Best Turbo Shot Espresso Recipe

Hey coffee lovers! Ready to turbocharge your daily caffeine fix? Say hello to our Turbo Shot Espresso recipe– your go-to potion for an instant energy boost.

Forget the ordinary; we’re talking about a shot that’s bold, powerful, and downright delicious. No fuss, no frills – just a straightforward guide to elevate your coffee game.

As we know, the world of espresso is vast and ever-evolving, with new brewing methods and variations emerging all the time. One such recent innovation is the turbo shot, which has gained popularity among coffee enthusiasts for its unique flavor profile and brewing process.

What is an Traditional Espresso Shot?

An espresso shot is a small, highly concentrated coffee beverage made by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee beans at high pressure. It’s the base for many popular coffee drinks like lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos.

A single espresso shot is typically 1 ounce (30ml), while a double shot is 2 ounces (60ml). Espresso requires a very fine grind, similar to powdered sugar, to create a consistent extraction.

High pressure, typically around 9 bars, is used to force hot water through the coffee grounds quickly.  A proper espresso shot should be extracted in 25-30 seconds, resulting in a concentrated and flavorful beverage.

Espresso is known for its intenso flavor, with notes of caramel, chocolate, and fruit, and a slight bitterness. A good espresso shot will have a thick layer of crema on top, which is a light brown foam created by the emulsification of oils and air during extraction.

What is a Turbo Shot?

Unlike the classic espresso shot, which uses a fine grind and high pressure to extract a concentrated beverage in 25-30 seconds, the turbo shot employs a coarser grind, lower pressure, and a longer extraction time. This results in a coffee that is smoother, less bitter, and boasts a wider range of flavor notes.

Unlike the fine grind used for traditional espresso, a turbo shot utilizes a coarser grind, often similar in size to sea salt.

Instead of the standard 9 bars used in traditional espresso, turbo shots are brewed at a lower pressure, typically around 6 bars.

While traditional espresso aims for a 25-30 second extraction, turbo shots are extracted for a longer duration, usually around 30-40 seconds.

Despite the lower coffee dose (15-17 grams vs 18-20 grams in traditional espresso), the longer extraction time results in a higher caffeine content in the final beverage.

The coarser grind and lower pressure extract less bitterness and astringency, creating a smoother and more enjoyable drinking experience.

The longer extraction allows for the extraction of more nuanced and complex flavor notes from the coffee beans, leading to a richer and more satisfying cup.

The coffee-to-espresso yield of a turbo shot is significantly higher compared to a traditional espresso shot.

As you can see, the turbo shot extracts a significantly higher percentage of the coffee, resulting in a larger yield of espresso. This is achieved by using a lower pressure (6 bars) and a longer extraction time (30-40 seconds) compared to a traditional espresso shot.

Feature	Turbo Shot	Traditional Shot
Coffee-to-water ratio	1:2.6	1:2
Coffee yield	65%	50%
Espresso yield	30-40 grams	25-30 grams
Extraction pressure	6 bars	9 bars
Extraction time	30-40 seconds	25-30 seconds

Why turbo shot is better than traditional espresso shot

Here is why Turbo shot is better than espresso shot.

• Smoother and less bitter compared to traditional espresso.
• Offers a wider range of flavor notes.
• Higher caffeine content.
• More forgiving to grind size inconsistencies.
• Less susceptible to channeling (uneven extraction) due to the coarser grind.

Turbo Shot vs. Traditional Espresso:

Feature	Turbo Shot	Traditional Espresso
Grind size	Coarser	Finer
Pressure	Lower (6 bars)	Higher (9 bars)
Extraction time	Longer (30-40 seconds)	Shorter (25-30 seconds)
Coffee dose	Lower (15-17 grams)	Higher (18-20 grams)
Beverage volume	Similar	Similar
Flavor profile	Smoother, less bitter, wider range of notes	More intense, bolder, potentially bitter
Caffeine content	Higher	Lower

So, turbo shot is a fascinating brewing method for coffee enthusiasts seeking a smoother, more nuanced, and potentially more caffeinated espresso experience. It’s not a replacement for the traditional method, but rather an exciting option to explore and expand your coffee horizons.

