Updated for 2025:
We’ve refreshed this guide with the latest facts and techniques around caffeine content, espresso shots and what you’ll learn in a quality coffee course. If you’re training in Sydney and Melbourne, understanding your espresso is just as important as pulling it.
In short:
- How much caffeine is in a shot of espresso?
Roughly 63mg in a single, and 120–130mg in a double. - Does more caffeine mean better coffee?
No–flavour depends on extraction, not just caffeine. - Can I learn this in a coffee course?
Absolutely. Our barista training teaches how to balance caffeine and flavour in every shot.
Why Does Caffeine Matter in Espresso?
Caffeine affects not just the strength of your brew, but the taste, balance and even customer preferences. Whether it’s a single, double or long black, knowing how much caffeine is in your cup is a must-have skill for any barista.
How Much Caffeine Is in a Shot of Espresso?
In most Australian cafes, a single espresso shot contains around 63mg of caffeine, while a double shot (standard in a flat white or latte) can have 120–130mg. This can vary based on:
- Coffee bean type and roast
- Grind size and tamping pressure
- Extraction time
Tip: Our barista courses show you how each variable impacts caffeine content and taste.
Does More Caffeine Mean a Stronger Coffee?
Not always. A coffee with more caffeine isn’t necessarily stronger in flavour – it’s about extraction. Over-extracted shots might be bitter, while under-extracted ones taste sour. A great barista knows how to balance both caffeine and flavour.
Can You Learn All This in a Coffee Course?
Yes. A quality coffee course in Australia covers:
- The science behind caffeine extraction
- How to pull consistent espresso shots
- Adjusting grind and dose to manage strength
- Tasting techniques to recognise over- or under-extraction
Frequently Asked Questions (for future baristas)
- Do all espresso shots have the same caffeine?
Not quite. Caffeine varies depending on roast, bean origin and your espresso technique. Our Melbourne barista course teaches how to measure and control this. - Is decaf completely caffeine-free?
No, decaf espresso still contains a small amount of caffeine (around 3–5mg per shot). You’ll learn how to steam and pour decaf options in all our coffee courses. - Will a barista certificate cover espresso extraction and caffeine?
Yes, our nationally recognised barista certificate includes hands-on espresso training and covers caffeine control in real cafe settings.
Want to perfect your espresso technique? Check out our barista courses in Sydney or Melbourne.
