Have you ever felt like you needed a little something extra to get you going in the morning? Well, that’s where red eye coffee comes in!
In this article, we’ll be discussing what exactly “red eye coffee” is and how you can make it yourself at home.
We’ll also explore the benefits of drinking red eye coffee, its origins, and some of the variations you might have come across.
So whether you’re a coffee lover looking to switch up your routine or just curious about this popular coffee beverage, read on to learn more about red eye coffee!
What is Red Eye Coffee
Red eye coffee is a regular brewed coffee with a shot of espresso added.
What Exactly is Red Eye Coffee?
So, let’s talk a bit more about what exactly Red Eye Coffee is.
It’s regular coffee and a shot of espresso, but the result is so much more than just a caffeine boost. It’s a bold and intense blend of flavors, like a burst of heavy and bitter flavors that wake up your taste buds and leave you feeling energized.
Can you add milk to it?
Yes, you can add milk to red eye coffee, and it will remain the same drink.
You can make it your own by adding any flavor—milk, cream, or sugar—that suits your taste buds. And no matter how you choose to customize it, it will still be considered red eye coffee.
What’s the Difference Between a Red Eye & a Black Eye Coffee?
A red eye has one shot of espresso, and a black eye has two shots of espresso.
Is Red Eye Coffee Strong?
If you’re looking for a coffee that packs a punch, then have a red eye coffee and brace yourself for impact. Yes, it’s strong. In fact, it’s like a superhero power-up in a cup—one sip, and you’ll feel like you can conquer the world!
The strength of this coffee depends on how much espresso you add to it, but even with just one shot, it’s going to taste strong.
Red eye coffee has approximately 160 mg of caffeine per cup. It’s definitely not for the faint of heart.
To put things into perspective, espresso has ~60 milligrams of caffeine per serving, while the caffeine levels in a typical brewed cup of coffee (8 fl oz) range between 80 and 135 mg. For comparison, an 8.4 oz. can of Red Bull has 72 mg per can.
So, if you’re in need of a serious caffeine boost to get you through the day, then a cup of red eye coffee might just be your new go-to drink.
Red Eye Coffee vs. Americano: Choosing Your Bold Brew
If you’re a fan of bold and powerful coffee flavors, you might be debating between Red Eye Coffee and Americano. While both contain one shot of espresso, Red Eye Coffee is mixed with brewed coffee, while an Americano is diluted with water.
The key difference is that red eye coffee has more caffeine and a bolder flavor, while an Americano is a little milder and smoother. So, it’s up to you to choose which brew suits your taste buds and your caffeine needs.
Whether you want to feel like a wild stallion running free or a calm river flowing peacefully, both Red Eye Coffee and Americano can give you the caffeine boost you need to take on the day.
Click below to learn about the 3 main places to buy coffee and the pros & cons of each
What is Red Eye at Tim Hortons?
Tim Hortons is getting in on the caffeine crazy and offering a series of red eye drinks. These drinks feature a shot of the brand’s signature espresso, brewed with premium Arabica beans that are ethically sourced for maximum quality and taste.
You can enjoy Redeye in one of three signature Tim Hortons’ drinks: the Redeye Iced Capp, Redeye Original Blend Coffee, and Redeye Iced Coffee. Each drink features the bold and intense flavor of Tim Hortons’ espresso, coffee and combined with other delicious ingredients.
Whether you prefer your coffee iced or hot, Tim Hortons’ Redeye beverages are sure to wake you up and give you the energy to do so.
How to Order a Red Eye at Starbucks
If you’re craving the bold and intense flavor of a red eye coffee from starbucks, there are a couple of ways to order it. You can either use the Starbucks app to order online or go into the store and order in person.
If you choose to order online, start by loading the Starbucks app and selecting a brewed coffee of your choice.
For the best taste experience, we recommend choosing one of the roasts that Starbucks recommends. Then, select the size of your beverage, and in the Espresso & Shot option, select 1 shot. Once your order is ready, head over to the store to pick it up.
If you prefer to order in-store, don’t be afraid to ask your barista for a “Red Eye”. Most staff are familiar with this drink since it’s an older secret menu item.
However, if your barista is unfamiliar with it, simply describe the drink and the preparation method. You can also ask for the brewed coffee of the day and add a shot of espresso to it.
Where did Red Eye Coffee Get Its Name?
You might be curious about the origins of why this coffee is called a “red eye”.
Well, there’s no official record of where the name comes from, (not even on the almighty Wiki!) the term started to appear in the aviation industry in the 90s.
You see, a “red-eye flight” is a flight that takes off late at night and arrives early in the morning. As a result, passengers often have red, tired eyes from lack of sleep.
