Chameleon Cold Brew is known for its smooth, rich flavor and versatility. This cold brew is not just a beverage—it’s a canvas for creativity in the kitchen.
Table of Contents
How to make Chameleon Cold Brew
Chameleon Cold Brew is a brand of ready-to-drink and concentrate cold brew coffee made from organic, sustainably sourced coffee beans.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of coarsely ground coffee beans (preferably organic beans for a richer and more sustainable brew)
- 5 cups of filtered water
- Cinnamon sticks for extra warmth
- Vanilla extract for sweetness
- A pinch of sea salt to enhance flavors
Instructions:
Step 1: Start with high-quality coffee beans. Chameleon Cold Brew is known for its organic and fair-trade roots, so opt for similar beans to capture the flavor. Use a coarse grind (similar to kosher salt) for cold brewing—this prevents over-extraction and bitterness.
Step 2: In a large pitcher or jar, mix your coarsely ground coffee with filtered water. Use the ratio of 1 cup of coffee grounds to 5 cups of water. Stir gently to make sure all the grounds are saturated.
Step 3: Cover and let the mixture steep at room temperature or in the refrigerator for about 12 to 24 hours. The longer it steeps, the richer and smoother the flavor will be.
Step 4: After steeping, use a fine-mesh sieve or a coffee filter to strain out the grounds. Strain the brew twice to ensure you remove all sediment. The result should be a clean, concentrated coffee.
Step 5: Chameleon Cold Brew is typically sold as a coffee concentrate. To mimic this, dilute your homemade brew with water, milk, or your favorite dairy alternatives before drinking. A good rule of thumb is mixing 1 part concentrate to 1 part water or milk for a balanced flavor. Adjust to your taste preferences!
Tips for the Perfect Cold Brew:
- Use the Right Coffee Beans: Aim for medium-dark roasted beans for a flavor profile similar to Chameleon Cold Brew, which balances boldness and smoothness.
- Experiment with Flavor Infusion: While steeping, add extras like cinnamon, cacao nibs, or even orange peels to customize the flavor.
- Store Properly: Cold brew stays fresh for up to 2 weeks when stored in the refrigerator. Keep it in an airtight container to avoid absorbing odors.
- Ice Cubes Hack: Make coffee ice cubes using the concentrate so you don’t dilute your drink as the ice melts. Perfect for summer sipping!
- Sweeten the Right Way: If you like your cold brew sweetened, mix in some simple syrup, honey, or agave since they dissolve better in cold liquids compared to granulated sugar.
What to serve with
Chameleon Cold Brew is beloved for its smooth, rich flavor and customizable intensity. But sipping it on its own is just the beginning! Pairing cold brew coffee with the right foods can heighten your coffee experience and make any moment feel indulgent and satisfying.
- Classic Pastries: Try buttery croissants, flaky danishes, or rich chocolate croissants. The sweetness and texture of pastries balance out the robust coffee flavor perfectly.
- Avocado Toast: A slice of sourdough or whole-grain bread topped with creamy avocado, a sprinkle of salt, and chili flakes pairs harmoniously with cold brew’s rich profile.
- Greek Yogurt and Granola: Tangy yogurt and crunchy granola provide a delicious contrast to the smooth, chocolatey notes of cold brew. Add fresh berries for a splash of sweetness.
- Breakfast Sandwiches: Think egg, cheese, and bacon or a veggie substitute sandwiched in an English muffin. The savory and hearty qualities of breakfast sandwiches complement the cold brew’s caffeine boost.
Ingredients Substitutes
Making Chameleon Cold Brew at home gives you complete control over the ingredients, allowing you to tailor the flavor and intensity to your liking.
1. Coffee Beans Substitutes
The foundation of any cold brew (including Chameleon Cold Brew) is the coffee beans. If you can’t find medium-dark organic coffee beans like those used in Chameleon’s blends, here are some substitutes:
- Budget-Friendly Coffee Beans: Any medium or dark roast coffee that suits your budget and taste will work. Opt for freshly ground coffee to preserve flavor.
- Espresso Roast Beans: If you prefer a bolder taste, espresso roast beans provide a more intense, rich coffee flavor.
