Espresso Tonic is a refreshing twist from your normal cup of coffee. It is filled with bright citrusy flavor and is incredibly easy to make! Enjoy in the morning with breakfast, as an afternoon pick-me-up, or as a refreshing mocktail!
Love espresso tonics? Elevate your next one with blueberry simple syrup. Try our Blueberry Espresso Tonic recipe! Or, use your espresso to make a delightful Coffee Smoothie.
Espresso tonic taste like pure bliss in a glass. The coffee flavor is subtle and blends perfectly with the tonic water. At the first sip, you will wonder why you have never tried it before. If you’re here and have tried it before, you know just how lovely this drink is. Espresso tonics are quickly gaining popularity, and for good reason —they taste great!
Is an espresso tonic good?
YES! The bitterness of the tonic water balances out the natural acidity of the espresso and adds a bright, citrusy flavor. The end result is a refreshing coffee drink that taste almost like cola soda.
You’ll Love This Espresso Tonic. It’s:
- A Refreshing Beverage. Made with simple ingredients.
- Perfect For Any Occasion. Enjoy in the morning to start your day, as an afternoon pick-me-up, or after a heavy meal.
- A Great Alcohol-Free Alternative. This non-alcoholic espresso tonic can be enjoyed as a mocktail.
- Naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan.
Ingredients You Will Need
Ice + Tonic Water + Shot of Espresso
- Espresso: Let the espresso cool slightly before using. If you do not have espresso, try using cold brew concentrate and make a Cold Brew Tonic!
- Tonic Water: Use your favorite brand. Fever-Tree’s Indian Tonic is a popular tonic brand. I also like to use Q Spectacular Tonic Water, which is tonic water that is naturally sweetened with agave instead of processed sugar. Both taste great!
- Ice: Fill the glass with ice before adding the tonic water or espresso.
- Sliced orange or lime: A squeeze of fresh orange or lime enhances the drink. Squeeze a bit of citrus juice into the espresso tonic and garnish with a slice or two.
- Simple Syrup, optional: Use plain simple syrup, or get creative and use blueberry simple syrup. My current favorite is Spiced Orange Simple Syrup.
Optional Mix-Ins. There are endless variations and ways to customize your espresso tonic!
- ADD FRESH FRUIT: Raspberries, pomegranates, and blueberries are all great options.
- ADD ALCOHOL: Add a shot of whiskey or vodka to turn this drink into a nice cocktail. Add a dash of orange bitters or cherry bitters to top off the drink.
- ADD SIMPLE SYRUP: A little syrup goes a long way in this drink and can completely enhance the flavor.
- ADD COLD FOAM: You can mix a sweet foam on top to make a creamy tonic drink. Try adding Pumpkin Cream Cold Foam for a delicious spiced drink.
How To Make An Espresso Tonic
- Prepare your espresso as normal and set it aside to cool.
- Fill a tall glass with ice.
- Slowly pour the tonic water over the ice, then add the espresso. Add simple syrup, optional.
- Top with fresh lime or orange slices. Give the drink a stir and enjoy!
How To Sweeten An Espresso Tonic (2 Ways!)
- Pour the simple syrup (or sweetener of choice) into the finished drink and give it a stir to incorporate.
- Using a mason jar or shaker filled with ice, add the espresso shot and the sweetener. Shake to combine, then pour the shaken espresso over the glass of iced tonic water. (This method is best for preserving a two-tone layered drink look when serving)
Tips For Making The Best Espresso Tonic
- Pour the tonic water into the glass before the espresso to avoid any fizzing over
- Allow the espresso to cool before adding it to the drink
- Sweeten your espresso tonic to your liking. Simple syrups are the best to use, but you can also add natural sweeteners like agave or maple syrup
- Liquid sweeteners are best to use. No one wants to consume granules of sugar in their drink.
- Make as much as you will enjoy. The espresso tonic does not store well as the tonic will lose its carbonation
- Store any leftover tonic in the refrigerator. Make sure to close the seal tightly and the drink should remain carbonated for up to 2 days.
Common Questions
How Do You Make Espresso Tonic Without Foam?
The key to making an espresso tonic without foam is to pour the tonic water into the glass with ice BEFORE adding the espresso. When adding the espresso, make sure to pour it in slowly to prevent it from bubbling over the glass.
What Is The Difference Between Tonic and Club Soda?
Both are carbonated water with added minerals, but tonic water contains added quinine and sugar. Quinine is what gives the tonic water its bitter taste, which is then balanced by the added sugar.
How Many Calories Are In An Espresso Tonic?
Most of the calories in an espresso tonic come from the tonic water and added sugar. Generally speaking, it is a low-calorie drink, especially compared to most sugary coffee drinks. An espresso tonic without added sweetener can easily be less than 50 calories.
Espresso Tonic
Ingredients
- 2 Shots of Espresso (30ml each, or 1-2 oz)
- 4-6 oz Tonic Water, plus more as needed
- Sliced Orange or Lime wedges
- 2 tsp Spiced Orange Simple Syrup, optional or simple syrup of choice (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare your espresso as normal and set it aside to cool.
- Fill a tall glass with ice. Slowly pour the tonic water over the ice, then add the espresso. Add simple syrup, optional.
- Top with fresh lime or orange slices. Give the drink a stir and enjoy!
Nutrition
I Hope You Enjoy This Espresso Tonic Recipe. If you try the recipe, don’t forget to rate the recipe and let me know what you think in the comments below! Take pictures, tag #goodfoodbaddie, and share them with me on Instagram and Pinterest! I love seeing my recipes come to life in your kitchen.
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