December 2022 • BoatBasinCafe

Do Oily Coffee Beans Affect the Taste of Coffee?

Posted on December 12, 2022February 11, 2023 by John Bird

When you’re in the market for good coffee, you may have noticed that some coffee beans are more “oily” than others.

But what is the real reason behind the oiliness of some coffee beans? Does it change the taste of your coffee?

In this article, we’ll break down why is your coffee beans oily, as well as the impact that oiliness has on the flavor of your coffee.

From the effects of the coffee roasting process to the type of coffee bean used, we’ll examine the various factors that contribute to the oily sheen of coffee beans.

Some Common Reasons Behind the Oiliness of Coffee Beans

Oily Coffee Beans

Coffee beans are the seeds of a fruit, and like other fruits, their appearance can vary from one variety to another.

Whether the coffee beans are oily or not is determined by their variety, their growing conditions, and the roasting process.

Naturally Oily Coffee Bean

Different varieties of coffee beans have different levels of oiliness. For example, Arabica beans are more oily than Robusta beans.

This is because Arabica beans are grown in higher altitudes, where the air is cooler and drier. This environment results in less oil production in the beans.

Coffee Beans Roast Level

When coffee bean is harvested, farmers cover them in a protective layer of surface oil. This layer of oil helps protect the bean from the elements while processing, and the coating also helps to preserve the flavor of the green coffee bean.

As the green oily coffee beans are roasted, the oil is cooked off, leaving the bean dry and crunchy (initially).

However, coffee beans contain oils inside them where all the flavors, amino acids, antioxidants, and caffeine contents reside. This coffee oil starts coming out as it is roasted from the endosperm to the surface of the coffee bean.

Dark roast beans tend to be more oily than light or medium roast beans, as the higher temperatures and long roasting times cause more oil to be released from the beans.

Dark Roast vs Dark Beans

When it comes to dark beans, the oils are not released during the roasting process, but rather during the brewing process.

The oils in dark coffee beans are released when the beans are ground and exposed to hot water, which causes them to “bloom” and release their oils.

The oils in dark beans are what give them their deep, rich flavor.

Processing Techniques

How the coffee roasters process beans can also affect the level of oiliness in coffee beans.

Wet-processed coffee beans, for example, tend to be oilier beans than dry-processed beans, as the wet-processing method leaves more of the oils intact.

Storage Conditions

Coffee beans that are stored in warm, humid environments will release more oils, according to a study on Molecules Journal, resulting in oily coffee beans.

Also, the oils in your coffee bean will begin to leak if they have been stored on a shelf at the store for a long period. This is why we suggest buying recently roasted coffee.

The Chemistry Behind Oily Coffee Beans

Oily coffee beans are the result of the coffee roasting process, and the chemistry behind it is fascinating.

When coffee beans are roasted, the bean’s outer layers undergo a chemical reaction called Maillard Reactions.

This reaction occurs when the heat from the roaster causes the proteins and sugars present in the bean to break down, forming new compounds and producing the characteristic aroma and flavor of the coffee roasts.

During the roasting process, oils are released from dark roast coffee beans, which is what gives coffee beans their trademark oily texture.

The oils are composed of triglycerides, which are fatty acids that are responsible for the coffee’s flavor and aroma. These triglycerides are broken down by the heat of the roaster, and the oils are released.

The oils released during the roasting process also contribute to the unique flavor of the coffee. The oils contain compounds called esters which provide coffee with its characteristic flavor.

These compounds also interact with the proteins and sugars present in the beans and contribute to improving flavor.

It is important to note that the oils released during roasting can be harmful if they are not handled properly. They need to be stored in an airtight container and kept away from heat and light, as these will cause the oils to break down.

If the beans are not stored or handled properly, they can contain rancid oil, leading to off-flavors and a less-than-ideal cup of coffee.

Are Oily Coffee Beans Good or Bad?

coffee beans

Now that we understand the underlying reasons behind shiny coffee beans, the question comes “is this a good thing or bad?”

Oily coffee beans have been a subject of debate among coffee aficionados for some time now.

On one hand, some believe that the residual oil on the beans helps to improve the flavor and texture of the final cup. On the other hand, some say that oil can ruin the flavor and make the coffee taste unpleasant.

The truth is that ideal coffee depends on how you prefer it.

Many people find that the added coffee oil on the over-roasted beans can give a more intense flavor to the final cup of coffee, making it more robust and full-bodied. This is especially true for dark-roasted coffee beans and espresso blends.

Some people don’t like the oily texture of roasted coffee beans and may find that it detracts from the flavor of the coffee.

Another factor to consider is the freshness of the beans. If the beans are fresh, the oil on them will help to lock in the flavor, ensuring that the coffee tastes better for longer.

However, if the beans are old and the oil has had time to oxidize, the flavor of the coffee will be affected.

For some people, oily coffee is difficult to digest. So, you may want to start with a light roast if you’re not accustomed to drinking coffee oils from long roast.

What Are Some Problems with Oily Beans?

coffee

Oily coffee beans can sometimes cause weird problems:

Bitter Taste

The first issue with oily coffee beans is that they can produce a bitter taste. This is because the oils can interact with the acids in the beans, creating a bitter flavor.

While some people may prefer the taste of a bitter cup of coffee, it isn’t for everyone.

Also, the bitter taste can be intensified if the beans are over-extracted. Therefore, it’s important to use the right burr grinders and water temperature when brewing coffee.

