How to Brew Coffee: A Decently Comprehensive Guide ☕️

You can brew on easy mode, medium mode, or hard mode. Whatever quest you’re up for, there’s a method of brewing that’ll suit you.

The world of coffee brewing is pretty fascinating once you really dive into it. Over time, I’ve evolved from using a drip coffee maker at my parent’s house and drinking whatever was available, from a French press, to an Espresso machine, to a pour over. 

Different times in your life may call for different kinds of brewing experiences, so hopefully this guide will give you some new things to experiment with. Before we get into how to brew coffee, like the methods and equipment, let’s talk about a few things like coffee to water ratio and grinding your coffee for the best and freshest taste.

What is Coffee to Water Ratio?

When it comes to brewing coffee, the coffee-to-water ratio is an essential factor in achieving the perfect cup. It refers to the number of coffee grounds used relative to the amount of water used to brew the coffee. The ideal coffee-to-water ratio can vary depending on the brewing method and personal preference.

As a general guideline, a ratio of 1:15 to 1:18 is a good starting point. This means using one part coffee to 15-18 parts water. For example, if you're using 20 grams of coffee, you would use 300-360 grams (or milliliters) of water.

Want to learn more about the ideal coffee to water ratio for each type of brewing method? Check out this guide we put together: Coffee to water ratio guide.

Using a Scale to Measure Coffee Beans

Using a scale to measure coffee beans is becoming increasingly popular among coffee enthusiasts(and ngl, kinda makes us feel like lil scientists in a coffee lab, too).

At specialty coffee shops and roasters, weighing coffee beans is a standard practice, and for good reason. ​​It ensures consistent flavor and strength in your coffee, which is especially important if you're trying to replicate a certain flavor profile. Plus, using a scale is much more accurate than measuring by volume, which can vary depending on the size and density of the beans.

But precision is where it's at. If you're experimenting with different coffee-to-water ratios or brew methods, weighing your coffee beans can help you achieve precise results. And who doesn't want to get their brew just right?

Here are some reasons why you should consider using a scale when brewing coffee:

• Consistency: Measuring your coffee beans by weight ensures that you are using the same amount of coffee each time you brew. This leads to consistent flavor and strength in your coffee, which is especially important if you are trying to replicate a certain flavor profile.
• Accuracy: Measuring your coffee beans by weight is much more accurate than measuring by volume. Coffee beans can vary in size and density, so a tablespoon of one type of bean may weigh more or less than a tablespoon of another type. By weighing your coffee beans, you can be sure that you are using the exact same amount every time.
• Precision: If you are experimenting with different coffee-to-water ratios or brew methods, weighing your coffee beans can help you achieve precise results. For example, if you want to brew a cup of coffee with a 1:16 coffee-to-water ratio, you can easily measure out the exact amount of coffee beans needed for your desired amount of water.
• Quality: Using a scale may seem like an extra step, but it can greatly improve the quality and consistency of your coffee. By using the correct amount of coffee beans, you can achieve a well-balanced and flavorful cup of coffee.
• Convenience: With a scale, you can easily measure out the exact amount of coffee beans you need, without having to count or estimate the number of scoops or tablespoons required. This can save you time and effort in the morning, especially if you are brewing coffee in a sleepy state.

So, how do you use a scale for coffee brewing? Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Turn on your scale and make sure it is set to the unit of measurement you prefer (grams, ounces, etc.).
2. Turn on your scale and select the unit of measurement you prefer (grams, ounces, etc.).
3. Place your container on the scale and tare it. This sets the scale to zero with the container on it, so that the weight of the container is not included in the final measurement.
4. Add your desired amount of coffee beans to the container until the scale reads the desired weight.
5. Dump the coffee beans into your grinder and grind them to the desired grind size.
6. Brew your coffee using your preferred method, using the weighed coffee beans and water in the appropriate ratio.

If you're serious about brewing great coffee (or really love consistency), investing in a quality scale is worthy of being in your coffee brewing arsenal.

Different Coffee Brewing Methods

There are a number of different types of brewing methods to consider depending on these factors:

❓How fast do you want your cup of life blood?

❓How much space do you have in your kitchen?

❓Do you travel frequently and need something to take on the go?

