How Much Caffeine is in Your Coffee? A Breakdown by Coffee Type (Espresso, Latte, Macchiato, Cold Brew)
Introduction
For most of us, coffee is more than just a drink – it’s fuel for the day. But have you ever wondered how much caffeine is in your coffee? Whether you’re sipping an espresso at your local café in Sydney, enjoying a creamy latte, or cooling down with a cold brew, the caffeine content can vary widely. At KaapiKaapi Coffee Roasters, we believe understanding your coffee helps you enjoy it even more.
Espresso: The Classic Kick
E
Espressso at a café in Surry Hills, Sydney
Espresso is the base of many coffee drinks. A standard single shot (30ml) of espresso typically contains around 63 mg of caffeine. While small in volume, its concentrated form makes it a go-to choice for coffee lovers needing a quick energy boost.
Key takeaway: If you’re after maximum impact in minimum time, espresso is your best bet.
Latte: Smooth and Balanced
Latte art at a café in Randwick, Sydney
A latte combines a single or double shot of espresso with steamed milk. On average, a regular latte has 63–126 mg of caffeine, depending on whether it’s made with one or two shots. The creamy texture makes it a favourite for those who love coffee but prefer a smoother flavour.
Key takeaway: Perfect for café catch-ups or a mid-morning pick-me-up in the office.
Macchiato: Strong with a Hint of Milk
Macchiato Coffee at a cafe in Dural, Sydney
A macchiato is essentially an espresso “stained” with a dash of milk foam. Its caffeine level matches a single espresso shot at around 63 mg, but its flavour profile is bolder than a latte.
Key takeaway: Ideal for those who love a strong coffee flavour with just a touch of smoothness.
Cold Brew: Smooth Yet Powerful
Cold Brew Coffee with Ice at a cafe in Castle Hill, Sydney
Cold brew is steeped in cold water for 12–24 hours, which extracts caffeine slowly but intensely. A standard serving (250ml) can contain 150–200 mg of caffeine – often more than double that of an espresso.
Key takeaway: If you’re looking for a refreshing, highly caffeinated option during hot Sydney summers, cold brew is the way to go.
Quick Comparison of Caffeine Levels
|
Coffee Type |
Serving Size |
Approx. Caffeine (mg) |
|
Espresso |
30 ml |
63 mg |
|
Latte |
240 ml |
63–126 mg |
|
Macchiato |
30–60 ml |
63 mg |
|
Cold Brew |
250 ml |
150–200 mg |
Choosing the Right Coffee for You
Whether you’re powering through a workday, relaxing at your favourite café, or enjoying coffee at home, knowing how much caffeine in a coffee can help you make the right choice. If you love bold flavours, go for espresso or macchiato. For something smooth and balanced, a latte works best. And for maximum refreshment and a stronger caffeine hit, cold brew is unbeatable.
At KaapiKaapi Coffee Roasters, we source and roast premium coffee beans that deliver flavour, freshness, and consistency – whether you’re brewing espresso, lattes, or cold brew in Sydney or anywhere across Australia.
Final Word
Next time you order at a café, you’ll know exactly how much caffeine is in your cup. Want to explore more about specialty coffee and discover the perfect beans for your brew? Visit KaapiKaapi Coffee Roasters for freshly roasted coffee delivered to your door.
