Imagine sipping a velvety-smooth coffee with a frothy head, reminiscent of a freshly poured pint of Guinness, but instead of beer, you’re treated to the rich, complex flavors of cold brew. Nitro cold brew coffee has taken the coffee world by storm, and the best part? You don’t have to be a barista to enjoy it at home. With the right tools, you can learn how to make nitro cold brew coffee at home. You can make it a part of your new coffee ritual.
We’ve always talked about new and creative uses of nitrous oxide canisters and nitro cold brew is just one of the coffee recipes borne from this culinary marvel.
What is Nitro Cold Brew Coffee?
Nitro cold brew is, at its core, cold brew coffee that’s been infused with nitrous oxide gas—a technique borrowed from craft beer. The infusion of nitrous oxide creates microbubbles that transform the coffee’s texture. It gives coffee a rich, velvety mouthfeel and a signature foamy head that’s as satisfying to look at as it is to sip. Beyond its creamy texture, the gas also smooths out the natural bitterness of the coffee which highlights its sweetness and other nuanced flavors.
Even more enticing is that this decadent drink requires no added sugar or cream to achieve its dessert-like appeal. It has been touted as a healthier alternative to traditional coffee shop creations which usually have high sugar and fat content. Using nitrous oxide on your regular cold brew results in a luxurious and delightful coffee experience. More importantly, it is surprisingly simple to recreate at home.
Tools You Need to Create Nitro Cold Brew
- A whipped cream dispenser
- 1 nitrous oxide charger
- Strained cold brew coffee
Starting with a Great Cold Brew
The foundation of good nitro coffee is a good cold brew wherein the nitrogen infusion can work its magic. Getting this part right is essential. Known for its smooth, mellow flavor and low acidity, cold brew is created through a slow extraction process that highlights the natural sweetness and complex notes of your choice of beans.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of fresh coarsely ground coffee
- 4 cups of cold, filtered water
Instructions:
- Combine the coffee grounds and water in a large mason jar or cold brew maker.
- Stir gently to ensure all the grounds are saturated.
- Cover and let it steep in the refrigerator for 12-18 hours.
- Strain the coffee using a fine mesh sieve or a coffee filter to separate the grounds.
Pro tip: Opt for a medium or dark roast coffee for a richer flavor that stands up to the nitrogen infusion.
Making the Nitro Cold Brew
This is where the magic happens. To achieve that iconic nitro texture, you’ll need a whipped cream dispenser and nitrous oxide (N2O) chargers (also known as cream chargers). Alternatively, you can use a dedicated nitro cold brew system instead of a whipped cream dispenser.
Instructions:
- Pour your cold brew coffee into the whipped cream dispenser, filling it about three-quarters full.
- Secure the lid and attach the cream charger.
- Shake the canister vigorously for about 30 seconds.
- Dispense the coffee into a glass, holding the canister upside down to create a frothy head.
- Serve and enjoy.
The best way to serve nitro cold brew is in a clear glass that allows you to showcase its cascading bubbles and creamy head. You can enjoy it black to savor the coffee’s natural flavor or add a splash of vanilla syrup or oat milk.
Why Brew Nitro Cold Brew at Home?
Brewing nitro cold brew at home is a cost-effective alternative compared to visiting your local coffee shop. Moreover, it’s also an opportunity to experiment and perfect your recipe. You control the coffee beans, the steeping time, and even the infusion process. Creating the perfect nitro cold brew will be a fun and rewarding experience.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Nitro Cold Brew
- Quality Matters: Use freshly roasted coffee beans and grind them just before brewing for the best flavor.
- Experiment with Ratios: Adjust the coffee-to-water ratio to find your ideal strength.
- Chill for Consistency: Always start with cold coffee; warm liquid won’t create the desired cascading effect.
- Clean Your Equipment: Nitrogen can accentuate off-flavors, so keep your canister and tools spotless.
Join the Nitro Coffee Revolution
Brewing nitro cold brew at home might seem like a challenge, but as long as you have the right tools, it’s not so hard. It will take time to refine your brew but that is a rewarding experience in itself. It’s a chance to bring the craft coffee experience into your home. It is sure to wow family and friends. Elevate your coffee routine and join the nitro cold brew revolution.
Happy brewing!