❓Do you wanna feel like a mad scientist who gets to experiment for just the right taste, or simply want to make a cup of something that caffeinates you, and drink it?

Depending on your answers above, you’ll likely find a method that resonates with you below.

1. Pressure-based Coffee Brewing Methods

When it comes to pressure-based methods, we're talking about the powerhouses of coffee brewing. These methods use intense pressure to force hot water through finely ground coffee, resulting in a concentrated shot of pure coffee goodness. Get ready for a flavor explosion and a velvety crema that will make your taste buds dance with delight.

• Espresso machines: Uses high pressure to force hot water through finely ground coffee beans to create a concentrated shot of coffee.

2. Boiling-based Coffee Brewing Methods

If you're looking for a bold and unapologetic coffee experience, then the boiling-based methods are right up your alley. Originating from the Middle East and Mediterranean regions, these methods involve boiling finely ground coffee in water, creating a strong brew that is often served unfiltered. Brace yourself for a thick and robust flavor that will transport you to a world of intense coffee pleasure.

• Turkish coffee: Ground coffee is boiled in water with sugar and served unfiltered.
• Ibrik or Cezve: A small copper or brass pot used to make Turkish coffee.

3. Stove Top-based Coffee Brewing Methods

You can feel like a coffee alchemist with stove top-based brewing methods. Using steam pressure, these methods mimic the essence of espresso brewing without the need for expensive machines. With a stove top brewer, you can create a rich and aromatic cup of coffee that rivals the intensity of espresso right in the comfort of your kitchen.

• Moka pot: Uses steam pressure to brew coffee similar to espresso.

4. Pour Over Coffee Brewing Methods

When it comes to pour over brewing, it's all about precision and craftsmanship. These methods involve pouring hot water over coffee grounds that are held in a filter and give you full control over the brewing process – resulting in a clean and crisp flavor. Pour over methods are often favored by coffee enthusiasts who want to experiment with different variables like grind size and water temperature.

• Chemex: Uses a thick paper filter and a special carafe to make coffee with a clean and crisp flavor.
• Hario V60: A cone-shaped dripper that uses a paper or metal filter.
• Kalita Wave: Similar to Hario V60 but uses a flat-bottomed dripper and a unique wave filter.
• Melitta pour Over: Uses a paper filter and a funnel-shaped device to brew coffee.

5. Immersion-based Coffee Brewing Methods

These methods involve immersing coffee grounds in hot water and allowing them to steep before filtering. This process results in a full-bodied and often rich flavor, with the brewing time and technique influencing the final taste. Immersion-based methods are often more accessible and user-friendly than other methods

• Aeropress: Uses a plastic or metal chamber and a paper filter to brew coffee through a combination of immersion and pressure.
• Clever dripper: A hybrid of pour over and immersion methods, using a paper filter and a unique valve system.
• Siphon or Vacuum pot: Uses two glass chambers to create a vacuum that draws water through the coffee grounds.
• French press: Coffee is steeped in hot water and then filtered through a mesh plunger.

Types of Coffee Makers for Brewing the Perfect Cup

Now that you know the methods in which coffee can be brewed and a few notes on the brewing equipment, let’s dive a bit deeper into what each is. Afterward, we’ll get into learning how to brew with your method of choice.

Pour Over Coffee Makers 

Pour over methods elevate the art of coffee brewing. With hot water poured through a filter cone, meticulously filled with finely ground coffee, each droplet brings forth the true essence of the beans. The result? A clean and flavorful cup that celebrates the subtleties of your chosen coffee.

Jump to: How To Brew Coffee With A Pour Over

French Press

Known for its simplicity and rich flavors, the French press, or press pot, takes coffee brewing back to basics. Coarse-ground coffee and hot water unite in a vessel, steeping together to extract bold flavors. A gentle press of the plunger separates the grounds, leaving you with a robust and full-bodied brew.

Jump to: How To Brew Coffee With A French Press

Drip Coffee Makers

Drip coffee makers are a beloved staple in many households. They work by heating water and allowing it to gradually drip through finely ground coffee beans, resulting in a satisfyingly large pot of coffee ready to kickstart your day.

