Start 14-Day Trial Subscription
*No credit card required
There are a few different techniques used to create coffee beer.
One method is by roasting different grains to recreate the flavor of coffee. Some brewers will use roasted barley, chocolate malt or other dark malts to give the beer a coffee-like flavor. This method can give the beer a subtle coffee taste without having to add actual coffee to the brewing process.
Another way to make coffee beer is to add coffee directly to the beer during the fermentation process. This method can be a bit trickier, as the coffee can add bitterness or acidity to the beer if it's not added at the right time or in the right way. Some brewers will cold-brew the coffee before to reduce acidity, while others will add brewed coffee directly to the beer.
The type of coffee and beer used can greatly affect the taste of the final product.
For coffee, darker roasts with bold flavors such as espresso or French roast can add a rich, roasty taste to a beer. On the other hand, lighter roasts such as breakfast blends or single-origin beans can add a subtler coffee taste and aroma.
When it comes to beer, coffee flavors can pair well with stouts, porters and brown ales. These beers have a darker color and richer flavor, which can complement the bold taste of the coffee. Of course, coffee beer can also be made with lighter beer styles such as lagers or IPAs, as long as the coffee and beer flavors balance well together.
To make it at home, there are a few techniques you can use. One popular method is to cold brew coffee and add it to the beer during the brewing process or at the end of fermentation. This results in a smooth and mellow coffee flavor that blends well with the beer.
Another method is to add brewed coffee directly to the beer, which can give it a stronger coffee flavor and aroma. For a more intense coffee beer, you can also add espresso shots or coffee liqueurs. The possibilities are endless, so don't be afraid to experiment and find your perfect blend.