✦ Brew Nitro Coffee Like a Pro ✦
How To Make Nitro Cold Brew
TURN YOUR COLD BREW INTO A CREAMY, CASCADE-POURING EXPERIENCE—RIGHT FROM HOME
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
Still Have Questions?
Don’t worry—we’re here to help! If something’s not quite clicking or you’re just looking for extra brewing clarity, our Brew Crew is just a message away.
