Nitro coffee has gained popularity for its unique taste and texture. Infusing cold brew coffee with nitrogen creates a smooth, creamy beverage. Nitro coffee is typically lower in calories compared to traditional coffee drinks, especially those with added sugars and cream.
What Is Nitro Coffee?
Nitro coffee is a unique beverage that combines cold brew coffee with nitrogen gas. This infusion creates a smooth, creamy texture and a distinctive taste. Nitro coffee is gaining popularity among coffee enthusiasts due to its unique flavor and low acidity. This guide will explore what nitro coffee is, its caffeine content, calories, and how you can make it at home.
A Brief History Of Nitro Coffee
Nitro coffee emerged in the mid-2010s and quickly became a trendy drink. Initially, it was popular in specialty coffee shops but soon spread to mainstream cafes and restaurants.
The concept of infusing beverages with nitrogen isn’t new. Brewers have been using nitrogen in beers for decades. The idea to use nitrogen in coffee was inspired by this practice. Coffee experts wanted to create a new, exciting way to enjoy cold brew.
Here are some key milestones in the history of nitro coffee:
- 2013: Nitro coffee was first introduced by small coffee shops in the United States.
- 2015: Major coffee chains like Starbucks began offering nitro coffee.
- 2017: Nitro coffee started appearing in grocery stores and canned versions.
Today, coffee is a popular choice for those seeking a different coffee experience. Its history is short but impactful, showing how innovation can transform a traditional beverage.
What Makes Nitro Coffee Different From Regular Cold Brew?
Nitro coffee and regular cold brew start with the same base: cold brew coffee. The difference lies in the infusion of nitrogen gas. This process gives nitro coffee its unique characteristics.
Here are some key differences:
| Aspect | Nitro Coffee | Regular Cold Brew |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Creamy and smooth | Thin and watery |
| Flavor | Slightly sweet and less acidic | Bitter and more acidic |
| Appearance | Frothy, similar to beer | Clear, like iced coffee |
The nitrogen infusion also affects the coffee’s mouthfeel. Coffee feels thicker and more satisfying. Regular cold brew, while refreshing, lacks this creamy texture.
Why Nitro Coffee Is Growing In Popularity
Nitro coffee is becoming more popular for several reasons. First, the unique texture and flavor appeal to coffee lovers. The creamy, frothy texture sets it apart from other cold coffees.
Second, coffee is lower in acidity. This makes it gentler on the stomach and more enjoyable for those sensitive to acidic drinks.
Here are some other reasons for its growing popularity:
- Health Benefits: Nitro coffee is often served without added sugar or cream, making it a healthier option.
- Visual Appeal: The frothy top and cascading bubbles make it visually stunning.
- Convenience: Ready-to-drink nitro coffee cans are available in many stores.
Overall, coffee offers a new way to enjoy a beloved beverage. Its unique qualities and health benefits make it a favorite for many.
How To Make Nitro Coffee At Home
Equipment
- Espresso machine (or alternative for brewing espresso)
- Mixing glass or cocktail shaker
- Whipping siphon
- Nitrogen cartridge (2 grams)
- Strainer
- Ice
- Bar spoon or stirrer
- Measuring jigger
- Citrus peeler (for garnishing with orange peel)
Ingredients
- 4 oz espresso
- 1 oz rich simple syrup
- 6-8 dashes Angostura bitters
- 6-8 dashes orange bitters
- 20 drops Luxardo maraschino liqueur
Instructions
- Start by brewing 4 oz of strong espresso. You can use an espresso machine, AeroPress, or Moka pot to create a rich, concentrated coffee base. Here’s how:Ensure the espresso is strong and robust, as this will be the foundation of your Nitro coffee. If you don’t have an espresso machine, a French press can also be used. Just make sure the coffee is strong enough to hold up against the nitrogen infusion.Grind your coffee beans to a fine consistency. Use a coffee-to-water ratio of 1:2 to ensure a bold flavor. Brew your coffee until you have 4 oz of espresso.
- Now, mix your freshly brewed 4 oz of espresso with 1 oz of rich simple syrup in a mixing glass. Add 6-8 dashes of Angostura bitters, 6-8 dashes of orange bitters, and 20 drops of Luxardo maraschino liqueur. You can also include mascerated cherries for extra sweetness and flavor.Stir the mixture well over ice to ensure all ingredients are fully combined and chilled. This step is key for creating a balanced flavor profile before the nitro infusion.