Best Turbo Shot Espresso Recipe

Forget the bitter, single-note espresso. This turbo shot recipe unlocks a world of hidden coffee flavors, offering a smooth and complex experience in under 5 minutes.

With just a few simple steps, you can brew an espresso that boasts a wider range of notes, a higher caffeine kick, and a luxurious smoothness you won’t find anywhere else. So ditch the traditional brew and embark on a flavor adventure with the turbo shot!

How to make Turbo Shot Espresso Recipe at home

The turbo shot is a unique and innovative way to brew espresso, offering a smoother taste, wider flavor profile, and higher caffeine content compared to traditional methods. Ready to embark on a sensory journey? Here’s your guide to brewing the perfect turbo shot:

Ingredients

The ingredients for a turbo shot espresso might seem simple, but each plays a crucial role in crafting this exceptional coffee experience.

1. Freshly Roasted Coffee Beans

When choosing coffee beans, opt for specialty beans that are freshly roasted within the past week to ensure peak flavor and aroma. The beans should be whole and free from any defects.

Choose coffee beans that align with your desired taste. Light roasts will offer brighter, fruitier notes, while darker roasts will have more chocolatey and caramelized flavors.

The grind size is critical for a successful turbo shot. Aim for a medium-coarse grind, similar to sea salt. This allows for optimal water flow and extraction of delicate flavors.

2. Filtered water

Use fresh, cold, filtered water to avoid introducing unwanted flavors or impurities into your coffee.

 The temperature of your water plays a vital role in the brewing process. Ensure the water is cold, ideally between 195-205°F (90-96°C). This temperature range allows for a balanced extraction and prevents the coffee from burning, preserving its delicate flavors.

Equipment

You need following equipment to make turbo shot espresso.

1. Espresso Machine with Adjustable Pressure

 The unique characteristic of the turbo shot lies in its lower pressure compared to traditional espresso. Look for an espresso machine that allows for adjustable pressure settings down to 6 bars. 

This lower pressure permits a longer, slower extraction, maximizing the release of flavors and resulting in a smoother, more nuanced coffee experience.

Consistent brewing results rely heavily on the temperature stability of your espresso machine. Choose a machine that maintains consistent temperatures throughout the extraction process to ensure optimal flavor and quality in your turbo shot.

2. Burr Grinder

A burr grinder is essential for achieving a consistent grind size, which is critical for even extraction and a balanced flavor profile. Avoid using blade grinders, as they produce inconsistent grinds that can lead to bitterness and uneven extraction, compromising the quality of your turbo shot.

Look for a burr grinder that offers precise grind size adjustments. This allows you to fine-tune the grind based on your specific coffee beans and desired taste preferences, further enhancing your turbo shot experience.

3. Portafilter and Tamp

Ensuring your portafilter and tamp are clean and free of coffee oils is crucial for maintaining optimal performance and taste. Coffee oils build-up can impact the flavor and extraction process of your espresso.

Choose a portafilter size compatible with your espresso machine and that can accommodate the intended amount of coffee grounds.

Invest in a good quality tamp that fits the diameter of your portafilter and allows you to apply a firm, even tamp. This ensures consistent extraction and pressure distribution throughout the coffee puck.

Steps to make Perfect Turbo shot Espresso

Let’s delve into each step of the process, ensuring you achieve the perfect cup of Turbo shot espresso every time:

1. Grind the coffee

To unleash the full potential of your coffee beans, achieve a medium-coarse grind, similar in texture to sea salt. Avoid over-grinding, as it can lead to bitterness and an unbalanced extraction. Consistency is key, so utilize a burr grinder for a uniform grind size that facilitates even water flow.

2. Dose the coffee

Measure precisely 15-17 grams of ground coffee using a scale. This ensures consistent results and a balanced flavor profile. Carefully add the coffee to the portafilter basket, distributing it evenly for optimal extraction. Uneven distribution can lead to channeling, where water bypasses the coffee, resulting in an undesirable brew.

3. Tamp the coffee

With a firm and steady hand, use a tamper to compact the coffee grounds. Apply even pressure, creating a level surface with no visible gaps or unevenness. This ensures consistent water flow and a well-balanced extraction, maximizing the delicious flavors hidden within your beans.

