A double espresso, or “doppio” as it’s called in Italy, is a strong coffee drink made by forcing hot, pressurized water through tightly packed ground coffee. This creates a bold and rich shot with a thick texture. Usually, a double espresso contains somewhere between 70 and 120 milligrams (mg) of caffeine, with many reports putting the average closer to 120-126 mg. This amount of caffeine comes in a small, 2-ounce (60 ml) serving, making it a powerful option for those looking for a quick caffeine lift.
The actual amount of caffeine in your doppio can change depending on several things, but knowing the typical range gives you a starting point if you’re watching your caffeine intake. Unlike a slow-brewed cup of coffee, a doppio brings you a fast, concentrated boost-perfect for when you want strong effects right away. This guide explains what goes into the caffeine amount in double espressos and compares it to other favorite coffee drinks.
How much caffeine is in a double espresso?
People love double espressos for their strong flavor and quick energy kick. But how much caffeine is really in there? While the content can change depending on a few things, most double shots fall into a regular range. Let’s break it down clearly.
Average caffeine content of a double shot
Most double espressos have about 120-126 mg of caffeine. This number is common among coffee drinkers and serves as a good estimate if you want to track your intake. Even though the drink is small, just 2 ounces (60ml), it’s packed with more caffeine per ounce than larger coffee drinks. That’s why espresso is known for being “strong,” even though a big cup of regular coffee can end up with more total caffeine.
Keep in mind that not every cup is the same. The actual amount depends on the coffee shop, the beans used, and the barista’s method. Some coffee chains might serve double shots closer to 85 mg of caffeine, while others might go up to 175 mg. Most specialty coffee shops keep their shots within the 110-135 mg range.
Caffeine range in double espresso (mg)
The caffeine in a double espresso is not exact-it usually falls between 70 and 120 mg. Some places report a wider range, from 58 mg up to 185 mg. This big difference happens because of things like the type of beans (such as Arabica or Robusta), how dark the beans are roasted, grind size, and how the shot is made.
For example, double shots with more Robusta beans will have higher caffeine since Robusta has almost twice as much caffeine as Arabica. Also, letting water run through the coffee grounds longer pulls out more caffeine. So, while you can expect a double shot to give you a noticeable boost, the exact amount will vary based on how and where it’s made.
How does a double espresso compare to a single shot?
Comparing single and double espressos is simple: a double is just two singles together. A single espresso uses around 7 grams of coffee to make 1 ounce (30ml) of drink, usually with 45-70 mg of caffeine, averaging about 63 mg. A double has 14 grams of coffee for 2 ounces (60 ml), so you can expect 70 to 120 mg of caffeine.
While a single shot gives you a mild lift, the double shot is the usual choice for most espresso drinks in cafes, as it offers a bigger flavor and more caffeine. Drinks like lattes and cappuccinos are made mostly with double shots for a well-balanced taste with milk. If you enjoy espresso straight, a doppio gives you a fuller experience.
What affects the caffeine amount in a double espresso?
The caffeine in your double espresso isn’t random. It comes down to several main factors, and knowing about them can help you understand how much caffeine you’re actually drinking-or even help you tweak your coffee at home.
Coffee bean type
The kind of coffee bean has a big impact on caffeine levels. There are two main types: Arabica and Robusta. Most coffee around the world comes from Arabica beans, which taste sweeter and have less bitterness. They also have less caffeine than Robusta beans. Robusta tastes stronger and more bitter, has a thicker crema (the layer of foam on top), and about twice as much caffeine as Arabica.
Espresso blends often include some Robusta to make the crema thicker and raise the caffeine amount. If you notice your doppio feels especially strong, it might be because of more Robusta. If it’s made only with Arabica, you’ll likely get less caffeine and a smoother flavor.
Roast level
Many think that dark-roasted beans have more caffeine, but that’s not true. Light roasts actually keep a little more caffeine, as long roasting can break down the caffeine. While the difference is small-maybe only a few milligrams-it does exist.
However, if you measure by volume (using a scoop), you might end up using more dark beans because they expand and weigh less when roasted longer. So, when measured out by scoops, darker roast can end up with slightly more caffeine in your cup. Espresso is often made with beans roasted on the darker side to give a deeper, richer flavor that stands out when brewed under pressure.
Grind and dose
The grind size for espresso is very fine, like powdered sugar. This helps pull out more caffeine during brewing. If the coffee is ground too coarsely, water passes through too fast and you get less caffeine-and a weaker, sour shot. If it’s too fine, water struggles to get through, leading to a bitter taste and perhaps more caffeine.
The amount of ground coffee used matters too-a standard double shot uses 14 grams, but some places use up to 20 grams. Using more coffee means more caffeine in the final drink.
Brewing time and method
Espresso is quick to brew-about 25 to 30 seconds. Most of the caffeine comes out of the grounds in the first minute. If you brew for longer (like with a “lungo” or long shot), you’ll pull even more caffeine, while shorter extractions (“ristretto”) have a bit less. Good baristas pay close attention to brewing time and pressure (about 9 bars) and use hot water at 195-205°F (90-96°C) for the best results.
Type of machine
The equipment makes a difference too. Commercial espresso machines keep pressure and temperature steady. This helps them deliver similar caffeine amounts shot after shot. Home machines vary-a top-tier home machine can do just as well as a commercial version, but many home models don’t reach the same level. This means your caffeine in a double shot might be lower or less consistent at home. Other home methods (like a Moka pot or AeroPress) make strong coffee but don’t match the exact espresso pressure, so the caffeine content can be different.
