How to make nitro coffee? Do you like discovering new amazing qualities of a product that you know very well? That was how I felt when trying nitro cold brew coffee for the first time. Wow, that creamy texture, those bubbles, the smoothness – it was captivating and delicious. If you’ve found yourself captivated too, welcome to the club, and this guide is for you.
I’ll show you how to create the perfect nitro cold brew concoction. I’ll arm you with the knowledge and tools, and you can indulge in this recent years’ trend without having to travel to the local coffee shop. You’ll avoid coffee shop prices too, that’s an additional perk.
If you are reading this article, you probably already know that at its core, nitro cold brew coffee is a chilled coffee beverage that undergoes a unique infusion process with nitrogen gas.
Originating from the cold brew coffee family, this velvety delight uses the concept of iced coffee and takes it to new levels.
If this is the first time you hear about nitro cold brew coffee, you are in for a pleasant surprise. You’ll be able to discover something new and delightful about the beverage you already love.
Nitro cold brew coffee: the best way to make it at home
Making nitro cold brew coffee at home is not only achievable but also rewarding because it allows you to customize your nitro cold brew to perfection.
Later in the article, I’ll touch upon different methods of making nitro brew at home, but now I’m providing the method that has worked best for me and that I’m confident will work for you, too.
Here’s a simple manual for creating a nitro cold brew masterpiece:
Step #1: gather your essentials
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary tools and ingredients. You’ll need:
- Coarse ground beans of coffee
- Cool or cold water
- A sizeable pitcher or jar
- A cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer
- A whipped cream dispenser
- Nitrogen gas canister
- A wine bottle pump or mini keg (for nitrogen infusion)
- Optional: flavored syrups, sweeteners, or milk for drink personalization
Step #2: brew the cold brew concentrate
Start by combining your coarsely ground coffee beans with cold water in a jar or pitcher. Use a ratio of approximately one cup of coffee grounds to four cups of cold water. Stir the mixture and let it steep in the refrigerator for at least 12 to 24 hours. Sorry, it is not fast, but trust me, it’s worth it.
Step #3: strain the cold brew
After the steeping process, use a fine-mesh strainer, cheesecloth, or a device of your choice to strain the coffee grounds concentrate and get rid of the coffee ground. The result should be a smooth and concentrated coffee base.
Step #4: transfer to the whipped cream dispenser
Pour the concentrated coffee grounds into a whipped cream dispenser. This handy tool is not just for whipped cream — it works for infusing nitrogen into your coffee and creates that delightful creamy feel and your own nitro brew.
Step #5: infuse with nitrogen
Connect the cream dispenser to a nitrogen gas canister. Shake the dispenser vigorously to enrich the cold brew with nitrogen.
This process is somehow similar to the espresso-making process, where pressure is the key to a rich and velvety texture.
Step #6: dispense and enjoy
Attach a bottle pump or mini-keg brewer to the dispenser to dispense your nitro cold brew. Now it’s time to fill the glass and savor the cloud-like top of the nitro cold brew at home. It’s done.
Step #7 (optional): personalize to taste
Feel free to personalize your nitro cold brew with a plethora of possible additions: syrups, sweeteners, or milk, to indulge your taste. Play with different extras to create your signature nitro coffee blend.
Exploring alternatives: different methods to make nitro cold brew coffee
While the traditional whipped cream dispenser method offers a fantastic way to infuse nitrogen into your cold brew at home, there are alternative approaches to creating that velvety nitro texture. Let’s explore a few inventive methods that cater to different preferences and equipment availability.
The French press method
If you’re a fan of the classic French press, you’re in luck. After brewing your cold concentrate from coffee grounds (opt for medium to coarse grind), transfer it to the French press. Using the press, slowly pump air into the cold brew coffee to achieve a frothy consistency. It might not produce the same effect of cascading froth, but the result remains quite similar: creamy and delectable cold brew coffee.
Mini-keg
For those seeking a more authentic experience, consider using a mini-keg brewer. Load your concentrate into the mini keg, connect a nitrogen canister, and give it a few shakes. Dispense your nitro brew coffee straight from the tap and complete with the characteristic creamy head.
Bottle pump
If you’re looking for an affordable and accessible method, a bottle pump can be a game-changer. Fill an empty bottle with your cold-brewed coffee, attach a pump, and pump air into the bottle. Shake well to create a frothy texture, and pour out your homemade nitro cold brew coffee.
Nitro coffee from the espresso machine
Yes, you can set up your espresso machine to make a nitro cold brew coffee. Mix your coffee concentrate with a shot of espresso and froth it using the steam wand. This method yields a creamy and rich coffee with a nitro-like texture.
Tips for success
- Experiment with different methods to find the one that suits your taste and equipment.
- Adjust the nitrogen infusion time for varied textures—longer infusion for a creamier result.
