Whether you’re a seasoned coffee lover or just starting your journey into the world of expresso, the double expresso is a must-try classic. Stronger, richer, and more generous than a single shot, this drink is perfect for anyone who needs a powerful boost of energy or simply enjoys bold coffee flavours. In this guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know about the double expresso: what it is, how to make it at home with different machines, expert barista tips, and a shopping list of the best coffees to use.
The double espresso, also known as a doppio (Italian for “double”), is a timeless classic in cafés and restaurants. Unlike shorter coffee drinks such as the espresso or ristretto, a double espresso delivers a bigger, bolder punch of flavour and caffeine.
In simple terms, it is prepared by extracting two espresso shots into a single cup, usually a cappuccino cup. That means double the amount of ground coffee and water compared to a regular espresso. The result? A richer, more concentrated drink with an intense body and a strong aromatic profile.
It’s important to note that a double espresso is not the same as a lungo (or long espresso). A lungo is prepared by adding extra water to a single espresso, which dilutes the flavour. A double espresso, on the other hand, is two full extractions: double the coffee, double the water, double the intensity.
Many bean-to-cup machines even include a Doppio button, which automatically doubles the water and coffee quantities for a perfect extraction.
For coffee lovers who need a little extra energy to start the day or those who simply enjoy the deeper complexity of a longer espresso, the double espresso is the ultimate choice.
How Much is 2 Shots of Espresso?
A double espresso is essentially two single shots extracted into the same cup. Each shot typically measures around 30 ml, so a double espresso will give you approximately 60 ml of coffee. Depending on your beans and machine, this can vary slightly, but it usually falls within the 40–60 ml range.
Is Double Espresso the Strongest?
Not exactly. A double espresso is stronger than a single espresso in terms of caffeine and flavour concentration. However, drinks like ristretto (a very short, highly concentrated espresso) can taste even more intense, despite having less caffeine. The double espresso balances strength, volume, and aroma, which makes it so popular.
How Much Caffeine is in a Double Espresso Shot?
This is another way of asking about caffeine content, typically 120 mg on average. For comparison:
Single espresso: ~60 mg
Double espresso: ~120 mg
Filter coffee (250 ml mug): 95–150 mg
This means your double espresso packs the same caffeine punch as a whole mug of filter coffee but in a much smaller, more concentrated format.
How to Prepare a Double Espresso with a Bean-to-Cup Coffee Machine
If you own a bean-to-cup coffee machine (sometimes called an automatic espresso machine), preparing a double espresso is both quick and effortless. These machines grind the beans freshly for each cup, ensuring maximum flavour and aroma.
Step 1Add your preferred coffee beans into the grinder compartment of your machine.
Step 2If your machine has a dedicated Double Espresso or Doppio button, simply press it and let the machine do the work. If not, you can prepare two espresso shots one after the other into the same cup.
Step 1
Add your preferred coffee beans into the grinder compartment of your machine.
Step 2
If your machine has a dedicated Double Espresso or Doppio button, simply press it and let the machine do the work. If not, you can…
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How to Make a Double Espresso with a Manual Espresso Machine
For coffee enthusiasts who love to play barista at home, a manual espresso machine offers more control and a more authentic esperience. This method requires slightly more equipment and technique, but it allows you to fine-tune your coffee exactly as you like it.
Step 1Grind about 20 g of coffee beans for your double espresso. The grind should be fine but not powdery, similar to table salt. Place the grounds evenly into the portafilter.
Step 2Level the coffee bed using your hands or a coffee distributor. This ensures even extraction.
Step 3Using your tamper, apply about 15–20 kg of pressure to compress the grounds evenly. A consistent tamp is essential for balanced flavour.
Step 4Run a quick water flush to clean any residual grounds and stabilise the temperature.
Step 5Lock the portafilter into place and start the extraction. Aim for 40–60 g of liquid coffee in your cup, which should take around 25–30 seconds.
Step 1
Grind about 20 g of coffee beans for your double espresso. The grind should be fine but not powdery, similar to table salt. Place the…
Step 2
Level the coffee bed using your hands or a coffee distributor. This ensures even extraction.
Step 3
Using your tamper, apply about 15–20 kg of pressure to compress the grounds evenly. A consistent tamp is essential for balanced flavour.
Step 4
Run a quick water flush to clean any residual grounds and stabilise the temperature.
Step 5
Lock the portafilter into place and start the extraction. Aim for 40–60 g of liquid coffee in your cup, which should take around 25–30 seconds.
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MaxiCoffee Tips For a More Indulgent Cup
The coffee you choose will greatly influence the taste of your double espresso. Try different beans to discover what suits you best—whether you enjoy rich and chocolatey notes, bright acidity, bold bitterness, or a hint of spice. With so many options, there’s a perfect flavour profile for every coffee lover.
To elevate your at-home barista game, here are a few tips:
Esperiment with different beans: The type of coffee beans you choose has a huge impact on flavour. Try single-origin coffees for unique profiles (fruity, floral, chocolatey) or blends for balance.
Adjust the grind size: Too coarse, and your coffee will taste weak and sour. Too fine, and it will taste bitter. A fine-tuned grind is the secret to a perfect extraction.
Check your water quality: Good-quality filtered water improves the clarity of flavours in your double espresso.
Practice your tamping technique: A consistent tamp helps avoid channeling and ensures even water flow through the coffee bed.
The double espresso is more than just “twice the coffee.” It’s a bold, energising, and flavourful drink that showcases the depth and complexity of your favourite beans. Whether you opt for the convenience of a bean-to-cup coffee machine or the craftsmanship of a manual espresso machine, mastering the doppio at home means you’ll always have café-quality coffee at your fingertips.
By esperimenting with different origins, blends, grind sizes, and extraction methods, you can personalise your double espresso until it perfectly matches your taste.
