Product Overview

The Toddy Cold Brew System is the original cold brew coffee maker that started the cold brew revolution in 1964. Created by chemical engineering graduate Todd Simpson, this simple yet ingenious system produces smooth, low-acid cold brew concentrate that's 67% less acidic than traditional hot-brewed coffee.

Unlike complicated cold brew makers with elaborate filtration systems, the Toddy uses a straightforward immersion brewing method that extracts coffee's naturally sweet, complex flavors while leaving behind the bitter acids and oils. The result? Incredibly smooth cold brew concentrate that you can enjoy hot or cold, diluted to your perfect strength.

Perfect for cold brew beginners and enthusiasts alike, the Toddy System brews enough concentrate for multiple servings—up to 7 cups that stay fresh in your refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Whether you're looking to save money on daily iced coffee runs or simply want café-quality cold brew at home, the Toddy delivers consistent, delicious results every time.

Key Features

Original Cold Brew Innovation

The Toddy Cold Brew System invented the cold brew category over 60 years ago. This proven design has stood the test of time because it simply works—no gimmicks, just perfect cold brew.

Low-Acid Brewing Method

The cold water extraction process produces coffee that's 67% less acidic than hot-brewed coffee, making it gentler on sensitive stomachs while highlighting coffee's natural sweetness.

Makes Concentrate for Versatility

Brew once, enjoy for up to 2 weeks. The concentrate dilutes 1:1 with water or milk, giving you control over strength and allowing you to make both hot and iced coffee drinks.

Large Batch Capacity

Makes approximately 7 cups of cold brew concentrate from 12 ounces of coffee—enough for 14+ servings when diluted, perfect for households or entertaining.

Simple Immersion Process

No complicated machinery, electricity, or special skills required. Just add coarse ground coffee and cold water, wait 12-24 hours, and release the delicious concentrate.

Complete Brewing System

Includes everything you need: brewing container, glass decanter with lid, reusable filters, rubber stopper, and detailed instructions.

Durable & Long-Lasting

Made from BPA-free plastic and laboratory-grade glass. The brewing container and decanter last for years, with only filters needing periodic replacement.

Easy to Clean

All components rinse clean easily. The decanter is dishwasher safe, making cleanup effortless after brewing.

Specifications

Model: Toddy Cold Brew System (Original)
Capacity: Makes 7 cups (56 oz) cold brew concentrate
Coffee Required: 12 oz (340g) coarse ground coffee per batch
Brew Time: 12-24 hours (room temperature)
Brewing Container: BPA-free plastic, 2-quart capacity
Decanter: Glass carafe with handle and lid
Filtration: Reusable felt filters and paper filters included
Dimensions: Brewing container: 6" diameter x 10" height
Decanter Capacity: 7 cups (56 oz)
Storage: Concentrate lasts up to 2 weeks refrigerated
Made in: USA

What's Included

1x Toddy Brewing Container (BPA-free plastic)
1x Glass Decanter with Lid (56 oz capacity)
2x Reusable Felt Filters
1x Pack of Paper Filters (10 count)
1x Rubber Stopper
Detailed Brewing Instructions

Note: Replacement filters available separately. Each felt filter lasts 10-12 brews with proper care.

How to Make Cold Brew with the Toddy System

What You'll Need

Toddy Cold Brew System
12 oz (340g) coarse ground coffee
7 cups (56 oz) cold or room temperature water
Large spoon or stirrer
Refrigerator space

