Espresso Tonic with Ice and a Citrus Garnish

Name: Espresso Tonic with Ice and a Citrus Garnish
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 2 min
Total time: 7 min
Yield: 1 drink
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 35 ml freshly pulled espresso; 150 ml chilled tonic water; 1 cup ice cubes; 1 strip orange or lime peel

A refreshing layered coffee drink with espresso, tonic water, ice and a citrus garnish.

By Savva LoginovUpdated October 2, 2026

Total 7 minMakes 1 drink

Jump to Recipe

Espresso tonic is a chilled coffee drink built from bitter espresso and sparkling tonic water. The source gives a broad range for the tonic and suggests adding orange juice, but this simple version keeps the contrast clear with one shot, plenty of ice and a strip of citrus. Chill the glass and tonic first, then pour the espresso slowly over the back of a spoon for a layered look. The drink is best immediately, before the ice melts and the tonic loses its fizz. It contains caffeine, so adjust the espresso amount to suit your preference. Fill a tall glass with ice. Pour chilled tonic water into the glass, leaving room at the top. Slowly pour fresh espresso over the back of a spoon to create a visible layer.

Recipe card

Espresso Tonic with Ice and a Citrus Garnish

Prep 5 minCook 2 minTotal 7 minYield 1 drink

Adjust recipe Only numbered ingredient amounts change.

Equipment: Espresso machine or brewer, tall glass, spoon

Ingredients

35 ml freshly pulled espresso 150 ml chilled tonic water 1 cup ice cubes 1 strip orange or lime peel

Instructions

Chill glass
Fill a tall glass with ice.
Add tonic
Pour chilled tonic water into the glass, leaving room at the top.
Float espresso
Slowly pour fresh espresso over the back of a spoon to create a visible layer.
Garnish and serve
Twist citrus peel over the drink, drop it in and serve immediately.

How to tell when it is ready

Drink is cold, layered and still fizzy.

Tips

Use cold tonic and a glass filled generously with ice.
Pour espresso slowly to keep the layered appearance.
Use freshly pulled espresso for a clear coffee flavour.
Add citrus peel just before serving so its aroma stays bright.

Troubleshooting

If the mixture is too thick, add liquid a little at a time.
If browning too quickly, lower the heat and cover loosely.

Substitutions

Use strong moka-pot coffee if espresso equipment is unavailable.
Choose a low-sugar tonic if desired.

Variations

Use lime peel instead of orange.
Add a small dash of simple syrup for a sweeter drink.

Serving suggestions

Serve with a small chocolate biscuit.
Pair with a citrus pastry.
Offer alongside brunch.
Garnish with a thin orange wheel.

Make ahead

Prepare suitable components ahead and store them safely. Prepare just before serving; do not store once mixed.

Storage

Prepare just before serving; do not store once mixed.

Food safety

Contains caffeine. Use clean equipment for coffee preparation; serve immediately while cold and carbonated.

Frequently asked questions

Can I make this ahead?

Prepare suitable components ahead, chill them promptly and finish the dish shortly before serving.

How should I store espresso tonic?

Prepare just before serving; do not store once mixed.

Serve with a small chocolate biscuit. Prepare just before serving; do not store once mixed.

About the author

Savva Loginov

Savva Loginov writes about traditional Ukrainian cooking, including regional dishes, heritage baking and the customs behind familiar recipes. His English guides explain each dish’s context alongside clear, practical cooking instructions.