✦ Brew Nitro Coffee Like a Pro ✦
How To Make Nitro Cold Brew
TURN YOUR COLD BREW INTO A CREAMY EXPERIENCE
The Nitro Lowdown
Nitro cold brew takes regular cold brew coffee to the next level by infusing it with nitrogen gas. The result is a smooth, creamy texture with a frothy head—like a coffee stout. This guide walks you through what you need and how to make it happen, starting with a great cold brew base.
Nitro Fundamentals
Equipment
- Cold brew concentrate (see our Cold Brew Coffee Brewing Guide to make it)
- Nitro keg system or whipped cream dispenser (iSi or similar)
- Nitrogen charger (NOT CO₂)
- Funnel & strainer
- Refrigerator-safe container
- Glass for serving
OPTIONAL:
- Burr grinder (if grinding whole beans)
Brew Ratio
- Use cold brew concentrate at 1:4 or 1:5 coffee-to-water ratio
- Dilute to taste before infusing or serve concentrate-style if preferred
NOTE: When it comes to water, 1 milliliter (mL) = 1 gram (g)—so measuring by volume or weight will give you the same result!
Grind Size
- Use coarse ground coffee for the cold brew base (see Grind Size guide in our Cold Brew Coffee Brewing Guide)
Water Temp
- Ice cold—store in fridge until ready to serve
- Never heat nitro cold brew (heating can disrupt the nitrogen infusion and alter both its flavor and texture)
Step #1
Measure & Grind
Start with a smooth, rich cold brew concentrate.
Reference:
Follow our Cold Brew Coffee Brewing Guide for step-by-step instructions on how to make cold brew at home. Once your cold brew is strained and ready, store it in the fridge until it’s time to infuse.
Useful Tips:
- The smoother the cold brew, the smoother the nitro.
- Don’t add milk or sugar before infusing—it’s best to keep it pure.
- Use filtered water for better flavor.
Relevant FAQs
Can I use store-bought cold brew?
Yes, but make sure it's unsweetened and as fresh as possible.
Does it need to be a concentrate?
No, but concentrate gives a bolder result. You can dilute before or after infusing.
How long can I store the base?
Up to 10 days refrigerated.
Step #2
Infuse with Nitrogen
Time to give your cold brew that signature creamy, cascading effect.
Substeps:
- FILL THE DISPENSER OR KEG: Pour your cold brew into a clean nitro-ready container, leaving a little space at the top.
- CHARGE WITH NITROGEN: Insert one nitrogen cartridge and seal tightly. Shake vigorously for 20–30 seconds.
- CHILL AND INFUSE: Let the canister sit in the fridge for at least an hour (or overnight) before serving.
Useful Tips:
- Use N2 (nitrogen), not CO₂—you want creamy, not carbonated.
- Shake well to fully incorporate nitrogen.
- Double charge for extra froth if desired.
- Don’t overfill—leave space for gas expansion.
Relevant FAQs
Can I use CO₂?
No—CO₂ carbonates and creates sour, bubbly coffee. Only use nitrogen (N₂).
Do I need a keg system?
Not at all! A whipped cream charger with a nitrogen cartridge works great for small batches.
How long should I chill it before serving?
At least 1 hour, but overnight is better for full infusion.
Step #3
Serve & Enjoy
Get the visual drama and silky texture nitro cold brew is known for.
Substeps:
- DISPENSE SLOWLY: Invert your canister or open the keg tap and pour at a slight angle into a glass.
- ADMIRE THE CASCADE: Let the nitrogen bubbles settle like a stout beer.
- SERVE AS IS: No ice needed—just enjoy the velvety texture straight up.
Useful Tips:
- Chill your glass beforehand for best results.
- No milk needed—nitro adds natural creaminess.
- Use a transparent glass to show off the cascade.
- Best consumed immediately for peak texture.
Relevant FAQs
Can I add milk or syrup?
Sure—after serving. Just don’t add them before infusing.
Can I store leftover nitro coffee?
Yes, but it will lose its froth over time. Re-infuse if needed.
Why isn’t it frothing?
Check your nitrogen cartridge, seal, and shake time. Make sure your coffee is cold and properly strained.
Step #4
Clean & Recharge
Keep your gear clean for the next perfect pour.
Substeps:
- DISASSEMBLE EQUIPMENT: Release pressure safely, then take apart your dispenser or keg.
- RINSE AND DRY: Wash all parts with warm water and mild soap.
- STORE PROPERLY: Let everything dry fully before reassembling.
Useful Tips:
- Clean immediately to avoid bacteria and clogging.
- Never reuse cartridges.
- Check gaskets and seals regularly for wear.
Relevant FAQs
Can I reuse the nitrogen cartridge?
No—cartridges are single-use only (reusing them won’t deliver enough pressure and may compromise safety or performance).
How do I clean the nozzle?
Use the included cleaning brush or soak in warm soapy water.
Do I need to dry before storing?
Yes—moisture can cause mold or mustiness.
Handy Tools
Perfect Picks for Nitro Cold Brew