4. Purge the group head

Before brewing, purge the group head by briefly running hot water through it without the portafilter attached. This removes any stale water and preheats the group head, ensuring the ideal temperature for optimal extraction. A clean and warm environment is crucial for crafting a flawless turbo shot.

5. Lock in the portafilter

Securely lock the portafilter into the group head, ensuring a tight seal. Any leaks or pressure imbalances can negatively impact the extraction process, compromising the quality of your coffee. Take care and ensure a firm connection for a successful brew.

6. Adjust the pressure

Unlike traditional espresso, the turbo shot demands a lower pressure of 6 bars. This allows for a longer and gentler extraction, maximizing the release of delicate flavors and ultimately creating a smoother, more complex coffee experience. Experiment slightly with the pressure settings to find the sweet spot for your specific setup and coffee beans.

7. Start the extraction

Start the brewing process and witness the steady flow of espresso. Ideally, it should be a consistent stream, neither too fast nor too slow. A fast flow indicates under-extraction, while a slow flow suggests over-extraction. Aim for a total extraction time of 30-40 seconds for a well-balanced turbo shot.

8. Stop the extraction

Once you reach the desired volume, typically around 30-40 grams, stop the extraction process and prepare to savor the fruits of your labor. Adjust the grind size or extraction time slightly if needed, based on your specific equipment and coffee beans, to achieve the ideal volume consistently.

Turbo Shot Espresso recipe with milk

The turbo shot espresso’s smooth and complex flavors are further enhanced when combined with milk, creating a creamy and delicious turbo shot espresso latte. Here’s how to craft this delightful beverage:

Ingredients

• 15-17 grams freshly roasted coffee beans, ground medium-coarse
• 30-40 grams filtered water
• 100-120 grams milk (whole milk recommended for optimal texture)
• Optional: Flavored syrups, spices, or chocolate shavings

Equipment

• Espresso machine with adjustable pressure (6 bars ideal)
• Portafilter and tamper
• Scale (optional)
• Milk frother or steamer
• Latte cup
• Glass for brewing the turbo shot (optional)

Steps

1. Grind & Dose: Grind your coffee beans to a medium-coarse consistency and measure 15-17 grams into the portafilter basket.
2. Tamp & Lock: Tamp the coffee grounds firmly and evenly to create a level surface. Lock the portafilter into the group head.
3. Purge & Preheat: Briefly run hot water through the group head without the portafilter to purge stale water and preheat the group head.
4. Brew the Turbo Shot: Set the pressure to 6 bars and start the extraction. Aim for a total extraction time of 30-40 seconds and observe a steady flow of espresso.
5. Froth the Milk: While the espresso brews, froth or steam your milk to your desired consistency. Whole milk creates a richer and creamier texture, but you can use any milk you prefer.
6. Pour & Combine: Pour the turbo shot into your preheated latte cup. Gently pour the frothed milk over the espresso, creating a layered effect.
7. Sweeten & Garnish (optional): Add any desired sweeteners, spices, or chocolate shavings to customize your latte.

Don’t over-froth the milk, as this can make your latte too airy. For a latte art enthusiast, try pouring the milk slowly and creating artistic designs on the surface.

Enjoy your delicious and creamy Turbo Shot espresso Latte!

Serving your Turbo Shot Espresso

Choose a small, pre-warmed glass to showcase the visual beauty of the crema and witness the full extraction process. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon, a twist of orange peel, or a few coffee beans for a touch of elegance and an enhanced aroma.

Savor your turbo shot immediately after brewing to capture the full spectrum of flavors and aromas while the crema is at its peak. Maintain the optimal temperature with a thermos or preheated glass, as a lukewarm turbo shot loses its vibrant character.

For a pure and unadulterated experience, enjoy your turbo shot solo and appreciate the smooth texture, complex flavors, and invigorating caffeine kick.

If you crave a contrasting combination, pair it with small, sweet treats like biscotti, macarons, or shortbread cookies. Alternatively, elevate your experience with a touch of steamed or frothed milk to create a turbo latte or cappuccino.

Adjust the strength to your preference by diluting it with hot water if you prefer a milder coffee. Explore different coffee beans and roasts to discover the unique flavor profiles they unlock in the turbo shot.

