Looking to serve a smooth, creamy cold brew without the need for a nitrogen tap? This espresso-based Nitro Cold Brew Hack is a simple yet effective method to recreate that signature texture using just an espresso machine and a steam wand. Perfect for cafés or home setups, it delivers a velvety mouthfeel, gentle crema, and refreshing chill — all without the complexity of gas tanks or kegs.
Nitro Cold Brew Hack Recipe (Espresso-Based)
Objective: Create a creamy, nitro-style cold brew texture without a nitrogen tap
Tools: Espresso machine with steam wand, carafe, tall glass, large ice cubes
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Ingredients
• 1 double shot of espresso (we like a big fruity coffee like Las Brisas pulled at around 18g-50g in around 25 seconds)
• 100g ice (in carafe)
• 150ml cold filtered water
• Extra large ice cubes (for serving glass)
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Method
1. Prepare the base:
• In a carafe or jug, add 100g of ice and 150ml cold water.
• Pull a double espresso shot (approx. 36–40g) directly over the ice and water. This creates a chilled, well-diluted iced americano base.
2. Steam-wand aeration (“Nitro hack”):
• Submerge the steam wand tip just below the surface of the iced americano.
• Open the steam valve fully for 3–4 seconds, allowing a quick burst of air to aerate the liquid.
• The goal is to create microfoam and a velvety texture without heating the drink. You should see a slight cascading effect and crema-like head form.
3. Serve immediately:
• Quickly pour into a tall glass filled with large ice cubes to preserve dilution and enhance presentation.
• Enjoy immediately while the creamy mouthfeel and cascading texture are still fresh.
