Coffee and Coke Eruption: A Bonza Bubbly Sensation

That iconic, bubbly beverage of Coca-Cola (also known as Coke)™ has quenched our thirst for over a century. And then there’s Espresso, the rich, dark shot of coffee that has powered many of our mornings and late-night study sessions. But what happens when these two titans of the beverage world collide? A surprise Coffee and Coke Eruption resulting in a bonza bubbly sensation – that’s what!

(FYI – Bonza, sometimes spelled bonzer, is Australian slang meaning first-rate, excellent, or awesome)

The Coffee and Coke Eruption

Imagine this: It’s a lazy Sunday afternoon. You’re lounging on your favorite chair, a chilled glass of Coca-Cola™ in one hand and a freshly brewed shot of Espresso in the other. 

Curiosity gets the better of you, and you think, “What if?” 

Before you know it, you’re pouring that dark, aromatic Espresso into your Coke. And then… 

A cascade of dense bubbles rises, overflowing from the glass, much to your surprise and the sheer horror of your white shirt, laptop, and that important document you probably shouldn’t have kept on the table. Oops!

It’s like a mini science experiment right in your lap! But why does this happen? Is it the caffeine? The carbonation? Or some magical potion that’s released when these two drinks meet? And more importantly, how does it taste?

Join us on this effervescent journey as we dive deep into the world of coffee and Coke, exploring the science, the flavors, and the sheer thrill of mixing these two drinks. 

The Natural Fizz of Coca-Cola

Ah, the fizz! That delightful tickle on your tongue every time you take a sip of Coca-Cola. But have you ever paused to wonder where that fizz comes from? 

Like many other soft drinks, Coca-Cola is carbonated and infused with carbon dioxide gas (CO₂) under pressure. When you pop open a can or bottle of Coke, you release that pressure, allowing the carbon dioxide to form bubbles and escape. That’s the fizz you see, taste, and feel!

The role of carbon dioxide in Coke and soft drinks

Carbon dioxide doesn’t just add bubbles. It is also responsible for the following properties.

• Acidic tart flavor. Carbonic acid is produced when carbon dioxide dissolves in water, giving soft drinks a pleasant sourness and acidity. This balances out the sweetness.
• It acts as a preservative. The acidic environment created by dissolved carbon dioxide helps prevent the growth of mold, bacteria, and other microorganisms, allowing longer shelf life.
• It adds a slight zing or bite. The prickly sensation of the carbonation on the tongue provides a mild “bite” that enhances the overall flavor.
• It improves mouthfeel. The bubbles add a light, tingly texture to the mouth, making soft drinks more refreshing and thirst-quenching.
• It allows higher aroma release. The bubbles help volatilize and release the aromatic compounds in soft drinks so you can better smell/taste the flavors. It also contributes to the overall taste and mouthfeel of the drink. 

Have you ever tried flat Coca-Cola? It’s a whole different experience. The carbonation gives the drink its signature sharpness and zest, refreshing every sip.

Carbon dioxide is vital for providing the characteristic fizziness, tangy flavor, preservative qualities, and improved sensory experience of soft drinks. Manufacturers carefully control the CO₂ added to achieve the desired bubbly texture and taste.

The Science Behind the Bubbling Spectacle of Coffee and Coke.

Now, let’s add a twist to our fizzy tale. Enter Espresso. With its complex mix of oils, acids, and other compounds, Espresso fascinatingly interacts with carbonated Coca-Cola. 

When you pour Espresso into Coke, these compounds reduce the surface tension of the liquid. This makes it easier for the carbon dioxide bubbles to form and escape, leading to that dramatic overflow we witness.

Other likely causes of the foaming fusion of coffee and Coke include the following.

• The coffee also contains oils and other particles that can act as nucleation sites, facilitating the release of dissolved carbon dioxide in the Coke into bubbles[1][5].
• Mixing the liquids disturbs the equilibrium between the gas and liquid phases, causing more carbon dioxide to come out of the solution as bubbles [1] [2] [3] [6] [8].
• Coffee accelerates the release of carbon dioxide as it increases the surface area and turbulence[8][9]. Pouring along the side of the glass can reduce this effect.
• Change in pH. Coffee can raise the pH of the Coke, which reduces the solubility of CO₂, forcing it out of the solution [1].
• Chemical reactions between components of coffee and Coke may also contribute but are likely minor factors[1][7].

In summary, the leading cause is the disturbance of the carbon dioxide equilibrium when two carbonated liquids with additional carbon dioxide (CO₂) and nucleation sites are combined and mixed. The pouring act adds extra energy to accelerate bubble formation.

