What is Coffee Concentrate?
Coffee connoisseurs know that great taste can come in many different forms. One of which, coffee concentrate, has been quietly revolutionizing the way we savor our beloved cold coffee. A potent concoction, coffee concentrate is a great option for coffee lovers who seek versatility in their beverages.
So, what exactly is coffee concentrate? Coffee concentrate, also referred to as cold brew concentrate, is a rich, undiluted form of coffee that is known for its intense flavor and versatility. This liquid, which is much stronger than a regular cup of brewed coffee, should be diluted with water or milk before enjoying. Whether you’re a die-hard coffee fan or simply looking to try something new, we recommend learning more about coffee concentrate, then trying it for yourself.
Benefits of Coffee Concentrate
There are multiple benefits to using coffee concentrate when making your coffee at home. Two big ones are convenience and versatility.
- Convenience: Coffee concentrate is an extremely convenient way to make coffee. If you enjoy drinking black coffee, all you need to do is dilute your chosen concentrate with water, which can be done in seconds. This is a great option for those who may not have a lot of time in the morning.
- Versatility: If you’re not a black coffee enthusiast, you’ll love coffee concentrate for how versatile and customizable it is. Try using milk instead of water to dilute, add your favorite flavored syrups, or top with whipped cream! The options are endless. Or choose a flavored coffee concentrate for a different approach to adding flavor to your drink.
How to Use Coffee Concentrate at Home
Choose your coffee concentrate
Using cold brew coffee concentrate is really simple. First, you’ll want to choose your coffee concentrate. You can’t go wrong with the classic Dunkin’ Cold Brew Concentrate, but we recommend trying flavored coffee concentrate, as well. Dunkin’ Pumpkin Spice Flavored Cold Brew Concentrate is great for the fall season, and Dunkin’ Caramel Flavored Cold Brew Concentrate is equally as delicious.
Dilute the concentrate
Next, dilute the concentrate. The ratio of concentrate to water or milk will depend on your personal preference, but a good starting point is to use equal parts of concentrate to water/milk. Play around with the ratio to get your perfect cup.
Add your favorite mix-ins
You could stop there—it really is that simple! But remember, one of the benefits of coffee concentrate is how versatile it is. If you’d like, now would be the time to add your favorite mix-ins or toppings. Milk, cream, sugar, flavored syrups, or spices sprinkled on top—the possibilities are endless. Add in your chosen ingredients, stir, and enjoy!
Creative Ways to Use Coffee Concentrate
The versatility of coffee concentrate goes even further than just jazzing up your at home cold brew. It can be used in a variety of other ways, as well.
- Coffee-based beverages: Coffee concentrate is a great base for cocktails (or mocktails) such as espresso martinis or coffee old fashioneds. You can also use it to make a Cold Brew Coffee Milkshake or coffee-based smoothie.
- Coffee desserts: Coffee adds richness and sophistication to baked goods. Add the amount noted in the recipe for more depth of flavor. Or try making Cold Brew Affogato. This traditional Italian dessert tastes great when made with Dunkin’® Cold Brew Concentrate.
- Coffee marinades and sauces: Many meat, seafood and vegetable recipes call for coffee in the marinade or rub. Swap in coffee concentrate for an even deeper level of flavor.
Coffee concentrate is a highly potent form of coffee that is delicious, versatile, and convenient. Whether you’re seeking a refreshing iced cold brew or looking to experiment with delicious add-ins, coffee concentrate is a valuable addition to your coffee routine. Remember to dilute your cold brew concentrate before drinking and enjoy!