Step-by-Step Brewing Instructions

Prep the Brewing Container (0:00): Insert the rubber stopper into the bottom hole of the brewing container from the outside. Place one paper filter in the bottom of the container, covering the stopper.
Add First Water (0:02): Pour 1 cup of cold water into the brewing container to wet the paper filter.
Add Half the Coffee (0:03): Add 6 oz (half) of your coarse ground coffee to the container.
Add More Water (0:04): Slowly pour 3 cups of cold water in a circular motion over the coffee grounds. Do not stir yet.
Add Remaining Coffee (0:05): Add the remaining 6 oz of coarse ground coffee on top.
Add Final Water (0:06): Slowly pour the remaining 3 cups of cold water over the grounds in a circular motion.
Wait 5 Minutes (0:06-0:11): Let the coffee sit undisturbed for 5 minutes to allow grounds to fully saturate.
Gentle Stir (0:11): Gently press down any floating grounds with a spoon. Do not stir vigorously—just ensure all grounds are wet.
Brew (0:11-12:00 to 24:00): Cover the container with plastic wrap or a plate. Let sit at room temperature for 12-24 hours. For smoother, less acidic results, brew for the full 24 hours.
Release the Concentrate: Place the glass decanter under the brewing container. Remove the rubber stopper and let the concentrate drain completely (about 10-15 minutes). You may need to gently lift and tilt the container to help the last bit drain.
Discard Grounds (Optional): After draining, you can remove the felt filter with grounds and compost them, or let the container sit for an additional 30 minutes to extract every last drop.
Store & Enjoy: Cap the glass decanter and refrigerate. Your cold brew concentrate stays fresh for up to 2 weeks.

How to Serve Your Toddy Cold Brew

Basic Cold Brew (Iced)

Ratio: 1 part concentrate to 1 part water (or milk)
Method: Fill glass with ice, add concentrate halfway, top with water or milk
Customize: Adjust ratio to taste (stronger: 2:1 concentrate to water; milder: 1:2)

Hot Coffee from Cold Brew

Ratio: 1 part concentrate to 1 part hot water
Method: Heat water to 160-180°F, combine with concentrate in mug
Benefit: Still 67% less acidic than regular hot coffee, with smoother flavor

Cold Brew Latte

Ratio: 1 part concentrate to 2 parts milk
Method: Fill glass with ice, add concentrate, top with milk of choice
Options: Dairy, oat, almond, or soy milk all work beautifully

Specialty Drinks

Vietnamese Iced Coffee: Concentrate + sweetened condensed milk over ice
Nitro-Style: Diluted concentrate poured over ice with a splash of cream
Cold Brew Tonic: Concentrate + tonic water + lime for a refreshing twist
Affogato: Concentrate poured over vanilla ice cream

Concentration Guide

Mild: 1 part concentrate + 2 parts water/milk
Medium: 1 part concentrate + 1 part water/milk (recommended starting point)
Strong: 2 parts concentrate + 1 part water/milk
Extra Strong: Concentrate served straight over ice (use sparingly—it's potent!)

Why Choose the Toddy Cold Brew System?

The Original & Still the Best

While dozens of cold brew makers have emerged, the Toddy remains the gold standard. Its simple, proven design has made millions of gallons of perfect cold brew since 1964.

Incredibly Smooth & Low-Acid

The cold water extraction eliminates 67% of the acids found in hot coffee, resulting in a naturally sweet, smooth brew that won't upset sensitive stomachs or cause acid reflux.

Cost-Effective

One batch of Toddy cold brew costs approximately $8-12 (depending on coffee choice) and yields 14+ servings—that's less than $1 per cup versus $4-6 at coffee shops.

Concentrate Convenience

Make cold brew once and enjoy it for up to 2 weeks. Perfect for busy mornings—just pour, dilute, and go. No waiting for coffee to brew or cool down.

Versatile Brewing

Unlike iced coffee makers that only make cold drinks, Toddy concentrate works for both hot and cold beverages. Get two coffee makers in one.

Foolproof Results

The immersion method is incredibly forgiving. Unlike pour over or espresso, there's no technique to master—just combine coffee and water, wait, and strain.

Minimal Equipment

No electricity, no complicated machines, no expensive cartridges. Just simple, reliable tools that last for years.

Perfect for Entertaining

Brew a large batch before guests arrive. Serve a variety of cold brew drinks without constantly brewing fresh coffee.

