Inexpensive Cold Brew Coffee Devices for Under $100: Bruer, Puck Puck & Mizudashi
Summer is here, and with those 35°C days, there's nothing quite like a refreshing cold brew coffee to quench your thirst. If you’re looking for a simple, budget-friendly way to enjoy cafe-quality cold coffee at home, I’ve got you covered. In this guide, I’ll walk you through three fantastic cold brew devices you can pick up for under $100: the Bruer Cold Brewing System, the Puck Puck, and the Hario Mizudashi Coffee Pot.
Why Cold Brew?
Cold brew coffee is smooth, low in acidity, and incredibly versatile. Whether you prefer a light, fruity flavor or a rich, molasses-like intensity, cold brew can be tailored to your taste. Plus, it’s perfect for hot days when a steaming espresso isn’t the vibe. These devices make it easy to prepare cold brew at home without breaking the bank.
1. The Bruer Cold Brewing System
The Bruer is a classic cold drip system, known for its adjustable drip rate and consistent results. Here’s how it works:
- Setup: Add ice and water to the top chamber, fresh ground coffee in the middle section, and a paper filter on top of the coffee bed for even saturation.
- Brewing: The water drips slowly through the coffee, producing a smooth, rich brew over 12-24 hours.
- Output: Yields 500ml of coffee, perfect for two servings.
Recipe:
- 50g of coffee
- 100g of ice
- 600g of filtered water
- Drip rate: 1 drip per second
This system is perfect for anyone who enjoys the precision of adjusting brew times and rates. It’s also great for sharing your coffee creations with a partner or friend.
2. The Puck Puck
The Puck Puck is an ingenious add-on for AeroPress users, transforming it into a cold drip device. Its portability and affordability make it a top pick for coffee enthusiasts.
- Setup: Attach the Puck Puck to your AeroPress, add coffee, and adjust the drip rate with the built-in collar. Use the accompanying app to fine-tune your brew.
- Brewing: Similar to the Bruer, water drips evenly onto the coffee bed, thanks to the included dispersion disc.
- Output: Perfect for single servings or experimenting with flavors.
Recipe:
- 40g of coffee
- 100g of ice
- 500g of filtered water
- Drip rate: 1 drip per second
If you already own an AeroPress, the Puck Puck is a budget-friendly way to explore cold drip coffee.
3. The Hario Mizudashi Coffee Pot
For simplicity and practicality, the Mizudashi is hard to beat. This cold steep device makes cold brewing a breeze, with minimal cleanup.
- Setup: Fill the fine mesh filter with 80g of coarse coffee, place it in the pot, and pour in 1 liter of cold water. Stir to ensure all grounds are saturated.
- Brewing: Let it steep for 12-18 hours in the fridge.
- Output: Yields a liter of cold brew, ideal for multiple servings.
Pro Tip: Experiment with water temperature. Room-temperature water (22°C) can bring out sweeter, fruitier notes, while chilled water delivers a smoother, lower-acidity brew.
Final Thoughts
Each of these devices offers a unique way to enjoy cold brew coffee:
- Bruer: Best for precision and sharing.
- Puck Puck: Perfect for AeroPress owners and single servings.
- Mizudashi: Simple, affordable, and great for larger batches.
For added flair, try experimenting with flavors. Add a splash of mineral water, organic cola, or even a twist of citrus to create unique cold brew drinks.
Whatever your choice, cold brew coffee is a delicious way to beat the heat and enjoy a refreshing caffeine boost. Share your favorite recipes and tweaks in the comments—I’d love to hear how you customize your cold brews!
Cheers, and happy brewing!
