How to make a nitro cold brew?

To make a nitro cold brew at home: Brew a strong cold brew concentrate using coarsely ground coffee and cold filtered water. Strain the concentrate and pour it into a nitro-ready container (like a whipped cream dispenser or mini keg). Charge with nitrogen gas (N2), shake lightly, and dispense into a chilled glass without ice. This creates the signature creamy foam and smooth texture that defines nitro cold brew. For equipment tips, refer to Part 2 where we break down the best tools for home brewing success.

What to mix with nitro cold brew?

Though nitro cold brew is delicious on its own, you can customize it with: - Light syrups (vanilla, caramel, mocha) - Nut-based milk foams (like oat or almond) - Spices (cinnamon, nutmeg) - Zero-calorie sweeteners (stevia, monk fruit) Just avoid heavy creams or dense syrups post-pour, as they can ruin the nitrogen foam. Mix any flavor enhancers before infusing the brew with nitrogen.

How does Starbucks make their Nitro cold brew?

Starbucks uses a proprietary cold brew concentrate that steeps for 20 hours, then infuses it with nitrogen via a pressurized keg system. Their signature Nitro Cold Brew is poured from a tap, served without ice, and often topped with sweet vanilla cream or cold foam . To replicate this at home, try our copycat Starbucks-style recipe from Part 4.

Should you add anything to Nitro cold brew?

Yes, but sparingly. While traditionalists enjoy nitro cold brew pure, adding subtle flavors before the nitrogen infusion can create a more personalized drink. Best additions: - Vanilla or mocha syrup - Coconut or oat milk - Infused simple syrups (e.g., cinnamon or lavender) Worst additions: - Ice (kills foam) - Fizzy drinks (conflicts with nitrogen) - Heavy dairy (separates easily)

What is the best flavor to add to nitro cold brew?

Vanilla wins as the most popular and complementary flavor. It enhances the natural sweetness brought out by nitrogen, and blends smoothly with the cold brew base. Other fan favorites: Caramel for richness Chocolate for depth Cinnamon for warmth Hazelnut for a nutty twist Choose natural flavoring agents over processed syrups for better taste and foam quality.

Is nitro cold brew healthier?

Yes—especially when consumed plain. It contains: - Zero sugar unless added - No dairy unless you opt-in - Lower acidity than regular coffee - Fewer calories per serving (around 5) It also delivers more caffeine (200–250mg per 12 oz) without added ingredients, making it one of the cleanest energy-boosting drinks available. Learn more about its benefits in Part 6 of this article.

Nitro Cold Brew Recipe – The Best Frothy DIY Coffee (2025)

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup coarsely ground coffee (dark roast recommended)
4 cups filtered cold water
1 nitrogen charger (N2 only, not N2O)
Whipped cream dispenser or mini keg with nitro tap
Optional: 1 tsp vanilla syrup, oat milk foam, or cinnamon garnish

Instructions

Combine ground coffee and filtered water in a mason jar or pitcher.
Stir, cover, and steep in the fridge for 12–18 hours.
Strain the cold brew concentrate using a fine mesh or filter.
Pour into a whipped cream dispenser or nitro keg.
Charge with nitrogen, shake gently for 30 seconds.
Invert and pour into a chilled glass without ice.
Optional: Add vanilla syrup or cold foam before serving.

Notes

For best results, use fresh, dark roast beans and filtered water. Avoid adding ice post-pour to preserve the creamy foam. Store base concentrate for up to 7 days refrigerated.

Author: Alexandra Roa
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Beverage
Method: No Cook
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 glass
Calories: 5
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 5mg
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 0g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: nitro cold brew, coffee, iced coffee, DIY, Starbucks copycat