Cold brew and Nitro Cold Brew and Iced Coffee are two common types of cold beverages. But what is the difference between them? It turns out a lot! Learn about the texture, flavor, and other variations between these specialty coffees.
To be honest, I'm a coffee purist. I prefer black coffee without cream, and I usually stick to plain coffee instead of the fancier lattes and flavored coffees that are offered at my neighborhood coffee shop. However, there is one tendency that I have noticed: cold coffee. It's a cool twist on my morning brew, particularly in the warmer months when the thought of drinking a scalding pot of coffee doesn't seem very tempting. However, even in the realm of iced coffee, there are some types that initially confused me. Coffee on ice? Cold Brew? Cold Brew with Nitro? How do you drink these, and what exactly are these?
Here are some often asked questions and my simple explanation of the differences between different coffee varieties to assist you better understand the menu at your local coffee shop!
Jump to:
- Nitro Cold Brew Vs Cold Brew - What’s the Difference?
- The Main Difference: Cold Brew Vs. Nitro Cold Brew
- The Brewing Process
- Key Differences Between Nitro Cold Brew And Cold Brew
- Health Benefits
- Cold Brew Frequently Asked Questions
- Nitro Cold Brew Frequently Asked Questions
- What about Iced coffee?
- More Delicious and Easy Recipes
- 💬 Comments
Nitro Cold Brew Vs Cold Brew - What’s the Difference?
Let's start with the fundamentals before getting into the specifics. While both nitro cold brew and regular cold brew are cold coffee beverages, their textures differ primarily.
The Main Difference: Cold Brew Vs. Nitro Cold Brew
Although there are many minor variations between these two kind of coffee, the texture is probably the most noticeable. The injection of nitrogen gas is the most unique aspect of nitro cold brew. The term "nitro coffee" refers to cold brew coffee that has been compressed with nitrogen; it is usually served from a tap, much like draft beer. Tiny nitrogen bubbles are produced during this procedure, giving the coffee a velvety, creamy texture and a foamy top. The lengthy steeping procedure of regular cold brew coffee, however, usually results in a smoother, somewhat sweeter flavor. The creamy mouthfeel and small bubbles that define nitro cold brew are absent from this beverage.
The Brewing Process
Nitro cold brew and cold brew use different brewing methods.
Cold Brew. To make regular cold brew, coarsely ground coffee beans are steeped in cold water for a long time, usually 12 to 24 hours. Depending on personal choice, the coffee concentrate produced by the slow extraction technique is then diluted with either milk or water.
Nitro Cold Brew. In reality, nitro cold brew starts out as a standard cold brew concentrate; the only distinction is the nitrogen infusion procedure. Nitrogen gas is used to pressurize the cold brew concentrate, which is kept in a keg. These little nitrogen bubbles are produced when it passes through a pressured valve and is injected with nitrogen when it is served.
Note: Nitro cold brew is readily available in neighborhood grocery stores due to its ease of canning. Cheers!
Key Differences Between Nitro Cold Brew And Cold Brew
Let's now examine some further significant distinctions between conventional cold brew coffee and nitro cold brew:
- Feel the texture. Regular cold brew is smoother but doesn't have the creamy mouthfeel of nitro cold brew, which is renowned for having a creamy, velvety texture similar to a milkshake or stout beer.
- Taste. Nitro cold brew has a distinct flavor profile with traces of sweetness and a hint of acidity, whilst regular cold brew has a somewhat sweeter taste because of its lengthy steeping procedure.
- presentation. Because of its foamy head and cascading look, Nitro Cold Brew is a popular choice in coffee shops and wins in the presentation category.
Health Benefits
There may be some health advantages to both of these delectable coffees. Among them are:
- Acidity is reduced. In general, cold-brewed coffee is a better choice than a typical cup of coffee for people with sensitive stomachs or acid reflux since the longer steep time at lower temperatures lessens some of the acidity.
- prolonged shelf life. Compared to hot coffee, cold brew coffee—nitro or regular—has a longer shelf life. A batch can be made and consumed over a few days. In contrast, iced coffee will lose its flavor after a few hours.
- Reduce the temperature. Since both coffees are served cold, they're both great choices for a cool summertime pick-me-up.
- It's possible that nitro cold brew requires less additives. You might find that you don't need to add more cream or sugary additives because of this great coffee's creamy smoothness.
Cold Brew Frequently Asked Questions
Compared to hot coffee, cold brew coffee is renowned for having a smoother, mellower, and somewhat sweeter flavor with less acidity. The kind of coffee beans used and the amount of time spent brewing might affect the flavor.
Since this is a concentrate, you should dilute it with water, ice, or a little milk or your preferred milk substitute. Some choose to add flavorings like cinnamon or vanilla or sweeten it with syrups.
Yes, you can heat it up, but as it's a concentrate, you must dilute it with hot water or milk. A strong, bitter brew could be produced by heating it without diluting it.
It's simple to make cold brew concentrate! Just let your favorite coffee grinds soak overnight in a jar of cool water, sift, and serve with water, ice, or your preferred creamer.
The potent coffee extract made during the cold brew process is known as cold brew concentration. To make coffee that is ready to drink, it must be diluted with water, milk, or ice.
No matter what kind of coffee bean you like—dark roast, medium roast, or anything else—you may use it to produce cold brew. Trying out various beans can result in distinctive flavor characteristics.