References

1. Why does coke foam up when I add it to (cold) black coffee (no sugar, no milk)? [closed]
2. What’s the chemical reaction between coffee and sodium bicarbonate? [closed]
3. Reaction video episode 2 – Espresso and coke! It may sound like a weird combination but wait and watch the video to see our baristas’ first reaction! | By Blendin Coffee Club | Facebook
4. Why do bubbles keep rising from the bottom of fizzy drinks and don’t run out?
5. Why does espresso foam up when you add tonic? : r/askscience – Reddit
6. Everyday Chemistry – FutureLearn
7. What happens if I take coffee and coke together? What are the side effects? – Quora
8. Why Does Soda Fizz? – Live Science

The role of temperature in bubble formation

Temperature plays a crucial role in this effervescent reaction of coffee and Coke. 

Hot Espresso can cause a more vigorous reaction than cold or room-temperature coffee. Why? 

Because gases, like carbon dioxide, are less soluble in hot liquids. So, when you introduce hot Espresso to Coca-Cola, the carbon dioxide rushes out even more rapidly, creating a bubbly spectacle!

So, the next time you mix these two drinks, remember: you’re not just making a beverage but conducting a mini-science experiment. 

Coffee and Coke is the Ultimate Caffeine Hit

Combining coffee and Coke not only gives you a foaming, fuzzy, bubbling spectacle, but it also gives you a drink loaded with caffeine.

How much caffeine is in your regular Coke?

Coca-Cola, the world’s favorite soda, isn’t just about its sweet taste and bubbly sensation. There’s another ingredient that gives it a bit of a kick: caffeine. 

A typical 12-ounce (355 ml) Coca-Cola can contains about 34 mg of caffeine (2.8 mg/fl.oz or 0.1 mg/ml). That’s a moderate amount, especially when you compare it to other caffeinated beverages. It’s enough to give you a mild boost but not so much that you’ll bounce off the walls.

BUT

When you mix it with a shot of Espresso, the caffeine content is boosted.

How Much Caffeine is in Espresso?

Espresso is like the superhero of the caffeine world. Small but mighty!

A standard Espresso shot, roughly 1 ounce (30 ml), packs a decent 93 mg of caffeine. 

That’s almost triple the caffeine content of Coca-Cola in just a fraction of the volume! 

Coffee, Coke, and Caffeine Combo

You’re in for a real treat by combining coffee and Coke and an unforgettable caffeine kick.

Let’s calculate how much caffeine you get in this fantastic fusion of Coke and coffee, as shown in the video.

one shot of Espresso (30 ml) = 93 mg of caffeine

one 250 ml can of Coca-Cola = 24 mg of caffeine

Total caffeine in a coffee and coke = 93 + 24 = 117 mg of caffeine in one 280 ml (9.5 fl. oz) drink!

The recommended safe daily dose of caffeine for most healthy adults is up to 400 mg, which is roughly equivalent to four cups of brewed coffee[1][2]. 

So, in one 280 ml drink, you have consumed a third (30%) of your daily safe dose of caffeine!

Have a larger can or bottle of Coke or have a double shot of Espresso, and you boost your caffeine even further. I’ll let you calculate that, or you can use our caffeine calculator.

How do you get the biggest caffeine hit in one drink?

In the bustling rhythm of modern life, many of us lean on caffeine as our trusty sidekick. It’s the gentle nudge in the morning, the midday pick-me-up, and sometimes, the late-night companion for burning the midnight oil. 

But have you ever wondered how to maximize that energizing punch in just one drink? 

When I say one drink, I also think of the coffee combos we have just seen. That is combining a strong coffee with a high-caffeine drink.

Now, you could simply drink one huge cup of coffee, say, one 1000 ml cup of Espresso (33 fl. oz, or about 4 standard cups) or multiple coffees one after another. 

While this is possible, it is impractical and inconvenient.

No, I wonder if we can maximize our caffeine hit with just one cup (240 ml) by mixing a high-caffeine coffee and a high-caffeine non-coffee drink. We still need to include coffee because that is the point – right?

Consequently, we need to know which coffee and non-coffee drinks contain the most caffeine and then combine them.  

What is the strongest coffee?

The strongest coffee in terms of caffeine content is the Black Label Devil Mountain coffee we mentioned in our post What Is The Strongest Coffee? Best Top Strongest Coffees In The World.

Devil Mountain coffee has 1,555 mg of caffeine per 12 oz cup. This means it has about 130 mg/fl. oz (4.3 mg/ml). In contrast, a regular espresso coffee has about 3.1 mg/ml of caffeine.

What is the strongest caffeinated soft drink?

