New England IPA, or NEIPA, has taken the craft beer world by storm with its juicy, hazy, and hop-forward profile. Brewing a 5-gallon batch at home lets us capture that vibrant, fruit-packed flavor right in our own kitchens. Using Cascade hops adds a classic twist, bringing bright citrus and floral notes that perfectly complement the juicy haze.
This 5-gallon NEIPA recipe with Cascade hops strikes the ideal balance between bold hop character and smooth drinkability. It’s a great starting point for homebrewers looking to explore the juicy IPA style without overwhelming bitterness. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, we can craft a refreshing beer that’s perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying after a long day.
Ingredients
To craft our 5 Gallon NEIPA Recipe Cascade, we rely on a carefully selected combination of malts, hops, yeast, and water additives. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering the signature juicy haze and bold hop character that defines this style.
Malt and Grains
Our grain bill creates the creamy mouthfeel and subtle sweetness essential for a balanced New England IPA:
- 8 lbs Pale Malt (2-row) – provides a clean, light malt backbone
- 1 lb Flaked Oats – boosts body and enhances haze stability
- 1 lb White Wheat Malt – adds a slight bready, doughy note and contributes to haze
- 0.5 lb Acidulated Malt – helps adjust mash pH for better enzymatic activity
| Malt Type | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Pale Malt (2-row) | 8 lbs | Base malt, clean fermentable sugars |
| Flaked Oats | 1 lb | Adds fullness and smooth mouthfeel |
| White Wheat Malt | 1 lb | Supports haze, adds complexity to malt profile |
| Acidulated Malt | 0.5 lb | pH adjustment, improved mash efficiency |
Hops
Our hop schedule uses Cascade hops exclusively, maximizing citrus and floral notes with a smooth bitterness:
- 1.5 oz Cascade (Whirlpool/Last 15 minutes) – releases bright orange and lemon aromas
- 2 oz Cascade (Dry Hop, Day 5) – delivers intense hop aroma without harsh bitterness
- 2 oz Cascade (Dry Hop, Day 8) – reinforces juicy citrus notes enhancing complexity
| Hop Variety | Amount | Timing | Flavor Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cascade | 1.5 oz | Whirlpool/ 15 min | Citrus and floral aroma infusion |
| Cascade | 2 oz | Dry Hop Day 5 | Fresh citrus aroma, low bitterness |
| Cascade | 2 oz | Dry Hop Day 8 | Intensified hop aroma and complexity |
Yeast
Our choice of yeast helps amplify the juicy hop character and the hazy appearance:
- Wyeast 1318 London Ale III or Safale S-04 (English Ale Yeast)
Selected for its moderate attenuation, fruity ester production, and haze retention properties.
This yeast delivers a soft mouthfeel and enhances hop aroma harmoniously.
Water and Other Additives
Water chemistry and adjuncts tune the beer’s texture and showcase the hop profile:
- Start with 5 gallons of filtered water
- Adjust water profile to emphasize sulfate to chloride ratio around 0.5:1 to favor softness over dryness
- Add 0.5 tsp gypsum (calcium sulfate) for slight hop bitterness enhancement
- Add 1 tsp calcium chloride for roundness and mouthfeel improvement
- Use Irish moss or Whirlfloc tablet at 10 minutes into the boil for clarity without stripping haze
- Include Lactose (optional, 0.25 lb) to boost sweetness and body if desired
| Additive | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Gypsum | 0.5 tsp | Enhances hop bitterness |
| Calcium Chloride | 1 tsp | Improves roundness and mouthfeel |
| Irish Moss | 1 tablet | Clarifies wort, maintains haze |
| Lactose (opt.) | 0.25 lb | Adds sweetness and body |
This precise combination prepares us to brew a smooth, juicy, and hop-loaded New England IPA highlighting the bright character of Cascade hops.
Equipment Needed
To brew our 5 Gallon NEIPA Recipe Cascade successfully, we need to gather the right equipment to ensure a smooth process and excellent results. Below is the list of essential tools and devices:
Brewing Vessel and Fermentation
- 5-gallon Brew Kettle
Large enough to handle our full-volume boil while providing ample space for hopping and reducing boil-overs.
- Fermentation Bucket or Carboy (6.5-gallon capacity)
This extra space allows for safe fermentation and krausen expansion.
- Airlock and Stopper
To seal the fermenter and allow CO₂ to escape without oxidation.
Temperature Control
- Digital Thermometer
For precise monitoring of mash temperatures and fermentation.
- Immersion Chiller or Wort Chiller
Quickly cools the wort post-boil to yeast pitching temperature, preserving hop aroma and preventing unwanted flavors.
Measurement and Sanitization
- Hydrometer or Refractometer
To measure original and final gravity, tracking fermentation progress and alcohol content.
