The first sip of my Blackberry Sage Cold Brew transports me to sun-drenched summer mornings, where the air is filled with sweet berry scents and the promise of a refreshing day ahead. This isn’t just any cold brew; it’s a vibrant blend of rich dark roast coffee, naturally sweet blackberries, and an aromatic hint of fresh sage. What makes this drink truly delightful is the creamy oat milk foam crowning it, turning a simple beverage into a luxurious experience. Perfect for those busy weekdays or leisurely weekends, this recipe is quick to prepare and elegantly versatile. Whether you’re seeking to impress guests at brunch or enjoy a moment of indulgence by yourself, this naturally sweetened, dairy-free concoction is sure to become your go-to summer drink. Ready to elevate your coffee game? Let’s dive into this refreshing recipe!

Why Try Blackberry Sage Cold Brew?

Refreshing, bold flavors: This drink combines dark roast coffee with the natural sweetness of blackberries, creating a unique taste sensation. Luxurious oat milk foam: The creamy topping transforms this cold brew into a café-style masterpiece at home. Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delightful drink that rivals any coffee shop. Versatile options: Feel free to swap sage for rosemary or add a hint of lemon juice for extra brightness. Pair it with some almond croissants or avocado toast for a complete breakfast experience, or enjoy it solo for a quick pick-me-up. Don’t miss out on my Sausage Pineapple Appetizer for a fun brunch addition!

Blackberry Sage Cold Brew Ingredients

• Elevate your summer drinks with this refreshing recipe!

For the Cold Brew

Coarsely Ground Coffee – Provides the bold base flavor for the Blackberry Sage Cold Brew. Substitution: Use decaf coffee for an evening option.
Cold Water – Acts as the medium for brewing the coffee. Note: Use filtered water for the best taste.

For the Muddled Mixture

Fresh Blackberries – Adds sweetness and color to each sip. Substitution: Frozen blackberries can be used if fresh ones are unavailable.
Sage Leaves – Imparts a light herbal flavor that complements the berries perfectly. Substitution: Replace with rosemary for a different herbal note.
Maple Syrup – Naturally sweetens the drink without refined sugars. Substitution: Honey or agave syrup can be used instead.

For the Topping

Barista Oat Milk – Creates a creamy, frothy topping for that café-style indulgence. Substitution: Any preferred oat milk can be used, but barista-style froths best.
Ice Cubes – Keeps the drink cool and refreshing for those hot summer days.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Blackberry Sage Cold Brew

Step 1: Brew the Cold Coffee
In a large jar, combine coarsely ground coffee and cold water in a ratio that suits your preference, typically about 1:4. Stir gently to combine, cover the jar tightly, and refrigerate for at least 12 hours. This long steeping time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring a rich coffee concentrate ideal for your Blackberry Sage Cold Brew.

Step 2: Muddle the Berries & Herbs
Once your coffee is brewed, take a handful of fresh blackberries and place them in a bowl. Add a few sage leaves and a drizzle of maple syrup, then muddle gently with a muddler or the back of a spoon until the blackberries release their juices and the mixture becomes aromatic. Divide this muddled blend into two glasses, setting the stage for the vibrant flavors of your cold brew.

Step 3: Strain the Cold Brew
After the steeping period, retrieve your coffee jar from the refrigerator. Using a coffee filter or fine mesh strainer, pour the coffee concentrate through the filter into a clean pitcher or another jar to separate the grounds. This step leaves you with a smooth, rich cold brew that forms the delicious base for your Blackberry Sage Cold Brew.

Step 4: Assemble the Drinks
Fill each glass containing the muddled blackberry-sage mixture with ice cubes to keep your drink refreshing. Carefully pour the strained cold brew concentrate over the muddled mixture in each glass. The dark coffee will mix beautifully with the berries, creating a stunning drink that’s not only refreshing but also visually appealing.

Step 5: Froth the Oat Milk
In a small saucepan, gently warm your barista oat milk over low heat, ensuring it’s warm but not boiling. Once heated, whisk in a touch more maple syrup to sweeten it to your liking. If you have a milk frother, use it to whip the oat milk into a luscious foam. This creamy topping will enhance the richness of your Blackberry Sage Cold Brew.

Step 6: Top with Foam
Spoon the frothy oat milk over each glass of cold brew, allowing it to float delicately on top. For an extra touch of elegance, garnish your drink with remaining sage leaves and a few additional fresh blackberries. This final flourish not only adds visual appeal but also accentuates the herbal and fruity notes of your refreshing Blackberry Sage Cold Brew.

Storage Tips for Blackberry Sage Cold Brew

Fridge: Keep any leftover cold brew concentrate in a sealed container in the fridge for up to one week. This ensures you can enjoy refreshing sips whenever you like.

Muddled Mixture: The muddled blackberry and sage mixture is best used fresh, but it can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to give it a quick stir before using.

Frothing Oat Milk: For the best texture, froth oat milk fresh when serving. Avoid storing frothed milk as it can lose its creamy consistency quickly.

Ice: When ready to serve, fill your glass with ice cubes to keep your Blackberry Sage Cold Brew chilled and refreshing all day long!

Blackberry Sage Cold Brew Variations

Feel free to explore these variations and make this refreshing drink your own!