Clog Filters

Another problem with oily beans is that they can clog filters.

This can be a particular issue with metal filters, as the oils can get stuck in the small holes and block the flow of water. This can result in a weak, watery cup of coffee.

If you’re using a paper filter, the oils may not block the flow of water, but they can still affect the taste of the finished product.

Damaged Equipment

Oily beans can put extra strain on your grinder or espresso machine.

This is because the oils can collect in the brewing chamber and other parts of the espresso machine, making it difficult for the water to pass through.

If this happens, the automatic coffee machines may need to be taken apart and cleaned. This can be a time-consuming process and can also lead to expensive repairs.

When Should You Pay More Attention to Oily Beans?

If you have a fully automated expresso maker!

The machine grinders inside the espresso machine might be fussier. Oily bean tends to adhere to the walls of the grinder which will gradually impair the performance of your machine.

Continued usage of oily beans may result in exorbitant maintenance costs (regular cleaning) and equipment downtime. It may also alter the flavor of your espresso and result in an unpleasant aftertaste.

That’s why we don’t recommend using very dark roasts (more oily) for espresso machines. You can instead use a French press with medium-dark roasts.

How Can I Prevent Oily Coffee Beans Problems?

Here are some tips on how to prevent oily coffee beans:

Choose the light to medium roast coffee – The darker the roast, the more surface oil will be released. Choose a light-roasted coffee or medium-roasted coffee for the best flavor and the least amount of oil.

Buy fresh coffee grounds – Older coffee beans start to lose their flavor and oils as soon as they are roasted. Buy freshly roasted beans or coffee grounds from a reputable source.

Use pre-ground dark roast – Pre-ground dark roast coffee beans can be used as an alternative to freshly roasted coffee beans. Grinding your beans just before brewing will help to keep the oils locked in the beans and not released during the brewing methods.

Clean your coffee maker – Oils can build up in your coffee maker over time. Regularly cleaning your coffee machine with vinegar or a special cleaner will help to remove any built-up oils. Or you can instead use a manual burr grinder.

Store properly – It’s important to store your beans in a cool, dry place to keep the oils from going rancid or becoming low-quality coffee beans. An airtight container is best. You can read this article on storing coffee beans for more advice on this.

Don’t use flavored coffee beans – Flavored coffee beans tend to have added oils and other ingredients that can increase the risk of oily beans. If you want a flavored coffee, it’s best to purchase unflavored beans and add the flavor yourself.

Use the appropriate amount of coffee-Using too much coffee will result in more oils being extracted, so measure out the appropriate amount of coffee for your brew.

Experiment with different brewing methods– Some brewing methods, like as French press, extract more oils than others, so experiment with different methods to determine which produce less oily coffee.

Experiment with different coffee blends- Some coffee blends are inherently less oily than others, so experiment with different blends to find one that suits your taste and is less oily.

You may limit your consumption of oily coffee beans and enjoy a less greasy, more flavorful cup of coffee by following these steps.

FAQs

Are Starbucks Beans Too Oily?

Starbucks coffees tend to be more on the oily side. This is because the roasting process used to create Starbucks coffee beans is “dark roasting,” which leaves an oily residue, but has a stronger, more intense flavor. However, Starbucks also offers light roast and medium roast coffee beans.

How to Dry Oily Coffee Beans?

To dry oily coffee beans, you can either spread them out on a baking sheet and bake them in the oven at a low temperature (200 degrees Fahrenheit or lower) for 15-20 minutes, or you can use a food dehydrator set to the same temperature. Make sure to stir the beans occasionally to ensure even drying.

The Sugar Wars: Maple Syrup vs Honey Syrup

Posted on December 5, 2022December 12, 2022 by John Bird

Are you looking for a healthy alternative to sugar? Well, you should; because consuming too much sugar is bad for your health, as you may already know.

The Sugar Wars Maple Syrup vs Honey Syrup

A diet with high-added sugar has been related to obesity and several other detrimental health effects.

American Heart Association (AHA) recommends only 9 teaspoons (36 grams / 150 calories) or less daily sugar intake for men and 6 teaspoons (25 grams / 100 calories) or less for women.

Also, it’s not as simple to limit added sugar, as it can be found in everything from cereal to yogurt to spaghetti sauce.

But some of you may be thinking, “What if I consume honey or maple syrup instead of regular table sugar? Surely, they are better for me?” That’s a legitimate as well as a confusing question.

Let’s take a look at this science and fact-based comparison of “maple syrup vs honey” to shed some light on the healthy sugar debate.

We’ll also tell you which one is better for your recipes, and which one will cost you less. So, let’s get started.

What Is Honey

Honey

Honey is a sweet, viscous food substance produced by bees and some related insects. Bees produce honey from the nectar of flowers. They store it as a primary food source in wax comb cells in the beehive.

Honey is the only food of bees, and they consume about 8.4 lb. (3.8 kg) of honey to support their flight for one kilometer (km). It is estimated that honeybees visit approximately 2 million flowers per day to collect nectar.

The chemical composition of honey varies, depending on the floral source, but it typically contains about 70-80% sugar, as well as water, pollen, and other trace compounds. The specific composition of any batch of honey depends on the flowers available to the bees that produced the honey.

Honey has been produced and consumed by humans for millennia. It has a long history in human culture and has been used as a sweetener in food, as a medicinal remedy, and as an ingredient in cosmetics and other products.

