Cold brew has become a staple for coffee connoisseurs, and now you can find an even more intense flavor in nitro cold brew! But while these two popular drinks are made from steeped coffee grounds, they differ in many ways. From taste to texture to their brewing methods, understanding the differences between cold brew vs nitro cold brew can help you pick your favorite or even discover something new.
So, what makes each one unique? Let’s take a closer look at how this dynamic duo compares – it’s time to dive into the details of cold brew vs nitro cold brew!
Cold Brew vs Nitro Cold Brew: How To Distinguish Them?
Texture
The most notable difference between cold brew and nitro cold brew is their texture and mouthfeel. Cold brew closely resembles regular drip coffee with its smooth and liquid-like consistency. Nitro cold brew takes it up a notch with a creamier and almost foamy texture, courtesy of its signature ‘nitrogen’ bubbles. This unique characteristic adds an extra layer of indulgence and enhances the overall sensory experience of enjoying a refreshing cup of coffee.
Taste
Nitro cold brew provides a bright and intense flavor with a hint of subtle sweetness. The nitrogen bubbles also give it a slightly more bitter taste that lingers on the tongue, making it the ideal drink for those who like their coffee black.
Cold brew has a more mellow and less acidic flavor than its nitro counterpart – perfect for adding your favorite milk or cream to create an irresistible latte-like beverage.
Brewing Method
Nitro cold brew starts with the same basic brewing process as a cold brew. The main difference lies in its nitrogen-infused finish, achieved by pouring it through special tap equipment containing gas (usually a mix of nitrogen and carbon dioxide). This unique method gives nitro cold brew its signature foam, smooth texture, and intense flavor.
In comparison, cold brew is steeped for an extended period in cold or room temperature water, creating a naturally caffeinated and flavorful concentrate. The process can take anywhere from 12-24 hours, depending on the desired intensity and amount of coffee used.
Health Benefit
Cold and nitro cold brews are naturally lower in acidity than traditional hot-brewed coffee, making them a great option for sensitive stomachs. They also contain more antioxidants, which can help to boost the immune system and neutralize free radicals.
Nitro cold brew contains more caffeine, as its infusion process produces a slightly higher concentration of caffeine per ounce than cold brew. This can provide an extra energy boost to get you through the day.
Caffeine Content
Nitro cold brew packs a punch when it comes to caffeine content. Its nitrogen-bubbling process creates a higher concentration of caffeine, giving it an extra boost and a bigger kick than regular cold brew.
On average, nitro cold brew contains around 15-30 mg more caffeine per 8oz serving than cold brew coffee. However, the actual caffeine amount can vary depending on the type and amount of coffee beans used for the brewing process.
Calories
Nitro cold brew and cold brew coffee are refreshing and have the advantage of being low in calories, with just 1-2 calories per 8oz serving. However, if you prefer a creamier experience, adding milk or cream can elevate your plain cup of nitro cold brew to a velvety and indulgent treat. The delicate balance of flavors and the smooth texture make it a delightful choice for coffee enthusiasts looking for a satisfying and guilt-free beverage.
Serving Style
Both nitro cold brew and cold brew coffee are typically served on tap, either on its own or with added flavors such as chocolate and vanilla. Nitro cold brew can also be served with a creamy whip of nitrogen foam on top for a smooth texture and rich flavor. Also, you need to shake nitro cold brew before serving as the nitrogen needs to be agitated to combine with the coffee and give it its signature creamy foam.
Cold brew is usually served over ice, while nitro cold brew is best enjoyed without diluting for a more intense flavor.
Shelf Life
Nitro cold brew has a shorter shelf life than cold brew coffee. Since it’s infused with nitrogen, the gas causes it to spoil more quickly compared to regular cold brew. However, both types of coffee can last 1-2 weeks if stored in the refrigerator as long as they are kept tightly sealed and away from any sources of air or light.
