Last Updated on January 28, 2024 by Ibrahim Bat
Trader Joe’s Instant Cold Brew is a coffee that provides a quick way to make cold brew. Instead of the usual 12-24 hour wait, you can have traditional cold brew coffee ready in just a few minutes. It’s brewed with cold water, then a spray-drying method is used to create instant cold brew powder from 100% arabica beans.
What makes Trader Joe’s Instant Cold Brew Different?
Trader Joe’s Instant Cold Brew Coffee is a product offered by grocery store chain Trader Joe’s. It is designed to provide the convenience of cold brew coffee without the lengthy brewing process typically associated with it.
Trader Joe’s Instant Cold Brew Coffee is designed for those who don’t want to wait for the cold brewing process that can take 12-24 hours. You can prepare homemade cold brew using this instant coffee in just a few minutes. However, while instant cold brew tastes good, you shouldn’t expect it to have the classic cold brew flavor.
- Instant Cold Brew: Unlike traditional cold brew coffee, which can take 12-24 hours to prepare, Trader Joe’s Instant Cold Brew allows you to make cold brew coffee in seconds.
- 100% Arabica Coffee: The product is made from a blend of 100% Arabica coffee beans known for their smooth and mild flavor profile.
- Easy Preparation: To make a cup of cold brew coffee using this product, you simply need to add 1 heaping teaspoon of Trader Joe’s Instant Cold Brew to 12 fluid ounces (approximately 355 milliliters) of cold water. You can also use hot water if you prefer hot coffee.
- Adjustable Strength: You can customize the strength of your cold brew coffee by adding more coffee or more water as desired. This allows you to achieve your preferred taste and strength.
Trader Joe’s Instant Cold Brew vs. Traditional Cold Brew vs. Nitro Cold Brew
There are three coffee types. Trader Joe’s Instant Cold Brew is made quickly with water but doesn’t taste like regular cold brew. Traditional Cold Brew is made by letting coffee sit in cold water for a long time. It’s less acidic and tastes smooth, but it takes time to make. Nitro Cold Brew has nitrogen, making it very creamy and velvety-smooth.
| Feature | Trader Joe’s Instant | Traditional Cold Brew | Nitro Cold Brew |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brewing Process | Brewed with cold water, then spray dried method to create instant cold brew powder. | Coarsely ground coffee beans steeped in cold water for 12-24 hours. | Cold brew coffee infused with nitrogen gas. |
| Texture & Mouthfeel | Comparable to regular rehydrated coffee. | Characteristically smooth due to prolonged extraction, often less acidic. | Uniquely velvety, creamy, and smooth due to nitrogen. |
| Convenience | Just add cold or hot water, and it’s ready in seconds. No waiting or filtering needed. | Requires preparation ahead of time. | Ready-to-drink from cans or on tap at coffee shops. |
| Shelf Life | Extended because it’s freeze-dried; can be stored without refrigeration. | Freshly made brew lasts about 1-2 weeks when refrigerated. | Limited once opened; best consumed shortly after being poured or opened. |
| Flavor Profile | Tastes good but doesn’t fully capture the classic cold brew flavor. | Smooth and mellow, with reduced bitterness and acidity. | Smooth with the nitrogen further enhancing the mellow flavor and reducing perceived acidity. |
| Serving Appearance | Resembles regular cold or hot brew coffee once prepared. | Deep and dark, due to its long steeping time. | Has a cascading effect with a creamy, foamy head, similar to draft beer. |
| Customization & Flexibility | Adjust strength by varying powder amount. | Modify strength by altering steeping time and coffee-to-water ratio. | Typically served as-is due to its nitrogen-induced characteristics. |
| Ideal For | Quick cold brew without the wait. | Those valuing the ritual of cold brewing. | People seeking a velvety, visually appealing coffee experience. |
How do you use Trader Joe’s instant cold brew?
Choose Your Water
Depending on your preference, you can use either cold or hot water. Cold water will provide a traditional cold brew experience, while hot water will make it similar to a regular coffee.
Measure Your Water
Pour 12 fluid ounces (about 1.5 cups) of water into a cup or mug.
Add the Instant Cold Brew
Scoop out one heaping teaspoon (4.5g) of the Instant Cold Brew Coffee powder.
Stir Until Dissolved
Add the instant cold brew coffee to the water and stir well until it’s completely dissolved.
Enjoy!
Once the coffee has dissolved, your beverage is ready to drink. Enjoy the full-bodied, dark, and smooth flavor with a delightful caramel-like aroma.
How do I make Trader Joe’s instant cold brew better?
- Add a splash of milk, cream, or a non-dairy alternative for a creamier coffee.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of instant cold brew based on your taste preferences. If you like a stronger coffee, add more; if you prefer a milder, use less.
- You can also experiment with flavor additions like vanilla extract, cinnamon, or cocoa powder to customize your drink to your liking.
- Add a few ice cubes for an extra refreshing beverage if you’re making a cold version.
Trader Joe’s Instant Cold Brew Nutrition Facts Label
What is the reason behind Trader Joe’s decision to recall Instant Cold Brew coffee?
Trader Joe’s has issued a recall for its Instant Cold Brew Coffee due to potential container glass fragments. The affected products, sold nationwide, have expiration date codes of 6/13/2024, 11/26/2024, and 12/30/2024.
Consumers are advised to check their pantry for the recalled coffee and either discard it immediately or return it to a Trader Joe’s store for a full refund. No injuries related to this recall have been reported, but individuals with health concerns linked to the product should contact their healthcare provider.
For inquiries, you can reach Trader Joe’s customer relations at 1-626-599-3817 during weekdays from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. PST or submit product feedback via email.
On the other hand, Trader Joe’s instant cold brew coffees are expected to return to stores in a few months.
Trader Joe's Instant Cold Brew Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tsp or 4.5g Trader Joe's Instant Cold Brew Powder
- 12 ounces 355 mL cold or hot water
Instructions
- Pick and Pour Your WaterChoose cold or hot water. Measure out 12 fluid ounces (1.5 cups) into a cup.
- Add and Mix the CoffeeScoop a heaping teaspoon (4.5g) of Instant Cold Brew.Stir the coffee powder in water until it dissolves.
- Enjoy Your Cold BrewOnce dissolved, your coffee is ready.Enjoy its rich taste and caramel-like aroma.
Notes
- To make your coffee creamier, you can add a little milk, cream, or a milk substitute. Try putting in some vanilla, cinnamon, or cocoa powder to give it a special flavor. If you want your coffee cold, throw in some ice cubes to cool it down. Keep trying different things until it tastes perfect to you.
Nutrition
What type of coffee beans does Trader Joe's use for their Instant Cold Brew Coffee?
Trader Joe’s Instant Cold Brew Coffee is made from 100% Arabica coffee beans sourced from India.
Is Trader Joe’s Instant Cold Brew Kosher?
Yes; Trader Joe’s Instant Cold Brew Coffee is certified kosher.
How much caffeine is in Trader Joe's Instant Cold Brew Coffee?
While some claim that Trader Joe’s instant cold brew coffee contains 100mg of caffeine per serving, the caffeine content is not officially stated on the product packaging or their website.