- Play with the cold brew concentrate-to-nitrogen ratio to customize the intensity of your nitro coffee.
Each approach has its own merits and brings something unique to the nitro coffee experience, allowing you to tailor your brewing process to fit your preferences and equipment.
Safety considerations
As the popularity of nitro cold brew coffee is growing, it’s essential to address the safety issues associated with making this delightful drink at home.
While the process of making nitro coffee is generally straightforward, it involves handling equipment and substances that warrant careful attention.
#1. Nitrogen caution: nitrogen is generally safe when handled with care. However, it’s crucial to be mindful of potential risks. Nitrogen displaces oxygen, which could lead to oxygen deficiency in enclosed spaces. When using nitrogen gas canisters, ensure proper ventilation and avoid confined areas.
#2. Cream dispenser: the dispenser operates under pressure. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific dispenser. Over-pressurization can pose risks, so it’s crucial not to exceed the recommended pressure levels.
#3. Mini keg: if you opt for the mini-keg method, be diligent in handling the nitrogen canister and the keg itself. Check for leaks and ensure a secure connection between the canister and the keg.
#4. Bottle pump: when using this tool for nitrogen infusion, exercise caution during the pumping process. Avoid excessive force, and regularly inspect the pump for any signs of wear or damage.
#5. Pressure release procedures: before disassembling any pressurized equipment, such as the cream dispenser or mini keg, release the pressure according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This step is crucial for preventing unexpected bursts of pressure, which could pose a risk of injury.
Diversity of Beverages based on Nitro Cold Brew Coffee: Best Options
When you can make nitrogen-infused coffee at home, the creative possibilities of making unique beverages on its basis are abundant. You are welcome to let your imagination soar; I’m just giving you a few suggestions, tried and tasted.
Vanilla-infused nitro
Elevate your nitro cold brew experience by adding a touch of vanilla sweetness.
This simple addition enhances the coffee’s natural flavors, creating a drink that has a hint of sweetness and the richness of traditional coffee. And the bubbles, of course.
Nitro float: a dessert in a glass
The creamy, nitrogen-infused coffee mixed with a scoop of your favorite ice cream makes an enticing dessert. The combination is a treat for your taste buds no matter which ice cream flavor you’ll opt for.
Spiced nitro
For a bit of warmth in the cold winter months, consider infusing your nitro-infused coffee with a hint of spice. Add a dash of cinnamon or a sprinkle of nutmeg to create a spiced concoction. This twist adds a layer of complexity to the beverage.
Nitro mocktails
You can become a mixologist and experiment with nitro cold brew mocktails. Combine flavors like ginger, mint, and fruit syrups to create exciting beverages. These inventive concoctions offer a tasting experience that becomes unique because of those tiny nitrogen bubbles and velvety feel.
Final thoughts
Nitrogen has become a sought-after addition, as it transforms ordinary drinks into extraordinary. Making nitro cold brew at home instead of taking trips to coffee shops is absolutely accessible and not complicated at all. It gives you an opportunity for personalization and experimentation, too.
Following my easy guide, you can make nitro cold brew coffee using a technique that will work best for you and add nitro cold brew to your daily or weekly coffee rituals. My article is for the coffee drinkers who don’t want to be confined to the limits of traditional coffee but are willing to experiment with their favorite beverage and discover more angles and nuances of caffeinated delight.
FAQ
What does Nitro do to your coffee?
Nitrogen infusion enhances the feel and visual appeal of the coffee by forming a creamy texture and tiny bubbles. It adds richness to the coffee, making it even more enjoyable.
How do you make nitro coffee with a whipped cream dispenser?
It’s not complex, just take the following steps:
1. Make cold brew coffee.
2. Strain the coffee to create a concentrate.
3. Transfer the concentrate to the cream dispenser.
4. Charge the dispenser with a nitrogen canister.
5. Shake the dispenser vigorously to infuse nitrogen into the concoction.
6. Decant the nitro coffee into a cup or glass, enjoying the creamy head.
Do you add milk to nitro coffee?
Milk is optional in nitro coffee. Some prefer the pure nitrogen-infused cold brew for its creaminess, while others may add milk for a milder flavor. It depends on personal preference.
Is Nitro Brew coffee good for you?
Nitro brew coffee, like regular coffee, can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation. It retains the antioxidants and potential health benefits of coffee. However, be mindful of added sugars or excessive consumption, and consider individual health factors, such as caffeine sensitivity.
Can I use a standard coffee maker to make nitro cold brew coffee?
Absolutely. Just make sure you use a decent coffee filter for straining the coffee and then a tool for nitrogen infusion (like a mini keg), and nitrogen, of course.
Hello, coffee enthusiasts! I’m Nancy Gregory, a seasoned coffee sommelier eager to share the exquisite world of coffee with you. I love coffee with every fiber of my soul and I know a lot of interesting information about beans and coffee brewing methods that I want to share with you.