Espresso, ounce for ounce, packs a more significant caffeine punch compared to regular brewed coffee. However, typical consumption patterns often involve larger volumes of coffee. An 8-ounce serving of home-brewed coffee generally contains between 96 and 128 mg of caffeine.
Caffeine content in both espresso and brewed coffee can vary due to several factors. These include the brand, bean type, roast level, coffee-to-water ratio, and preparation method (e.g., brewed, French press, cold brew, espresso machine).
At Starbucks, a single espresso shot, which measures 0.75 ounces, contains 75 mg of caffeine. In comparison, an 8-ounce cup of Starbucks’ Pike Place medium-roast coffee has 155 mg of caffeine.
So, what accounts for the perception that espresso delivers a more intense jolt compared to a regular cup of coffee?
Stephen Schulman, a coffee industry veteran with over 35 years of experience, suggests that the speed of consumption may play a crucial role. The small serving size of espresso allows for rapid consumption, whereas a cup of coffee is typically sipped over a longer period.
Espresso can be a suitable choice for those aiming to reduce their caffeine intake, provided consumption is limited to a single shot. It can be enjoyed neat in the traditional Italian style, or incorporated into espresso-based beverages like cappuccinos or lattes for a more leisurely experience.
