Espresso is a staple for many coffee drinkers around the world. The rich, bold flavor and quick caffeine boost make it a popular choice for those on the go.
However, questions that often arise are how long does espresso last? Does it go bad after a certain amount of time? And if so, how can you tell when it’s time to toss it out?
The answer to this question isn’t as straightforward as you might think. There are several factors that can affect the lifespan of espresso, including how it’s stored and whether it’s pre-ground or whole bean.
In this article, we’ll explore the different factors that can impact the longevity of espresso and provide tips on how to keep your favorite brew fresh for as long as possible.
How Long Does Espresso Last?
Freshly Brewed Espresso
If you have freshly brewed espresso, it can last for up to 24 hours at room temperature.
However, it is best to consume it within the first hour to enjoy its full flavor and aroma. After that, the taste will start to deteriorate, and the espresso will become stale.
Espresso Shots
Espresso shots are the foundation of many coffee drinks so it is no surprise that a frequently asked question is How long does an espresso shot last? Well, an espresso shot can last for up to 72 hours in the refrigerator.
However, it is essential to store them in an airtight container to prevent them from absorbing any odors or flavors from other foods in the fridge.
It is also important to note that the quality of the espresso shots will start to decline after the first 24 hours, so it is best to consume them as soon as possible.
Espresso-Based Drinks
Espresso-based drinks, such as lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos, are a popular choice for coffee lovers. If you have leftover espresso-based drinks, they can last for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.
However, it is best to consume them within the first few hours to enjoy their full flavor and texture. It is also important to note that the milk in these drinks can spoil quickly, so it is best to use fresh milk when making them.
Overall, it is best to consume espresso as soon as possible to enjoy its full flavor and aroma. If you need to store it, make sure to do so properly to prevent it from going stale or absorbing any odors or flavors from other foods in the fridge.
Factors that Affect the Shelf Life of Espresso
When it comes to espresso, the shelf life can vary depending on several factors. Understanding these factors can help you determine how long your espresso shots will last and how to store them properly.
Here are some of the main factors that can impact the shelf life of espresso:
Roast Level
The roast level of your espresso beans can have a significant impact on their shelf life.
- Lighter roasts tend to have a shorter shelf life than darker roasts. This is because lighter roasts have more acidity and are more susceptible to oxidation, which can cause them to go stale more quickly.
- Darker roasts have less acidity and are more resistant to oxidation, which can help them stay fresh for longer.
Grind Size
The grind size of your espresso beans can also affect their shelf life.
- Finely ground espresso beans have a larger surface area, which can cause them to go stale more quickly. This is because the increased surface area exposes more of the bean to air, which can cause oxidation and moisture absorption.
- Coarser grinds, on the other hand, have a smaller surface area and are less susceptible to these issues.
Extraction Method
The extraction method you use to brew your espresso can also impact its shelf life.
Espresso shots that are extracted quickly tend to have a shorter shelf life than those that are extracted slowly. This is because a quick extraction can cause the espresso to oxidize more quickly, which can lead to a loss of flavor and aroma over time.
A slower extraction, on the other hand, can help preserve the flavor and aroma of the espresso for a longer period of time.
Storage Conditions
The way you store your espresso can also have a significant impact on its shelf life.
Espresso should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Exposure to light, heat, and moisture can all cause the espresso to go stale more quickly.
It is also important to use your espresso within a few days of brewing it, as the flavor and aroma can start to degrade quickly once it’s been extracted.
You can find out more in our full article about how to keep coffee fresh.
Signs of Expired Espresso
While espresso does not have an expiration date, do espresso shots die? Well it can go bad if not stored properly.
Here are some signs that your espresso may have expired:
- The aroma is off – One of the first signs that your espresso may have gone bad is a change in its aroma. If it smells sour, rancid, or musty, it is likely that it has gone bad.
- The taste is off – Another sign that your espresso may have expired is a change in its taste. If it tastes sour, bitter, or stale, it is likely that it has gone bad.
- The crema is gone – Crema is the layer of foam that forms on top of a shot of espresso. If your espresso shot does not have crema, it may be a sign that it has gone bad.
- The color is off – Espresso should have a rich, dark color. If it looks lighter or has a reddish tint, it may be a sign that it has gone bad.
If you notice any of these signs, it is best to discard your espresso and make a fresh batch.
Can you drink expired espresso?
While espresso doesn’t technically expire, it will lose its flavor and aroma over time. If you drink expired espresso, it may taste bitter and stale. It’s best to drink espresso within a few hours of brewing it for the best taste.
However, you certainly can still drink expired espresso. I have on a number of occasions when I had no alternative. I remember being in an RV in a very remote spot for a number of days and all I had was some older espresso. I drank it and I am still alive to tell the tale!
Espresso FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about how long espresso lasts:
How long does espresso last in the fridge?
Espresso can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours without losing its flavor. However, after 24 hours, the taste and texture of the espresso will start to change, and it will become more bitter. It’s best to drink espresso within a few hours of brewing it for the best taste.
How long does pre-ground espresso last?
Pre-ground espresso will last for about a month if it’s stored properly in an airtight container. However, if the container is not airtight, the espresso will lose its flavor and aroma much faster. It’s best to grind the beans just before brewing for the freshest taste.
How long do whole espresso beans last?
Whole espresso beans will last for up to 4-6 months if they are stored properly in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. However, if they are exposed to air or moisture, they will lose their flavor and aroma much faster. It’s best to buy whole beans in small quantities and grind them just before brewing for the freshest taste.
How long does espresso stay in your system?
Espresso contains caffeine, which is a stimulant that can stay in your system for up to 5-7 hours. However, the effects of caffeine can vary depending on your age, weight, metabolism, and overall health. Other factors that can affect how long espresso stays in your system include other drugs or supplements you may be taking, as well as stress levels.
My name is Dana Dupree and I am an avid coffee lover. Since I began college and realized what a heavy load writing majors took on, I have been a fan of the bean juice.
My job took me all over the US on book tours and press conferences, and my favorite part about the trip was exploring the best places to grab my cup of Joe.