Price
In terms of price, nitro cold brew is generally more expensive than regular cold brew coffee since it requires extra time and effort to infuse the beverage with nitrogen. Also, nitro cold brew typically requires special equipment to make it, like a nitro tap or nitrogen tanks, which makes the production cost higher than regular cold brew.
Cold brew can start at a much lower price than nitro cold brew because it requires no special equipment.
Cold Brew and Nitro Cold Brew: What Should You Choose?
It comes down to personal preference and what type of coffee experience you want.
If you’re looking for a smooth, creamy beverage that has an intense flavor, nitro cold brew is the way to go. It will give you a unique experience that is unlike any other coffee.
If you’re looking for a refreshing beverage that won’t break the bank, cold brew might be your best option. Cold brew offers a milder flavor and will still provide an excellent cup of coffee without all the extra cost. Also, the level of caffeine in cold brew is slightly lower than nitro cold brew, making it a great choice for those who are sensitive to caffeine.
Can You Make Nitro Cold Brew Coffee At Home?
You can make nitro cold brew coffee at home with relatively inexpensive tools.
Step 1: Start by making a large batch of cold brew coffee and store it in the fridge.
Step 2: Once the cold brew is chilled, you must get a nitro tap or nitrogen tank. If you don’t have access to either of these tools, you can also aerate your cold brew by shaking it vigorously for a few minutes until it starts to foam up.
Step 3: Dispense your cold brew into a nitro tap or nitrogen tank. You can leave it in the tap or tank for up to a week; just make sure to keep it chilled.
Step 4: When serving your nitro cold brew, tilt the glass and pour slowly. This will ensure that your beverage is properly aerated, and you get a nice creamy head of foam on top!
Note: one tip for making nitro cold brew at home is to use coffee grounds slightly more coarse than you would normally use for hot coffee. This will help ensure the cold brew has a nice, smooth body and intense flavor.
Conclusion
To summarize the comparison of cold brew vs nitro cold brew, both cold brew and nitro cold brew offer unique flavors and will provide you with a delicious cup of coffee. Cold brew is milder and has slightly less caffeine than nitro cold brew, making it great for those sensitive to caffeine. Nitro cold brew is more intense in flavor but requires more equipment to make at home. Ultimately, the choice between these two coffee styles is a personal preference. Try making both and see which one you prefer!
FAQs
Does Nitro Cold Brew Have More Caffeine Than Regular Cold Brew?
Yes, nitro cold brew typically has more caffeine due to the nitrogen gas added during the brewing process.
Does Nitro Cold Brew Taste Better?
Nitro cold brew has a more intense flavor than regular cold brew due to the nitrogen gas that is added during brewing. Some people prefer this stronger taste, while others prefer the milder flavor of traditional cold brew. Ultimately, it’s up to personal preference!
What Kind of Equipment Do You Need To Make Nitro Cold Brew At Home?
In order to make nitro cold brew at home, you’ll need a keg, nitrogen gas tank, and some specialized equipment such as a stout faucet. You’ll also need coarsely ground coffee grounds to ensure the proper flavor and body for your nitro cold brew.
How Long Can You Store Cold Brew Coffee?
Cold brew coffee can typically be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Keep it sealed tightly and store it away from other food items to ensure maximum freshness.
Does Cold Brew Have To Be Made With Cold Water?
No, a cold brew does not have to be made with cold water. You can make a cold brew using room temperature water, although brewing will take longer. Cold water helps to speed up the extraction process and gives you a smoother cup of coffee. Then, placing the concentrate in the refrigerator helps to keep the cold brew coffee fresh for longer.
Garry Wells is a knowledgeable and passionate entrepreneur with a decade of experience in the coffee industry. He began as an enthusiastic barista, amassing a wealth of knowledge about coffee firsthand. He decided to pursue his dreams and opened up a cozy café and restaurant that quickly became renowned for its delicious selection of artisanal beverages and meals. His attention to detail and commitment to flavor has made him an icon in the local community, crafting experiences that are both indulgent and memorable.