The Only Iced Chemex Recipe You'll Need

If you’re serious about iced coffee, let’s cut to the chase. The Chemex is where it’s at. It’s sleek, it’s effective, and it makes coffee that’s cleaner than a freshly minted dollar bill. We’re talking about a brew that’s crisp, refreshing, and perfect for those blazing hot days or just when you want to impress your friends.

All you need is the right gear, some quality beans (we know where you can get these), and a bit of know-how. Let’s break it down.

What You Need:

• Chemex
• Chemex filter
• Coffee beans: 30g (Go for a light to medium roast. Trust me.)
• Water: 300g (Filtered water makes a big difference.)
• Ice: 200g 
• Grinder: Burr grinder is a must. No excuses.
• Scale: Get precise. Coffee’s not a guessing game.
• Kettle: A gooseneck kettle gives you control over your pour.

Top Coffee Regions for Your Iced Chemex

You want to know what makes a great iced coffee? It starts with great beans. Here’s where you should be looking:

1. Ethiopia: Known for its wild, fruity flavors. Perfect for a refreshing kick.
2. Kenya: Bold, with a berry punch that really pops when iced.
3. Colombia: Smooth, chocolatey, and balanced. Ideal for those who like it mellow.
4. Costa Rica: Bright, tropical flavors that make every sip feel like a vacation.

Step-by-Step Brewing:

1. Measure out 30g of coffee and grind it to a medium-coarse texture. Think of it like kosher salt. Freshly ground beans are a game-changer.
2. Toss 200g of ice into the bottom of your Chemex. This is what cools your coffee and gets it ready to drink right away.
3. Boil 300g of water and let it cool slightly. You want it at about 205°F. Hot, but not scalding.
4. Rinse, then pop the filter into your Chemex and rinse it with hot water. This eliminates any paper taste and preps your Chemex for action.
5. Dump your ground coffee into the filter. Level it out so the water flows evenly.
6. Pour 40g of hot water over the grounds to let them “bloom.” This step releases carbon dioxide and boosts flavor. Wait 30-45 seconds then pour the rest of the water
7. Slowly pour the remaining water over the coffee grounds. Use a circular motion and don’t rush it. This should take about 3-4 minutes and let it drip.
8. Let the coffee drip through the filter and over the ice. This should take 2-3 minutes. The ice will chill the coffee as it brews.
9. Give the Chemex a gentle swirl to mix the coffee with the ice. Pour it into a glass, add more ice if needed, and you’re set.

Timing Breakdown:

• Grinding beans: 1-2 minutes
• Heating water: 2-4 minutes
• Bloom and pour: 3-4 minutes
• Total brew time: 6-7 minutes

In under 10 minutes, you’ve got a coffee that’s not just cold but packed with flavor. It’s clean, it’s refreshing, and it’s everything you need to make your day better.

The Bottom Line

The Chemex isn’t just a coffee maker; it’s a tool that brings out the best in your coffee. And with the right beans and a straightforward approach, you’re not just making coffee—you’re making something exceptional.

So, quit waiting around and start brewing. Your perfect iced coffee is just a few steps away. Enjoy!