The Coffee Kits

Blonde Espresso Shots: A Low-Caffeine Alternative?

Espresso lovers, rejoice! Starbucks recently introduced a new option to their menu: blonde espresso shots. But what exactly is blonde espresso, and is it really a low-caffeine alternative?

What is Blonde Espresso?

Blonde espresso is made from the same beans as traditional espresso, but the beans are roasted for a shorter amount of time. This results in a lighter color and a milder, sweeter taste. The blonde espresso shots are also typically pulled for a longer amount of time, resulting in a higher volume of liquid and a less concentrated flavor.

Is Blonde Espresso Lower in Caffeine?

Contrary to popular belief, blonde espresso is not actually lower in caffeine than traditional espresso. While the lighter roast may give the impression of a milder taste and less caffeine, the amount of caffeine in each shot is actually the same. However, because blonde espressos are often served in larger volumes, the overall caffeine content of a drink made with blonde espresso may be slightly lower than that of a drink made with traditional espresso.

Why Choose Blonde Espresso?

So why choose blonde espresso over traditional espresso? For one, the milder taste may be more appealing to those who find traditional espresso too strong or bitter. Additionally, because the flavor is less concentrated, it may be easier to incorporate blonde espresso into drinks such as lattes or cappuccinos without overpowering the other flavors.

Another benefit of blonde espresso is that it may be more forgiving for baristas. Because the lighter roast is less prone to burning or over-extraction, baristas may have an easier time achieving a consistent, high-quality shot.

Conclusion

While blonde espresso may not be a low-caffeine alternative, it does offer a milder taste and may be easier to incorporate into certain drinks. If you're an espresso lover looking to switch things up, give blonde espresso a try and see if it's the right fit for you.