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Coffee lovers everywhere, this homemade Espresso tonic recipe is the perfect hot day pick-me-up! Made with espresso, tonic water, simple syrup, and fresh citrus, this unique iced coffee will be your new summer favorite!
What is an Espresso Tonic?
A classic Espresso Tonic is a refreshing coffee drink that combines espresso with tonic water served over ice. This refreshing drink combines bitter espresso with subtly sweet tonic water for a unique, bubbly beverage.
It is said to have originated in Koppi Roasters Cafe in Sweden and has become popular in the United States in recent years through exposure at Barista competitions and on cafe menus in coffee shops around New York City and other big cities. It's also been featured as one of those must-try signature drinks from various media outlets.
Finished with a splash of simple syrup and garnished with citrus peel, you will love how simple, delicious, and beautiful this nonalcoholic drink is!
What Makes This Recipe Great
Today I'm sharing a new-to-me spin on iced coffee that requires 4 simple ingredients and is a delicious, refreshing way to drink your favorite morning beverage! This homemade Espresso Tonic recipe calls for a shot of espresso, bubbly tonic water, a dash of simple syrup, and an orange slice to garnish.
While tonic water + espresso shot may seem like an odd pair, the resulting iced coffee is actually quite addicting. It's a fun and unique way to switch things up and super easy to make at home. Plus, if you don't have an espresso machine, a strong cold brew will work just fine!
If you're tired of your regular iced latte and looking for a subtly sweet, tart, and coffee-forward beverage, this is for you! It's gluten-free, and vegan, and is such a fun option for brunch, gatherings, or just your morning coffee.
Ingredient Notes
- espresso: Or 4 oz strong cold brew concentrate, french press, or strongly brewed iced coffee.
- tonic water: + more as needed. Fever Tree tonic is a popular brand pick that's easy to find in stores but use your tonic brand of choice.
- simple syrup: See notes for how to make simple syrup at home!
- orange slices: For garnish – feel free to use lime instead
How To Make Espresso Tonic
Step 1
Prepare your hot espresso as normal and set aside to cool. Feel free to pull a double shot of espresso if desired.
Step 2
Fill a highball glass with plenty of ice cubes. Slowly pour the tonic water over the ice, then add the espresso to the top of the tonic water.
Step 3
Add simple syrup, if using. Top with fresh orange slices or add a lime wedge to the rim.
Step 4
Stir and enjoy! Use leftover tonic for another drink or store for later use.
Expert Tips
- Coffee tonic: If you don't have an espresso machine, use cold brew coffee or strongly brewed coffee (cooled).
- How to make simple syrup at home: The ratio is one part granulated sugar or honey to one part water. Typically I do ½ cup of each. Combine both in a small pot on the stove and heat over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Let it cool, then pour it into a storage jar or container. You can store extras in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- Sweetener: If you don't prefer sweetener or added sugar, omit the simple syrup.
Recipe FAQs
It's a super simple recipe and easy to drink. Slowly pour the tonic water over a glass of enough ice, then add the espresso to the top of the tonic water. Garnish with a lime, lemon, or orange slice for added citrusy flavor, and enjoy! This sippable drink feels like a coffee cocktail without the alcohol!
More Specialty Coffee Drinks
A mix of espresso drinks and iced coffees for your summer menu or any time of year!
How to Make a Simple Espresso Tonic (4 Ingredients!)
Equipment
- espresso maker or use cold brew if you want!
Ingredients
- 2 shots espresso, or 4 oz strong cold brew coffee
- 4-6 oz tonic water, + more as needed
- 1-2 tsp simple syrup, see notes for how to make simple syrup at home!
- orange slices, for garnish – feel free to use lime instead
Instructions
- Prepare your espresso as normal and set aside to cool.
- Fill a glass with ice. Slowly pour the tonic water over the ice, then add the espresso.
- Add simple syrup, if using. Top with fresh orange slices.
- Stir and enjoy!
Notes
Expert Tips
- Coffee tonic: If you don't have an espresso machine, use cold brew coffee or strongly brewed coffee (cooled).
- How to make simple syrup at home: The ratio is one part granulated sugar or honey to one part water. Typically I do ½ cup of each. Combine both in a small pot on the stove and heat over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Let it cool, then pour it into a storage jar or container. You can store extras in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- Sweetener: If you don't prefer sweetener or added sugar, omit the simple syrup.
Nutrition
All nutrition facts are an estimate and automatically calculated. While I fact check them using My Fitness Pal, please note that they may not always be 100% accurate and depend on ingredients used. Weigh your total and divide by the number of servings for the most accurate grams per serving size.
