What Is Nitro Cold Brew?

Nitro cold brew has become a coffee-shop staple, poured from a tap like a stout beer. If you've wondered what makes it so smooth and creamy, here's the full picture.

What it is

Nitro cold brew is regular cold brew coffee infused with nitrogen gas. The nitrogen creates tiny bubbles that give the drink a velvety, cascading texture and a frothy head — all without any milk or sugar.

Why it tastes different

The nitrogen bubbles soften cold brew's naturally low acidity even further, adding a creamy mouthfeel and a subtle natural sweetness. It's typically served unsweetened and without ice, so the flavor stays concentrated.

How to make it at home

You'll need cold brew concentrate and a nitrogen system — either a whipped-cream dispenser with nitrogen chargers or a dedicated nitro cold brew maker. Charge the chilled cold brew, give it a shake, and pour. Without the equipment, a hard shake in a sealed jar approximates the froth.

Start with great cold brew

Nitro is only as good as the cold brew behind it. Use a coarse grind and fresh, bold beans from our lineup.