This Coconut Milk Cold Brew recipe is a perfect drink to start your morning with. It combines chilled cold brew coffee, creamy coconut milk, and ice to make a refreshing drink that you can prepare in minutes.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make coconut milk cold brew, homemade cold brew, which coconut milk works best, and how to customize your drink with simple ingredients.
What Is Cold Brew Coffee?
Cold brew is a type of coffee made by steeping coarsely ground coffee beans in cold or room-temperature water for several hours usually for 12 to 18 hours. It uses time instead of heat to extract flavor from the coffee grounds.
The result is a smooth, refreshing coffee with a rich flavor and often less noticeable bitterness. Its taste depends on the coffee beans, brewing time, and coffee-to-water ratio you use.
Cold brew can be served over ice, enjoyed black, or mixed with milk, coconut milk, cream, or your favorite sweetener. You can also make cold brew concentrate, which is a stronger version that you dilute with water or milk before serving.
One of the best things about cold brew is that you can easily make it at home with just coffee grounds, water, a jar, and a strainer. Once prepared, store it in the refrigerator so you can enjoy a chilled cup whenever you want.
How to Make Cold Brew at Home

Making homemade cold brew coffee is easy, and you don’t need an expensive coffee maker or special equipment. With just coffee grounds, cold water, a jar, and a strainer, you can prepare a smooth, refreshing coffee right in your kitchen.
This simple DIY cold brew coffee method lets you control the coffee strength and flavor. Once prepared, you can enjoy it over ice or you can add milk, coconut milk, or your favorite sweetener.
Cold Brew Ingredients
You only need two basic cold brew ingredients to get started:
- 1 cup coarsely ground coffee
- 4 cups cold, filtered water
Instructions
- Add the coffee grounds: Place the coarsely ground coffee in a clean jar or large pitcher.
- Pour in the water: Add the cold water and stir gently to make sure all the grounds are wet.
- Let it steep: Cover the jar and refrigerate for 12–18 hours. This slow brewing process allows the water to extract flavor from the coffee grounds.
- Strain the coffee: Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer lined with a coffee filter to remove the grounds.
- Serve your cold brew: Pour the coffee over ice and add milk, coconut milk, or sweetener if desired.
This homemade cold brew recipe is easy to customize. If you prefer a stronger coffee flavor, adjust the coffee to water ratio or steeping time to suit your taste.
Coconut Milk Cold Brew Recipe
Ingredients
You’ll need just four simple ingredients for this cold brew coffee recipe.
- ¾ cup cold brew coffee: Use homemade cold brew or prepared cold brew concentrate diluted according to its instructions.
- ½ cup coconut milk: Unsweetened coconut milk works well for a light, refreshing drink. You can also use a richer variety for a creamier texture.
- 1 cup ice cubes: Add enough ice to chill the drink without filling the glass too tightly.
- 1 tbsp sugar: Use sugar if you like your coffee sweet.
- 1–2 teaspoons maple syrup (optional): Use this if you like your coffee slightly sweet.
How to Make Coconut Milk Cold Brew
Follow these simple steps to make your own coconut cold brew at home.
Step 1: Fill your glass with ice
Step 2: Add the cold brew coffee
Step 3: Add the coconut milk
Step 4: Sweeten to taste
Step 5: Serve and enjoy
What Is the Best Coconut Milk for Coffee?
Choosing the right coconut milk can change the taste and texture of your drink. Some varieties are light and watery, while others are thick, rich, and creamy.
1. Unsweetened Carton Coconut Milk
Unsweetened coconut milk from a carton is a good choice for everyday cold brew. It usually has a lighter consistency and lets the coffee flavor remain noticeable.
Choose this option if you prefer a refreshing drink without too much richness.
2. Barista Coconut Milk
Barista-style coconut milk is designed for coffee drinks. Depending on the brand, it may have a creamier texture and blend more smoothly with coffee.
It’s a useful choice if you want a coffee-shop-style coconut milk cold brew.
3. Canned Coconut Milk
Canned coconut milk is generally much thicker and richer than carton coconut milk. It can give your coffee a creamy, dessert-like texture.
However, full-fat canned coconut milk may be too heavy to pour directly into cold brew. Try mixing a small amount with water before adding it to your coffee.
Tips for Making the Best Coconut Milk Cold Brew
A few small adjustments can help you make a better cup of coffee at home.
- Keep the cold brew and coconut milk refrigerated until you pour so the drink stays refreshing.
- Freshly ground beans and filtered water make homemade cold brew taste better.
- Add more cold brew for a stronger taste, or a splash of water if it’s too intense.
The best cold brew is the one that matches your taste, so don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite coffee beans and milk alternatives.
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Coconut Milk Cold Brew Recipe
Ingredients
- ¾ cup cold brew coffee
- ½ cup coconut milk
- 1 cup ice cube
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 2 tsp 2 maple syrup optional
Instructions
- Add ice cubes to a tall serving glass. Leave enough space at the top for the coffee and coconut milk.
- Pour the prepared cold brew over the ice. If you’re using cold brew concentrate, dilute it according to the product instructions or your preferred coffee-to-water ratio.
- Slowly pour the coconut milk into the glass. It will swirl into the dark coffee, creating a beautiful layered appearance.
- Add maple syrup or simple syrup if desired. Stir gently to combine the coffee, coconut milk, and sweetener.
- Taste your drink and adjust the milk or coffee to suit your preference. Serve immediately while cold.
- Your homemade coconut milk cold brew is ready! It’s a simple way to enjoy coffee at home without a trip to the coffee shop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought cold brew for this recipe?
Yes. Store-bought cold brew is a convenient option. Use ready-to-drink cold brew directly, or dilute concentrate according to its label instructions before adding coconut milk.
Does coconut milk taste good in cold brew coffee?
Yes, coconut milk can complement cold brew’s smooth, rich flavor. It adds a mild tropical taste, although the intensity depends on the brand and type of coconut milk you use.
Can I make coconut milk cold brew without added sugar?
Absolutely. Use unsweetened coconut milk and plain cold brew coffee. You can enjoy the natural flavors of both ingredients without adding syrup or another sweetener.
Can I use coconut cream instead of coconut milk?
Yes, but coconut cream is much thicker and richer. Start with a small amount and thin it with water or coconut milk until it reaches your preferred consistency.