Red Eye Recipe at Home

If you're looking for a coffee drink that packs a punch without sacrificing flavor, the Red Eye might just become your new best friend. Combining brewed coffee with a shot of espresso, this delightful concoction is perfect for those early mornings or long afternoons when you need an extra boost.

Ingredients

• 1 cup brewed coffee (hot or freshly brewed)
• 1 shot (1 ounce) of espresso
• Optional: sweetener to taste (sugar, honey, or flavored syrup)
• Optional: milk or non-dairy alternative (almond, oat, or soy)

Method

1. Start by brewing your favorite coffee. Use a drip coffee maker or pour-over method to make one cup of coffee. Aim for a brewing temperature of around 200°F, which helps extract those delicious flavors. This should take about 4–5 minutes.
2. While your coffee is brewing, prepare your espresso shot. If you’ve got an espresso machine, pull a shot as your coffee brews. If you’re using a stovetop espresso maker, it should take about 3–4 minutes to get that rich shot ready.
3. Once both your coffee and espresso are ready, grab your favorite mug. Pour the brewed coffee into it first, then gently add the espresso shot on top. The two should blend beautifully, creating a rich and layered appearance.
4. Taste your Red Eye and decide if you’d like to add some sweetness or a splash of milk. Stir it in if you do!
5. For an iced version, simply chill your brewed coffee beforehand and pour it over ice before adding the espresso shot.

Optional variations

• Sweeten it up with a bit of sugar or flavored syrup like vanilla or caramel.
• Try adding a splash of milk or a non-dairy alternative for a creamier texture.
• Experiment with different coffee blends for unique flavor profiles.

Troubleshooting tip: If your Red Eye tastes too bitter, try using a lighter roast coffee or adjusting your coffee-to-espresso ratio to find the perfect balance for your palate.

Serving suggestion: Pair your Red Eye with a freshly baked croissant or a slice of coffee cake for a delightful breakfast or afternoon pick-me-up. Enjoy this robust coffee treat, and embrace the energy it brings to your day!