A Double-Double is a No No.

Coffee Double-Double

If you’ve grown up in Canada or even spent a week here, you probably know what a “double-double” is. For the uninitiated, it’s not a secret code—it’s Canadian shorthand for coffee with two creams and two sugars from Tim Hortons. It’s as Canadian as hockey, complaining about the weather, and saying “sorry” when someone else bumps into you.

But here’s the question no one dares to ask out loud at the rink or during a post-shift Timmies run—Is the iconic double-double caffeine bliss or just sugary chaos in a cup? Strap in (or grab your travel mug), because we’re about to break it down.

The Sweet (and Sugary) Truth About the Double-Double

For many, grabbing a Tim Hortons double-double feels like a warm hug on a frosty winter morning—it’s a ritual, a comfort, even a Canadian rite of passage. Who among us hasn’t sat in a freezing rink, clasping that familiar white and red cup, using it as a temporary hand-warmer during their kid’s early morning hockey practice?

But reality check—this isn’t your nana’s herbal tea. A large Tim Hortons double-double tips the scales at around 280 calories, most of which come from the cream and sugar. A black coffee, by comparison, barely makes a dent at 5 calories. Do the math, and over a month of double-doubles, you’ve consumed enough calories to rival a few poutine dinners. Eh, no biggie—until that sugar crash hits right around noon, when you find yourself contemplating nap breaks during work.

Now, if I’m being upfront (and maybe just a tad judgy), I can’t stand double-doubles myself. Nope. My coffee allegiance lies firmly with a bold, black brew—a no-frills powerhouse to kickstart my day. I tried a double-double (twice, in fact) just to “get it.” After three sips, I waved the white flag; it was like drinking dessert for breakfast. Not my thing! But hey, there’s no denying its appeal to so many Canadians.

The caffeine in a double-double does its job—perking you up for the day or helping you dodge the dreaded Canadian winter blues. And for some, there’s something comforting about the routine of ordering the same sweet, creamy cup day after day. But is it time for a coffee glow-up?

Double-Double vs. The Competition

While Tim Hortons’ double-double holds a soft spot in Canadian hearts, it’s not exactly the only coffee order roaming this great land. Here’s how some other contenders stack up.

1. McDonald’s McCafé – Surprisingly good for fast food. Many big coffee drinkers have admitted that, in blind taste tests, McDonald’s coffee often comes out on top over Timmies. However, their version of a double-double? Even richer, sweeter, and surprisingly indulgent.
2. Starbucks – Want a double-double from Starbucks? You can customise your life away, opting for two pumps of syrup and a little splash of cream. Fancy? Sure. Expensive? Oh yeah.
3. Dunkin’ Donuts – The American cousin of the double-double, Dunkin’ serves up their “regular coffee” with a generous splash of cream and sugar. It’s similar, but lacks that uniquely Canadian coziness (and the added thrill of a -20°C lineup).

When it comes to taste, the competition might give the double-double a run for its money, but there’s one thing Starbucks or Dunkin’ can’t replicate—the nostalgic charm of a Timmies run. Whether it’s balancing a tray of coffees in your snow-covered mitts or debating with friends in the booth over who’s paying, the double-double is more than a drink—it’s… Canadian culture in a cup.

Why We Love (and Love to Hate) the Double-Double

For some, their double-double is practically family. Dad brought one on every fishing trip to the cottage. Mum wouldn’t dare face the morning work commute without one. Post-late night hockey games? Double-doubles all around with your mates.

But not every Canadian is sold. Coffee purists roll their eyes at the sugar-filled blend, claiming it masks the true essence of the coffee. Why bother calling it coffee at this point, eh? And for health-conscious, calorie-watching Canadians, the double-double’s liquid dessert vibes don’t exactly scream “clean eating.”

That said, there’s no denying it holds a special place in our hearts, regardless of where we land on the “love-hate” spectrum.

From Timmies to DIY

Here’s a thought—if the Tim Hortons double-double is the pinnacle of comfort for you, why not take that comfort to your own kitchen? Brewing at home gives you complete control over your coffee experience. Want one-and-a-half sugars instead of two? Done. Want the same creamy richness but with plant-based milk instead? You got it.

By brewing your own version, you not only save on calories and cash but also on time spent in the Timmies drive-thru during those early morning rushes. Plus, you can jazz it up with different coffee blends, experimenting until you find your perfect cup.

At Big Al’s Coffee Club, we’ve got everything you need to bring the double-double magic home. From Tim Hortons blends to your next favourite brewing gadgets, we’ve got your back. Cold Canadian mornings just got a little warmer.

Final Thoughts: Is a Double-Double a No-No?

Conclusion:

Call it a guilty pleasure or a cultural icon, the double-double is here to stay. Whether you love it for its nostalgia or avoid it like the frostbite that comes with a January storm, it undeniably has a place in the great Canadian coffee tradition.

But here’s a challenge for you—next time you’re craving Timmies, try recreating the experience at home. Brew it, tweak it, perfect it. Your wallet, tastebuds, and even that calorie tracker app might just thank you.

Brew Your Own Double Double at Home Now! Explore our shop at Big Al’s Coffee Club and find everything you need to bring a slice of Timmies into your kitchen, minus the lineups and winter chills. ☕

ps: here is a link to one of my research articles on the benefits of black coffee from CNN:

https://www.cnn.com/2021/02/09/health/black-coffee-benefits-wellness/index.html?utm_term=image&utm_source=twCNN&utm_content=2021-02-13T15%3A00%3A11&utm_medium=social

Please note: the opinions expressed in this post should never be construed as advice. The thoughts are based on my experiences and those of my friends and family. I am not a restauranteur or a formal barista. I just love coffee and love sharing what I learn with everyone. Please enjoy and share your favourites in the comments section.
Also: If considering a change in diet, exercise, nutrition and or supplements, you must consult your medical practitioner to make sure that what you are about to embark upon doesn’t interfere with your current treatments.

Another note: on images, if the picture does not have my logo, I have downloaded from either Unsplash or iStock. If you are looking for images please check them out.

Hi, I’m Al, a coffee and tea enthusiast passionate about helping you craft the perfect cup. With years of experience exploring blends, brewing methods, and nutrition, I share trusted tips and recommendations to make your coffee and tea rituals extraordinary. See more in About Us