The Best Red Eye Coffee Recipe

Originating from the bustling cafes of New York City, the Red Eye Coffee recipe has gained widespread popularity for its ability to awaken the senses with its extra high caffeine content. Whether you’re seeking an extra boost of energy or simply craving a new coffee adventure, the Red Eye Coffee recipe promises to deliver a memorable experience with every sip.

Since you are here and love new ideas for coffee recipes, check out this Tiramisu Latte Coffee Recipe, this Easy Iced Brown Sugar Coffee Recipe, or this Iced Mocha Latte Recipe.

What is a Red Eye Coffee

Red eye coffee is made by simply adding shots of espresso to a cup of regular drip coffee. It is rumored that the drink earned its popular nickname from travelers consuming it during an overnight red-eye flight.

Ingredients for this Red Eye Coffee Recipe

Scroll down to the recipe card at the bottom of the page for the detailed ingredient measurements.

• 1 Cup of Regular Coffee: For the best flavor, try to use best highest-quality coffee grounds made from good coffee beans.
• Single Shot of Espresso

How to Make this Red Eye Coffee Recipe (Hot)

Make sure to scroll down to the recipe card at the end of this post for the full step-by-step guide.

1. Brew a cup of coffee using your preferred brewing method.
2. While the coffee is brewing, prepare a shot of espresso using an espresso machine or stovetop espresso makers.
3. Pour the shot of espresso into a mug.
4. Pour the brewed coffee over the espresso shot.
5. Stir gently to combine.

How to Make this Red Eye Coffee Recipe (Iced)

1. ​Brew a cup of black coffee from a drip coffee maker, French press, or any other standard coffee machine.
2. Brew your espresso. Let both the espresso and normal drip coffee cool slightly to room temperature.
3. Fill a cup with ice about three-quarters full.
4. Pour in the espresso and regular brew coffee.
5. Stir to combine.

Why You Need to Make this Recipe!

• This strong coffee is perfect for coffee lovers who usually need an extra caffeine boost.
• Due to combination of two different types of coffee used, this red eye drink has a unique flavor you’ll only experience by making this.
• Make this popular drink the next time you have long shifts at work or a full day of traveling.
• Customize it and flavor it anyway you want that fits your taste buds.

Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ

What are the Different Variations of the Red Eye Coffee Drink?

The red-eye coffee can be called different names. The main difference is based on how many espresso shots you add. A black eye coffee is made with a double shot of espresso. Its name comes from the visually noticeable black hole the espresso makes in the center of the coffee when it’s poured in. A dead eye coffee is made with a triple shot of espresso. Starbucks will sometimes add it to their secret menu under the name “green eye coffee”.

Nicknames based on Regional Variations

• In Alaska, it is known as a sludge cup.
• In the Pacific Northwest, it is called a shot in the dark.
• A variant in the West Coast is known as the train wreck.
• In Ulysses, Kansas, it is known as an oil spill.
• It has also been called a hammerhead or depth charge in other parts of the United States.

What type of coffee Can I Use Instead of regular drip coffee?

Cold brew coffee or instant coffee are great substitutes to use when you don’t have time or are out of fresh coffee grounds.

What Can I use Instead of Espresso?

Use a cold brew concentrate. Check out this guide and scroll all the way to the bottom for a guide on how to make it. Or you could use an instant coffee concentrate by adding a heaping scoop of instant coffee granules to a small amount of hot water.

How Should I Flavor this Red Eye Coffee Recipe?

There are countless ways to flavor this delicious beverage. Here are a few simple ideas that you could try:

• Add a Creamer:​ Thick, dairy creamers like heavy cream, half-and-half, and whole milk are a great way to add a tasty mouthfeel. Lighter options like 2% milk or fat-free milk add a decent enough texture while keeping the calories down. Of course, plant-based options like almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk work great as well if you have dietary restrictions or are vegan.
• Add a Sweetener:​ Unflavored sweeteners are perfect for adding a touch of sweetness without taking away from the flavor of the coffee. Stevia, brown sugar, or a simple syrup made from granulated sugar are perfect.
• Add a Flavored Syrup: If you are wanting flavors, there are plenty of syrups that go specifically well with the flavor of coffee. Try vanilla syrup, chocolate syrup, caramel syrup, or hazelnut syrup as your first options if you haven’t tried them yet.

How to Store Leftover Red Eye Coffee

​This drink has so much caffeine that it’s not a bad thing to split it up and enjoy it in multiple servings. To keep that same great red eye coffee taste fresh for the next day, put it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge. If you don’t get to it the next day, don’t worry. It will be fine for up to a week in the fridge.

The Best Red Eye Coffee Recipe

If you enjoyed this Red Eye Coffee recipe, make sure to save it and pin it for later!