Toddy vs. Other Cold Brew Methods

Toddy System vs. French Press Cold Brew

Toddy: Larger capacity (7 cups concentrate), dedicated filtration system, cleaner result
French Press: Smaller batches (2-3 cups), coffee sediment in final product, multi-use tool
Best for: Toddy for regular cold brew drinkers; French press for occasional cold brew

Toddy vs. Mason Jar Method

Toddy: Proper filtration, easy straining, no mess, consistent results
Mason Jar: DIY approach, requires cheesecloth/straining, messy cleanup, sediment issues
Best for: Toddy for convenience and consistency; mason jar only if testing cold brew

Toddy vs. OXO Cold Brew Coffee Maker

Toddy: Proven 60-year design, makes concentrate, glass decanter, lower price
OXO: Built-in filtration tower, modern design, easier cleanup, slightly more expensive
Best for: Both excellent—Toddy for traditional approach; OXO for modern convenience

Toddy vs. Primula Cold Brew Pitcher

Toddy: Larger capacity, makes stronger concentrate, separate brewing/storage
Primula: All-in-one pitcher, smaller batches (6 cups), brew and store in same container
Best for: Toddy for serious cold brew drinkers; Primula for casual use

Toddy vs. Coffee Shop Cold Brew

Toddy at Home: $0.50-1.00 per cup, customize strength and ingredients, always available
Coffee Shop: $4-6 per cup, no prep work, variety of flavors
Best for: Toddy saves serious money for daily cold brew drinkers

Perfect For

Iced Coffee Lovers: Daily cold brew without daily coffee shop expenses
Sensitive Stomachs: 67% less acidity makes coffee easier to digest
Budget-Conscious Coffee Drinkers: Save $100+ monthly on iced coffee runs
Hot Summer Days: Always have refreshing cold brew ready in the fridge
Busy Professionals: Brew once on Sunday, enjoy all week long
Coffee Enthusiasts: Explore how different beans taste as cold brew
Home Entertainers: Easily serve cold brew drinks to guests
Meal Preppers: Batch brewing fits perfectly into meal prep routines
College Students & Dorm Dwellers: No electricity or complicated equipment needed
Office Kitchens: Provide affordable, delicious cold brew for the whole team

What Coffee Works Best for Cold Brew?

Roast Level

Medium to dark roasts work beautifully in the Toddy System. These roasts bring out chocolate, caramel, and nutty flavors that shine in cold brew. Light roasts can work but may taste weak or sour.

Grind Size

Coarse grind is essential—think French press consistency or raw sugar texture. Fine grinds create over-extraction, bitterness, and difficult straining.

Coffee Amount

Standard recipe: 12 oz (340g) coffee to 7 cups water creates medium-strength concentrate. Adjust to taste:

Lighter concentrate: 10 oz coffee (milder flavor, stretches further)
Standard concentrate: 12 oz coffee (recommended starting point)
Stronger concentrate: 14 oz coffee (intense flavor, dilute more when serving)

Best Coffee Types

Brazilian coffee: Chocolate and nutty notes, low acidity
Colombian coffee: Balanced sweetness, caramel flavors
Sumatra coffee: Earthy, full-bodied, syrupy texture
Cold brew specific blends: Many roasters create blends optimized for cold brewing
Freshly roasted: Use coffee within 4-6 weeks of roast date for best flavor

Pre-Ground vs. Whole Bean

Whole bean coffee ground coarse just before brewing produces the best flavor. However, pre-ground coarse coffee works well if freshly packaged. Avoid fine or medium grinds—they won't work properly in the Toddy.

