Coopers kits for 2.5 gallons

[RandyG]

I'm going to try a different way of brewing small batches.I'm going to steep some L20 or 40,and some carapils,but instead of boiling for a certain amount of time,I'm going to add a 3.75 # can of Cooper's HME at flameout.I'm hoping that the brew will not be too hoppy.I guess it depends on which kit I use. I know,I'm loosing beer by doing it this way,but I'm gonna see how it works out.Any advice,"Don't Do Its",info,pro's,con's.etc. will be apprieciated.Wish me luck.

[Dawg LB Steve]

You still will need to boil for 10-15 minutes to kill off lactobacillus from the grain. If you don't it could sour from the lacto and you would have infected equipment as far as your fermenter and transfer equipment.

[RickBeer]

That's going to be some expensive beer... Most make it per instructions (replacing added sugar with LME or DME) and split between two LBKs. Or make 1/2 per instructions and save the other half.

If you do what you intend, use QBrew or other software to see what the outcome will be before you waste money.

[RandyG]

I usually steep my speciality grains for 30 min at 155-160 degrees. I may just use the Cooper's like a Mr. Beer straight up recipe. I got the Cooper's Real Ale kit for $22,so that's not too bad for a case of beer. Also there is a LHBS about 45 mins. from me that has Cooper's kits for $19,and Muntons as low as $16 for the 3.75 lb HMEs, so if this works out, It will be cheaper yet,but for me,this is a hobby which I enjoy,so the costs are justified to me. Randolf

[RickBeer]

However you steep, you need to boil after.

[RandyG]

when I use steeping grains,I always boil after the steep for the hop schedule,before I add the Dme,Lme or Hme. I think with this one I'm just going to bring some water to the boil,and add the HME . It should be stronger and hoppier,but usually milder kits don't have large amounts of IBU's or an over abundance of malts,b/c you have to add xtra malts or sugars to make 5 gallons,so I think I'll be ok. I'll drink it anyways.