Cowboy Coffee: History, Flavor, and How to Brew It the Old-School Way

Cowboy Coffee has endured because of its rustic charm—and surprisingly good flavor when done right. Here’s how you can brew it at home or on your next camping trip.

Ingredients

• Coarse-ground coffee (about 2 tablespoons per 8 oz. water)

• Fresh water

• Campfire or stovetop

• A pot or kettle (metal works best)

Method

1. Boil the water – Bring your pot of water to a rolling boil.

2. Add the coffee – Remove the pot from direct heat, then stir in the coarse coffee grounds.

3. Steep – Let the mixture sit for 4–5 minutes, allowing the grounds to sink and flavors to extract.

4. Settle the grounds – A cowboy trick: pour a splash of cold water over the top to help the grounds fall to the bottom.

5. Pour and enjoy – Carefully pour the coffee into mugs, leaving most of the grounds behind.

Pro tip: Cowboy Coffee tends to be bold and strong, but using fresh, high-quality beans (like a dark roast or natural-processed single origin) can transform it from “rough and ready” to “rustic but refined.”

Why People Still Love Cowboy Coffee

Despite modern brewing innovations, Cowboy Coffee has a timeless appeal. It’s about stripping coffee back to its essentials, connecting with tradition, and savoring a no-frills cup that tastes of campfires and open skies. Whether you’re on the trail or just in your backyard, Cowboy Coffee is a brew with character.