Share this unique experience with friends and family, introducing them to the world of turbo shot espresso and creating a shared moment of appreciation for the artistry of a well-crafted cup.

Have you tried Starbucks Pink Drink? Check out our home made pink drink with vanilla cold foam recipe now!

Turbo shot espresso Nutrition facts

While the turbo shot espresso offers a delicious and invigorating caffeine boost, it’s important to be mindful of its nutritional content. Here’s a breakdown of the key nutrients in a single serving (30ml):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	1-2
Fat	0g
Carbohydrates	0g
Sugar	0g
Protein	0g
Caffeine	60-80mg
Niacin	Trace
Vitamin B2	Trace
Potassium	Trace
Magnesium	Trace

Turbo Shot vs. Allongé vs. Lungo

The realm of espresso, with its diverse brewing methods and nuanced flavors, offers a delightful adventure for coffee aficionados. While the terms “turbo shot,” “allongé,” and “lungo” may appear interchangeable, each holds distinct characteristics that cater to individual palates.

The turbo shot espresso stands out with its concentrated and clean flavor profile. Utilizing a 1:2.6 coffee-to-water ratio, it delivers a potent 30-40 grams of espresso.

This concentrated experience is achieved through a lower pressure of 6 bars, resulting in a bright, sweet taste with a lighter body and less crema.

Ideally, equipment with adjustable pressure control is recommended for optimal turbo shot brewing.

The allongé offers a smooth and complex flavor, ideal for those who seek a heavier body. With a lower coffee-to-water ratio of 1:3-4, it yields a substantial 50-70 grams of espresso.

The higher pressure of 9 bars during extraction creates a rich crema, complementing the smooth and full-bodied taste. Unlike the turbo shot, most espresso machines can handle the allongé brewing process.

The lungo is often associated with bitterness and over-extraction, a consequence of improper technique. While its coffee-to-water ratio can vary significantly (1:2-4), it typically delivers the most espresso, ranging from 50-80 grams.

The extraction pressure, often at 9 bars, can also fluctuate depending on the method. Due to its potential for bitterness and a thin, watery texture, the lungo is not generally recommended by coffee connoisseurs. However, some coffee enthusiasts enjoy the larger volume it offers.

Choosing Your Perfect Espresso

The ideal espresso is a matter of personal preference. Do you crave a bright and clean flavor with a light body? The turbo shot espresso is your perfect companion.

If you seek smoothness and complexity with a heavier body, the allongé will tantalize your taste buds. Perhaps you prefer a larger volume of espresso – in that case, the lungo might appeal to your palate, but be cautious to avoid bitterness.

Want to try a cocktail that tastes like coffee? Check out our Sombrero Cocktail and Iron Butterfly Cocktail Recipe

Conclusion

The turbo shot is a delightful and rewarding brewing method for coffee enthusiasts seeking a smooth, flavorful, and slightly more caffeinated experience.

With some practice and the right technique, you can unlock a world of nuanced coffee flavors and elevate your daily coffee routine. So, embrace the turbo revolution and discover a new dimension of espresso enjoyment!

FAQS

How much caffeine is in Turbo?

A single serving of turbo shot espresso (30ml) packs a punch with 60-80mg of caffeine. This is significantly higher than a traditional shot, which typically contains 30-50mg.

Turbo shot vs Espresso: What’s difference?

Turbo shots, with their higher coffee-to-water ratio, lower pressure, and longer extraction, offer a brighter, sweeter, and cleaner flavor with a lighter body and less crema.

Traditional espresso, brewed at higher pressure and shorter extraction time, boasts a richer, bolder, and more intense flavor with a fuller body and thicker crema.

Both require an espresso machine, but turbo shots ideally require adjustable pressure control. Choose turbo shots for a lighter experience or espresso for a more intense one.

Can we use coffee machine instead of espresso machine for turbo shot espresso recipe?

No, a standard coffee machine is not ideal for brewing turbo shots. While it may technically be possible, you’ll likely struggle to achieve the desired pressure and extraction time for a proper turbo shot.

