The Rise of Nitro Cold Brew: A Refreshing Twist

Nitro cold brew coffee has become a refreshing sensation, taking the world of caffeine addicts by storm. With its smooth and creamy texture, this innovative twist on a classic favorite has quickly become a go-to choice for coffee lovers seeking a unique and indulgent experience. As the name suggests, it is infused with nitrogen, which gives it a rich mouthfeel and a visually appealing effect as it's poured into a glass.

The rise in popularity of nitro cold brew can be attributed to its distinct flavor profile and its ability to offer a more pronounced taste compared to traditional cold brews. The nitrogen infusion enhances the natural flavors of the coffee, resulting in a rich and full-bodied beverage that satisfies even the most discerning palates.

What sets it apart is not just its extraordinary taste but also the way it is served. Typically served on tap, just like beer, this nitrogen-infused drink comes with a creamy layer on top, similar to a frothy stout. The presentation alone makes it an Instagram-worthy treat that attracts millennials and coffee enthusiasts alike.

As the demand for nitro cold brew continues to grow, more coffee shops and cafes are adding this intriguing beverage to their menus. Whether you're a coffee aficionado looking for a new favorite or someone simply seeking a refreshing caffeine fix, it promises to deliver a truly irresistible experience.

According to research, Each year, the world drinks approximately 10 billion kilograms of coffee.

What is Nitro Cold Brew

Nitro cold brew is a type of coffee that is brewed using cold water and infused with nitrogen gas. This process creates a smooth and creamy texture, similar to that of a stout beer. The nitrogen gas is added to the coffee under high pressure, which causes the gas to dissolve into the liquid and create small bubbles. These bubbles give the coffee a velvety mouthfeel and a visually appealing cascading effect when poured into a glass.

The use of nitrogen in cold brew coffee is a relatively recent development, with the first commercial nitro cold brew hitting the market in the early 2010s. Since then, it has gained popularity rapidly, becoming a favorite among coffee enthusiasts.

The Origins of Nitro Cold Brew

The origins of nitro cold brew can be traced back to the craft beer industry. The idea of using nitrogen gas to create a creamy and smooth mouthfeel in beverages originated from the practice of nitrogenating beer. Nitrogen gas is commonly used in the production of stouts and other dark beers to create a rich and creamy texture. This led to experimentation with nitrogen in other beverages, including coffee.

The first known use of nitrogen in coffee can be attributed to a small coffee shop in Austin, Texas, called Cuvee Coffee. In 2011, they introduced nitro cold brew on tap, serving it in a keg and pouring it like a beer. The unique presentation and velvety texture of the coffee quickly caught the attention of coffee lovers, and the trend spread from there.

The Science Behind Nitro Cold Brew

The science behind nitro cold brew lies in the infusion of nitrogen gas into the coffee. When nitrogen is added under high pressure, it dissolves into the liquid and creates small bubbles. These bubbles give the coffee a creamy and rich mouthfeel, similar to that visually appealing display.

Additionally, the rise of specialty coffee culture has played a significant role in the popularity of nitro cold brew. As consumers become more interested in unique and innovative coffee experiences, nitro cold brew offers a refreshing twist.

Benefits of Nitro Cold Brew

In addition to its unique flavor profile and presentation, nitro cold brew offers several benefits that contribute to its popularity.

One of the main benefits is its lower acidity compared to traditional hot brewed coffee. The cold brewing process reduces the acidity of the coffee, resulting in a smoother and less bitter taste. This makes nitro cold brew a great option for those with sensitive stomachs or acid reflux.

The nitrogen infusion also creates a longer-lasting and more stable drink. The small bubbles of nitrogen gas act as a barrier, helping to preserve the freshness and flavor of the coffee for a longer period. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer to savor their coffee slowly.

Another benefit is its versatility. The smooth and creamy texture makes it a great base for adding flavors or toppings. From vanilla syrup to caramel drizzle, the possibilities for customization are endless, allowing coffee lovers to create their perfect cup of nitro cold brew.

The right beans for nitro coffee

Which Coffee Beans Should be Used to Make Nitro Cold Brew?

For an excellent nitro cold brew, choosing the right coffee beans is key:

  • Roast Level: Medium roasts to dark roasts are ideal. They reduce acidity and enhance sweetness, with dark roasts adding chocolate and caramel notes that go well with the silky mouthfeel of the brew.
  • Freshness: Use freshly roasted beans to preserve natural oils and aromatics, ensuring a flavorful brew. Beans roasted within the last two weeks are best.
  • Grind Size: Use a coarse grind for slow extraction, which is crucial to avoid bitterness and achieve a smooth taste ideal for nitro infusion.

Selecting the right beans will enhance both the taste and the visual appeal of your coffee.

How to make Nitro Cold Brew at home

To make it at home, you will need the following:

  1. Coarsely ground coffee beans
  2. Cold water
  3. A French press or airtight container
  4. Nitrogen gas canister or whipped cream dispenser with nitrogen chargers
  5. A keg for kegerator (optional)

Steps to Make Nitro Cold Brew

Prepare Coffee Mixture

  • Combine coarsely ground coffee beans and cold water in a French press or airtight container.
  • Use a ratio of 1:4 coffee to water, adjusting based on preference.
  • Stir well to ensure all coffee grounds are fully saturated.
  • Cover and let steep in the refrigerator for 12 to 24 hours.

Filter the Brew

  • After steeping, press down the plunger in the French press or strain the coffee through a fine-mesh sieve.
  • Separate the grounds from the liquid.
  • Transfer the cold brew coffee to a clean, airtight container.
  • Store in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Infuse with Nitrogen

  • Pour the cold brew into a nitrogen gas canister or a whipped cream dispenser.
  • Charge with nitrogen according to the manufacturer's instructions.
  • Shake vigorously to ensure even dispersion of nitrogen.

Serve

  • If using a keg or kegerator, transfer the nitrogen-infused coffee into it.
  • Serve chilled for an authentic coffee experience, complete with a creamy layer on top.
nitro coffee served

Have a Sip

Nitro cold brew coffee has become popular because it tastes great, feels smooth, and looks good. As more people want specialty coffee, this type of coffee is probably going to be even more liked in the future. It stands out because it tastes stronger than regular cold brew coffee and looks great in photos, which makes it very appealing, especially to younger people and coffee lovers looking for something new and tasty. 

Whether you try it at a coffee shop or make it yourself at home, nitro cold brew offers a fun and delicious twist on the usual coffee that's sure to meet your caffeine needs and keep you coming back for more. So, why not try nitro cold brew and see why it's becoming so popular?