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Coffee culture often feels wrapped in mystery when Italian words appear on menus. One of those words is doppio. It may sound elaborate, but in truth it simply means “double” in Italian. A doppio is a double shot of espresso, strong and concentrated, usually around sixty millilitres in volume.

In Italy, it is the standard way to order a heartier espresso, and it has become a staple in coffeehouses across the world. Traditionally made with an espresso machine, a doppio carries bold flavour and a smooth layer of crema on top. But what if you don’t have access to a machine at home?

Can you still prepare one? Absolutely. Let’s look at how to make a proper doppio using simple tools you might already own, including Levista instant and filter coffee for convenience.

What is a Doppio

In Italy, asking for “un caffe” usually means a single espresso shot. If you want something stronger, you ask for a doppio, which literally translates to “double”. It is made by pulling two espresso shots back to back, producing a richer and more intense flavour. The result is about sixty millilitres of concentrated coffee with a golden-brown crema that gives espresso its signature texture. Unlike a lungo, which is stretched with more water, a doppio keeps the same intensity but doubles the volume. Doesn’t it sound like the perfect balance between strength and satisfaction?

Making a Doppio Without a Machine

Method 1: Moka Pot

The moka pot, or stovetop espresso maker, is widely used in Italy itself. It’s a simple tool that produces strong, rich coffee with an aroma that feels authentic. If you own one, you’re already close to enjoying a homemade doppio.

Fill the bottom chamber with water up to the safety valve.
Add finely ground coffee to the filter basket and level it without pressing down.
Assemble the pot and place it on medium heat.
Watch as the coffee bubbles into the top chamber in a few minutes.
Pour around sixty millilitres into your cup to enjoy a doppio-strength brew.

Method 2: AeroPress Hack

The AeroPress is popular among home coffee lovers for its versatility. With the right ratio, it can create a concentrated shot similar to a doppio, though without the exact crema.

Place a paper filter in the cap and rinse it with hot water.
Add 18–20 grams of finely ground coffee into the chamber.
Pour in about sixty millilitres of hot water.
Stir quickly and press down firmly within thirty seconds.
For richer texture, try the inverted method and press slowly with steady pressure.

Method 3: French Press Strong Brew

A French press is often used for larger cups of coffee, but with a few tweaks, you can brew a concentrated version that resembles a doppio. It won’t taste identical to espresso, but the flavour is strong and satisfying.

Add four tablespoons of finely ground coffee to the press.
Pour hot water just to cover the grounds, stir, then add more until you reach about 120 millilitres.
Let the coffee steep for four minutes.
Press the plunger down slowly and evenly.
Pour about sixty millilitres into your cup for a robust, concentrated shot.

Method 4: Levista Instant or Filter Coffee

For convenience, Levista instant or filter coffee is a brilliant way to capture the strength of a doppio quickly. This method is perfect when you want café quality without extra equipment.

For instant coffee, add two heaped teaspoons of Levista instant coffee to a small cup.
Pour in sixty millilitres of hot water and stir briskly until fully dissolved.
For filter coffee, brew a strong decoction using your South Indian filter and double the usual measure.
Pour sixty millilitres into your cup for a bold doppio-style shot with authentic flavour.

Tips for Best Results

Fresh beans make all the difference. If possible, grind just before brewing and aim for a fine texture close to table salt. Use water just off the boil, around ninety to ninety-five degrees Celsius, for ideal extraction. Warm your cup beforehand to maintain heat and aroma. Swirling your doppio after pouring can even create a light foam that mimics crema. Small details like these transform a homemade brew into a satisfying café-like experience.

Levista Coffee: Bringing Italy to Your Mug

At Levista Coffee, we honour coffee traditions while creating blends for today’s coffee lovers. Our beans are carefully sourced and roasted to bring out natural boldness and balance, whether you brew with an espresso machine, a moka pot, or a simple filter. With Levista instant and filter coffee, even busy mornings can feel like an Italian café moment. Isn’t it wonderful to have the taste of authenticity within easy reach?

Summing Up

A doppio may have been born in Italy, but it doesn’t have to stay there. You don’t need an espresso machine to enjoy one at home. With methods ranging from the Moka pot and AeroPress to the French press and even Levista instant or filter coffee, you can savour the strong, double-shot experience whenever you like. All you need are good beans, the right ratios, and a little curiosity. The next time you fancy a bold lift, skip the café and craft your own doppio in your kitchen.

FAQs

1.What country is the doppio from?

The doppio comes from Italy, where it is the classic double shot of espresso.

2.How many shots are in a doppio?

A doppio is made with two espresso shots, about sixty millilitres in total.

3.Can I make a doppio with instant coffee?

Yes. Two teaspoons of Levista instant coffee dissolved in sixty millilitres of hot water make a strong and satisfying option.

4.How much caffeine is in a doppio?

On average, a doppio contains around 120 to 150 milligrams of caffeine, depending on the beans used.

5.Which method comes closest to real espresso?

The moka pot delivers the closest taste to traditional espresso, though AeroPress also produces an espresso-style brew with good intensity.