- Pre-Ground Coffee: While freshly ground is preferable, high-quality pre-ground coffee can work in a pinch. Look for coarse grinds to avoid over-extraction.
- Decaffeinated Coffee: If you want a decaf option, substitute regular beans with decaf coffee for a low-caffeine cold brew that still tastes rich and flavorful.
2. Water Substitutes
The quality of your water significantly impacts the flavor of your cold brew. If filtered water isn’t an option, try the following substitutes:
- Spring Water: Bottled spring water can provide a clean, slightly mineralized taste perfect for coffee.
- Tap Water with a Brita Filter: If you’re using tap water, filter it through a Brita or similar water purifier to remove impurities.
- Coconut Water: For a naturally sweet and tropical twist, replace a portion of filtered water with coconut water.
3. Flavoring Add-Ins Substitutes
Chameleon Cold Brew offers a versatile base perfect for flavor infusions. Depending on your mood or preferences, you can try these substitutes for common add-ins:
- Cinnamon Sticks: If you’re out of cinnamon sticks, use a dash of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or even cardamom for warm, spiced undertones.
- Vanilla Extract: Sub vanilla extract with almond extract for a nuttier flavor or leave it out altogether for a more natural coffee essence. Alternatively, scrape the seeds of a vanilla bean for a richer, fresher vanilla flavor.
- Chocolate Infusion: Add cocoa nibs or a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder for a mocha-inspired cold brew.
- Sweeteners: If you typically sweeten your cold brew, consider replacing refined sugar with healthier options like honey, agave syrup, maple syrup, or stevia.
4. Brewing Equipment Substitutes
If you don’t have access to fancy cold brew equipment, don’t worry! There are plenty of alternatives you can use with no compromise in quality:
- French Press: A French press works perfectly for steeping coffee grounds. Simply press and strain after brewing.
- Mason Jar: Combine coffee and water in a mason jar, then strain with a fine-mesh sieve or coffee filter.
- Nut Milk Bag or Cheesecloth: These are excellent for straining coffee grounds in the absence of a cold brew filter.
5. Milk and Creamer Substitutes
Chameleon Cold Brew concentrates are often mixed with milk, creamers, or dairy alternatives. Here are creative substitutes depending on your preference:
Dairy-Free Alternatives:
- Almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk provide creaminess and subtle flavors that pair well with cold brew.
- Cashew milk offers a rich, creamy texture akin to traditional cream.
- No Dairy? Egg Yolks Can Work Too: A traditional option in some cultures is mixing brewed coffee with lightly whisked egg yolks, creating a custard-like richness.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: Use this in place of regular milk for a Vietnamese-inspired twist.
- Half-and-Half Substitute: Mix equal parts of heavy cream and regular milk if you don’t have half-and-half on hand.
Final Thoughts
When serving Chameleon Cold Brew, think about flavors that balance or complement its smooth, bold character.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of coarsely ground coffee beans
- 5 cups of filtered water
- Cinnamon sticks for extra warmth
- Vanilla extract for sweetness
- A pinch of sea salt
Instructions
Step 1: Start with high-quality coffee beans. Chameleon Cold Brew is known for its organic and fair-trade roots, so opt for similar beans to capture the flavor. Use a coarse grind (similar to kosher salt) for cold brewing—this prevents over-extraction and bitterness.
Step 2: In a large pitcher or jar, mix your coarsely ground coffee with filtered water. Use the ratio of 1 cup of coffee grounds to 5 cups of water. Stir gently to make sure all the grounds are saturated.
Step 3: Cover and let the mixture steep at room temperature or in the refrigerator for about 12 to 24 hours. The longer it steeps, the richer and smoother the flavor will be.
Step 4: After steeping, use a fine-mesh sieve or a coffee filter to strain out the grounds. Strain the brew twice to ensure you remove all sediment. The result should be a clean, concentrated coffee.
Step 5: Chameleon Cold Brew is typically sold as a coffee concentrate. To mimic this, dilute your homemade brew with water, milk, or your favorite dairy alternatives before drinking. A good rule of thumb is mixing 1 part concentrate to 1 part water or milk for a balanced flavor. Adjust to your taste preferences!
