How to Make a Black Eye Coffee (Easy & Quick Steps)

Ever had a morning so rough you thought no amount of caffeine could save you?
That’s when I reach for a Black Eye Coffee. It’s not something I drink daily. I mean this coffee is brutally intense. But on those sluggish mornings where you can barely peel yourself out of bed, it’s like a punch in the face—in the best way possible.

With a double dose of caffeine from both drip coffee and an espresso shot, it’s the ultimate wake-up call when all else fails.

In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know about Black Eye Coffee: what it is, how it tastes, and how to make a perfect one at home. So let’s start brewing!

What is a Black Eye Coffee?

A Black Eye Coffee is a bold, double-strength coffee drink created by adding two shots of espresso to a cup of drip coffee.

This blend packs a punch in both flavor and caffeine content. You get a robust and rich taste that keeps you awake and alert.

The name “Black Eye” reflects the double jolt of caffeine. I’d say, if you feel drowsy in the morning, try this ultimate eye-opener.

How It Tastes Like?

The espresso shot gives it that deep, slightly smoky intensity that you only get with a true espresso.

While the drip coffee adds a smoother, more rounded background. It’s not for the faint of heart. I mean, this drink is strong, with the kind of full-bodied coffee flavor that really lingers.

When you first sip it, you might notice a powerful bitterness. But I’ve found that it is an enjoyable choice when you need a serious caffeine fix.

Note: You can always add a splash of milk or a hint of sweetness, which can balance it out. However, I consider it best to drink it straight up.

Tips for Perfecting Your Black Eye Coffee

This isn’t your regular coffee, so even small adjustments can make a big difference in flavor and strength. So, here’s some tricks I’ve learned:

1 – Choose Fresh Beans

Personally, I love Death Wish Coffee for its bold, dark roast and high caffeine content—perfect for a serious morning pick-me-up.

Another favorite is Kicking Horse Coffee, which has a smooth, full-bodied flavor that balances well with the added espresso shot in a Black Eye. Of course, you can go for other ones. But try to always use fresh beans.

2 – Adjust the Strength

Somedays you might want a slightly milder version. For that, I like to add an extra ounce of drip coffee to tone down the intensity just a touch.

This still keeps the caffeine kick but allows for a bit more smoothness. I suggest playing around with the ratios until you find that perfect balance between boldness and drinkability.

3 – Avoid Over-Brewing

It’s easy to get caught up in brewing strong drip coffee, but overdoing it can lead to unwanted bitterness.

A balanced extraction—around 4-5 minutes for most drip coffee makers is key. I’ve learned to watch the clock or keep an eye on my coffee maker to avoid any over-brewing.

If it brews too long, the coffee can end up tasting harsh, which really affects the Black Eye’s overall flavor.

Black Eye Coffee vs. Red Eye Coffee: What’s the Difference?

You’ve probably heard about red eye. It sounds similar to black eye coffee. So to clear any confusion here’s a quick comparison:

Feature	Black Eye Coffee	Red Eye Coffee
Definition	Contains two shots of espresso added to drip coffee, creating a bold and intense flavor	Contains one shot of espresso added to drip coffee, offering a milder, smoother taste
Strength	Stronger, with a bolder coffee taste	Milder, with a more balanced flavor profile
Caffeine Content	Higher caffeine level, ideal for those needing a strong boost	Lower caffeine level, better for a moderate caffeine boost
Best For	Those looking for an intense coffee experience	Those who prefer a smoother, slightly less intense drink

Customizing Your Black Eye Coffee

One of the best things about Black Eye Coffee is how versatile it is—you can tweak it to suit almost any taste. Whether you prefer it bold and black or with a bit of sweetness, here are some ways I’ve learned to make it my own.

1 – Add a Splash of Milk or Cream:

If you want a smoother, creamier version of Black Eye Coffee, a bit of milk or cream can really do wonders. Personally, I sometimes go for a splash of oat milk or almond milk, especially if I’m aiming for a nutty flavor that balances out the intensity of the espresso shot.

You can play around with the creaminess—adding just a dash for a subtle effect or a full splash if you want it extra creamy. I’ve even tried it with coconut milk, which adds a whole new layer of richness!

2 – Sweeten to Taste

Now, Black Eye Coffee has a bold, slightly bitter taste that some of us enjoy as-is, but sometimes, a little sweetness can bring out more of the coffee’s natural flavors. I like to add a tiny spoonful of honey when I’m in the mood for a hint of sweetness without overdoing it.

If I’m feeling indulgent, a splash of vanilla syrup or a little maple syrup can add a nice twist—especially around the holidays when I crave something a bit festive. Play around with sweeteners; you might just find a new favorite combo!

3 – Iced Black Eye Coffee

When the weather heats up, an iced Black Eye is my go-to. To make it, I start by brewing the drip coffee and letting it cool in the fridge (or adding ice cubes if I’m in a hurry).

Once it’s chilled, I pour the espresso shot over ice and then add the cooled drip coffee. This gives it a super refreshing yet bold flavor that’s not watered down, perfect for a hot afternoon pick-me-up. Plus, it’s easy to customize with milk or a dash of sweetener to make it even more refreshing.

Last Thoughts

So have you tried the black eye coffee at home? Do you have any tips or questions you’d like to share please leave it right right below. I’d love to hear them and with that voilà!