- pH Meter or Strips (optional but recommended)
Helps monitor mash pH to optimize enzymatic activity and flavor profile.
- Sanitizer (e.g., Star San)
To sanitize all equipment that contacts the wort or beer, preventing contamination.
Additional Tools
- Hop Spider or Bag
To contain the Cascade hops during whirlpool and dry hopping, facilitating easier removal and less mess.
- Siphon or Racking Cane
For transferring beer without sediment disturbance.
- Stirring Spoon (preferably stainless steel or food-grade plastic)
For mixing mash, wort, and hops evenly during various brewing stages.
Summary Table of Equipment
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 5-Gallon Brew Kettle | Boiling wort | Stainless steel preferred |
| Fermentation Bucket / Carboy | Fermentation | 6.5-gallon to accommodate krausen |
| Airlock and Stopper | Seals fermenter | Allows gas escape |
| Digital Thermometer | Temperature monitoring | Accurate mash and fermentation control |
| Immersion or Wort Chiller | Cooling wort | Speeds chilling to preserve hop aroma |
| Hydrometer or Refractometer | Gravity measurement | Tracks sugar levels and ABV |
| pH Meter or Strips | (Optional) Monitor mash pH | Improves mash efficiency and flavor |
| Sanitizer (e.g., Star San) | Equipment sanitation | Crucial for contamination prevention |
| Hop Spider or Bag | Contain hops during whirlpool/dry hop | Easier cleanup and hop removal |
| Siphon or Racking Cane | Transfer beer | Avoids sediment disturbance |
| Stirring Spoon | Mixing ingredients | Food-safe and durable |
Having these tools ready before brewing day helps us maintain workflow, avoid interruptions, and produce the perfect NEIPA showcasing vibrant Cascade hop characteristics.
Brewing Instructions
Follow these step-by-step brewing instructions to craft our 5 Gallon Neipa Recipe Cascade with precision and care. Each stage is tailored to maximize the juicy, hazy, and citrus-forward characteristics of this NEIPA.
Preparing the Grain
- Measure the following grains accurately:
- 9 lbs Pale Malt (base malt)
- 1 lb Flaked Oats (for creaminess)
- 0.75 lb White Wheat Malt (to enhance haze)
- 0.25 lb Acidulated Malt (for pH balance)
- Crush the grains to a medium coarseness for optimal enzymatic activity.
- Heat approximately 4 gallons of water to around 165°F (74°C) for strike water.
- Combine the crushed grains with the strike water in the mash tun.
- Stir thoroughly to avoid clumps and achieve even hydration.
Mashing Process
- Hold the mash temperature at 152°F (67°C) for 60 minutes.
- Use a thermometer to monitor temperature every 10 minutes; make minor adjustments as needed.
- Maintain a stable temperature to optimize starch conversion and mouthfeel.
- After mashing is complete, perform a mash out by raising the temperature to 170°F (77°C) for 10 minutes. This step halts enzymatic activity.
- Recirculate the wort until it runs clear, then drain into the kettle, aiming for about 6.5 gallons of wort.
Boiling and Hop Additions
For a clean, juicy hop profile without excessive bitterness, follow this precise hop schedule using Cascade hops only:
| Time (Minutes) | Hop Amount | Purpose | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 0.5 oz | Bittering | Low to keep bitterness mild |
| Whirlpool (at flameout) | 2 oz | Flavor & Aroma | Add when flame is off, steep for 20 min |
| Dry Hop 1 (Day 3 of fermentation) | 2 oz | Aroma | Adds vibrant citrus notes |
| Dry Hop 2 (Day 7 of fermentation) | 2 oz | Aroma & Complexity | Enhances hop bouquet |
- Boil the wort for 60 minutes.
- Add the 0.5 oz of Cascade hops at the start of the boil.
- At flameout, add 2 oz of hops directly to the kettle and whirlpool for 20 minutes without heat.
- Cool the wort rapidly after whirlpooling to prevent unwanted bitterness extraction.
Cooling the Wort
- Use an immersion chiller or equivalent to cool the wort from about 210°F (99°C) to 68°F (20°C) as quickly as possible.
- Ensure a sanitized environment during cooling to prevent contamination.
- Transfer the cooled wort into a sanitized fermenter.
- Check the specific gravity with a hydrometer or refractometer to confirm proper extraction.
- Pitch the yeast immediately to begin fermentation and lock in fresh hop aroma and flavor.
By meticulously following these steps, we capture the juicy and floral essence of Cascade hops characteristic of our 5 Gallon Neipa Recipe Cascade.
Fermentation
Fermentation is the critical stage where our 5 Gallon NEIPA Recipe Cascade truly develops its juicy, hazy character. Let’s dive into Pitching the Yeast and managing the fermentation environment for optimal results.
