Cold brew vs. nitro cold brew: What’s the difference?

What’s the difference between cold brew vs nitro cold brew? While it may seem like another trendy twist to iced coffee, nitro cold brew coffee is more than just a fancy name. By infusing the coffee with nitrogen gas, you create a creamy, velvety finish reminiscent of a stout draft beer.

But what does that mean for the taste? Is nitrogen cold brew just a coffee shop gimmick, or is it worth a try? Sip on this guide to find out which one deserves a spot in your cup.

What is cold brew?

Known for its smooth, less acidic flavor profile, cold brew uses a drawn-out extraction process with low-temperature water to achieve a smoother, sweeter cup.

How cold brew is made

Cold brew is much more than regular coffee served over ice—it’s a completely different brewing process that relies on time and patience. Here are the steps to making cold brew at home:

● Soak coarsely ground coffee in cold or room-temperature water for 12 to 24 hours

● Strain the grounds to create a cold brew concentrate 

● Serve the cold brew concentrate over ice, diluted with milk or water to taste

Since heat plays no role, cold brew develops a distinct chemical composition that sets it apart from other methods. When made at home, cold brew lasts up to a week, depending on its brewing method and storage.

Flavor profile of cold brew

Contrasting the intense, acidic bite of hot-brewed coffee, cold brew cools the palate with a flavor profile that’s: 

● Smooth and easy to drink since it extracts fewer complex compounds

● Gentle on the stomach by side stepping high temperatures (which extract more acids)

● Naturally sweet and highlights more chocolatey notes 

These qualities have made cold brew an instant classic among coffee lovers looking for a frosty alternative to traditional drip coffee.

What is nitro cold brew?

So, what is nitro cold brew exactly and how does it compare to regular iced coffee? The pursuit of smoother coffee didn’t stop with cold brew. Nitro cold brew coffee takes the experience further with an infusion of nitrogen gas. With what result? Cascading crema, frothy mouthfeel, and a sweeter palate sure to impress the most stringent of specialty coffee enthusiasts.

How nitro cold brew is made

While standard cold brew only requires coffee grounds and water, nitro cold brew calls for specialized equipment to infuse the drink with nitrogen. A keg or pressurized dispenser introduces tiny nitrogen bubbles into the brew, creating its distinct appearance.

Flavor profile of nitro cold brew

Nitrogen doesn’t just enhance the look of your cold brew—its chemistry elevates the entire drinking experience:

● Silky smooth body – Tiny nitrogen bubbles glide across the palate, adding a buttery consistency.

● Richly sweet aftertaste – The infusion rounds out any lingering acidity without adding any sugar.

● Luxurious foam head – A creamy top layer delivers a drink experience that looks as decadent as it tastes.

Nitro brew is typically served without ice to preserve this unique texture and taste.

Key differences between cold brew and nitro cold brew

Having examined cold brew vs nitro cold brew individually, how do they stack up when compared side by side? Let’s compare:

● Texture and mouthfeel – Regular cold brew carries a rich, full body that emphasizes the coffee’s natural oils and sugars. Nitro brew contrasts this with a creamy and velvety-smooth consistency due to the subtle nitrogen bubbles.

● Taste differences – Cold brew is already less acidic, offering a clean, crisp cup. Nitro cold brew takes this further with flavors described as even mellower, subtly sweeter, and ultra-smooth.

● Caffeine content – Nitrogen does not affect caffeine content, and nitro cold brew contains the same amount of caffeine as regular cold brew. Since both are smooth and easy to drink, you may consume them faster, leading to a quicker caffeine hit.

● Serving and availability – Cold brew is easy to make at home, requiring just coffee grounds, water, and time. Nitro cold brew, however, requires special equipment, making it less accessible outside of coffee shops.

As nitro cold brew continues to grow in popularity, more cafes and roasters are adding it to their menus—making it easier than ever to experience this indulgent take on traditional cold brew.

Which one should you choose?

Now for the real cold brew vs nitro cold brew question: Which one is better? The answer depends on your personal preference, but here’s a quick reference guide to help you decide:

● Choose regular cold brew coffee if you prefer a classic, coffee-forward experience. If you simply prefer the pure taste of your coffee—smooth, bold, and unembellished—regular cold brew delivers just that, without any foamy distractions.

● Choose nitro cold brew if you enjoy a creamy texture and subtly sweeter flavor. The nitrogen infusion enhances everything people love about cold brew, making it feel like a completely different drink.

Of course, you don’t have to choose just one! Brew your own cold brew at home for an easy everyday option, and treat yourself to nitro cold brew when you’re out at a cafe. You might just fall in love with both.

Cold or hot, nitro or not, brew the best with Breville 

The quest for the perfect cup is neverending—much like the debate between cold brew vs nitro cold brew. Whether you prefer the smooth simplicity of traditional cold brew or the indulgent frothiness of nitro, one thing is certain: Experimentation is the key to finding new favorites.

As you experiment with new coffee creations at home, the right tools can make all the difference. With Breville’s expertly crafted espresso machines designed for cold brew extraction, you can explore cold brewing from comfort of your kitchen. 

Discover Breville’s lineup; find your perfect cup today.

Sources: 

1. Fresh Roasted Coffee. How Long to Steep Cold Brew Coffee? https://www.freshroastedcoffee.com/blogs/news/how-long-should-you-steep-cold-brew

2. Healthline. Nitro Coffee: Is Cold Brew Better Than Regular? https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/nitro-coffee#acidity

3. WBUR. Nitro Cold Brew: The Science Behind Coffee's Biggest Trend. https://www.wbur.org/hereandnow/2019/07/08/what-is-nitro-cold-brew-coffee 

4. Business Insider. Chemistry explains why cold brew coffee tastes better than hot. https://www.businessinsider.com/cold-brew-coffee-taste-chemistry-science-solubles-volatile-2015-8