The health benefits of honey have been promoted by traditional medicine for centuries. Honey has been traditionally used to treat a variety of ailments, including sore throat, colds, and stomach troubles.

Some research has shown that honey may have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, honey has been shown to boost the immune system and help fight off infection.

Despite its many health benefits, honey should be consumed in moderation. Too much honey can lead to weight gain and other health problems. When buying honey, make sure to check the label to ensure that it is 100% pure and contains no added sugars.

The Origin of Maple Syrup

Maple Syrup

Maple syrup is a type of syrup made from the xylem sap of the maple tree. It is a popular food ingredient, used in many recipes and as a condiment.

The production of maple syrup is a two-step process.

First, the sap must be collected from the maple trees. This is typically done by tapping the trees and collecting the sap in buckets.
Once the sap has been collected, it is then boiled down to concentrate the sugars and create the syrup.

There are several grades of maple syrup, depending on the color and flavor. The most common grades are Grade A and Grade B.

Grade A maple syrup is lighter in color and has a more delicate flavor, while Grade B maple syrup is darker in color and has a more robust flavor.

The good thing about maple syrup is that it includes over 67 different kinds of polyphenols, or antioxidants, some of which have been found to lower inflammation in the body.

Additionally, it has a decent quantity of prebiotics, which are essential for feeding the beneficial bacteria in our gut and maintaining a balanced and healthy microbiome there.

Maple syrup can be used in many ways. It is commonly used as a pancake or waffle topping, in baking recipes, or as an ingredient in savory dishes. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a sweet treat.

If you’re looking to add a bit of vegan sweetness to your life, maple syrup is a great option

Nutritional Profile of Both Honey and Maple Syrup

The biggest difference between these two sugar alternatives lies in the nutritional composition of both. According to the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Nutrient Database,

1 tablespoon of honey contains –

17 grams of carbs
17 grams of sugar
0 fat
0 protein
64 calories

1 tablespoon of maple syrup contains –

13.5 grams of carbs
12 grams of sugar
0.1 grams of fat
0 protein
52 calories

Let’s break down these numbers and their nutritional worth based on the essential nutrients of our body – carbs, lipids, vitamins, and minerals, for a better understanding.

Carbohydrates

One tablespoon of pure maple syrup contains around 13-14 grams of carbohydrates, or 85% sugar, mostly in form of sucrose, glucose, and fructose. It has a 54 glycemic index, which includes low and medium GI meals.

A tablespoon of honey has 17 grams of carbs, with more than 90% of them being sugar. Most of the sugar in honey is fructose, with very little glucose and much less sucrose. Compared to maple syrup, it has a slightly higher average glycemic index (60).

Due to its lower carbohydrate sugar content and lower fructose content, maple syrup is the most nutrient-dense of the two. As you are aware, foods rich in fructose may be harmful to your health, namely to your heart and liver.

According to studies, fructose may increase your low-density lipoprotein levels, causing fat to build up in your body and increasing your risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

That’s why, when comparing the fructose content of honey and maple syrup, maple syrup is far safer to eat.

Fats

Both varieties have extremely little to no fat. Only 0.1 grams of fat, including trace levels of saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fats, may be found in a tablespoon of pure maple syrup. There are no fats in honey.

Minerals and Vitamins

Honey has more vitamins than maple syrup, whereas maple syrup has more minerals.

Vitamins C and B6 are only mildly present in honey, but they are both lacking in maple syrup. Vitamins B3 (niacin) and B5 are among the additional b vitamins in honey. Vitamins B1 and B3 are found in tiny concentrations in maple syrup but not in honey.

However, none is sufficiently stocked with the vitamins B12, B9, D, A, E, or K.

Manganese, which is great for your bones, makes up over 33% of the minerals in maple syrup, which has a very high mineral concentration (10 times more than in honey). Iron, calcium, sodium, potassium, magnesium, copper, and zinc are some of the other healthful nutrients found in syrup.

In comparison to maple, honey has far lower salt concentrations and only trace levels of zinc, iron, potassium, copper, and phosphorus. On the plus side, it contains fluoride, which is good for your oral health and is absent from maple.

Additionally, honey has more than three times as much riboflavin as maple syrup. There is no winner in this area.

Choose whichever you like since they both have advantages and disadvantages and none of the vitamins or minerals are present in considerable quantities.

Calories in Honey vs. Maple Syrup

Both have carbohydrate content, which provides calories. In comparison to the 64 calories in one tablespoon of honey, maple syrup has just 52 calories per serving.

However, a cup of maple syrup has 819 calories as opposed to 1031 calories in honey when taken in large quantities, such as when cooking or serving delicacies.

If you use the same quantity, maple syrup would be a better option for those of you trying to lose weight since it has fewer calories and less sugar.

However, you may choose honey depending on your diet as it complements low-fat diets, while maple syrup is a great option for low-calorie, low-carb, and low-glycemic index diets.

Health Benefits of Pure Maple Syrup vs Honey

Let’s go on to the article’s most important section and see which of the two has more health advantages.

Cardiovascular Health

The antioxidant activity of both honey and real maple syrup is in the middle range.

These organic sweeteners may work in preventing blood clots, heart disease, chronic diseases, cancer, and other illnesses since they have been found to protect cells from oxidative damage.

Darker maple syrup was shown to have more antioxidant effects than clear maple syrup as well as honey.

One antioxidant included in maple syrup is glucitol-core, which contains Gallotannin (GCG). These polyphenols can neutralize free radicals.

