Cold Brew Negroni Recipe – A Bold Twist on the Classic Negroni

Cold Brew Negroni Recipe – The Cold Brew Negroni Recipe is a modern, caffeinated twist on the timeless Italian cocktail, combining the smooth bitterness of coffee with the iconic trio of gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth. It’s sophisticated, aromatic, and brimming with depth—perfect for coffee lovers and cocktail enthusiasts alike.

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Traditionally, the Negroni is known for its perfect balance of bitter, sweet, and botanical notes. By adding cold brew coffee, this version introduces a new layer of complexity—rich, roasted undertones that enhance the bitterness of Campari and complement the sweetness of vermouth. The result is a cocktail that’s not only bold and awakening but also incredibly smooth and refreshing.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Active Time: 5 minutes

• Resting Time: 0 minutes

• Cuisines: Italian, Modern Fusion

• Course: Cocktail / Beverage

• Servings: 1 serving

• Calories: Approximately 190 kcal per serving

• Total Time: 5 minutes

Equipment

To craft a perfectly balanced Cold Brew Negroni, you’ll need:

• Mixing glass or cocktail shaker

• Bar spoon or stirrer

• Measuring jigger

• Strainer

• Old-fashioned glass or rocks glass

• Ice cubes

• Coffee maker or cold brew setup

Ingredients

• 1 oz gin (London Dry or botanical-forward variety)

• 1 oz Campari

• 1 oz sweet vermouth

• 1 oz cold brew coffee (unsweetened)

• Ice cubes (large cubes preferred)

• Orange peel or dehydrated orange slice for garnish

Optional Additions:

• A few coffee beans for garnish

• Dash of chocolate bitters (for extra richness)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cold Brew Coffee
   Brew your cold brew ahead of time or use store-bought. For homemade, steep coarsely ground coffee in cold water for about 12–16 hours, then strain. The result should be smooth, strong, and slightly chocolatey in flavor.

2. Fill Your Mixing Glass
   Add a generous amount of ice to a mixing glass or shaker. Large cubes work best—they melt slower and prevent over-dilution.

3. Add the Spirits
   Pour in the gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth. These three are the heart of any Negroni, offering botanical depth, bittersweetness, and smooth body.

4. Add the Cold Brew
   Pour in the cold brew coffee. The key is to use high-quality cold brew—smooth, bold, and not overly acidic. This addition will balance the bitterness of Campari and create a silky mouthfeel.

5. Stir and Combine
   Using a bar spoon, stir the mixture gently for about 30 seconds. This chills the drink while ensuring even dilution and blending of flavors.

6. Strain and Serve
   Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with large ice cubes.

7. Garnish
   Express an orange peel over the glass to release its essential oils, then drop it in. Alternatively, garnish with a dehydrated orange slice or a few coffee beans for visual flair and aroma.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Flavor Profile

The Cold Brew Negroni offers a perfectly balanced flavor experience:

• Bitterness: Campari and coffee both contribute a complex bitterness, but it’s softened by the sweet vermouth.

• Sweetness: The vermouth brings a subtle sweetness that harmonizes with the coffee’s roasted notes.

• Botanicals: Gin adds a herbal, floral essence that brightens the cocktail.

• Aromatics: The orange garnish adds a citrus fragrance, enhancing the refreshing yet deep experience.

Why You’ll Love This Drink

The Cold Brew Negroni Recipe is a match made in heaven for anyone who loves both coffee and cocktails. It’s bold yet balanced, bitter yet smooth, and luxurious yet simple to make.

Unlike most coffee cocktails that lean sweet or creamy, this one remains refreshingly dry and sophisticated. It’s perfect for late afternoons, brunches, or evening gatherings when you crave something that stimulates both the palate and the mind.

Serving Suggestions

The Cold Brew Negroni pairs wonderfully with rich and savory bites. Try serving it with:

• Aged cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano or Gouda

• Dark chocolate truffles or espresso brownies

• Charcuterie boards with prosciutto, figs, and nuts

• Brunch dishes like smoked salmon toast or avocado crostini

Conclusion

The Cold Brew Negroni Recipe is proof that great classics never go out of style—they just evolve. This contemporary take on the iconic Negroni infuses the timeless balance of gin, Campari, and vermouth with the robust depth of cold brew coffee, resulting in a drink that’s elegant, invigorating, and utterly unforgettable.