Originally, this coffee was called “Shot in the Dark” or “Coffee with a Shot.” But when it was added to Starbucks’ secret menu, the name started to change based on the number of espresso shots added to the coffee.
For example, one shot of espresso added to the coffee is known as a “Red Eye.”Some name variations include:
- 1 shot = Red Eye
- 2 shots = Black eye
- 3 shots = Dead eye or Green eye (Starbucks’ name of the drink)
What Does Red Eye Coffee Actually Taste Like?
Red-eye coffee is intense, to say the least. But the smoothness of the coffee mixed with the strong espresso creates a unique flavor combination that just works. It’s like a smoother, more refined version of an Americano, with extra body and a rich, smoky taste.
But make no mistake – this coffee is strong. With approximately 160 ml of caffeine, it’s definitely going to give you a jolt. But that’s part of the appeal, right? It’s like a superhero power-up in a cup.
Now, if you’re not used to drinking hot Americanos or coffee that’s very strong, you might not be a fan of this bold beverage.
And even if you add sugar and cream, it won’t take away from the body and intense flavor of the coffee. But if you’re a fan of bold, flavorful coffee, then a red eye coffee might just be your new go-to drink.
How to Make Red Eye Coffee at Home: No Espresso Machine Needed!
So, you’re ready to make it at home but don’t have an espresso machine? No problem!
While it’s easier to make with an espresso machine, you can still create this powerful brew using a moka pot.
First things first, make a cup of coffee using your preferred method. It could be drip coffee, French press, or any other method you prefer to get your cup of coffee.
Then, make a shot of espresso using your moka pot and simply pour it into your coffee. Voila!
Red Eye Ingredients
If you prefer specific measurements, here’s a quick and easy recipe:
- 6 oz. drip coffee
- 1 shot of espresso (Make with a moka pot if an espresso machine isn’t available.)
- Milk or cream (optional)
Simply mix the drip coffee and espresso together, and add milk or cream if desired. And there you have it—a delicious, homemade red eye that’s sure to wake you up and start your day off on the right foot!
Red Eye Coffee Dosage: Finding the Perfect Balance
When it comes to making Red Eye Coffee, finding the perfect balance is key. The potency of this powerful brew can vary depending on the recipe and the amount of espresso used.
Adding syrups like hazelnut, caramel, or cinnamon, or experimenting with different types of flavored creamers, can give your beverage a unique and interesting flavor.
But be warned: adding too much can make your coffee thick, almost like oil. In fact, in some parts of Kansas, Red Eye Coffee is known as an “oil spill.”
But it’s not just about the flavor; getting the dosage right is crucial too. Adding too much espresso can be overkill, while not adding enough can leave you feeling uncaffeinated and disappointed.
So, finding the perfect balance of coffee and espresso is key to getting the recipe right with that’s both bold and enjoyable. It’s all about striking that perfect harmony between flavors, strength, and intensity.
The Risks of Too Much Caffeine
While caffeine can have some health benefits, it’s important to remember that consuming too much can be dangerous.
Common side effects of excessive caffeine intake include sleeplessness, agitation, a faster heart rate, and stomach problems like diarrhea and vomiting.
While death from caffeine is rare, it’s not something to take lightly. However, most people can safely consume caffeine in moderation without any negative side effects. So, if you’re a fan of Red Eye Coffee, be sure to keep track of your caffeine intake and listen to your body.
Enjoy Red Eye Coffee responsibly and in moderation, and you’ll be able to savor its amazing taste and caffeine boost without any negative consequences.
Final Thoughts on Red Eye Coffee – Bold, Strong, and Perfect for the Busy Bees
So, we’ve covered a lot about Red Eye Coffee in this article. From what it is to how it’s made, how it tastes, and even some health concerns to keep in mind.
And if you’re looking to make Red Eye Coffee at home, it’s easy to do. You just need brewed coffee, a shot of espresso, and some milk or cream if you like. If you don’t have an espresso machine, you can use a moka pot to make a shot of espresso.
However, it’s important to keep in mind the potential health concerns associated with consuming too much caffeine. While red eye coffee can provide a quick and powerful energy boost, it can also cause side effects like sleeplessness, agitation, and stomach problems.
In the end, Red Eye Coffee is a drink for the bold and busy—the perfect choice for those who need a quick and powerful energy boost on the go. It’s not for those who prefer a milder taste or are sensitive to caffeine’s side effects. So, if you’re a busy bee looking for a bold and strong coffee, give Red Eye Coffee a try—it might just be your new go-to drink!