Different types of honey obtained from various flowers have variable antioxidant capacities due to their distinctive phenolic profiles.

Diabetes

Honey and maple syrup both have natural sugar in them.

In one trial, honey reduced triglycerides in individuals with hypertriglyceridemia and low-density lipoproteins in those with hyperlipidemia.

Artificial honey, on the other hand, has the opposite effect.

Real maple syrup has a modest advantage over sucrose as a natural sweetener since it has a lower glycemic index and is thus better for you if you have diabetes or blood sugar issues, according to studies.

Inflammatory Disease

Maple syrup may be beneficial if you have certain conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease.

According to studies, maple syrup includes the chemical quebecol, which lessens the symptoms of inflammatory diseases. Due to the sort of sugars, it contains, honey is not the best solution for this problem.

Maple Syrup vs Honey: Taste, Preparation, and Cooking

These two natural sweeteners have a unique flavor and can be used in a variety of ways. But which one is better?

Taste

It depends on your personal taste preferences. Maple syrup has a more complex flavor, with hints of caramel and vanilla.

Honey, on the other hand, is more straightforward and has a more intense sweetness.

Both these items taste great when used to sweeten granola, muesli, baked goods, salad dressings, cereal, and more.

Preparation

Preparation-wise, maple syrup is the clear winner. It’s much easier to work with and can be used in a wider variety of recipes.

Honey can be difficult to work with and is often more expensive.

Cooking

Both honey and unadulterated maple syrup can be used in cooking, but they have their benefits and drawbacks.

If you’re using raw honey in place of maple syrup, you may need to use less since it’s sweeter per tablespoon than sugar.

Contrarily, maple syrup often has a pronounced maple taste. It’s also a bit more acidic. Expect some alterations in the taste of your dish if you use it as corn syrup or sugar substitute.

Maple syrup also tends to hold up better under high heat, so it’s the better choice for cooking at high temperatures.

Should You Use Honey or Maple Syrup in Place of Sugar?

It depends on what you’re looking for, but both maple syrup and honey on their own are better natural sweeteners than refined white sugar or artificial sweeteners, having a lower glycemic index than ordinary sugar.

When it comes to ‘maple syrup vs honey’, it is difficult to say that one of these is better for your health than the other, and therefore is healthier.

Honey contains some vitamins and nutrients that maple syrup does not contain. But maple syrup has fewer sugar content, calories, and carbs per serving.

Also, it has a higher concentration of antioxidants and minerals which can help to protect your cells from damage.

For this, we would consider maple syrup as a better alternative to sugar, if we had to choose one over another.

However, there are many different types of honey, and some are healthier than others. Likewise, there are many varieties of maple syrup, and they vary in their health benefits as well.

Moderation Is Key

Be aware that maple syrup and honey should still be consumed in moderation before you go crazy adding them to everything you eat. In the end, sugar is sugar, and both honey and maple syrup contains a lot of it.

Strong evidence suggests that consuming more simple sugar increases the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, certain malignancies, and cardiovascular disease.

According to functional dietitian nutritionist Jenna Volpe, “those who need to control their blood sugar should treat honey, maple syrup, and table sugar very similarly in that they are all still sugar, and all of these sweeteners will elevate blood sugar to some level.”

And if you already don’t use any sweeteners, there’s no need to start including them in your diet. According to Rachel Fine, ” Honey and maple syrup should not be considered ‘sources of antioxidants,’ but rather as a pleasant supplement to meals once in a while.”

FAQs

Can maple syrup be creamed like honey to smooth crystallization?

Yes, maple syrup is safe for bees. Beekeepers often use maple syrup as a sugar source for their bees, and it is a common ingredient in many bee-friendly products.

Can I replace maple syrup with honey?

Technically maple syrup is a good substitute for honey; however, it is not a 1:1 replacement. Because of maple syrup’s thinner consistency than honey, your recipe won’t come out exactly how you want. But you can make honey pourable like maple syrup for recipes by thickening it with apple juice. That would be reasonably close.

Does Kombucha Have Caffeine? All Your Questions Answered

Posted on December 4, 2022February 6, 2023 by John Bird

Does kombucha have caffeine? Find out in our article today! We answer every question you’ve ever had about caffeine content with kombucha.

Does Kombucha Have Caffeine

Caffeine content is a necessity for some – and something to avoid for others. So, you want to know how much caffeine each drink has.

So, if you’re here to find out how much caffeine kombucha has – or if it even has caffeine in the first place – you’re in the right place! Caffeine can be detrimental to your health, so let’s begin:

What is Kombucha?

Kombucha is a type of sweetened black tea drink that has undergone a fermentation process. This fermentation process includes sugar, tea leaves, and yeast. As the beverage is being fermented, kombucha contains and releases bacterial and fungal compositions, along with acid and some alcohol.

It is sometimes referred to as kombucha tea to distinguish it from bacteria and yeast cultures. Normally, juices and spices are also added when brewing kombucha, resulting in different flavors. Normally, it tastes a lot like apple cider vinegar.

Aside from acids and alcohol, it contains caffeine as well.

Does Kombucha Have Caffeine?

If you’re watching your caffeine consumption or caffeine intake, we’re sorry to tell you that most kombucha does have caffeine levels in them! The caffeine is naturally occurring due to the tea leaves used. Oolong, black, green, and white teas all contain caffeine.

