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What is Nitro Coffee?
Nitro coffee. If you've seen it on menus or heard people talking about it, you might be wondering what all the fuss is about.
In simple terms, nitro coffee is cold brew coffee that has been infused with nitrogen gas.
The nitrogen changes the texture and flavor, making it creamy, smooth and surprisingly sweet without any added milk or sugar.
That creamy mouthfeel? It's all nitrogen!
Nitro coffee started showing up in specialty coffee shops a few years ago, and now you can find it in cans and on tap in many places.
It has become popular partly because it is refreshing and satisfying, especially if you like cold brew coffee.
But besides the unique taste and texture, there is also a bit of science behind what makes it so special.
The nitrogen doesn’t dissolve into the coffee like CO₂ does in soda. Instead, it creates tiny bubbles that make the coffee feel thicker and give it that velvety head you might expect from a stout. It’s cold, it’s smooth, and it’s strong — a totally different coffee experience!
So, without further ado, in this article we’re going to explain exactly what nitro coffee is, how it’s made, and why it’s worth trying if you’re curious.
If you're a fan of cold brew coffee or just want to try something new, nitro coffee could be the next step in your coffee adventure.
What is Nitro Coffee?
Nitro coffee is cold brew coffee that has been infused with nitrogen gas. The result?
A drink that is smooth, velvety and has a naturally creamy texture without any added milk or cream.
It is served cold, often on tap, just like beer.
The Origin Story of Nitro Coffee
Nitro coffee has a fairly recent history. Ten years ago you wouldn't have found it in cafes.
The origins lie in the cold brew coffee revolution, which started in the early 2000s. Cold brew was different from iced coffee, less acidic and softer in taste. But some coffee lovers wanted to develop that softness even further. That's where the idea of nitrogen came into play.
The actual concept of nitro coffee—infusing cold brew coffee with nitrogen gas—was introduced around 2012. The first companies experimenting with it were based in the US, primarily in the specialty coffee scenes of cities like Portland.
Coffee bars and roasters started experimenting, looking for something unique that was more than just cold coffee in a glass.
Inspired by the creamy, frothy texture of nitrogen-infused beers like Guinness, they decided to apply the same technique to coffee.
As word spread, nitro coffee began to appear in more and more cafes. It wasn’t long before major coffee chains took notice and began offering nitro coffee on tap.
How Nitro Coffee Came to the Netherlands
Nitro coffee came to the Netherlands a little later, after it became popular in the US. Around 2015, the Dutch specialty coffee scene first heard about this nitrogen-infused cold brew.
At the time, cold brew itself was just starting to gain popularity here, but the idea of infusing it with nitrogen was something new and exciting.
Specialty cafes in cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam started experimenting with it, seeing it as a way to offer something unique and take the cold coffee experience to the next level.
Now it's found everywhere—from small cafes to canned versions in supermarkets.
Today, nitro coffee has a dedicated following, known for its smooth, creamy, and strong character. It’s a great example of how experimenting with a simple process can bring something completely new to the world of coffee!
How is Nitro Coffee Made?
Nitro coffee starts with a regular cold brew.
Once the coffee is ready, it is poured into a vat and infused with nitrogen gas. The gas creates small bubbles that add a soft, creamy texture and a thicker mouthfeel.
What Makes Nitro Coffee Creamy?
The creaminess comes from the nitrogen.
When nitrogen is added to the cold brew, a velvety, foamy top layer is created.
The tiny bubbles created by nitrogen are smaller than CO₂ bubbles, making the coffee feel smoother rather than fizzy.
Benefits of Drinking Nitro Coffee
Nitro coffee offers a rich texture and a unique drinking experience. Here are some of the key benefits:
Soft, Creamy Texture Without Extra Calories
Nitro coffee is popular for its creamy, frothy texture. Nitrogen gives it a natural sweetness, allowing you to enjoy the rich, smooth flavor without adding milk or sugar.
This can be ideal if you're looking for flavor without the extra calories.
Naturally Sweeter Taste
Cold brew brings out a different side of the coffee beans.
