Cold brew coffee has taken the coffee world by storm, and when you add Guinness beer into the mix, the results are nothing short of spectacular. Guinness Nitro Cold Brew Coffee combines the rich flavors of cold brew coffee with the smooth, creamy texture of Guinness stout, creating a drink that’s perfect for coffee and beer lovers alike. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about this unique beverage, from its recipe and brewing process to its taste and ideal pairings.
What Is Guinness Nitro Cold Brew Coffee?
Guinness Nitro Cold Brew Coffee is a hybrid beverage that blends the iconic taste of Guinness beer with the refreshing boldness of cold brew coffee. It combines cold brew coffee that is infused with nitrogen to create a creamy, smooth texture and a frothy head, similar to what you would find in a classic pint of Guinness stout. Unlike typical coffee drinks, this version does not have the bitterness associated with regular coffee or the heaviness of beer—it’s a perfectly balanced fusion of both.
Guinness partnered with a leading cold brew coffee company to develop this special drink. The result is a nitro-infused coffee that has a rich coffee flavor with the signature smoothness and mouthfeel of Guinness beer. The nitrogen infusion gives it a soft, velvety texture that elevates the drinking experience, making it a delightful treat for both coffee enthusiasts and beer lovers.
Recipe and Brewing Process
Making Guinness Nitro Cold Brew Coffee requires a bit more effort than simply brewing a pot of coffee, but the result is well worth it. Here’s a simple breakdown of how this refreshing drink is made.
Ingredients
- 1 can of Guinness Nitro Cold Brew Coffee (for convenience, this is the most common method)
- Sweetener (such as sugar, simple syrup, or flavored syrups)
- Milk, cream, or non-dairy milk alternatives (for added richness)
Brewing Process
Step 1: Choose Your Coffee
The key to any great cold brew coffee is the coffee itself. Guinness Nitro Cold Brew Coffee uses a carefully selected blend of high-quality beans. For those making a similar drink at home, you’ll want to choose a rich, dark roast that holds up well in cold brewing.
To make cold brew coffee at home, you’ll need:
- Coarsely ground coffee beans (roughly 1 cup of coffee grounds for every 4 cups of water)
- Cold or room-temperature water
- A jar or pitcher for steeping
Step 2: Steep the Coffee
To make cold brew coffee, combine the coarsely ground coffee and water in a jar or pitcher. Stir the mixture to ensure all the coffee grounds are soaked. Seal the jar and let it steep in the refrigerator for 12 to 24 hours. This long steeping process allows the coffee to extract its smooth, rich flavors without the bitterness that comes from hot brewing methods.
Step 3: Strain the Coffee
After the steeping process is complete, strain the coffee through a fine-mesh sieve or coffee filter to remove the grounds. The resulting cold brew concentrate is ready for use.
Step 4: Add Nitrogen
The magic of Guinness Nitro Cold Brew Coffee happens when nitrogen is introduced. Nitrogen gas is infused into the coffee under pressure, which creates tiny bubbles. These bubbles give the cold brew coffee its signature creamy, frothy texture. The nitrogen infusion also enhances the flavor, making it smoother and less acidic.
At home, you can use a Nitro Coffee Maker or a whipped cream dispenser that allows you to add nitrogen to your cold brew coffee. Once the nitrogen is added, shake the container gently and pour the coffee into a glass.
If you’re opting for the pre-made version of Guinness Nitro Cold Brew Coffee, the nitrogen infusion is already done for you. Simply open the can and pour it into a glass to enjoy.
Taste and Pairings
Guinness Nitro Cold Brew Coffee offers a unique flavor profile that blends the deep, roasted notes of cold brew coffee with the smooth, creamy mouthfeel of Guinness stout. The result is a drink that’s rich and bold, but not overly bitter. The nitrogen infusion softens the natural coffee flavor, making it feel more luxurious and velvety.
The taste of this beverage is a beautiful balance of flavors. It’s not as heavy or intense as a typical stout beer, and it’s also far less bitter than a regular coffee. The coffee itself shines through with notes of chocolate, caramel, and a slight nuttiness, while the nitrogen creates a smooth, creamy finish.
Ideal Pairings
Guinness Nitro Cold Brew Coffee is versatile when it comes to food pairings. Because it has a flavor profile that combines both coffee and beer, it can be enjoyed with a wide range of dishes.
Desserts: Pair this drink with rich, indulgent desserts such as chocolate cake, brownies, or tiramisu. The creamy texture of the coffee complements the sweetness of the dessert, creating a well-balanced treat.
Breakfast Foods: Enjoy your Guinness Nitro Cold Brew Coffee with breakfast pastries like croissants, cinnamon rolls, or banana bread. The smooth coffee flavor is a great match for baked goods.
Cheese: For a savory pairing, try this coffee with strong cheeses like blue cheese, aged cheddar, or gouda. The richness of the coffee helps to cut through the sharpness of the cheese, making for a delightful contrast.
Barbecue: The bold, roasted coffee notes pair well with the smoky flavors of grilled meats and barbecue. Try it with ribs, pulled pork, or even a juicy burger.
Calories and Nutrition
One of the biggest draws of Guinness Nitro Cold Brew Coffee is that it offers the rich, indulgent flavor of coffee and beer without being overly caloric. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect nutritionally when you enjoy a can of this beverage:
Guinness Nitro Cold Brew Coffee (per 11.2 oz can):
Calories: 140 kcal
Carbohydrates: 15 grams
Sugar: 12 grams
Protein: 1 gram
Fat: 3 grams
Caffeine: Approximately 150 mg (equivalent to a strong cup of coffee)
It’s important to note that the exact nutritional content may vary depending on whether you add sweeteners or milk to your cold brew coffee. For those seeking a low-calorie option, you can enjoy the drink without any added sugar or milk.
Serving Tips
To get the best experience from your Guinness Nitro Cold Brew Coffee, here are a few serving tips:
Use a Glass: The nitrogen infusion works best when poured into a glass. This allows the frothy head to develop properly and enhances the smooth texture of the drink.
Serve Chilled: Enjoy Guinness Nitro Cold Brew Coffee cold. If you’re using the canned version, simply pour it into a glass and let it sit for a moment to allow the nitrogen to settle and form that creamy texture.
Gently Pour: When pouring from a can, make sure to pour slowly and gently to avoid disrupting the nitrogen infusion. A gentle pour will help maintain the smooth, creamy texture.
Add Ice (Optional): If you prefer an iced coffee experience, feel free to add ice to your glass. However, keep in mind that ice may slightly dilute the flavor, so it’s best enjoyed without it to savor the full richness of the drink.
Sweeteners and Milk: While Guinness Nitro Cold Brew Coffee is delicious on its own, you can customize it to your liking. Add a touch of sweetener or some milk (dairy or non-dairy) for an even creamier experience. Just be mindful of the additional calories or sugar if you’re watching your intake.
Conclusion
Guinness Nitro Cold Brew Coffee offers an innovative twist on the traditional coffee drink. By combining the smoothness of Guinness beer with the boldness of cold brew coffee, this beverage has created a unique space in the world of coffee and beer enthusiasts. Whether you enjoy it on its own or pair it with your favorite dish, Guinness Nitro Cold Brew Coffee is a refreshing, indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
If you haven’t yet tried it, consider giving it a go. It’s the perfect drink for when you want something a little different, whether you’re unwinding at the end of the day or enjoying a special treat with friends. Cheers!
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