Around 15 mg of caffeine is in a kombucha drink. It’s barely noticeable, so even if you’re watching your caffeine content, you can still drink kombucha! Kombucha contains more nutrients than caffeine, and the caffeine isn’t that much in comparison to other beverages.

How Much Caffeine is In Kombucha?

It has around 15 mg of caffeine content per serving. During the kombucha tea fermentation process naturally reduces the amount of caffeine in each serving. If you’re wondering how much caffeine is in your own kombucha, you can have a benchmark depending on how long the brewing process is.

The longer the brewing process, the more caffeine is eaten up by yeast and bacteria.

How to Make Kombucha

Kombucha

What You May Need:

Making kombucha starts water, a cup of sugar, 8 bags of your chosen tea (either black or green tea works best!), 2 cups of starter tea, and 1 scoby per fermentation jar. For more flavor, you might also need fruit juice, chopped fruit, flavored tea, honey, and some herbs and spices.

If you prefer to watch over your caffeine content, you can look for a tea bag that’s decaffeinated. Less caffeine is good for you, too!

Step 1: Brew the Base

Heat water until boiling before stirring in sugar. Add tea bags and let steep for a few hours until the tea and water mixture has cooled.

Step 2: Add Starter Tea

Remove the bags from the water. Stir in the starter tea. Don’t forget this step – it helps stop harmful tea fungus and bacteria from forming as it makes the hot liquid acidic.

Step 3: Add the Scoby

Transfer your liquid into jars and add scoby into each jar. Cover the mouth of the jar to make sure that no insects get in!

Step 4: Ferment

Ferment multiple kombucha jars out of sunlight. Keep it in an undisturbed, cool, dry place for seven to ten days. There are several microbial and biochemical dynamics going on! You might notice new scoby forming, or sediments and bubbles forming as well. The yeast will eat the sugars and create carbon dioxide.

Don’t worry – these are just signs of microbial fermentation, and the living cultures that exist in kombucha!

The fermentation process allows for kombucha nutritional compounds to form, too. It contains these nutrients that you benefit from!

Keep tasting the beverage until it reaches a flavor you like in your typical cup.

Step 5: Remove the Scoby

Lift and remove the scoby out of the fermented tea. You can now proceed to bottling your beverage! Then, carbonate and refrigerate it according to the exact amount of kombucha you want.

Can You Brew Kombucha With Decaffeinated Teas?

Want less caffeine? We’ve got you. Just like there’s such a thing as decaf coffee, there are also decaffeinated teas. Instead of the usual caffeine you find in most teas, decaf tea provides you a safer way to have kombucha without worrying about caffeine content.

Which is Healthier: Coffee or Kombucha?

The amount of caffeine is much higher in coffee compared to kombucha, but it’s not just the amount of caffeine that’s different. The health benefits differ, too.

If you want something healthier for the same amount of beverage you have each day, kombucha is much healthier for your gut and overall well-being! Green tea is also a healthier alternative in comparison to coffee. If you want caffeine, consider going for black tea.

What Are Some Healthy Kombucha Brands?

The Health-Ade Kombucha Tea, GT’s Kombucha, Brew Dr. and Better Booch Kombucha Organic are some bottle labels you should look out for! If you’re looking to ditch coffee or caffeine, Brew Dr., Health-Ade, GT’s, and Better Booch are the best for you!

FAQs

What is kombucha good for?

Kombucha has a number of health benefits, and it’s good for you if you want a healthy gut! It can improve digestion, mental task performance, and helps manage diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.

Who should not be drinking kombucha?

Some forms of kombucha have caffeine and alcohol. Due to the drink being unpasteurized, it’s best if kombucha is limited from pregnant people and anyone breastfeeding. Should kombucha result in an allergic reaction, liver complications, or acidosis, you should also stop kombucha right away!

Is it healthy to have kombucha daily?

Yes, you can drink kombucha everyday. Due to its probiotic-rich formula, it helps in digestion and is a healthy dose to drink everyday.

Starbucks Nitro Cold Brew Can: Caffeine Content Facts

Posted on December 4, 2022February 1, 2023 by John Bird

Find out Starbucks Nitro Cold Brew can caffeine content and how it’s different from their regular cold brews so that you can enjoy this drink to the fullest.

Starbucks Nitro Cold Brew Can

If you’re a fan of Starbucks Nitro Cold Brew, you’ve likely wondered how much caffeine is actually in each cup. This popular iced beverage is made with cold brew coffee, nitrogen, and a few other ingredients, so the caffeine content can vary depending on the size of your cup and the type of coffee used. Let’s take a look at the caffeine content of Starbucks Nitro Cold Brew so you can make the most informed decision when it comes to your coffee consumption.

What Is Starbucks Nitro Cold Brew?

Starbucks Nitro cold brew is a particular type of cold brew coffee that was introduced in 2016 in some Starbucks stores but gradually spread to all of their coffee shops. This nitro cold brew has a distinct look, flavor, and texture and is prepared and served in a separate way. Although nitro cold brew is a cold coffee beverage, it is not the same as iced coffee, which is made by quickly brewing coffee with hot water and then chilling it.

Compared to how coffee is typically prepared, cold brew is made at a considerably lower temperature. This method necessitates a longer brewing period. Contrary to drip coffee, which brews in hot water in only a few minutes, nitro cold brew typically requires 12 to 24 hours of steeping in cool to room temperature water; Starbucks steeps its cold brew for 20 hours.

