Homemade Coffee Filters & Simple Vanilla Syrup

For a season I worked as a Barista in a small coffee shop out west, I really really enjoyed that job. There is actually a lot to learn about coffee and the proper brewing thereof. I remember having to watch a video called Coffee 101, which was very similar to this style. In addition to having multiple hours of hands on training before I was allowed to fly solo. I am thankful for the instruction, even now, because you do not want to be the girl to mess up a Monday morning coffee fix.

Now my coffee making endeavors are in the service of family, friends & hospitality and vary slightly in preparation. Recently I made up some reusable coffee filters for my coffee cone from some muslin - by simply tracing my last paper filter on the fold, and stitching along the sides. I then made a small loop hanger on one end, which allows for the filter to hang dry after rinsing. I also blanket stitched along the top of the filters to give a more finished look, which was done before the actual side stitching and the hoop addition.

I also like to use a cold brew coffee sock, like the one shown here. This was a gift from a friend, whom shared her pattern with me. This coffee sock fits a gallon or half gallon jar just perfectly. The sock measurements are approximate as shown in the photo - and the stitching is beautifully simple.

How I Make Cold Brew Coffee: you will need to play with the recipe to find your desired strength

~ Place about 1/2 to 3/4 cup of coarsely ground beans into your coffee sock, place the sock in the neck of your jar. Fill the half gallon jar with water, allowing the water to flow through the coffee sock. Draw up the strings to seal the sock and place the lid on the jar, with the sock string hanging out. Let rest for twelve to eighteen hours and remove the sock. Store cold brew in the fridge. Recycle the coffee grounds to the garden or compost. Rinse the coffee sock and hang dry.

Summer days I drink my coffee two ways - in the morning it's hot and bullet proof in composition. In the afternoon, if I desire a cold frappe or iced coffee I reach for my cold brew and touch it up with a little simple vanilla syrup. 

 

 

 

Simple Vanilla Syrup

½ cup coconut sugar

½ cup water

1 T vanilla extract

*Bring the water and sugar to a boil, simmer over low heat until thicker. Remove from heat and add your vanilla extract. Stir. Let cool and store in a glass jar in your frid - use as needed.