Nitro cold brew and cold brew coffee are all my love. I have spent countless days with those two kinds of coffee. But what are the differences between them?
The main difference is nitro cold brew is infused with nitrogen gas, and this gives it creamy and foam head. Also with the help of nitrogen gas, nitro cold brew is sweeter than cold brew.
Keep reading and I’ll introduce these two types of coffee to you. Try to find which one suits you best!
Nitro Cold Brew Vs. Cold Brew: the Differences
Before going in-depth about each of the differences between nitro cold brew and cold brew, here’s a quick overview:
| Comparison: | Nitro cold brew: | Cold brew: |
| Texture | Rich body with a creamy texture | Smooth texture |
| Flavor notes | Sweet flavor with a foamy top | Smooth taste with slightly bitter notes |
| Caffeine content | 250mg of caffeine | 250mg of caffeine |
| Acidity | Low acidity | Low acidity |
| How is it served? | Nitrogen infused, over ice, optional sweetener | Over ice, optional sweetener of choice |
Nitro Cold Brew Vs. Cold Brew: the Differences
Before going in-depth about each of the differences between nitro cold brew and cold brew, here’s a quick overview:
Is Nitro Cold Brew Stronger Than Cold Brew?
Because of the addition of nitrous oxide, which makes the coffee sweeter, nitro cold brew is not stronger than regular cold brew. Regular cold brew has a more robust flavor.
The gas bubbles in nitro cold brew make it creamier and more like a stout beer.
Some people who don’t like the taste of black coffee may prefer nitro cold brew because of its sweet and creamy flavor.
You should be aware that both beverages are prepared using the same standard cold brew method. This means that both drinks will be stronger if you use a cold brew base that has steeped for 24 hours.
Since this is the perfect amount of time for me in terms of flavor and strength, I typically steep my cold brew for 15 hours.
What is the Difference in Taste Between These Drinks?
Compared to regular cold brew, nitro cold brew tastes creamier and sweeter.
A smooth, rich, and slightly acidic coffee is produced by steeping coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period of time, usually 12 to 24 hours. This coffee is ideal for serving over ice.
Nitro cold brew takes the smoothness and richness of regular cold brew and adds nitrogen gas, giving it the characteristic cascading effect you see in draft beer.
Which is Sweeter? Nitro Cold Brew Or Cold Brew?
Due to the creamier, smoother mouthfeel and enhanced sweetness that nitrogen infusion provides, nitro cold brew is sweeter.
By adding nitrogen gas, nitro cold brew raises the level of smoothness and sweetness of cold brew.
Small bubbles produced through this process dissolve more quickly than CO2 bubbles, giving the product a creamier texture and increased sweetness.
So if you’re looking for an ultra-smooth and sweet cup, nitro cold brew is your best pick.
Does Nitro Cold Brew Have More Caffeine?
The caffeine content of Nitro Cold Brew is the same as that of Regular Cold Brew. Simply put, nitro cold brew is creamier and has a more subtle flavor than regular cold brew.
The amount of caffeine in nitro cold brew is roughly the same as that in cold brew, which has about 250 mg per serving. (Source)
Depending on how long the cold brew has been steeping and how much is used per serving, the amount of caffeine can vary from coffee shop to coffee shop.
The caffeine content of the coffee beans used to make cold brew varies.
Usually, the same amounts of cold brew are used to prepare both drinks, giving them equal amounts of caffeine.
How Many Calories Are There in Nitro Cold Brew Vs Cold Brew?
The number of calories in a serving of cold brew and nitro cold brew is roughly equal, at 5.
So if you’re counting calories, both are good options. However, the high nitrogen content of nitro cold brew has the added advantage of giving it a richer, creamier flavor.
Most people probably won’t need to add any sweeteners to nitro cold brew because the sweeter flavor will likely be sufficient.
If you enjoy sweetening your cold brew and are trying to lose weight, it might be the better choice. Both coffees will have more calories once you start adding your favorite coffee syrups to the mixture.
Which is Better? Nitro Cold Brew Or Cold Brew?
Your palate will determine this. While cold brew is stronger and leaves a slightly bitter aftertaste, nitro cold brew is smoother and has a chocolatey flavor.
How you want your coffee really depends on your preferences. If you’re not quite sure which would fit you better, I suggest the following:
- Go with nitro cold brew if you like a creamier mouthfeel and a slightly more sweet flavor.
- Stick to regular cold brew if you like a more classic taste with a more robust flavor.
In the end, it comes down to preference. Each beverage has its proper time and place, and I enjoy them both equally.
Try both to see which suits your palate best as a change of pace.
Bottom Line
Now that you are aware of the differences between cold brew and nitro cold brew, cold brew is the better choice if you want a more traditional coffee taste. However, go for nitro cold brew if you want something different and exciting. I do hope you can enjoy it!
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FAQs
Why Does Nitro Cold Brew Taste Different?
Nitro cold brew is different because the nitrogen gas gives it a creamier, more velvety mouthfeel. It also slightly changes the flavor profile because of how nitrogen gas interacts with flavor compounds.
Do You Add Anything to Nitro Cold Brew?
Many enjoy adding cream, milk, or even flavored syrups to their nitro cold brew. However, it’s also delicious, just as it is!
Is Nitro Cold Brew Worth it?
Yes, nitro cold brew is worth it. The coffee has a creamier mouthfeel, and the nitrogen gives it a smooth finish. It also has a slightly sweet flavor that most will enjoy.