Instead of going into a coffee maker or urn, nitro cold brew is often placed in a bottle or keg to be held at a cold temperature. Simply put, nitro cold brew is cold brew coffee that has been kegged and added nitrogen as it is poured into your cup.

The nitro cold brew is served without ice as it has already been brewed cold and stored at a cold temperature in a keg. I was slightly taken aback as there was no straw that came with my nitro cold brew. I realized that a straw won’t help me get the full experience of the thick foam in the nitro cold brew. Then I noticed the broad hole in the lid that does the job right.

Differences Between Cold Brew, Iced Coffee, And Nitro Brew

Nitro Brew	Cold Brew	Iced Coffee
The base is cold brew	Made from coffee grounds steeped in cold water for 12-24 hours	Made from hot coffee brewed for a few minutes
Infused with nitrogen	Not treated with any gas
Heavier, smoother, creamier texture	Lighter texture	Light texture
Served from a tap without ice	Served from a pitcher	Served with ice
Thick foam on top	No foam on top	No foam on top
Resembles stout beer	No distinct appearance	Plain appearance
Caffeine content varies as per flavor and cup/can size	Lower in caffeine	Higher caffeine content due to hot water brewing
Less acidic, less bitter, and sweet taste	Less acidic and less bitter	More acidic and bitter
Chocolate notes	Coffee notes	Coffee notes
Available in Starbucks cans	Not available in cans	Not available in cans

Nitro cold brew and iced coffee differ in brewing time, brewing temperature, brewing method, serving method, caffeine content, taste, texture, and flavor. Iced coffee is made from hot coffee that has been brewed for a few minutes and then poured over ice. Nitro cold brew is made from coffee grounds steeped in cold water for 12 to 24 hours to absorb all the caffeine, color, and flavor. It’s then strained to get a coffee concentrate that can be mixed with milk or dairy alternatives.

Nitro cold brew is cold brew coffee infused with nitrogen, a colorless and odorless gas that changes the texture of the coffee beverage, giving it a rich and silky mouthfeel. And here lies the main difference – the texture. While cold brew coffee is light, nitro cold brew is heavier.

Appearance is also different as you don’t get a foam top on a cold brew coffee whereas you get a thick topping of foam on a nitro cold brew because the nitrogen in the cold brew coffee is light and rises to the top.

A cold brew coffee has a lower caffeine content because of cold brewing, which does not extract the full spectrum of caffeine, oils, and flavor compounds from the coffee. So, there is less acidity, less bitterness, and more sweetness than regular cold brew.

Whereas cold brew coffee is served from a pitcher, nitro cold brews are served from a tap and the nitrogen in it adds some sweetness and chocolate tones. One more difference is that you can get canned Starbucks nitro cold brew in different flavors.

What Does Nitro Cold Brew Taste Like?

Starbucks Nitro Cold Brew Can

The taste, appearance, and texture of Starbucks Nitro Cold Brew are surprisingly different from what I expected when I first ordered it. The nitro cold brew flows slowly from a tapped keg, resembling more a stout beer than a coffee beverage. The nitrogen causes a froth of tiny bubbles to form, fill the cup, gradually separate, and rise to the surface of the liquid. You get a cup of rich, dark coffee topped with a head of thick, luscious crema that will remind you of your favorite beer.

Feature	Description
Appearance	Resembles a stout beer, with a slow pour and froth of tiny bubbles
Texture	Rich, substantial, and silky smooth
Taste	Sweet, chocolatey undertone with lower acidity than standard cold brew
Sweetener	No need for added sweetener
Digestibility	Easier on digestive system due to lower acidity
Nutritional Benefits	Helps with weight loss, retains nutrients and antioxidants

The drink’s consistency is also more similar to that of a stout than a cold brew coffee. Regular hot or cold brew coffee is more watery than Starbucks’ Nitro Cold Brew. In your mouth, nitro cold brew feels more substantial, rich, and silky smooth.

What does nitro coffee taste like?Starbucks nitro cold brew is noticeably sweeter due to the nitrogen that was added and it also draws out the chocolatey undertone. That’s why there’s no need to add any sweetener and you would be ruining its taste if you did so. Plus, its lower acidity makes it less bitter than a standard cold brew coffee, and a better choice for people who need a cold brew that’s easy on their digestive system. The bonus point of Starbucks nitro cold brew is it helps in weight loss and retains a lot of nutrients and antioxidants as it’s brewed in cold water.

Starbucks Canned Nitro Cold Brew Caffeine Count

Caffeine Content Comparison	Caffeine (in mg)
Starbucks Nitro Cold Brew Grande (16 fl oz)	280
Starbucks Nitro Cold Brew Tall (12 fl oz)	215
Starbucks Nitro Cold Brew Black (11 fl oz)	235
Starbucks Nitro Cold Brew Black, Unsweetened (9.6 fl oz)	155
Starbucks Nitro Cold Brew Vanilla Sweet Cream (9.6 fl oz)	110
Starbucks Nitro Cold Brew Dark Caramel (9.6 fl oz)	155
Starbucks Nitro Cold Brew Dark Cocoa Sweet Cream (9.6 fl oz)	110

Caffeine count depends on the coffee beans you are using, the grind size, and the brewing time and method. If you’re a regular at Starbucks, you may want to know how much caffeine in Starbucks drinks.