This natural sweetness makes nitro coffee a great option if you enjoy coffee flavor but prefer to avoid added sweeteners.
Lower Acidity
Because nitro coffee is a cold brew, it has a lower acidity than traditional hot coffee.
For some, this means that nitro coffee is gentler on the stomach and teeth.
If you are sensitive to acid in your diet, nitro coffee may be a milder option.
Possibly Higher Caffeine Content
Because nitro coffee is often a concentrate, it often contains more caffeine than a regular cup of coffee.
This extra kick can make it a go-to choice for an energy boost in the morning or later in the day. But, as with any caffeinated beverage, it's wise to monitor your intake.
Fast and Handy
If you’re on the go, nitro coffee is often sold in cans or on tap at coffee shops. It’s cold, so you don’t have to wait for it to cool down.
Simply open the can or pour a glass and you're ready to go.
Visual Experience that Enriches the Experience
Pouring nitro coffee is a little show. As you pour, you see bubbles rise and settle into a creamy foam layer, similar to a stout beer.
The visual experience adds an element of enjoyment before you take a sip, making it a treat if you like your coffee to feel like an experience.
Ideal for those who want to discover new coffee experiences
If you're already a coffee lover or curious about expanding your coffee flavors, nitro coffee offers something different.
It's one of those drinks where the taste, texture and presentation come together to make it feel unique.
Nitro can be a stepping stone to learning more about how different brewing methods can bring out different qualities in coffee.
Eco-Friendly Choice
Nitro coffee also has a practical advantage.
Because it's usually served on tap or in recyclable cans, it can often be a more sustainable choice compared to disposable cups or plastic iced coffee bottles.
For those who prefer to make it at home, you can make a batch of cold brew and infuse it with nitrogen yourself if you have the right equipment. This minimizes waste and gives you control over the ingredients.
How Does Nitro Coffee Compare to Traditional Cold Brew?
Both start with cold brew, but nitro coffee adds nitrogen to the mix. Cold brew is smooth and mild, while nitro coffee is even smoother, with a thicker, creamier texture.
Nitro also has a more complex flavor profile due to the nitrogen infusion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Nitro Coffee More Expensive?
Nitro coffee requires special equipment like nitrogen tanks and taps, which can be expensive. The process also takes time and care to perfect, which adds to the price.
Is Nitro Coffee Safe to Drink if I am Sensitive to Caffeine?
Nitro coffee can provide a caffeine kick because it is made from cold brew, which is often stronger than traditional iced coffee. If you are sensitive to caffeine, start with a smaller serving.
Does Nitro Coffee Taste Sparkling?
No, nitro coffee does not taste fizzy. The nitrogen bubbles are finer than carbon dioxide bubbles, which gives it a creamy mouthfeel rather than a fizzy effect.
Is Adding Milk or Sugar to Nitro Coffee a Good Idea?
Adding milk or sugar is entirely up to you, but nitro coffee is designed to be enjoyed without any additives. The nitrogen gives it a natural sweetness, and the texture is creamy enough on its own.
Is Nitro Coffee Always Served Cold?
Yes, nitro coffee is served cold. The cold temperature enhances the smoothness and allows the nitrogen to do its magic.
Is Nitro Coffee Vegan and Keto Friendly?
Absolutely. Since it only contains coffee and nitrogen gas, it is vegan and keto friendly. No animal products, no sugar.
Which Coffee Beans Are Best for Nitro Coffee?
Choose beans with chocolate, nut, or caramel notes to complement the creamy texture of nitro, like our Blend N˚1 . Medium to dark roasts work particularly well.
What Equipment is Needed to Make Nitro Coffee at Home?
To make nitro coffee at home, you will need a keg or a special nitrogen charger, a nitrogen cartridge, and a dispenser.
It's an investment, but worth it if you plan to make it regularly.
Is Nitro Coffee Right For You?
If you're a fan of cold brew and enjoy creamy, smooth textures, nitro coffee is definitely worth a try.
It's different and a great way to experience coffee in a new way.
Give it a try and you might just find your new favorite drink!