Jump to: How To Brew Coffee With A Drip Coffee Maker

Espresso Machines

The epitome of coffee craftsmanship, espresso machines are designed to produce the concentrated and aromatic elixir known as espresso. High pressure forces hot water through finely ground coffee, extracting the essence of the beans in a matter of seconds. The result is a velvety shot of pure coffee indulgence, perfect on its own or as the base for various espresso-based beverages.

Jump to: How To Brew Coffee With An Espresso Machine

Aeropress

The Aeropress combines immersion and pressure for a smooth and rich coffee experience. Using air pressure, this compact device extracts the full flavor from the coffee grounds, producing a full-bodied brew that can also be taken with you easily while traveling.

Jump to: Aeropress

Moka Pot

Hailing from Italy, the Moka pot captures the essence of traditional stovetop brewing. Using steam pressure, this compact and elegant coffee maker extracts the essence of finely ground coffee, resulting in a strong and flavorsome cup of coffee reminiscent of espresso.

Jump to: How To Brew Coffee With A Moka Pot

Turkish Coffee Pot (Cezve)

Steeped in tradition and rich history, the Turkish coffee pot, also known as a cezve, brings forth the vibrant flavors of Turkish coffee. This small copper or brass pot allows finely ground coffee to boil in water, creating a strong and flavorful brew. Served with a touch of foam on top, Turkish coffee offers a unique and aromatic coffee experience.

Jump to: How To Brew Coffee With A Turkish Coffee Pot (Cezve)

Vacuum Coffee Makers (Siphon)

By harnessing the power of vapor pressure and vacuum, these elegant glass contraptions create a mesmerizing display as water rises from a lower chamber, saturating the coffee grounds, and then descends as the heat is removed. The result is a remarkably clean and crisp cup of coffee, showcasing the purity of the flavors extracted through this enchanting process.

Jump to: How To Brew Coffee With A Vacuum Coffee Maker (Siphon)

How to Brew Coffee Using Different Equipment

From the classic French press to the high-pressure espresso machine, each brewing method has unique advantages and disadvantages that can significantly impact the flavor, strength, and overall coffee experience. This section explores various brewing methods, including pour over, French press, drip, espresso, Aeropress, moka pot, Turkish coffee pot, and siphon vacuum coffee makers along with their ideal grind size and water temperature.

How To Brew Coffee With A Pour Over

If you’re learning how to brew coffee using different methods, pour over brewing is one of the simplest. It involves slowly pouring hot water over coffee grounds in a filter, which drips into a carafe or mug. This method allows for even more control over the brewing process.

The ideal grind size for pour over coffee is medium-fine, which allows for a balance between flavor extraction and clarity. 

The water temperature should be between 195-205°F (90-96°C) to ensure proper extraction.

Here's how to use a pour over:

1. Heat water to the desired temperature range of 195-205°F (90-96°C).
2. Place a filter into the pour over brewer and rinse it with hot water. This will remove any paper taste and preheat the brewing vessel.
3. Grind coffee beans to a medium-fine grind size and place them into the filter.
4. Slowly pour a small amount of hot water over the coffee grounds to bloom them, which allows for the release of carbon dioxide and enhances the flavor.
5. Continue pouring hot water slowly over the coffee grounds in a circular motion, allowing the water to evenly saturate all the grounds.
6. Enjoy. 😋

How To Brew Coffee With A French Press

A French press is a popular way to brew coffee because it also allows for more control over the brewing process like the pour over – resulting in a stronger and more flavorful cup of coffee. 

Brewing involves steeping coarse coffee grounds in hot water, then pressing the plunger down to separate the coffee from the grounds. 

The ideal grind size for French press coffee is coarse, which allows for a longer steep time without over-extracting the coffee. 

The water temperature should be between 195-205°F (90-96°C) to ensure proper extraction.

How to brew with a French press:

1. Boil water to 195-205°F (90-96°C).
2. Grind coffee beans coarsely. A ratio of 1:15 (1 part coffee to 15 parts water) is recommended.
3. Add the ground coffee to the French press.
4. Pour the hot water over the coffee, making sure to saturate all of the grounds. Leave about an inch of space at the top of the press.
5. Place the plunger on top of the press, but don't press it down yet. Let the coffee steep for about 4 minutes.
6. Press the plunger down slowly, separating the coffee from the grounds. (ps: be careful while doing this, otherwise you can plunge the coffee too fast and have it spill out the top. Ask us how we know.)
7. Pour and enjoy.