The strongest non-coffee soft drinks?

The soft drinks with the highest concentration of caffeine include:

Bawls Guarana

Bawls Guarana has 102 mg of caffeine per 16 fl oz (473 ml), making it one of the most caffeinated sodas available[3]. The concentration of caffeine in this soda is about 6.4 mg/fl.oz or 0.2 mg/ml. If we want a drink similar to coffee and Coke, this will be a good choice, but it also means we have to drink more.

Pepsi Zero Sugar

Pepsi Zero Sugar contains 69 mg of caffeine per 12-ounce can, making it the most caffeinated regular soda[4].

Mountain Dew Kickstart

Mountain Dew Kickstart has a high caffeine content, with 92 mg per 16 fl oz can[3].

Red Bull

Red Bull energy drink contains 80 mg of caffeine per 8.2-ounce serving[8].

Jolt Cola

Jolt Cola has 71.2 mg of caffeine per 12-ounce can[8].

Mountain Dew

Mountain Dew contains 55 mg of caffeine per 12-ounce can[8].

Zest Energy Tea

Zest Energy Tea has 135 to 150 mg of caffeine per serving, making it one of the most caffeinated teas available[6].

Brewed Yerba Mate

Yerba mate is a South American tea with a high caffeine content, similar to coffee[6].

Matcha Green Tea

Matcha is a powdered green tea that contains more caffeine than regular green tea, with around 70 mg per serving[6].

DynaPep

With 714.3 mg of caffeine per fluid ounce, it was once the micro-shot with the highest caffeine content per ounce of any drink, but it is no longer available [1]. 

References

1. 45 Beverages Ranked by Caffeine Per Ounce – Sleepopolis
2. The Most Caffeinated Soft Drinks – Caffeine Informer
3. Top 10 Most Caffeinated Sodas – Seasonal Cravings
4. The Caffeine Content Of 20 Popular Sodas, Ranked Lowest To Highest – Tasting Table
5. Top 5 Caffeinated Sodas – Beverages Direct
6. Caffeinated Drinks – Zest Tea
7. Caffeine Content of Your Favourite Drinks – Billi UK
8. Caffeine Content of Drinks – University of Utah

What is the strongest caffeinated drink combo?

Given the information above, we could try mixing one shot (30 ml, 1 fl. oz) of Devil Mountain coffee with 1 can (473 ml, 16 fl. oz) of Bawls Guarana to give you the following caffeine hit:

129 mg + 102 mg = 231 mg per 503 ml (17 fl.oz)

This is over half of the recommended safe dose of caffeine in one drink.

What about Caffeine Powders and Caffeine Tablets?

We could dissolve caffeine powders, concentrates, or tablets into our cola or soda, but that doesn’t seem quite the same. 

My idea was to use real coffee from brewed or espresso coffee.

If you want to add caffeine that isn’t directly from coffee, you can use liquid caffeine concentrates like Kaffn8 (8 to 10 mg/ml caffeine), Liquid Caffeine, or the following coffee powder, tablets, or capsules.

Potential health implications of a caffeine boost

While the coffee and Coke combo can be a delightful treat, consuming it in moderation is essential. Too much caffeine can lead to restlessness, insomnia, headaches, dizziness, and a rapid heartbeat. Always be mindful of your body’s reactions and know your limits.

Individual tolerance to caffeine can vary, and some people may be more sensitive to its effects. 

Pregnant and breastfeeding women are advised to limit their caffeine intake to 200 mg daily [3]. 

Adolescents aged 12 and older should limit their caffeine intake to no more than 100 mg daily[4]. 

It is important to note that caffeine is present in various sources, including coffee, tea, soda, energy drinks, and some medications. So, it is essential to consider the total daily intake from all sources.

So, whether you’re sipping on this coffee and coke concoction for the taste or the energy boost, it’s always good to be informed. 

References

1. Caffeine: How much is too much? – Mayo Clinic
2. Spilling the Beans: How Much Caffeine is Too Much? – FDA
3. 9 Reasons Why (the Right Amount of) Coffee Is Good for You | Johns Hopkins Medicine
4. Caffeine | The Nutrition Source | Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health

Taste Test: A Flavorful Adventure

When two distinct flavors come together, the result can be a harmonious blend or a jarring clash. 

In the case of Coca-Cola and Espresso, it’s a delightful dance of sweet and bitter, creating a truly unique taste profile.

As the liquid touches your palate, the first sensation is the familiar sweetness of Coca-Cola, immediately followed by the robust bitterness of Espresso. 

It’s a rollercoaster of flavors, with the Coke’s caramel notes intertwining with the coffee’s roasted undertones.

