The Coffee Kits

The Lowdown on Caffeine Content in Blonde Espresso Shots

Blonde espresso shots have been gaining popularity lately, with many coffee shops offering them as an alternative to traditional espresso shots. But what makes blonde espresso different, and how does its caffeine content compare?

What is Blonde Espresso?

Blonde espresso is a lighter roast than traditional espresso, meaning that the coffee beans have been roasted for a shorter amount of time. This results in a milder flavor and a lighter color, hence the name "blonde". Blonde espresso is often touted as a smoother, less bitter alternative to traditional espresso.

Caffeine Content in Blonde Espresso

Despite its milder flavor, blonde espresso actually contains more caffeine than traditional espresso. This is because lighter roasts retain more of the caffeine content from the coffee beans. According to Starbucks, a single shot of blonde espresso contains 180 milligrams of caffeine, compared to 75 milligrams in a single shot of regular espresso.

How Does Blonde Espresso Compare to Other Coffee Beverages?

While blonde espresso may have more caffeine than regular espresso, it still falls within the range of other coffee beverages. For example, a 12-ounce cup of brewed coffee typically contains between 95 and 200 milligrams of caffeine, depending on the strength of the brew. A 12-ounce latte made with blonde espresso and steamed milk contains around 75 milligrams of caffeine, while a 12-ounce cappuccino made with blonde espresso and steamed milk contains around 80 milligrams of caffeine.

Is Blonde Espresso Better for You?

There is no clear answer to whether blonde espresso is better for you than regular espresso or other coffee beverages. While it may contain more caffeine, it is also less bitter and may be easier on the stomach for some people. However, the health benefits and drawbacks of coffee consumption in general are still a topic of debate among researchers.

The Bottom Line

If you're looking for a milder, less bitter alternative to traditional espresso, blonde espresso may be worth a try. Just keep in mind that it does contain more caffeine, so be mindful of your overall caffeine intake. As with any coffee beverage, it's important to listen to your body and enjoy in moderation.