Does Cold Brew Coffee Come in Cans? Best Brands and Taste
The first time I came across a can of cold brew coffee, it was in a tiny corner store on a road trip. I was tired, thirsty, and desperate for a caffeine fix, but I didn’t want a hot cup of coffee. I grabbed what looked like a soda can, and to my surprise, it said cold brew coffee.
That moment changed the way I looked at ready-to-drink coffee forever.
So yes, cold brew coffee does come in cans. And let me tell you, it’s not just a trend. It’s everywhere now. You’ll find it in gas stations, grocery stores, vending machines, and even at the gym fridge.
But if you’re wondering why it’s such a big deal, what it tastes like, or whether it’s actually good, I’ll walk you through everything I’ve learned from drinking it.
Let’s get into it.
Yes, Cold Brew Coffee Comes in Cans
Cold brew coffee definitely comes in cans. It’s super convenient—just grab one from the fridge, and you’re good to go. Brands like Starbucks and La Colombe make all kinds, including flavored and nitro versions. It’s a great way to enjoy smooth, cold coffee without brewing it yourself.
My personal discovery came during a long summer drive through Arizona. It was nearly 100 degrees, and I pulled into a gas station looking for water. But there it was, sitting next to the energy drinks. A sleek black can labeled “Cold Brew Coffee – Black, Unsweetened.”
I opened it right away. The first sip tasted bold, cold, and shockingly smooth. I didn’t expect that kind of quality from a can. It wasn’t bitter. It wasn’t watered down. It tasted like something I could have paid six dollars for at a coffee shop.
Since that day, I’ve been on a bit of a mission. I’ve tried over 20 different canned cold brews, from the big-name brands to small-batch, locally made versions. Some were fantastic. A few were awful. But overall, it’s been a great alternative when I’m too busy to make coffee at home.
Why People Love Cold Brew in a Can
There’s something about the convenience that just clicks. I don’t have to wait for the coffee to brew. I don’t need to add ice or mix anything. I just open the can and drink.
For me, it’s a lifesaver on hectic mornings. I’ve got two kids to get ready for school, and sometimes, I barely have time to brush my teeth, let alone make coffee. That’s when I grab a can from the fridge, and it powers me through the morning chaos.
Canned cold brew also fits into my gym bag. I often take one with me when I head out for a morning workout. I get that energy kick right before I lift without having to chug a sugary energy drink. I’ve even brought canned cold brew on hiking trips, flights, and long workdays when I don’t want to leave my desk.
Cold Brew in a Can Review
You want to know if canned cold brew is worth your money. And the answer is—it depends on the brand.
| Brand | Best For |
| La Colombe | Rich, creamy texture (especially draft lattes) |
| Starbucks | Sweet, widely available, and consistent |
| Chameleon | Bold flavor with low acidity |
| Stumptown | Smooth, balanced, often nitro-infused |
| High Brew | Energy boost, slightly sweet and budget-friendly |
| Califia Farms | Dairy-free, ideal for plant-based drinkers |
| RISE Brewing Co. | Smooth nitro cold brew with clean ingredients |
| Wandering Bear | Strong flavor, shelf-stable, great for bold coffee |
If you like your coffee black, there are tons of canned options for you. If you prefer it with cream or a touch of sweetener, those options exist, too. In fact, some brands, like La Colombe, even offer oat milk or almond milk options, which I’ve found helpful when I’m avoiding dairy.
I usually add a couple of ice cubes to my canned cold brew. It’s already cold, but I like that crisp, chilled feel.
If you enjoy ready-to-drink cold brews, you might also want to try the Starbucks Caramel Vanilla Swirl Iced Coffee, which has a sweet and creamy twist. It’s a great option for those who prefer flavored coffee in a convenient bottle.
Best canned cold brew coffee
After trying so many, I’ve found a few favorites that I always go back to. These aren’t sponsored. Just honest picks based on what I like.
The first one is Stumptown Cold Brew. It’s smooth, dark, and has zero sugar. I usually get their stubby glass bottles, but they also come in cans.
Then there’s La Colombe. Their canned draft lattes are creamy and rich. I grab these when I want something indulgent.
High Brew Coffee is another solid pick. They have both black and flavored versions. Their Mexican Vanilla is a nice treat when I’m in the mood for something sweet.
I’ve also tried Trader Joe’s Cold Brew Cans. They’re budget-friendly and surprisingly decent. Not my top favorite, but great for keeping a few in the fridge.
Can You Make Cold Brew and Can It Yourself?
I get this question a lot, and I’ve actually tried it. Making cold brew at home is easy. All you need is coffee grounds, cold water, and a jar. But canning it yourself? That’s a bit trickier.
You’d need special equipment to seal the cans properly, and unless you’re doing it on a commercial level, it’s not really practical. What I do instead is make a big batch of cold brew, store it in Mason jars, and grab one from the fridge whenever I need it.
If you’re serious about DIY, you could bottle your cold brew in glass and reuse the containers. It’s not the same as canned cold brew, but it gives you more control over the flavor and ingredients.
Should You Try Canned Cold Brew?
In my opinion, absolutely. Especially if you’re someone who’s always on the go. Canned cold brew is easy, fast, and way better than grabbing a sugary drink or skipping coffee altogether.
For me, it’s become part of my routine. I keep a few cans in the fridge, so I never have to worry when I’m in a rush. I know exactly how it’ll taste. I know how much caffeine I’m getting. And I don’t have to stand in line or spend a ton of money.
If you’ve never tried it before, I’d suggest starting with a black, unsweetened can. That way, you get the pure coffee flavor. Then you can explore the flavored versions if you want something sweeter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you heat up canned cold brew?
Yes, you can. I’ve done it when I wanted a hot drink but only had a cold brew on hand. Just pour it into a mug and microwave it for 30 seconds.
Is canned cold brew more expensive than regular coffee?
It depends. A single can usually cost between two to four dollars. That’s cheaper than most coffee shop drinks but more expensive than making it at home.
Does canned cold brew have more caffeine?
In most cases, yes. Some brands pack over 200 milligrams of caffeine in one can. Always check the label if you’re sensitive to caffeine.
Can kids drink canned cold brew?
I wouldn’t recommend it. It’s very strong. My 11-year-old daughter once took a sip of mine, thinking it was soda. She made the funniest face and said, “That tastes like dirt!” So no, it’s not for kids.
Is cold brew coffee healthy?
Yes, cold brew coffee can absolutely be a healthy option—especially if you keep it simple. I’ve personally found it easier on my stomach compared to hot coffee, thanks to its lower acidity. It’s naturally low in calories, packed with antioxidants, and gives you a smooth energy boost without the bitterness.
That said, the health benefits really depend on what you add to it. Once you load it with sweeteners, flavored syrups, or heavy cream, you’re turning it into more of a dessert. I stick with unsweetened cold brew most days. It keeps me focused, refreshed and doesn’t mess with my digestion.
Final Thoughts
In short, yes, cold brew coffee does come in cans. If you’re looking for a simple, fast, and tasty way to enjoy coffee without brewing anything yourself, canned cold brew is the way to go. I always keep a few chilled and ready. It’s helped me stay energized, focused, and a little more sane—especially during busy days when everything else feels rushed.