Once the initial burst of flavors subsides, a lingering aftertaste that’s both sweet and slightly bitter remains. 

The caramel from the Coca-Cola melds beautifully with the deep, roasted notes of the Espresso, leaving a complex yet incredibly satisfying taste.

If you love experimenting with flavors, this combination is a must-try. 

It’s a testament that, sometimes, unexpected pairings can lead to the most delightful discoveries. 

And while it might not replace your regular coffee or soda, it’s a fun and flavorful detour worth taking.

Coffee and Coke Recipes

It is not only coffee and Espresso; other delicious coffee and coke recipes exist. 

Iced Coffee Coke

Ingredients:

•  1 cup cold brewed coffee
•  1 can coke
•  Ice
•  Milk or creamer (optional)

Instructions:

1.  Combine cold brewed coffee and Coke in a glass filled with ice. 
2.  Stir gently.
3.  Add milk or creamer to taste if desired.

Coke Reduction Coffee Syrup

Ingredients: 

•  1 can coke
•  1/2 cup sugar
•  1/2 cup water

Instructions:

1.  In a small saucepan, combine Coke, sugar and water. Bring to a boil.
2.  Reduce heat and simmer until thickened and reduced by half, about 15-20 minutes.
3.  Let syrup cool completely before using. 
4.  Add 2-3 tablespoons of syrup to the coffee.

Spiked Coffee Coke Slushie

Ingredients:

•  1 cup strongly brewed coffee, chilled
•  1 can coke, chilled
•  1 oz coffee liqueur 
•  Ice

Instructions:

1.  Combine coffee, Coke, liqueur, and ice in a blender. 
2.  Blend until smooth and slushy.
3.  Pour into a glass and serve.

Iced Coffee Coke Float

Ingredients:

•  2 scoops coffee ice cream
•  1 can chilled coke
•  Whipped cream (optional)
•  Chocolate syrup (optional) 

Instructions:

1.  Scoop coffee ice cream into a tall glass.
2.  Slowly pour chilled Coke over ice cream. 
3.  Top with whipped cream and drizzle with chocolate syrup if desired.

Coke Mocha Frappe

Ingredients:

•  1 shot espresso, chilled
•  1/4 cup milk
•  1/4 cup Coke, chilled
•  1 tbsp chocolate syrup
•  Ice

Instructions:

1.  Combine Espresso, milk, Coke, chocolate syrup, and ice in a blender. 
2.  Blend until smooth and frothy.
3.  Pour into a glass and top with whipped cream if desired.

Coffee Coke Granita

Ingredients:

•  1 cup strongly brewed coffee, chilled
•  1 cup coke, chilled 
•  1/4 cup sugar
•  Mint leaves for garnish

Instructions: 

1.  Stir together coffee, Coke, and sugar until sugar dissolves. 
2.  Pour into a shallow pan and place in the freezer.
3.  Every 30 minutes, stir with a fork to break up ice crystals. 
4.  Once fully frozen, scrape the granita with a fork before serving.
5.  Garnish with mint leaves.

These are just a few of the many possible variations and combinations of coffee and Coke.

References

1. 25 Great Coffee Drinks (with Recipes!) – A Couple Cooks
2. Coca-Cola formula – Wikipedia
3. Coffee recipes | BBC Good Food
4. Vault of the Secret Formula – World of Coca-Cola
5. 15 Hot Drinks to Take the Chill Off! – A Couple Cooks
6. Coca-Cola – Wikipedia
7. Perfect Iced Coffee | The Pioneer Woman
8. Coca-Cola Formula is at the World of Coca-Cola – The Coca-Cola Company
9. Hot Coffee Recipe, Cafe Style | Veg Recipes of India
10. How to Make Coca Cola Soda Fountain Machine at Home – YouTube
11. Perfect Iced Coffee – Damn Delicious
12. How to Make Coca Cola and Sprite Vending Machine – YouTube
13. How to Make Coca Cola Soda Dispenser at Home out of Cardboard – YouTube
14. How to Make Coca Cola and Fanta Ice cream Shake Cooking Learn The Recipe DIY 코카콜라 환타 아이스크림 쉐이크 만들기 – YouTube
15. Drink the Book: Natural Cola (Homemade Coke) – Serious Eats

Coffee and Soda Combo Recipes

Coffee and Coke isn’t the only combination of coffee and soda. Let’s discover some more coffee and soda combo recipes.

Coffee and Root Beer Float

Add a scoop of coffee ice cream to a glass of root beer. The coffee ice cream adds a lovely richness. Alternatively, add a shot of coffee to root beer and vanilla ice cream.