Pitching the Yeast
We recommend pitching either Wyeast 1318 London Ale III or Safale S-04 to bring out the bold, juicy hop flavors and maintain the desired haze. Before pitching, make sure the cooled wort temperature matches the yeast’s preferred range to avoid shock.
- Rehydrate dry yeast if using Safale S-04 to ensure maximum viability.
- For liquid yeast like Wyeast 1318, gently swirl the smack pack to activate before pitching.
- Pitch yeast evenly across the wort surface to encourage healthy fermentation.
“Healthy yeast pitching is key to developing the soft mouthfeel and fruity esters synonymous with a NEIPA.”
| Yeast Strain | Optimal Pitch Temperature | Flocculation | Flavor Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wyeast 1318 | 65–70°F (18–21°C) | Medium | Fruity esters, haze preservation |
| Safale S-04 | 64–72°F (18–22°C) | Medium-high | Clean profile, slight fruitiness |
Fermentation Schedule and Temperature Control
Proper temperature control ensures a smooth, consistent fermentation and prevents off-flavors. We suggest the following schedule:
| Fermentation Stage | Temperature Range | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Fermentation | 65–70°F (18–21°C) | 7 to 10 days | Vigorous activity with yeast consuming sugars |
| Diacetyl Rest | 70–72°F (21–22°C) | 2 days | Reduces buttery off-flavors for clean taste |
| Cold Crash | 35–40°F (1.5–4.5°C) | 2 to 3 days | Clarifies beer without stripping haze or flavor |
- Use a temperature-controlled fermentation chamber or wrap a fermentation jacket around your fermenter to maintain steady temps.
- Ensure the airlock is sanitized and bubbling to indicate active fermentation.
- Avoid temperature swings to prevent yeast stress and off-aromas.
Following this schedule will maximize the juicy hop aroma from the Cascade hops while maintaining the creamy mouthfeel and distinct haze our NEIPA style demands.
Packaging
Proper Packaging of our 5 Gallon NEIPA Recipe Cascade is crucial to preserving its vibrant hop aroma, juicy mouthfeel, and characteristic haze. Choosing between bottling and kegging depends on our equipment, consumption timeline, and desired freshness.
Bottling or Kegging
When deciding between bottling or kegging our NEIPA, we focus on maintaining the beer’s hop-forward freshness and creamy texture. Both methods have specific benefits and considerations:
| Aspect | Bottling | Kegging |
|---|---|---|
| Oxygen Exposure | Higher risk; requires careful purging to avoid oxidation | Lower risk; CO₂ purging preserves freshness |
| Carbonation Control | Carbonation occurs naturally with priming sugar; less precise | Precise carbonation control with CO₂ regulator |
| Convenience | More time-intensive; sanitizer use on each bottle | Faster serving; ideal for frequent pouring |
| Freshness Window | Best consumed within 2-3 weeks to enjoy hop aroma | Allows longer freshness; ideal for repeated servings |
| Equipment Needed | Bottles, caps, capper, priming sugar | Keg, CO₂ tank, regulator, tubing, quick disconnects |
Bottling Steps:
- Sanitize bottles, caps, and bottling equipment thoroughly.
- Prepare priming sugar solution (typically 3/4 cup corn sugar for 5 gallons).
- Gently siphon the beer from the fermenter to bottling bucket, minimizing oxygen exposure.
- Mix in priming solution evenly without splashing.
- Fill bottles leaving about 1 inch of headspace.
- Cap immediately and store bottles at room temperature for 1-2 weeks to carbonate.
- Chill before serving to enhance flavor clarity and mouthfeel.
Kegging Steps:
- Sanitize keg, seals, and all associated gear carefully.
- Transfer beer via siphon or pump, avoiding splashing to reduce oxygen pickup.
- Seal and purge oxygen from the keg utilizing CO₂.
- Carbonate by force-carbonating at 12-15 PSI for 5-7 days at 38°F or shake keg to speed process.
- Serve under CO₂ pressure to preserve hop freshness and creamy texture.
- Store keg cold and consume within 3-4 weeks for optimum flavor.
Tasting Notes and Serving Suggestions
Our 5 Gallon NEIPA Recipe Cascade delivers a complex yet approachable flavor profile. Expect a juicy explosion of citrus with dominant notes of grapefruit and orange, underscored by soft floral accents courtesy of the Cascade hops. This beer presents a creamy mouthfeel and a smooth, rounded finish due to the well-balanced malt bill featuring Pale Malt, Flaked Oats, and White Wheat Malt.