Double espresso vs other coffee drinks: caffeine comparison
Espresso is often seen as extra strong, but the comparison changes when you look at how much you drink at once and how it’s made.
Double espresso vs drip coffee
This is where a lot of confusion comes from. Many think a double espresso has more caffeine than a cup of drip coffee. But a regular 8-oz (240 ml) brewed cup has about 95 mg of caffeine, and some have 120-140 mg or even 200 mg. In comparison, a double espresso (2 oz / 60 ml) has 70-120 mg on average.
Espresso wins in caffeine per ounce (about 63 mg/oz) compared to 12 mg/oz for drip coffee. But most people drink much more drip coffee, so it often has more total caffeine by the cup. A single espresso shot may have less total caffeine than a full cup of drip coffee, but a double may have more or less, depending on the recipe and brew strength.
| Beverage | Serving Size | Average Caffeine (mg) |
|---|---|---|
| Double Espresso | 2 oz (60 ml) | 70-120 |
| Drip Coffee | 8 oz (240 ml) | 95-140 |
Double espresso vs Americano
An Americano is just a double espresso mixed with hot water. The caffeine comes from the double shot itself-so the total remains between 70 and 120 mg. The difference is only in how strong it tastes and how much you’re drinking. You get the same caffeine, just more water and a milder taste.
Espresso-based drinks
Most drinks made from espresso (like lattes, cappuccinos, and cortados) start with a double shot, so they have the same caffeine-70-120 mg. Extra ingredients such as milk or flavor syrups dilute the drink but don’t lower the caffeine amount. If you want more caffeine, you need to add extra shots. For example, a triple shot has about 189 mg, and a quad shot about 252 mg.
| Beverage | Number of Shots | Average Total Caffeine (mg) |
|---|---|---|
| Latte (double shot) | 2 | 70-120 |
| Cappuccino (double shot) | 2 | 70-120 |
| Americano (double shot) | 2 | 70-120 |
| Mocha (double shot) | 2 | 70-120 |
Is a double espresso considered strong coffee?
People often call double espresso “strong,” but what does that really mean? There are two ways to look at it: by caffeine and by taste.
Caffeine vs taste
Double espresso is “strong” because of its heavy taste and concentrated brew. Hot water is forced through fine grounds making a bold, thick shot, with lots of flavor and a creamy layer on top (the crema). Compared to drip coffee, espresso is much bolder and feels richer due to the high concentration.
But “strength” in taste doesn’t always mean higher caffeine. An 8-ounce mug of drip coffee can still have as much-or more-caffeine as a double shot. Usually, “strength” in espresso means its big taste and fast-acting caffeine, not always that it beats every other coffee in caffeine per drink.
Caffeine per ounce
Espresso definitely stands out for caffeine by ounce. A single ounce holds about 63 mg. By contrast, one ounce of drip coffee has only about 12 mg. So, espresso has about five times as much per ounce. That’s why it’s served in tiny amounts-drinking 8 ounces of espresso would give you around 500 mg of caffeine! With espresso, each sip packs a lot into a small drink, so you feel the effects right away.
Frequently asked questions about double espresso and caffeine
Getting clear answers about espresso and caffeine can be confusing, with lots of different numbers and opinions. Here are some straightforward answers to common questions.
Is 2 shots of espresso a lot of caffeine?
For most adults, two espresso shots (70 to 120 mg, with an average near 120 mg) isn’t considered too much. The FDA says up to 400 mg a day is safe for most people, so a double espresso is about 30% of that daily limit.
However, people react to caffeine differently. Some feel jittery or notice a fast heartbeat from two shots, while others just feel more awake without issues. If you’re sensitive to caffeine, even a double shot might be too much, especially in the afternoon.
How much caffeine is safe per day?
The usually safe daily limit for caffeine is up to 400 mg for healthy adults. That’s roughly equal to four 8-ounce cups of coffee, six single espresso shots, or three doubles. This is just a guideline: Your body, health, and how you handle caffeine all matter. Too much caffeine can cause restlessness, trouble sleeping, higher heart rate, and stomach upset. Pregnant people and those with certain health issues should have less.
Does decaf double espresso have caffeine?
Yes, there is still caffeine in decaf double espresso, but a lot less. “Decaf” means almost all the caffeine is taken out-about 97% is gone, but not all. One decaf espresso shot has about 3-8 mg, so two decaf shots will have 6-16 mg. For most people, this tiny amount isn’t a problem, but anyone very sensitive to caffeine should be aware.
Tips for managing your caffeine intake
Managing how much caffeine you drink is easy if you follow a few simple tips:
- Pay attention to serving size: Espresso is strong, but large cups of other coffee types can have even more caffeine. Know how many shots are in your go-to drinks.
- Notice how you feel: If you get jittery or can’t sleep, cut back on caffeine.
- Watch the clock: Have caffeine earlier in the day. Try to stop by about 4 PM so it doesn’t keep you up at night.
- Drink water: Caffeine can make you lose water quicker. Stay hydrated during the day.
- Try decaf or lower-caffeine drinks: If you love coffee but want to avoid caffeine, choose decaf or options like herbal tea.
- Avoid mixing with other stimulants: Be careful not to combine caffeine with energy drinks, certain medications, or supplements that can make its effects stronger.
Following these steps helps you get the upsides of a double espresso without the drawbacks, keeping your daily coffee habit both fun and enjoyable.
