Double espresso – preparation and differences

As a coffee enthusiast, you’ve likely come across the terms “Double Espresso” or “Caffé Doppio”. But what exactly is a double espresso? In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know about the double espresso, also known as Doppio. From preparation to the nuanced flavors, we explain why the double espresso is so popular among coffee lovers.

The History

This highly aromatic coffee specialty has its origins in Italy, where espresso is a staple in coffee culture. But how did the Doppio come to be?

It is believed that the double espresso emerged in the 1950s, when coffee lovers began searching for a stronger and more intense coffee experience. The Doppio quickly became popular because it contains roughly twice as much caffeine as a regular espresso, providing an extra kick for the day.

Today, the double espresso is a staple in many coffee bars and cafés around the world. It is often used as the foundation for popular coffee specialties like Cappuccino or Latte Macchiato.

To enjoy a perfect Doppio, it’s important to use high-quality espresso beans and a professional espresso machine. The right grind and preparation of the coffee are also crucial to developing the full flavor and aromas of the double espresso. So, if you’re looking for a strong and intense coffee experience, try a Caffé Doppio.

How to Prepare a Double Espresso

A double espresso, also known as “Caffé Doppio”, is a popular coffee preparation made with double the amount of ground coffee and water compared to a traditional espresso. This results in a more intense and robust flavor experience. Typically, a double espresso is served in a smaller cup and is characterized by a rich crema and concentrated taste. Due to its strength and intensity, a Doppio is often appreciated by coffee lovers seeking a strong and invigorating beverage.

If you’re a fan of strong coffee, then the Double Espresso is just right for you. With its intense aromas and bold flavor, it’s a real treat for coffee enthusiasts. But what should you consider when preparing a perfect Doppio?

The key to a good Caffé Doppio lies in the correct preparation. First, you’ll need a high-quality espresso machine. It’s important that the machine extracts the coffee with the optimal pressure to release its full aroma. Ensure that your espresso machine is clean and well-maintained to guarantee flawless coffee enjoyment.

Next, choose the perfect bean for your Double Espresso. There are a variety of coffee types suitable for espresso preparation. Make sure the beans are freshly ground to achieve the best result and a perfect crema.

To prepare your Double Espresso, fill the portafilter of the espresso machine with the ground coffee. Press the coffee firmly to ensure even extraction. Then, start the machine and let the espresso flow into your espresso cup. A good Doppio is characterized by a beautiful crema that forms on the surface.

Enjoy your Double Espresso on its own or as a base for delicious coffee drinks like Cappuccino or Latte Macchiato. With a little practice, you’ll soon be able to prepare the perfect Caffé Doppio that will delight you with its intense flavor.

Which coffee bean should I use?

If you want to prepare your Double Espresso at home, choosing the right coffee bean is crucial to the flavor experience. There are a variety of coffee types on the market, but not all are equally suited for preparing a Caffé Doppio.

The perfect bean for your Double Espresso should be freshly roasted and of high quality. Arabica beans are known for their mild flavor and diverse aromas, while Robusta beans are stronger and more bitter in taste. Some coffee blends contain both Arabica and Robusta beans to offer a balanced mix of flavor and caffeine content.

It’s also important to consider the origin of the coffee beans. Single-origin coffees come from a specific region and offer unique flavor profiles influenced by the growing conditions and climate of the respective growing area. On the other hand, blend coffees combine beans from different regions to achieve a balanced flavor.

When buying coffee beans for your Double Espresso, pay attention to the roast date to ensure that the beans are fresh. Ideally, you should use the beans within two to three months of the roast date to enjoy the full aroma. But beware: The coffee shouldn’t be too fresh either, as it needs to degas after roasting.

To get the best out of your Doppio, I recommend grinding the beans just before preparation. Freshly ground coffee provides a more intense flavor experience and better crema on your espresso. Experiment with different coffee types and roasts to find your perfect Doppio and enjoy every sip of this delicious coffee drink.

Double Espresso vs. Single Espresso: What’s the Difference?

So, what exactly is the difference between a double espresso and a single espresso? A double espresso, also known as Doppio, is essentially just a double-sized espresso compared to a single. While a single espresso typically measures around 30 ml, a double espresso contains about 60 ml. This means that a double espresso has more caffeine and a more intense flavor than a single.

The main difference between a double espresso and a single espresso lies in the amount of coffee used for preparation. A Doppio is made with about 14-16 grams of coffee grounds, while a single espresso requires only about 7-10 grams.

There shouldn’t be any difference in extraction time. A Doppio also typically takes 25-30 seconds to prepare. This is achieved with a special filter basket in a portafilter machine. Therefore, the grind size shouldn’t need to be adjusted to achieve the same extraction time. The following table shows the key points. But remember, these are just guidelines, and there are no strict rules. Ultimately, the coffee should taste good to you, whether you use a little more or less coffee.

The Best Tips for Preparing a Double Espresso at Home

With the right tips and tricks, making a double espresso is simple. Here are some tips that might help you:

1. Use high-quality beans: The foundation for a good espresso is high-quality espresso beans. Be sure to buy fresh beans and grind them just before preparation to preserve the full aroma.
2. Correct amount of coffee: For a Doppio, we recommend using 14-16g of coffee. However, experiment with different amounts to find your personal taste.
3. The grind size: The grind size of the coffee is crucial for a good espresso. As mentioned earlier, the grind size for the double espresso should be identical to that of a single espresso.
4. Right temperature and pressure: Make sure that the water is at the correct temperature (about 90-95°C) and that the pressure in your espresso machine is high enough to achieve an intense espresso.
5. Enjoy your Doppio: Once your double espresso is prepared, you should enjoy it right away. Otherwise, you might as well prepare a Cold Brew. 😉

Remember, preparing a Caffé Doppio requires practice. Experiment with different beans, grind sizes, and extraction times to find your perfect espresso. And don’t forget that enjoying a Doppio is not just a taste experience, but also a small break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.