brew vs. other types of coffee
| Type of Coffee | Average Caffeine per 100 ml |
|---|---|
| Concentrated Cold Brew | 150–250 mg |
| Diluted Cold Brew | 50–100 mg |
| Espresso | 63 mg |
| Filter Coffee | 80–100 mg |
| Instant Coffee | 30–90 mg |
The key difference lies in how it’s served. When diluted, cold brew can have a caffeine level similar to filter coffee—but in its concentrated form, it’s much stronger.
At BREAK, we recommend experimenting with different ratios until you find the intensity that suits you best.
What affects the caffeine content?
Type of bean
Robusta contains nearly twice the caffeine of Arabica. At BREAK, we use 100% specialty Arabica for its balanced flavor and smooth profile.
Brew ratio
A more concentrated ratio (like 1:6) will extract more caffeine. If you prefer something lighter, go for a 1:10 ratio.
How it’s served
Diluting with water, ice, or milk significantly reduces caffeine per serving.
Extraction time
The longer the brew time, the more caffeine is extracted—though this may also increase bitterness.
Is cold brew for everyone?
It’s ideal for those looking for a low-acidity drink that still packs an energizing punch. However:
If you’re sensitive to caffeine, drink it in small amounts or dilute it.
You can also make decaf cold brew and enjoy its flavor without the stimulating effects.
Conclusion: More caffeine? Yes—if you want it.
Cold brew can have more caffeine than traditional coffee—but it all depends on how you prepare and drink it. Its versatility makes it a great choice for both strong-coffee lovers and those who prefer something gentler.
Don’t have time to make it at home? BREAK is ready when you are: straight up or over ice—you choose the intensity.
Discover why this style of coffee wins over everyone who tries it.