Dairy-Free: Substitute with any plant-based milk, like almond or coconut milk, for a creamy twist.
Decaf Delight: Use decaf coarsely ground coffee to enjoy this delicious beverage in the evening.
Frozen Berries: Opt for frozen blackberries if fresh ones aren’t available; they blend wonderfully and keep your drink chilled.
Herbal Swap: Exchange sage for fresh mint for a refreshing herbal adventure that brightens the drink.
Citrus Zing: Add a splash of lemon or orange juice to enhance the fruity flavors with a zesty kick.
Sweetener Substitution: Replace maple syrup with agave syrup or honey for a different natural sweetness.
Flavored Oat Milk: Try flavored oat milk, like vanilla or caramel, to infuse the drink with extra depth and complexity.
Berry Blend: Mix in other berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, for an exciting berry medley experience.

If you’re looking for something savory to accompany your drink, consider checking out my Night Rigatoni Sausage for a delightful pair!

Expert Tips for Blackberry Sage Cold Brew

Chill Time Matters: Ensure the cold brew steeps for at least 12 hours for full flavor development, enhancing the richness of the drink.
Muddling Step: Don’t skip muddling; it releases the juices and essential oils from the blackberries and sage, ensuring a balanced taste.
Frothing Technique: If you don’t have a frother, simply shake the oat milk in a sealed jar or whisk by hand until frothy for a creamy finish.
Taste Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the sweetness by modifying the amount of maple syrup to suit your palate, making your Blackberry Sage Cold Brew just right.
Make It Ahead: The cold brew concentrate can be prepared in advance and kept refrigerated for up to a week, making mornings even easier.

Make Ahead Options

These Blackberry Sage Cold Brews are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can brew the cold coffee concentrate up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine coarsely ground coffee with cold water, stir, cover, and refrigerate for at least 12 hours. Additionally, you can prepare the muddled mixture of blackberries, sage, and maple syrup a day in advance; store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, just assemble the drinks by pouring the cold brew over the muddled mixture, add ice cubes, froth the oat milk fresh, and top it off for that café-style indulgence. This way, you’ll enjoy a delightful drink with minimal effort, perfect for busy mornings!

What to Serve with Blackberry Sage Cold Brew

Elevate your summer refreshment experience with delightful pairings that complement this vibrant cold brew.

Almond Croissants: The buttery, flaky texture pairs perfectly with the fruity notes of blackberries and the herbal sage.
Granola Yogurt Bowls: Creamy yogurt with crunchy granola makes for a wholesome breakfast that balances the cold brew’s sweetness.
Avocado Toast: The creamy avocado offers a lovely contrast to the refreshing cold brew, adding a savory note.
Lemon Scones: The bright citrus in the scones enhances the drink’s berry flavors while providing delightful crumbly texture.
Fresh Berries Salad: A medley of seasonal berries tossed with a hint of honey plays beautifully alongside the cold brew’s fruitiness.
Mint Iced Tea: For a refreshing, non-coffee option, a mint-infused iced tea complements the herbal tones of sage.
Chocolate Covered Espresso Beans: Enjoy these as a sweet snack to deepen the coffee experience while indulging your sweet tooth.
Dark Chocolate Squares: The rich flavor of dark chocolate enhances the deep coffee notes in your cold brew, making each sip even more luxurious.

Blackberry Sage Cold Brew Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting blackberries?
Absolutely! When choosing blackberries, opt for those that are firm, plump, and deep in color. Avoid any that have dark spots all over, as this indicates over-ripeness. Fresh blackberries should smell sweet and fragrant, promising the natural sweetness you’re aiming for in your Blackberry Sage Cold Brew.

How should I store leftover cold brew concentrate?
Keep your leftover cold brew concentrate in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to one week. This makes it easy to enjoy a quick refreshing drink at any time! Just give it a gentle stir before using, as it may settle a bit.

Can I freeze cold brew concentrate for later use?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze cold brew concentrate! Pour it into ice cube trays and freeze. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a zip-top bag, and they will stay fresh for up to 3 months. This is a great way to keep the cold brew on hand for those hot summer days or when you’re in need of a quick caffeine boost!

What if my cold brew tastes too bitter?
If you find your cold brew to be overly bitter, this can often be due to over-extraction during the brewing process. Make sure to stick to the recommended steeping time of 12 hours, and not more than 16 hours. Additionally, using coarsely ground coffee helps; a finer grind can lead to bitterness. If it’s already prepared, consider adding a splash more maple syrup or milk to balance the flavors.

Is this recipe safe for those with allergies?
The Blackberry Sage Cold Brew is naturally dairy-free and free from refined sugars, making it a suitable option for many dietary needs. However, always be mindful of any allergies to specific ingredients. If you’re serving guests, ensure you check for any common allergens, such as nuts (in oat milk) or maple syrup. Alternatively, feel free to substitute with other sweeteners or non-nut based milk if needed!

How can I customize this drink for my personal taste?
Very! This recipe is versatile, and I encourage you to play with it! You can swap sage for rosemary for an herbal twist, add a splash of lemon juice for an extra zing, or even experiment with flavored oat milk, like vanilla or brown sugar, to create a bespoke coffee experience. Don’t hesitate to mix and match to find your perfect version of the Blackberry Sage Cold Brew!