The type of coffee beans, brewing duration, and dilution can all affect how much caffeine is in cold brew. However, the caffeine level of cold brew is usually higher than that of regular drip coffee since it is steeped for a longer period of time. A typical cup of hot coffee typically contains 80–100 mg of caffeine, whereas an 8-ounce (240ml) portion of cold brew often contains 100–200 mg.
The concentrate will continue to taste fantastic for approximately a week if kept in the refrigerator. I prefer preparing a large quantity on the weekend to consume throughout the week!
Nitro Cold Brew Frequently Asked Questions
Nitro cold brew has a distinct flavor profile with a creamy texture and little sweetness. The taste is enhanced by the nitrogen infusion, which makes it a special and delectable delight.
In contrast to ordinary cold brew, Nitro cold brew doesn't require any additional ingredients to taste good (or less potent). It tastes finest just out of the faucet because of the cascading effect and foamy head. It's wonderful on its own, according to most people. Ice is not the greatest way to serve it.
Although it is technically possible to heat nitro cold brew, it is not advised. It's best enjoyed cold to enjoy the creamy smoothness and nitrogen bubbles that characterize nitro cold brew. The coffee will get flat faster if it is heated because it will lose its nitration. (However, some coffee establishments do serve hot Nitro coffee!)
The caffeine level is typically the same as that of a typical cold brew because it is brewed in the same manner. However, depending on the kinds of beans used and the length of time the steeping procedure takes, the caffeine level may vary. It is true that nitro brew has more caffeine than regular coffee or iced coffee. If you're worried, it's always advisable to check the caffeine concentration of individual drinks. (For instance, at Starbucks, a 12-ounce cup of standard cold brew coffee contains 155 mg of caffeine, whereas a 12-ounce cup of nitro cold brew contains 215 mg.)
It isn't carbonated, sorry. Although it lacks the fizz of carbonated beverages like soda, the small nitrogen bubbles give it a creamy mouthfeel and a foamy head.
Additional supplies, such as a keg and a nitrogen canister, are required to make this delectably creamy coffee at home. Kegging your cold brew concentrate and applying nitrogen pressure are the steps in the procedure. Although it may be made at home, coffee shops are more likely to serve it because of the necessary equipment. (Even though several nitro cold brew coffee devices and kegs are available for home usage these days!)
What about Iced coffee?
You may be wondering how classic iced coffee comes into the equation now that we've discussed the distinctions between two delectable varieties of cold coffee. Another well-liked cold coffee option is iced coffee, which isn't quite the same as cold brew (or nitro cold brew).
- Techniques for brewing. Traditional brewing techniques, including drip coffee or a French press, are commonly used to make iced coffee. After making hot coffee, it is cooled by either adding ice cubes or placing it in the refrigerator.
- Presentation. Like cold brew, iced coffee is served cold, but it doesn't have the distinct flavor and texture of either nitro or ordinary cold brew.
- Consumption of caffeine. Since iced coffee is brewed with hot water, its caffeine concentration is comparable to that of conventional hot coffee. Compared to conventional cold brew or nitro cold brew, it has less caffeine.
- Tastes. A variety of flavors and sweeteners are available for iced coffee. It's a flexible option that allows you to add flavored syrups, milk, or cream as you choose. Compared to a longer steeped cold brew or nitro cold brew, it can occasionally taste a little more acidic.
So, the next time you walk into your favorite local coffee shop or peruse the cold coffee selection at grocery stores, I hope this guide gives you the info you'll need to make a smart drink selection! Ultimately, the choice between nitro cold brew and regular cold brew comes down to your personal preference and the experience you seek in your cup of cold coffee.
Learn how to make the perfect cold brew coffee here!
If you tried this Difference Between Nitro Cold Brew And Cold Brew? or any other recipe on my website, please feel free to leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how it goes in the 📝 comments below. And remember to tag me on Instagram!
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Camila Ross says
I really appreciate how you've explained everything so clearly! I've always been a bit confused about the differences, but now I feel empowered to order confidently at cafes. Can't wait to sip on some delicious nitro cold brew!
Mallory Long says
'Can you heat up cold brew?' That's something I've wondered about before! Your answers are super practical and relatable; it's nice knowing that there's more than one way to enjoy our favorite coffees.
Rose Miller says
What a fantastic overview of cold coffee varieties! I'm a fan of regular cold brew, but now I'm intrigued by the nitro option. The idea of that creamy mouthfeel has me ready to experiment with my next coffee order!
Juliet Stone says
I absolutely love the depth of this post! It breaks down all the different coffee types so well. I had no idea nitro cold brew had that creamy texture; it sounds like a game-changer for my summer coffee cravings.
Adriana Miles says
This is such a helpful guide! I love how you broke down the brewing processes and health benefits. As someone who enjoys experimenting with my morning brew, I'll definitely be trying out both types soon.
Casey Bell says
Such an informative post! I'm definitely leaning towards trying nitro cold brew after learning about its unique texture and flavor profile. It's great to know there's something new out there for us coffee lovers!
Sierra Wilson says
Thanks for sharing such detailed insights! I always thought iced coffee was just cold coffee, but now I see there's so much more to it. I'm definitely curious to try nitro cold brew after reading your description.
Melanie Diaz says
'Cold brew vs. Nitro Cold Brew' is such an interesting topic! Your descriptions make it sound delightful, especially with summer around the corner. I'll be sure to give both a try and see which one steals my heart!
Elja Winblad says
Wow, what a detailed breakdown of these cool coffee brews! It’s always fascinating to see how tiny tweaks in the preparation can change the whole experience. I’ve heard nitro cold brew could be a refreshing option when traveling in warmer climates. Any thoughts on how it's received internationally?