Cold brew is already the cool kid of the coffee world—smooth, strong, and effortlessly chill. But if you’ve been drinking it straight and thinking, “Is this it?”—oh friend, buckle up. We’re about to take your cup from basic to boujee with 10 add-ins that make cold brew sing (or at least hum a very caffeinated tune).
And yes, there are actual measurements and how-tos here. We don’t gatekeep greatness.
1. Vanilla Extract
Add 1/4 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract per 12 oz of cold brew. Stir it in before you add ice, and suddenly your coffee tastes like it got a degree in sophistication.
Pro tip: If you’re feeling fancy, try vanilla bean paste. You’ll feel like you’re in a French café, but with laundry drying in the background.
2. Oat Milk
Pour in 1/3 to 1/2 cup of oat milk—it’s creamy, it’s naturally sweet, and it won’t split like your ex’s almond milk. Bonus points if it’s the barista version.
Want it extra smooth? Shake your oat milk in a jar before adding for a cold foam vibe. You’re welcome.
3. Cinnamon
Sprinkle 1/8 tsp of ground cinnamon right into the brew or stir it into your sweetener. You can also cold steep a cinnamon stick with your grounds for next-level depth. Either way, your coffee now smells like fall and ambition.
4. Maple Syrup
Start with 1 tablespoon of real maple syrup per 12 oz of cold brew. Stir it in while your coffee’s still room temp so it dissolves like a dream. It brings a caramel warmth that makes you whisper, “Ohhh yes” out loud.
5. Sweet Cream Foam
Mix 1/4 cup heavy cream, 2 tablespoons milk, and 1 tsp vanilla syrup (or your sweetener of choice). Shake it in a jar or use a milk frother. Then, float it on top of your cold brew like you’re in a Starbucks commercial but with better lighting.
Warning: You will feel like a barista. Do not attempt latte art with cold brew.
6. Chocolate Syrup (aka the mocha hack)
Add 1–2 tablespoons of chocolate syrup (or 1 tsp cocoa powder + sweetener) and stir like your life depends on it. Cold brew + chocolate = dessert in a glass, minus the guilt.
Pro move: Rim your glass with chocolate syrup before pouring. It’s Instagram-worthy and delicious.
7. Fresh Mint
Slap 4–5 fresh mint leaves (yes, slap—it wakes up the oils), toss them in, and stir. You can also steep them in the brewing process if you want a stronger flavor. Great with coconut milk or lime if you’re feeling summery.
8. Citrus Peel
Add a thin strip of orange or lemon peel to your cold brew and let it sit for 2–3 minutes before drinking. You’ll get a light, zesty aroma that makes the coffee feel so bright. Like, “I remembered to water my plants” bright.
9. Almond or Hazelnut Extract
Add just 1/8 teaspoon of almond or hazelnut extract. Seriously—any more and your coffee will taste like a scented candle. But get it right? Chef’s kiss. It gives major “hazelnut latte” energy with none of the sugar crash.
10. Sparkling Water or Tonic
Pour equal parts cold brew and sparkling water over ice. Add a splash of citrus juice or a twist of lemon. It’s weird. It’s wonderful. It’s your new summer obsession.
Try it with tonic water and orange peel for a grown-up, caffeine-loaded mocktail. Cheers!
Bonus Tips (Because We Love You):
- Always sweeten before adding ice—your syrupy dreams deserve a chance to mix.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment. Mix and match: Chocolate + mint? Yes. Vanilla + cinnamon + oat milk? Triple yes.
- Get a cute glass. Cold brew deserves better than your old plastic tumbler from college.
You Got This, Barista-in-Training
Cold brew isn’t just a drink—it’s a vibe. And with these add-ins, you’ll be vibing all the way to your fridge. So go on, make your kitchen your favorite coffee shop. Just don’t forget to tag us when you do. 😉
👉 Ready to brew like a pro? Grab our signature cold brew blend here.