A red eye coffee is a popular caffeinated drink made by combining brewed drip coffee and a shot of rich espresso. This double coffee combination results in a bold, intense coffee flavor alongside a mega boost of energy which provides a strong dose of caffeine along with full-bodied coffee flavor.
Red Eye Coffee Ingredients
In red eye recipe, there are only two main ingredients:
Brewed Coffee
This refers to regular drip coffee made by pouring hot water over ground coffee beans, most commonly with a coffee maker. For a red eye as a type of black coffee, typically a darker French roast or Italian roast is used to provide a bold, smokey flavor base.
Espresso Shot
Espresso is made by pushing hot water at high pressure through finely ground coffee beans to produce a highly concentrated shot of coffee. This intense extraction method yields a smooth coffee concentrate loaded with aroma and flavor oils.
The espresso shot adds a substantial punch of extra caffeine along with delightful layers of caramel, chocolate and velvety creaminess.
Origins of the Name: From “Tired Eyes” Needing a Boost
There are a few origin theories behind the odd red eye coffee name:
1. Bloodshot Eyes: According to legend, the name refers to the eyes of exhaustion airport travelers who desperately needed coffee to energize their early morning flights. The “red” describes bloodshot eyes in need of revitalization.
2. Railroad workers: Another theory points to freight train drivers working overnight shifts who relied on red eye coffees to stay awake. The red supposedly depicted their tired, strained eyes.
3. Simply Descriptive: Less exciting – but the name may stem from the coffee itself looking darkened and reddish-brown when the shot of espresso is added to the mug.
No matter the exact roots, the colorful name reflects its effectiveness as an eye-opening, morning wake-up call.
Read More: Benefits of Coffee in the Morning
Caffeine Amount in a Red Eye Coffee
One of the biggest reasons red eye coffee which is an espresso-based drink packs such an energizing punch is the substantially higher caffeine content compared to other coffee and tea drinks.
Just how much caffeine is in there? On average, expect around 125-175 mg per red eye serving.
To give some perspective, that’s:
– 2-3x more than tea (50 mg)
– 2x more than Coke (34 mg)
– Roughly double a normal cup of drip coffee (95-165 mg per 8 oz cup)
That’s a lot of buzz! Let’s break down the exact sources:
Caffeine in Brewed Drip Coffee
Studies show that arabica beans contain 34.1–38.5 grams (g) of caffeine per kilogram (kg) of dry coffee. According to NCA, a typical cup of drip coffee (8oz) contains approximately 65-120 mg of caffeine. The exact amount varies based on factors like:
- Bean Origin & Variety
- Roast Date/Method
- Grind Size
- Water Temperature
- Brew Time
Caffeine in Espresso Shots
A single 1 oz shot of espresso also packs a hefty dose containing about 63-100 mg of caffeine (concentrated from 7-9 grams of ground coffee).
Again, the caffeine level fluctuates based on the coffee beans, roasting, grind size and machine pressure. But however you make it, a solo espresso shot supplies a major energy injection.
With an 8 oz cup of drip coffee plus a bonus espresso shot, you net approximately 130 to 240 mg caffeine. Thus the higher stimulant qualities of the red eye brew compared to most coffees and teas.
Read More: Is Iced Coffee Stronger Than Espresso?
Benefits of Red Eye Coffee
Red eye coffee has different benefits due to its ingredients. Benefits you may notice include:
Heightened Alertness
The caffeine blocks sleep-inducing chemicals in the brain, causing a more alert, focused and awake state.
Energy Boost
Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system which releases catecholamines – chemicals that boost metabolism and increase alertness and physical energy.
Elevated Mood
By stimulating dopamine production (the “feel good” neurotransmitter), caffeine consumption enhances mood and feelings of wellbeing.
Improved Concentration
Caffeine combined with coffee’s nootropic compounds have proven mental performance benefits like heightened focus and concentration for several hours after drinking.
Red Eye Variations
While the standard red eye has a single espresso shot, some cafes offer creative variations:
1. Black Eye
A red eye with two shots of espresso instead of one. Cue the Rocky music! With around 188-238 mg of caffeine, this will keep you wired for hours.
2. Dead Eye
The intensely-named dead eye ratchets up the espresso to three shots total alongside the drip coffee base. We’re talking 200-300 mg caffeine here – not for the faint of heart!
3. Depth Charge
A mini “shot” version of the red eye – meaning just 1-2 oz total instead of a whole mug. Easy to toss back quickly but quite strong!
No matter how you take your red eye – standard or amped up – expect bold flavor with caffeinated pep to energize your day!
Conclusion
A red eye coffee is a beloved coffeehouse classic adored for its double dose of flavor and caffeine. This fusion of full-bodied brewed coffee and smooth concentrated espresso creates an intensely rich yet balanced profile that captivates coffee fans’ tastebuds.
This one-two coffee punch makes the peculiar sounding “red eye” name seem far more sensical. Whether the origins stem from once bloodshot, sleep-deprived travelers or overworked overnight railroad engineers, one thing is certain – this coffee combination is a savior for restoring tired eyes and lagging energy levels.