Espresso vs. Brewed Coffee: Which Packs More Punch? You Might Be Surprised
At Toomer’s Coffee, we get asked all the time: “Which has more caffeine—espresso or regular brewed coffee?”
The answer? They’re about the same.
Really. Let’s break it down.
It’s Not About the Bean—It’s About a Brewing Method
ESPRESSO
Many people mistakingly think espresso is a special bean or an ultra-dark roast. Not true.
The word “espresso” has its roots in the Italian verb “esprimere,” which means “to press out.” This verb stems from the Latin word “exprimere,” meaning “to press out” or “to squeeze out.” SO, espresso is simply a method of brewing—forcing hot water under pressure through finely ground coffee to create a rich, concentrated shot in about 20–25 seconds.
Because of its bold flavor and small portion size, espresso feels stronger. But one shot (about 1.5 oz) has roughly the same caffeine as an 8–12 oz cup of brewed coffee.
Yes—brew for brew, they’re basically equal in caffeine. It’s just that with espresso, you’re sipping it in a smaller, more intense package.
Meet the Difference: Our Infrared-Roasted Espressos: Bravo & Créma Bella
At Toomer’s, we craft Espresso Bravo and Espresso Créma Bella using our unique infrared roasting process—a cleaner, more even heat that produces smoother, lower-acid espresso with remarkable and many say, superior flavor clarity.
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Espresso Bravo is bold, chocolatey, and well-structured—ideal for lattes and cappuccinos that need a little backbone.
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Espresso Créma Bella is velvety, smooth, and sweet—perfect for solo sipping or those elegant flat whites.
Both are low acid, gentle on the stomach, and packed with full-bodied flavor.
But Don’t Count Out Our Brewed Favorites
Of course, not everyone is an espresso drinker. For many, brewed coffee is the daily ritual—especially our top sellers:
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Auburn City Blend: A balanced medium-dark roast with warm, nutty tones and just enough brightness to keep things lively.
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Breakfast Blend: Light, clean, and mellow—our smoothest morning starter, especially for those who prefer a gentler cup.
These favorites are also roasted with our infrared process, keeping acidity low and flavor consistent. Whether you brew them in a drip maker, French press, or pour-over, they deliver the comfort and familiarity you love—with none of the harshness.
The Real Difference? Flavor & Format
So should you go for espresso or a traditional brewed cup?
It really comes down to taste and format, not caffeine levels.
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Like your coffee intense, rich, and fast? Go espresso.
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Prefer sipping a full mug in the morning? Brewed blends like Auburn City or Breakfast Blend are perfect.
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Want both? Add a shot of Espresso Bravo to your Auburn City Blend—a.k.a. a “Shot in the Dark.”
Need More Kick? Here’s How to Get It
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Brewed Coffee: Want more caffeine? Don’t steep it longer—that’ll just make it bitter. Instead, use more coffee grounds.
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Espresso Drinks: Just add more shots. A double or triple latte gives you the lift without bitterness.
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Not a Big Coffee Fan? Try adding a shot to hot chocolate or chai. The flavor’s softer, but the boost is real.
Bottom Line: Brewed or Espresso, Low Acid Is the Way to Go
At Toomer’s Coffee, all our coffees—from Espresso Crema Bella to Breakfast Blend—are low acid, specialty grade, and roasted using our signature infrared process. That means more flavor, less bitterness, and a cup your stomach will thank you for.
So whether you’re team espresso or team brewed, you can drink confidently, knowing you’re starting your day with better coffee—inside and out.