You can choose either a Tall (12 fl oz) or a Grande (16 fl oz) of Starbucks Nitro Cold Brew. Don’t expect a Venti nitro cold brew because you won’t get the same nitro cascade or the stream of bubbles in a larger Starbucks cup size. The Tall size has 215 milligrams of caffeine while the Grande size has 280 milligrams as per their website. So, if you compare the caffeine count of Grande nitro cold brew with that of a Grande Hot Pike Place Roast (310 milligrams) or a Grande Hot Blonde Roast (360 milligrams), it’s lower. But it’s higher than that of a Grande Iced Coffee which contains 165 milligrams of caffeine.

You can carry the nitro cold brew taste in a can. Here’s a list of all the Starbucks Nitro Cold Brew Can flavor and their caffeine content.

Flavor	Caffeine (mg)	Size (fl oz)
Vanilla Sweet Cream	110	9.6
Black Unsweet	155	9.6
Black	235	11
Dark Caramel	155	9.6
Dark Cocoa Sweet Cream	110	9.6

As you can see, the Starbucks nitro cold brew sweet cream caffeine content is the lowest as is the dark cocoa sweet cream among the canned variety. The black variant is very high in caffeine content, almost reaching the daily recommended limit of 300-400 milligrams. You can buy all these Starbucks Nitro Cold Brew cans online from Amazon. And if you have trouble with caffeine, you can order any of the 30 Starbucks low caffeine drinks.

FAQs

Is Starbucks Nitro Cold Brew The Most Caffeinated Drink?

No, Starbucks Nitro Cold Brew is not the drink with the highest caffeine content. With 340–380 milligrams of caffeine per Grande serving, Clover Brewed Coffee has the highest caffeine content. With 280 mg of caffeine, the Nitro Cold Brew is Starbucks’ second-most caffeinated beverage. However, the menu does not provide a Venti nitro cold brew. In comparison to other beverages in the bigger venti size, Nitro Cold Brew has less caffeine. Cold Brew, Americano, Iced Shaken Espresso, and a venti-sized cup of plain brewed coffee all include 300 milligrams or more caffeine.

How Much Caffeine Is Too Much?

According to FDA, 400 milligrams of caffeine per day is okay for an adult. This means four to five cups of coffee in an 8-ounce coffee cup size.

Demerara Sugar Substitute: What to Use Instead of Demerara Sugar

Posted on December 1, 2022December 12, 2022 by John Bird

If you’re looking for substitutes for demerara sugar, we’ve got you covered. We list down every substitute you can use instead of demerara sugar in our article today.

Demerara Sugar Substitute

Looking for something to use instead of demerara sugar? You’re in the right place. Today, we’re covering some of the best substitutes for demerara sugar – from muscovado to regular brown sugar. Let’s dive in!

What is Demerara Sugar?

Demerara sugar is under brown sugar. It’s made from sugar cane, and is characterized by its coarse grain and crunchy texture. As a large-grain sugar, demerara sugar is best for adding the crunch you need for baked goods! It’s also used as a topping and sweetener for beverages.

It has a rich flavor profile, with a caramel or toffee flavor. It also originates from the British colony of Demerara, which is now known as Guyana. If you need to know more about this sugar, we have some information right here for you.

However, you may be needing a demerara sugar substitute. Luckily, we have a list for you!

Substitutes for Demerara Sugar

01 Raw Sugar or Turbinado Sugar

Turbinado sugar is partially granulated sugar that is coarse in texture. It’s actually quite close to demerara sugar’s crunchy texture, so this sugar is a pretty good subtitute!

It retains some natural molasses, so the flavor profile is also caramel-like with a subtle molasses flavor. If you’re looking for turbinado sugar, you might know it as raw sugar! However, don’t be fooled – true raw sugars isn’t quite healthy for consumption, so turbinado sugar has to undergo some more processing.

This demerara sugar substitute is great for toppings, mixing in with pastries, and as a sweetener for coffee and tea.

02 Light Brown Sugar

This type of brown sugar has a lower amount of molasses content. Light brown sugar has a golden brown color with a milder taste.

Light brown sugar an all-around substitute for many recipes, and it usually results in moist, delicious pastries. Light brown sugar is also great as a crunchy topping! All in all, if you’re looking for a quick substitute for demerara sugar, light brown sugar is the way to go.

03 White Sugar or Granulated Sugar

Made from refined sugar cane or sugar beets, this popular white sugar is the one you usually find in grocery stores. If you’re curious, granulated sugar is also known as table sugar or refined white sugar! Granulated sugar is typically used as a sweetener for baked goods, savory dishes, and different beverages.

White sugar typically comes in four types: granulated sugar, caster sugar, powdered sugar, and sugar cubes. These are all good demerara sugar substitutes!

Granulated sugar doesn’t have the molasses flavor we know and love. In fact, all the molasses has been processed out of granulated sugar. Granulated sugar or white sugar is great for drinks and sprinkling into food.

Caster sugar is a more refined sugar with smaller crystal sizes. Like granulated sugar or white sugar, caster sugar best for sweetening cold drinks and incorporating sweetness into desserts like meringues.

Powdered sugar, or confectioner’s sugar, is a specialty sugar typically used in baking. Unlike regular sugar or white sugar, it’s ground to a powder and mixed with cornstarch to prevent caking!

Sugar cubes, meanwhile, is just white sugar pressed into cubes, used to sweeten hot drinks.