- Pour the espresso mixture over a glass filled with ice. This step helps cool down the coffee and prepares it for the nitro infusion. Here’s how:Allow the coffee to cool for a minute or two. This ensures it’s cold and ready for the next step. Alternatively, you can chill the mixture in the refrigerator if you prefer to avoid dilution from the ice.Fill a mixing glass or cocktail shaker with ice cubes. Pour the espresso, bitters, syrup, and liqueur mixture over the ice. Stir gently to thoroughly chill the coffee mixture.
- Now, it’s time to infuse the coffee with nitrogen using a whipping siphon. Follow these steps:Make sure the siphon is tightly sealed before shaking. This step is key to creating the signature creamy, foamy texture of Nitro coffee. Let the siphon sit for 5 minutes to condition the coffee before serving.Pour the chilled coffee mixture into the siphon, ensuring there’s enough space left for the nitrogen to be properly infused. Securely attach a 2-gram nitrogen cartridge to the siphon. Shake the siphon well for about 30 seconds to thoroughly infuse the coffee with nitrogen.
- Finally, dispense your Nitro coffee into a glass and add your favorite garnish. Here are some ideas to enhance the presentation and flavor:Enjoy your homemade Nitro coffee! It’s a delicious and refreshing drink that’s easy to make at home, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself.Garnish with a twist of orange peel to complement the citrus notes from the orange bitters. Add a few coffee beans on top for a decorative touch. Drizzle with caramel or chocolate syrup for a sweet finish.
Caffeine Content In Nitro Coffee
Caffeine content is a crucial factor for many coffee enthusiasts. Nitro coffee has more caffeine than regular cold brew. This is because the cold brew base used for nitro coffee is typically more concentrated.
How Much Caffeine Is In Nitro Coffee?
On average, a 12-ounce cup of nitro coffee contains about 200-300 milligrams of caffeine. Let’s break this down:
| Type of Coffee | Caffeine Content (mg) |
|---|---|
| Nitro Coffee (12 oz) | 200-300 |
| Regular Cold Brew (12 oz) | 150-200 |
| Drip Coffee (12 oz) | 95 |
Why Does Nitro Coffee Have More Caffeine?
Nitro coffee starts with a cold brew concentrate. This means more coffee grounds are used compared to regular coffee. The extraction process also takes longer, pulling out more caffeine from the beans.
Comparing Nitro Coffee To Other Coffee Types
- Nitro coffee: Smooth, creamy, and stronger in caffeine.
- Cold brew: Less acidic, smoother than hot coffee, moderate caffeine.
- Drip coffee: Classic choice, quicker to prepare, moderate caffeine.
Does Nitro Coffee Affect Everyone The Same Way?
Caffeine impacts people differently. Some may feel a stronger jolt, while others find it less intense. Always be mindful of your body’s response to caffeine.
Calories In Nitro Coffee
Many coffee enthusiasts wonder about the calorie content of this trendy beverage. Knowing the calories can help you manage your diet effectively.
Homemade Nitro Coffee
According to our recipe, this indulgent drink contains just 65 calories, making it a guilt-free pleasure!
Ingredients:
Our recipe includes the following ingredients, which together contain 65 calories:
- 4 oz espresso: 5 calories
- 1 oz rich simple syrup: 50 calories
- 6-8 dashes Angostura bitters: 0 calories
- 6-8 dashes orange bitters: 0 calories
- 20 drops Luxardo maraschino liqueur: 10 calories
Enjoy this flavorful coffee while keeping your calorie count in check!
Calories In Plain Nitro Coffee
Plain coffee typically has very few calories. A standard 12-ounce serving contains about 5 calories. These calories come from the coffee beans themselves, as nitro coffee is usually served unsweetened and without milk.
Calories In Flavored Nitro Coffee
Adding flavors or syrups to nitro coffee can increase the calorie count. For instance, a pump of vanilla syrup adds about 20 calories. Adding cream or milk also increases the calories. Here is a table for a quick reference:
| Ingredient | Calories |
|---|---|
| Plain Nitro Coffee (12 oz) | 5 |
| Vanilla Syrup (1 pump) | 20 |
| Heavy Cream (1 oz) | 50 |
| Milk (1 oz) | 15 |
Calories In Store-bought Nitro Coffee
Store-bought coffee can vary in calorie content. Some brands add sweeteners and flavors. Always check the nutrition label. For example, a 12-ounce can of flavored nitro coffee can have up to 100 calories.
How To Keep Nitro Coffee Low-calorie
To keep your nitro coffee low-calorie, opt for plain coffee. If you prefer some sweetness, use sugar-free syrups. Adding a splash of unsweetened almond milk can also keep the calories low.