Tasting Profile Breakdown
| Flavor Element | Description | Impact on Overall Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Citrus (Grapefruit) | Bright, zesty sharpness from Cascade hops | Refreshing, vibrant tang |
| Floral Notes | Subtle, aromatic floral hints | Layers complexity without overwhelming |
| Creamy Mouthfeel | Soft, smooth texture from oats and wheat malts | Fuller body, easy drinkability |
| Moderate Bitterness | Balanced bitterness avoiding harshness | Keeps beer sessionable and enjoyable |
| Haze | Slightly cloudy appearance | Indicates juicy NEIPA style authenticity |
“The beauty of this NEIPA is its balance between bold hop aroma and the creamy smoothness we crafted into the malt backbone.“
Serving Suggestions for Optimal Enjoyment
- Glassware: Serve in a tulip glass or a large tulip-style pint glass to concentrate the aroma intensity of the Cascade hops. The wide bowl enhances the hazy appearance and allows swirl to release all hop bouquet notes.
- Temperature: Best enjoyed between 45°F and 50°F (7°C – 10°C) to fully appreciate the hop brightness and malty softness without muting flavors.
- Food Pairings:
| Food Type | Pairing Reason |
|——————|—————————————-|
| Spicy cuisine | Contrasts heat with juicy citrus notes |
| Grilled seafood | Complements light, fresh flavors |
| Creamy cheeses | Matches mouthfeel, enhances smoothness |
| Light desserts | Balances sweetness, especially citrus-based treats | - Carbonation: Aim for moderate carbonation around 2.3 – 2.6 volumes CO2 to lift hop aromas while maintaining the creamy texture.
Storage and Serving Tips
- Consume fresh within 4-6 weeks for peak hop aroma and flavor.
- Keep refrigerated to slow decline of flavor compounds and haze stability.
- If kegging, purge with CO2 before serving to minimize oxygen exposure, preserving the bright hop character.
“Freshness is key for maintaining the juicy, hop-forward experience that defines our Cascade NEIPA.“
By following these tasting notes and serving recommendations, we ensure each sip of our 5 Gallon NEIPA Recipe Cascade remains a delightfully aromatic, creamy, and juicy experience true to the New England IPA style.
Conclusion
Crafting a 5-gallon NEIPA with Cascade hops is a rewarding experience that brings bright citrus and floral notes to the forefront. By focusing on the right balance of ingredients and careful fermentation, we create a beer that’s juicy, hazy, and bursting with flavor.
Whether you’re sharing it with friends or enjoying a fresh pour yourself, this recipe highlights the best qualities of the NEIPA style in a straightforward way. With the right preparation and attention to detail, brewing this beer at home becomes an achievable and enjoyable project for any craft beer enthusiast.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a New England IPA (NEIPA) different from other IPAs?
NEIPAs are known for their juicy, hazy appearance and fruit-forward hop flavors. They emphasize smooth drinkability with a creamy mouthfeel and less bitterness, unlike traditional West Coast IPAs which are clearer and more bitter.
Why are Cascade hops used in this NEIPA recipe?
Cascade hops provide bright citrus and floral notes that complement the juicy character of the NEIPA. Using Cascade exclusively enhances aroma without adding harsh bitterness.
What malt combination is used for this NEIPA and why?
The recipe uses Pale Malt, Flaked Oats, White Wheat Malt, and Acidulated Malt to create a smooth, creamy mouthfeel with subtle sweetness and the haze typical of NEIPAs.
Which yeast strains are best for brewing this NEIPA?
Wyeast 1318 and Safale S-04 are recommended because they help amplify juicy hop flavors, retain haze, and contribute appropriate fermentation characteristics for this style.
What essential equipment is needed for brewing a 5-gallon batch?
Key items include a 5-gallon kettle, fermenter with airlock, immersion chiller, digital thermometer, hydrometer or refractometer, sanitizer, and siphoning tools for safe transfer.
How does the hop schedule affect the flavor of the NEIPA?
Adding Cascade hops during whirlpool and dry hopping maximizes aroma and fruity flavors while minimizing bitterness, creating the juicy, hop-forward profile NEIPAs are known for.
Why is temperature control important during mashing and fermentation?
Precise temperature control ensures optimal starch conversion during mashing and prevents yeast stress during fermentation, which helps avoid off-flavors and enhances the NEIPA’s smooth mouthfeel.
What is the role of water chemistry adjustments in this recipe?
Water adjustments balance pH and mineral content to improve mouthfeel and boost hop expression, helping to create the smooth, juicy character essential to a good NEIPA.
How should I package my NEIPA to preserve its qualities?
Both bottling and kegging work; however, minimizing oxygen exposure and maintaining freshness is crucial. Kegging offers precise carbonation control and longer freshness, while bottling is more accessible for beginners.
What are the best serving tips for enjoying this NEIPA?
Serve in a tulip glass at cool, but not cold, temperatures to highlight aroma and flavor. Pair with spicy foods or grilled seafood for an enhanced tasting experience. Always drink fresh for best hop character.