Cold Brew Tips for Best Results

Use Coarse Grind Only: Fine grinds clog the filter and create bitter, over-extracted coffee
Use Cold or Room Temp Water: Never use hot water—it defeats the low-acid extraction
Don't Stir Vigorously: Gentle pressing is enough; aggressive stirring causes over-extraction
Brew for Full 24 Hours: Longer extraction (up to 24 hours) produces smoother, less acidic results
Let It Drain Completely: Don't rush the filtering process—let gravity do the work for 10-15 minutes
Start with 1:1 Dilution: You can always add more concentrate, but you can't take it back
Store in Glass Decanter: The airtight lid keeps concentrate fresh for up to 2 weeks
Keep Concentrate Refrigerated: Always store concentrate cold to maintain freshness
Clean Filters Properly: Rinse felt filters thoroughly after each use, let air dry completely
Experiment with Ratios: Everyone's taste is different—adjust coffee amount and dilution to find your perfect brew

Care & Maintenance

After Each Brew

Brewing Container:

Remove and discard paper filter with coffee grounds (compost if possible)
Rinse felt filter under cold water until water runs clear
Let felt filter air dry completely before storing
Rinse brewing container with warm water
Air dry or towel dry

Glass Decanter:

Dishwasher safe (top rack)
Hand wash with warm soapy water
Dry completely before storing concentrate

Filter Maintenance

Felt Filters:

Rinse thoroughly after each use
Air dry completely (never store damp)
Deep clean every 3-4 uses: soak in hot water for 15 minutes
Replace after 10-12 brews or when filtration slows significantly
Replacement felt filters available separately

Paper Filters:

Single use only
Discard with coffee grounds after brewing
Replacement packs of 50 available

Storage

Store brewing container and filters in dry location
Keep rubber stopper with the system
Glass decanter stores easily in refrigerator with concentrate

When to Replace Parts

Felt filters: Every 10-12 brews (approximately every 3-4 months for regular users)
Paper filters: After each brew (purchase 50-packs)
Rubber stopper: Every 1-2 years or if it no longer seals properly
Brewing container: Should last many years with proper care
Glass decanter: Should last indefinitely unless broken

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How is cold brew different from iced coffee? A: Iced coffee is hot-brewed coffee poured over ice, while cold brew is coffee steeped in cold water for 12-24 hours. Cold brew is smoother, less acidic (67% less), naturally sweeter, and has less bitterness.

Q: Why does the Toddy method produce less acidic coffee? A: Hot water extracts both desirable flavors and harsh acids/oils. Cold water extraction pulls out coffee's natural sweetness and complex flavors while leaving behind 67% of the acids.

Q: How long does Toddy cold brew concentrate last? A: Properly stored in the sealed glass decanter in the refrigerator, Toddy concentrate stays fresh for up to 2 weeks.

Q: Can I use pre-ground coffee? A: Yes, as long as it's coarse ground (French press grind). However, freshly ground beans produce better flavor. Avoid fine or medium grinds.

Q: How many servings does one batch make? A: One batch makes 7 cups of concentrate. When diluted 1:1 with water or milk, that's 14 cups of ready-to-drink cold brew.

Q: Can I brew for less than 12 hours? A: You can, but results will be weak and less flavorful. The Toddy method requires 12-24 hours for proper extraction. For best results, brew the full 24 hours.

Q: Do I need to refrigerate while brewing? A: No, brew at room temperature. Refrigeration slows extraction. Only refrigerate the finished concentrate after straining.

Q: Can I make hot coffee with Toddy concentrate? A: Absolutely! Mix equal parts concentrate and hot water (160-180°F). It's still 67% less acidic than regular hot coffee with a uniquely smooth flavor.

Q: Why is my cold brew weak or watery? A: Either you used too little coffee (use full 12 oz), didn't brew long enough (brew 24 hours), or over-diluted when serving (start with 1:1 ratio).

Q: Can I reuse the coffee grounds for a second batch? A: No, cold brew extraction pulls out most of the flavor in one brew. Re-using grounds produces weak, flavorless results.

Q: How do I know when to replace the felt filter? A: Replace when straining takes significantly longer, filter shows wear/holes, or after 10-12 uses—whichever comes first.

Q: Is the Toddy System difficult to clean? A: No, it's very simple. Rinse the felt filter, wash the brewing container, and the glass decanter is dishwasher safe.

Toddy

Toddy Cold Brew System - Original Cold Brew Coffee Maker Since 1964

Toddy OS Paper Coffee Filter Bags - 20 Count