04 Sanding Sugar or Sand Sugar

Sanding sugar is a type of large-grain sugar and is similar to decorating sugar. It’s used as a sweetener and topping for most baked goods! Sanding sugar is also typically made from dried sugar syrup or turbinado sugar. You can combine gel food coloring and turbinado sugar before going through the refining process to make sand sugar.

After, you can put it in an airtight container. Like all demerara sugar substitutes, you should store it properly in a cool, dry place!

05 Muscovado Sugar

Muscovado sugar is a type of unrefined sugar that retains all the molasses possible! It’s minimally processed, has large crystals and typically comes in a golden brown color that is slightly darker than most sugars. Like demerara sugar, the sugar crystals are large-grain and it also has a toffee-like flavor.

While it has the same nutritional content as white sugar, this natural sweetener comes with more minerals, like magnesium, potassium, calcium, and iron. It also comes with antioxidants!

It has more health benefits, but don’t be fooled – it’s still sugar, and sugar intake is best taken in moderation.

06 Raw Cane Sugar

If you’re looking for the most natural, unrefined sugar there is, you can look for raw cane sugar. It comes in a variety colors, which can be dark brown or colorless. It’s sweet, with a subtle molasses flavor. The milder flavor from molasses is great as a sweetener for most beverages!

Demerara sugar is under raw cane sugar, but there are other sugars in this type that can be used as a demerara sugar substitute. Turbinado and evaporated cane sugar are part of it!

07 Dark Brown Sugar

This type of sugar comes in a darker golden brown color! Dark brown sugar has a rich flavor and nearly double the amount of molasses in comparison to other sugars. Dark brown sugar also has the toffee flavor we all know and love about demerara sugar, making it a good substitute.

08 Maple Sugar

Maple sugar is commonly found in Canada, but you can also make it yourself at home! It’s. form of natural sweetener that is made from maple syrup. You can add maple syrup to a saucepan over medium-high heat until it reaches 260 degrees Fahrenheit. Once it reaches the desired temperature, you can remove the pan from the heat.

Stir until the maple syrup transforms into sugar crystals. It will have a delicate texture. You can use a food processor to get the clumps to form crystals and turn it into a more granulated sugar.

09 Coconut Sugar or Coconut Palm Sugar

Looking for vegan sugar? Coconut sugar may be the one for you! It comes from the sap of a coconut palm tree, not the coconuts themselves. Aside from being plant-based, it’s also minimally processed, and has a lot of health benefits!

Coconut sugar can help prevent low blood sugar, hypoglycemia, and blood sugar spikes. It has a coconut flavor that you’ll love!

Where to Use Demerara Sugar

Demerara sugar can be added to your favorite beverages, like tea and coffee. Like other types of sugar, it’s also a great addition to many pastries and savory dishes.

Health Benefits of Demerara Sugar

01 Has Vitamins and Minerals

Demerara sugar has molasses, which doesn’t just contribute to the molasses flavor – it’s also packed with vitamins and minerals, too! Calcium, iron, and vitamins B and B5 are only some examples. As a result, you won’t have to suffer from vitamin B depletion, and you get to benefit from certain nutrients, too!

02 Has Little Processing

Unlike other types of sugar, demerara sugar is a healthier alternative and undergoes minimal processing. Raw sugar, among all types of sugar, retains nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. With the minimally processed demerara sugar, you get to enjoy health benefits!

03 Helps in Nourishing the Skin

Aside from being a good ingredient in most recipes, demerara sugar is also great for your skin! It can remove dead skin, for one thing, without causing tears. It also contains glycolic acid, which can help in skin regeneration.

Yes, you can use it as an exfoliant, but you can also use demerara sugar as a skin moisturizer. It can keep your skin properly moisturized and hydrated.

04 Promotes Better Immunity

Unlike white sugar or granulated sugar, demerara sugar doesn’t affect the metabolization of calcium. Plus, aside from it boosting your immunity, it can keep you healthy and not result in any side effects.

05 Reduces Inflammation in the Body

As an all-natural substance and unlike other types of sugar, demerara sugar doesn’t trigger any bacterial infection in the body. It’s a good substitute for anti-histamines!

How to Store Demerara Sugar

You can store sugar in an airtight container. Keep it in a cool, dry place in your pantry, and make sure moisture doesn’t get in! Any kind of moisture with granulated sugar can make it clumpy.

Demerara Sugar Recipe

Looking for some demerara sugar recipes? We’ve got you. You can substitute other sugars for this recipe – either substitute granulated sugar or use popular sugar alternatives like raw sugar, brown sugar or coconut sugar.

Chocolate Chip Muffins

What You Will Need:

This recipe calls for demerara sugar or brown sugar, among other alternatives, flour, baking powder, butter, eggs, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and semi-sweet chocolate chips.

Step 1:

Start the recipe by preheating the oven. Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

Step 2:

Mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and chocolate chips together in a mixing bowl.

Step 3:

In another bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract together. Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients.

Step 4:

Pour the batter into 12-muffin cups and bake for around twenty minutes. Let cool and serve warm.

FAQs:

Is demerara sugar good or bad for health?

Demerara sugar is good for your health as long as it’s taken in moderation. You can find demerara sugar to be beneficial as long as you control your portions!

What is the difference between white sugar and demerara sugar?

White sugar and demerara sugar actually have the same caloric content! However, white sugar is more refined, and demerara sugar has more trace minerals in it, which leads to many health benefits.

Can demerara sugar be used for cooking?

Yes, demerara sugar can be used for cooking! It can also be used for baking and as a general sweetener for beverages and food.