What’s the difference between cold brew and iced coffee? Are they the same? And what is cold brew in the first place? On the surface, every cold coffee beverage looks more or less the same: a mixture of coffee and ice. But in fact, there is a difference in cold brew and iced coffee. 

This article will define the various cold coffee drinks loved and cherished by so many. It will address the most pressing questions among coffee fanatics, such as ‘what is cold brew coffee?’ and ‘what’s the difference between iced coffee and cold brew?’ It’s time to define cold brew vs iced coffee so that you can enjoy these drinks and make them at home with ease!  

Before the cold brew trend erupted, there was iced coffee. Iced coffee is still a very popular cold coffee drink among coffee lovers. But despite its lasting popularity, many people are unaware of how this drink differs from a cold brew. Both are cold, both are coffees, and both are deliciously refreshing. So, what’s the difference between iced coffee and cold brew?

The difference lies in their brewing methods. Cold brew is a process that only uses cold or room temperature water. Iced coffee is created by brewing hot water, which creates a cup of hot coffee that is poured over ice. Another difference between cold brew and iced coffee is that the first one can actually be served hot, unlike iced coffee. Since cold brew only refers to the process of using cold or room temperature water, a coffee can still qualify as ‘cold brew’ even if it is served hot.