An Americano is one of my favorite go-to orders and is often overlooked by many espresso lovers. While it may not have the frills of popular seasonal drinks like a peppermint mocha latte, its classic, straightforward flavor never gets old. Whether hot or iced, an Americano highlights an authentic espresso taste without milk, cream, or flavored syrups clouding its beauty.
Now, social media has finally given the Americano the attention it deserves with the latest Aerocano trend. This aerated Iced Americano almost mimics another one of my favorite coffee drinks: the nitro cold brew. But what exactly is an Aerocano? How do you make one? And should you give this new Americano variation a ‘shot’? Here’s what to know.
What is an Aerocano?
“An Aerocano is essentially an Iced Americano injected with air during the steaming process,” says Muhammad Saqlain, Head coffee roaster at RoastAroma in Toronto. The drink is composed of a shot (or double shot) of espresso, ice, steam, and air. Compared to a traditional Iced Americano, it uses the same ingredients but is infused with air for a different, “creamier-like” texture.
Aerocano’s definitely have a decorative element; however, they also tend to have a sweeter, creamier mouthfeel due to the drink’s airy, light texture. They tend to be a more enjoyable drink as opposed to a regular Iced Americano,” Saqlain shares. This drink started as an experimental viral drink over social media, and is offered at niche cafe’s sometimes as seasonal, limited-time, or experimental drinks. The term “aerocano” is not a standard/traditional coffee term as its Americano counterpart.”
Iced Americano vs. Aerocano vs. Nitro Cold Brew
“Quite often when we get an order for an Iced Americano, I’ll offer an Aerocano as an alternative,” Saqlain shares. “Most people I suggest it to have never heard of it, so I explain that it’s basically an Iced Americano that’s been injected with air, which gives it that nitro-style gradient and a creamier texture. I usually show them what it looks like before I pour it over ice. Their reactions are pretty much always the same- they’re shocked at how creamy it looks, and then even more surprised when I tell them there’s no milk in it.”
Saqlain also believes the Aerocano has gained popularity because it’s easy to make with equipment you already have and tastes much better than a regular Iced Americano. “It looks very similar to a nitro cold brew without the equipment and time required to make a nitro cold brew. Plus, coffee enthusiasts on social media enjoy trying new drinks to change things up. Being able to share this “wow factor” drink on social media also helps.”
How to make an aerated Americano
Saqlain says learning to brew an Aerocano is pretty simple, especially for those already used to crafting an Americano. Below, he shares a few easy steps to get started brewing your first Aerocano:
- Start by pulling a double shot of espresso and pouring it into a milk-steaming pitcher.
- Fill the pitcher halfway with ice, then steam as you would typically for milk. Don’t be shocked when you hear a screeching sound at the start.
- Steam the drink as you would for milk, by first injecting air and then letting it homogenize by dipping the steam wand to create a vortex. Stop steaming once the ice has melted completely. You should be left with a warm (not hot) amber colored mixture.
- Take a glass, fill it about 80% with ice, and then pour in your steamed espresso + ice mixture from the pitcher.
- Serve and enjoy your Aerocano.