Espresso machines are specifically designed to deliver the necessary pressure (6 bars) and control the flow rate for a longer extraction (30-40 seconds). This combination is crucial for extracting the optimal flavor and avoiding bitterness in a turbo shot.

What is Turbo Shot Coffee?

Turbo shot coffee is a concentrated espresso shot with a bright, sweet flavor and a lighter body. It’s created using a higher coffee-to-water ratio (1:2.6) and a lower pressure (6 bars) compared to a traditional shot.

This method allows for a longer extraction time (30-40 seconds), resulting in a more intense flavor and a higher caffeine content. Turbo shots are typically enjoyed straight, but they can also be used as the base for various milk-based coffee drinks.

What is the ratio for espresso shots?

The standard espresso shot ratio is 1:2, meaning one gram of coffee for every two grams of water. This typically yields a 25-30ml shot with a balanced flavor and body.

For a turbo shot, the ratio is increased to 1:2.6, resulting in a more concentrated 30-40ml shot. Other variations like allongé (1:3-4) and lungo (1:2-4) also exist, offering different flavor profiles and volumes.

What is a Dunkin Turbo shot?

A Dunkin’ Turbo shot is a concentrated espresso shot with a higher caffeine content than a standard espresso shot. It’s made with 15-17 grams of coffee and extracted with 30-40 grams of water, resulting in a stronger and more intense flavor. It can be enjoyed on its own or used as a base for various coffee drinks like lattes and cappuccinos.

How much milk do I need for 2 shots of espresso?

The amount of milk you need for 2 espresso shots depends on your desired drink and individual preference. Here’s a general guide:

• Latte: 100-120ml of milk for a classic latte with a balanced coffee-to-milk ratio.
• Cappuccino: 60-80ml of milk for a frothier cappuccino with a thicker texture.
• Misto: 120-150ml of steamed milk for a gentler coffee experience with less espresso intensity.

Remember, these are just starting points. Feel free to experiment and adjust the milk amount to suit your taste.

What is the golden ratio for coffee and espresso?

There is no single “golden ratio” for coffee and espresso as it depends on several factors, including personal preference, coffee type and brewing method.

Experimenting with different ratios is the best way to find what tastes best to you. However, some commonly used ratios include:

• 1:2 coffee-to-water ratio for a standard espresso shot
• 1:16 coffee-to-water ratio for drip coffee
• 1:3 coffee-to-milk ratio for a latte

Remember, there’s no right or wrong answer. Explore different ratios and find what creates your perfect cup of coffee!

What’s the difference between a turbo shot and under extracted espresso?

Both turbo shots and under-extracted espresso offer a lighter body than traditional espresso, but their flavor profiles differ significantly.

A turbo shot boasts a bright, sweet, and clean taste due to a higher coffee-to-water ratio, lower pressure, and longer extraction time, resulting in a concentrated and intense experience.

In contrast, under-extracted espresso suffers from a sour, acidic, and weak flavor caused by insufficient extraction time and improper brewing technique.

• Turbo Shot: Bright, sweet, clean flavor, higher coffee-to-water ratio, lower pressure, longer extraction time, concentrated and intense.
• Under-extracted Espresso: Sour, acidic, weak flavor, standard or lower coffee-to-water ratio, insufficient extraction time, unpleasant flavor.

What is turbo shot espresso machine?

A turbo shot espresso machine isn’t a specific type of machine, but rather any espresso machine capable of reaching the following criteria:

• Adjustable pressure control: This allows you to lower the pressure to around 6 bars, crucial for achieving the desired flavor profile of a turbo shot.
• Precise control over extraction time: You need to be able to accurately time the extraction for 30-40 seconds for optimal results.
• Temperature stability: Maintaining consistent brewing temperature is essential for a well-balanced coffee.

Most high-quality espresso machines offer these features, making them suitable for brewing turbo shots. If you’re unsure whether your machine qualifies, check the manufacturer’s specifications or consult a coffee expert.

What is turbo bloom espresso?

Turbo bloom espresso combines the concepts of turbo shots and pour-over blooming, utilizing a small amount of hot water to bloom the grounds for 30 seconds before extracting at a lower pressure (6 bars) for 30-40 seconds, achieving a brighter and sweeter flavor profile by maximizing desirable coffee compounds while minimizing bitterness.