Double brewing coffee, also known as brewing coffee with coffee instead of water, is an intriguing method to enhance both the flavor and caffeine content of your coffee.
This technique might sound unconventional to many, but it offers a unique approach to coffee making that could be appealing to those seeking a stronger brew.
What is Double Brewed Coffee?
Double brewed coffee can be achieved in two primary ways.
Doubling the Amount of Grounds: Use twice the amount of coffee grounds you would normally use for brewing.
Brewing with Coffee: Instead of hot water, use already brewed coffee to brew a new batch.
Why Go for Double Brewed Coffee?
The appeal of double brewed coffee lies in its intensified caffeine content and richer flavor profile, catering to those who may not find the desired kick in a standard cup of coffee or those looking to explore deeper, more concentrated tastes.
1. Caffeine Boost
Doubling the coffee grounds or brewing coffee with coffee essentially doubles the caffeine content, making it a go-to option for those in need of an extra energy boost.
2. Concentrated Flavor
For iced coffee lovers, double brewed coffee provides a robust flavor that stands up to dilution from melting ice, ensuring a refreshing yet potent coffee experience.
Best Coffee for Double Brewing
Lighter roasts are recommended for double brewing as they tend to preserve more of the coffee's nuanced flavors without becoming overpowering or bitter, unlike darker roasts which might result in an overly strong and potentially unpleasant taste.
How to Make Double Brewed Coffee
Method 1: Using Double the Grounds
This method is straightforward and particularly suitable for drip coffee makers. Simply double the amount of coffee grounds for the desired water ratio. For instance, use four tablespoons of coffee for every six ounces of water instead of the standard two tablespoons.
Method 2: Brewing with Coffee
This approach is more adventurous and involves using brewed coffee in place of water to brew another batch. This can be achieved with various combinations of coffee brewing equipment, such as a drip coffee maker followed by a French press or an AeroPress followed by a Hario V60.
Prepare Your First Batch of Coffee:
Measure and grind your coffee beans. Aim for a medium grind, as you would for a standard drip coffee.
Set up your drip coffee maker with a fresh filter.
Add the ground coffee to the filter basket.
Pour the required amount of water into your drip coffee maker's reservoir and start the brewing process.
Once the brewing is complete, let the coffee cool slightly if you prefer not to use it hot for the next brewing step.
Brewing the Second Batch with French Press:
Measure the amount of brewed coffee from your drip maker that you'll need to use as "water" for the French press. Typically, you'd use about 4 ounces (about 120 ml) of brewed coffee for every standard cup of French press coffee you want to make.
Heat the brewed coffee if it has cooled down too much. You want it hot but not boiling, ideally around 200°F (93°C).
Add the coffee grounds to your French press. The amount of coffee used should be the same as if you were brewing with water, typically 1 ounce (28 grams) of coffee for every 4 ounces (120 ml) of liquid.
Pour the hot brewed coffee over the grounds in the French press.
Stir gently to ensure all the coffee grounds are saturated.
Place the lid on the French press with the plunger pulled all the way up. Let it steep for about 4 minutes.
After 4 minutes, slowly press the plunger down to separate the grounds from the liquid.
Serving Your Double Brewed Coffee:
Pour the double brewed coffee into a cup.
Adjust the taste as desired. Due to its strength, you might find it enjoyable to add a bit of water, milk, or cream to balance the intensity.
Enjoy!
Savor the rich and concentrated flavor of your double brewed coffee.
Tips:
Experiment with Coffee Ratios: Depending on your taste preference, you might want to experiment with the amount of coffee used in both brewing steps to achieve the desired strength and flavor.
Coffee Selection: Opt for a lighter roast to avoid excessive bitterness that might come from double brewing, especially if using a dark roast.
Clean Equipment: Ensure your brewing equipment is clean before starting. This will help in maintaining the purest flavor profile for your double brewed coffee.
Considerations for Double Brewed Coffee
Equipment: The choice of coffee maker can influence the outcome of your double brewed coffee. Experimenting with different brewing methods and equipment can yield varied flavor profiles.
Flavor Balance: When making iced coffee with double brewed coffee, the additional strength and flavor can perfectly balance out the dilution caused by ice, making for a refreshing and invigorating drink.
Caffeine Sensitivity: Due to the higher caffeine content, those sensitive to caffeine should approach double brewed coffee with caution.
Double brewed coffee offers a novel way to enjoy a stronger, more flavorful cup of coffee. Whether you're looking to enhance your iced coffee game or simply in search of a more potent caffeine kick, this method is worth exploring. Remember to adjust the coffee type and brewing method to suit your taste preferences and caffeine tolerance.