Coffee and Cream Soda

Mix cold brew coffee and cream soda for a sweet and creamy soda. 

Coffee and Ginger Ale

The spiciness of ginger ale complements the coffee flavor nicely. Add a splash of milk, too.

Coffee and Dr. Pepper

Dr. Pepper’s flavors blend well with coffee. Try equal parts cold brew and Dr. Pepper.

Coffee and Cola

Similar to a Coke and coffee but with a different cola flavor. The slight coffee notes in the cola match well.

Coffee and Lemon-Lime Soda

The citrus flavors brighten up the coffee. Try with Sprite, 7Up, or Sierra Mist.

Coffee and Orange Soda

The sweet orange flavor combines nicely with coffee’s slight bitterness.

Mocha and Root Beer

Root beer is made from sassafras root. Add chocolate syrup to coffee and root beer for a “mocha” root beer float.

Coffee and Creamy Sodas

Coffee pairs well with creamy sodas like Birch Beer, Sarsaparilla, and Vanilla Cream.

You can experiment with different coffee and soft drink combinations or add varying amounts of each to suit your taste.

References

1. Coffee Soda – A Beautiful Mess
2. Coffee Soda – A Couple Cooks
3. Easy Coffee Soda Recipe – Lifestyle of a Foodie
4. Caramel Coffee Cake Coffee Soda and DIY Coffee Soda Tutorial – Boulder Locavore
5. Iced Coconut Coffee Soda – How Sweet Eats
6. Coffee Soda – Kirbie’s Cravings
7. Easy Coffee Soda Recipe – Dwell by Michelle
8. Easy and Refreshing Iced Coffee Soda Recipe – My Life and Kids

Conclusion

As we wrap up our effervescent journey through the world of Coca-Cola and Espresso, it’s clear that this combination is more than just a quirky mix. We can embrace the bubbly coffee and coke fusion.

It’s a celebration of flavors, a testament to the magic that can happen when two seemingly disparate beverages come together.

Tips for those wanting to try the mix at home

Start Slow: If you’re new to mixing coffee with other drinks, start with a small amount of Espresso and/or other drinks and adjust according to your taste.

Chill Out: While the reaction is more dramatic with hot Espresso, cold or room-temperature coffee offers a different, less bubbly experience, but it still tastes powerful.

Glass Matters: Use a tall glass to avoid overflow and enjoy the visual spectacle fully.

Ultimately, whether you’re a die-hard Coca-Cola fan, a coffee enthusiast, or someone who loves experimenting with flavors, this blend offers something for everyone. 

It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best things in life come from unexpected combinations!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is it safe to drink coffee and Coke together?

Drinking coffee and Coke together is generally safe as long as the total daily caffeine intake does not exceed the recommended safe daily dose of 400 mg for most healthy adults. However, individual tolerance to caffeine can vary, and some people may be more sensitive to its effects.

Are there any commercial coffee and Coke products available?

Coca-Cola has developed a Coca-Cola with Coffee product, combining Coca-Cola and Brazilian coffee flavors. It is available in three signature flavors: Dark Blend, Vanilla, and Caramel, and contains 69 mg of caffeine per 12-oz can.

What are the potential side effects of drinking coffee and Coke together?

Drinking coffee and Coke can increase caffeine intake, which may cause side effects such as restlessness, headaches, insomnia, and anxiety. It is essential to monitor your total daily caffeine intake from all sources to avoid potential side effects.

Can I mix other soda flavors with coffee?

You can experiment with mixing other soda flavors with coffee, such as root beer, cream soda, ginger ale, Dr. Pepper, lemon-lime soda, and orange soda. The combination of flavors may result in unique and refreshing beverages, but monitor your caffeine intake!

Does the acidity of coffee and Coke affect the combination drink?

Both coffee and Coke are acidic, with Coke having a pH range of 2-3 and coffee containing various acids, including phosphoric acid. The acidity of the two beverages may contribute to the overall taste and mouthfeel of the combination drink.

Are there any health benefits to drinking coffee and Coke together?

While both coffee and Coke contain caffeine, which has some health benefits such as increased alertness and improved cognitive function, it is essential to consume them in moderation. 

NOTE: Coca-Cola and Coke are trademarks ™ or the Coca-Cola Company.

Similar Posts on Our Website

Best Pumpkin Spice Coffee Decaf: Our Top Picks to Spice up Your Mornings

5 Best Pumpkin Spice Ground Coffee: The Ultimate Guide

A Taste of Luxury: How to Make Cold Foam for Exquisite Drinks

The Only Peppermint Mocha Guide You’ll Ever Need