Ever felt that one shot just doesn’t cut it? That’s where the double shot espresso aka doppio steps in—bold and unapologetically strong. It’s not just coffee; it’s a power move in a tiny cup. Among all, double shot espresso sets global standards. But what actually is double shot espresso? Within these pages lies an extensive account of the double shot espresso from the recipe to digging in nutritional facts, let’s sip in!

What Is a Double Shot of Espresso?

Known as a ‘doppio’ in Italian, In essence, a double shot is simply two espresso servings prepared in succession, often considered the standard in most coffeehouses brewed along twice the amount of coffee grounds, making it stronger than usual lattes and cappuccinos typically around 14 to 18 grams to yield around 2 ounces (60 ml) of rich, concentrated coffee.

Key Characteristics:

  • Served in small quantities around 2 oz or 60 ml
  • Made using ~14-18g of ground coffee
  • Higher intensity in flavor and caffeine than regular brewed coffee

Instead of brewing two single shots one after the other, baristas use twice the coffee in a single extraction. It’s quicker and stronger.

How Much Caffeine Is in a Double Shot of Espresso?

Standard Caffeine Count:

  • Single shot (1 oz / 30 ml):  63–75 mg of caffeine
  • Double shot (2 oz / 60 ml):  125–150 mg of caffeine
Espresso Shots Serving Size Caffeine Content
Single Shot Espresso 1 oz / 30 ml 63–75 mg of caffeine
Double Shot Espresso 2 oz / 60 ml 125–150 mg of caffeine

The caffeine content may vary slightly depending on:

  • The type of beans (Arabica vs Robusta)
  • Roast level (lighter roasts generally have slightly more caffeine)
  • Grind size and tamping pressure
  • Brewing time

Arabica beans, favoured within the realm of specialty coffee, possess a notably lower caffeine content (1.2%) than Robusta beans (2.2%) but offer more nuanced flavors.

Nutritional Facts of a Double Shot of Espresso

Renowned for its stimulating properties, it’s also a low-calorie, low-fat beverage, especially when consumed without milk or sweeteners. The calorie count may vary slightly depending on the coffee bean roast and brewing method. Here’s a breakdown for a double shot (2 oz / 60 ml) of black espresso:

Double Shot Espresso Nutrition Facts
Nutrients Amount Per Serving
Calories ~5–6 kcal
Fat 0 g
Carbohydrates ~0.5 g
Sugars 0 g
Protein ~0.3 g
Caffeine ~125–150 mg
Cholesterol 0 mg
Fiber 0 g

These values may differ slightly based on brewing method and bean type, but espresso remains a nutritionally light beverage when taken straight.

But What If You Add Milk or Sugar?

Adding even 1 tsp of sugar adds ~16 calories. A 1/4 cup of whole milk contains around 38 calories, 2 g of fat, and 3 g of sugar. So, while espresso itself is minimal in calories, espresso-based drinks can become calorie-dense.

Is 2 Shots of Espresso Strong?

Yes, both in terms of flavor and caffeine concentration 2 shots of espresso are strong.

Why It’s Considered Strong:

  • Caffeine punch: 125–150 mg is nearly equivalent to a full 12 oz cup of regular brewed coffee (which ranges from 90–150 mg)
  • Flavor intensity: With more coffee grounds and compact extraction, a double shot has rich, bold notes and a syrupy body
  • Quick absorption: Espresso enters the bloodstream faster, making the effects more noticeable within minutes

However, “strong” is subjective:

  • For regular coffee drinkers, a doppio might feel energizing
  • For sensitive individuals, it could feel jittery or overwhelming

How Many Oz Is a Double Shot of Espresso?

  • A double shot is generally 2 fluid ounces
  • In milliliters, that’s approximately 60 ml
  • In grams (by weight), it translates to ~50-60 grams, depending on the extraction yield and crema

Espresso Yield Summary:

Espresso Yield Summary:  
Espresso Shots Volume (oz) Volume (ml) Quantity of Coffee Used
Single shot 1 oz 30 ml ~7-9 g coffee
Double shot 2 oz 60 ml ~14-18 g coffee

Is 30 ml a Single or Double Shot?

  • 30 ml = Single shot of espresso

This is a globally accepted standard. When you hear “30 ml of espresso,” it typically refers to a single shot (also called a solo or ristretto, depending on the brew ratio).

A double shot would be 60 ml. Some espresso bars serve slightly more or less depending on how they dial in their machine or customer preferences.

What Is Double Shot Espresso Extraction Time?

The extraction time refers to how long it takes to brew the shot once water starts flowing. Too quick, and it’s sour. Too slow, and it’s bitter.

Ideal Extraction Time Range for a Double Shot:

  • Time: 25 to 30 seconds
  • Water Temperature: ~90–96°C (194–205°F)
  • Pressure: 9 bars (~130 psi)

Extraction time is crucial. Too short, and the espresso is under-extracted (sour, weak). Too long, and it’s over-extracted (bitter, hollow).

For best results, our professional barista uses a brew ratio of 1:2 — that is, 18g of coffee to 36g of liquid espresso in about 28 seconds.

Single Shot vs Double Shot Espresso

Feature Single Shot Double Shot
Volume 1 oz / 30 ml 2 oz / 60 ml
Ground Coffee ~7–9 g ~14–18 g
Caffeine ~63–75 mg ~125–150 mg
Flavor Milder Richer and more intense
Common Use Light drinks, small servings Standard for most espresso drinks

If you’re ordering a latte or cappuccino, chances are you’re already getting a double shot inside. Most modern espresso machines are designed to pull double shots by default.

Double Shot Espresso Recipe

Here’s a step-by-step classic recipe for brewing a double shot of espresso using an espresso machine.

You’ll Need:

  • 18g of freshly ground espresso beans (medium-fine grind)
  • Espresso machine (with portafilter)
  • Tamper
  • Digital scale (optional, but recommended)
  • Timer

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your espresso machine, portafilter, and cup.
  2. Grind your coffee to a fine consistency—similar to table salt.
  3. Weigh and dose about 18 grams of coffee into your portafilter basket.
  4. Tamp the coffee evenly using firm, consistent pressure.
  5. Insert the portafilter into the group head and start the shot.
  6. Extract for 25–30 seconds, aiming to yield about 36 grams (2 oz / 60 ml) of espresso.
  7. Stop the shot when the stream turns pale or starts “blonding.”
  8. Serve immediately, either straight or as the base for a latte, macchiato, or cappuccino.

Pro Tips for Perfect Espresso

Our barista spills the (coffee) beans for making the most exquisite cup of espresso you’ve ever had.

  • Adjust grind size and extraction time based on taste (sour = grind finer, bitter = grind coarser)
  • Use a brew ratio of 1:2, that is, 18g of coffee to 36g of liquid espresso in about 28 seconds for a perfect brew.
  • Use fresh beans, ideally roasted within the last 2-3 weeks
  • To preserve the aroma, store beans in an airtight container

Looking to add a bit of flavor to your classic brew, try our exclusive Apple Crisp Oatmilk Shaken Espresso, or explore more things coffee, and check out what’s brewing today!