How To Brew Coffee With A Drip Coffee Maker

A drip coffee maker is a classic way to brew coffee, and it's perfect for those who want a hot, fresh pot of coffee ready to go without needing to make it cup by cup. You’ve likely seen this type of coffee maker in your parent’s house.

This is a full-on machine. Drip brewing involves pouring hot water over coffee grounds in a filter, which then drips into a carafe or mug. 

The ideal grind size for drip coffee is medium, which allows for a balance between flavor extraction and clarity. 

The water temperature should be between 195-205°F (90-96°C) to ensure proper extraction. 

🚫 Depending on the drip coffee maker, you may or may not have control over this however.

Here's how to use a drip coffee maker:

1. Begin by measuring out the appropriate amount of coffee grounds for your desired strength. A general rule of thumb is to use 1 to 2 tablespoons of coffee per 6 ounces of water.
2. Grind your coffee beans to a medium grind size. This will allow for a balance between flavor extraction and clarity.
3. Fill the water reservoir of your drip coffee maker with cold, filtered water. Be sure to measure out the amount of water needed for the desired number of cups of coffee.
4. Place a filter into the coffee maker's filter basket and add your ground coffee.
5. Turn on the coffee maker and wait for the water to heat up and begin to drip onto the coffee grounds. This process should take a few minutes.
6. Once the coffee has finished brewing, pour it into your mug and drink up.

How To Brew Coffee With An Espresso Machine

Espresso brewing involves forcing hot water through ground coffee under high pressure. The ideal grind size for espresso is very fine, which allows for maximum flavor extraction in a short amount of time. This also makes it a nightmare to use in any kind of pour over because the finely ground coffee will make filtering move very slowly so beware of buying espresso-ground coffee unless using it for this purpose.

The water temperature should be between 195-205°F (90-96°C) to ensure proper extraction.

How to brew with an espresso machine:

1. Start by filling your espresso machine's water tank with cold, filtered water.
2. Turn on your espresso machine and allow it to heat up. Most machines will indicate when they are ready to brew.
3. Grind your coffee beans to a fine consistency. The ideal grind size for espresso is very fine, so be sure to adjust your grinder accordingly.
4. Tamp the grounds into the portafilter with a tamper to ensure an even and level distribution of the coffee.
5. Attach the portafilter to the espresso machine and place your espresso cup underneath.
6. Start the brewing process by pressing the button or lever on your machine. The espresso should start to pour into the cup in a steady stream.
7. The ideal extraction time for a single shot of espresso is 25-30 seconds, during which you should aim to extract about 1-2 ounces of espresso. If the extraction is too fast, adjust your grind to make it finer. If the extraction is too slow, adjust your grind to make it coarser.
8. Once your shot is complete, turn off the machine and discard the used grounds. Clean your machine regularly to ensure consistent quality in your espresso shots.

How To Brew Coffee With An Aeropress

Aeropress brewing involves pushing hot water through ground coffee using air pressure. It’s also great for traveling, as it’s super tiny. This method allows for quick and easy brewing, as well as a clean-up, however it’s very easy to accidentally push too fast and have coffee explode everywhere… again, ask us how we know. 😬

The ideal grind size for Aeropress coffee is fine, but not as fine as espresso, which allows for maximum flavor extraction in a short amount of time. 

The water temperature should be between 175-205°F (79-96°C) to ensure proper extraction.

Here's how to use an Aeropress:

1. Heat your water to between 175-205°F (79-96°C), depending on your preference and the coffee you're using.
2. Assemble the Aeropress by placing the plunger into the brewing chamber and attaching it to the bottom.
3. Wet a paper filter and insert it into the Aeropress cap.
4. Grind your coffee beans to a fine grind, but not as fine as espresso.
5. Add the ground coffee to the Aeropress chamber, making sure it's level and even.
6. Pour the hot water over the coffee grounds, filling the chamber about ⅔ of the way full.
7. Stir the coffee and water together with a spoon for 10 seconds.
8. Insert the plunger and press down slowly and steadily, using the pressure to push the coffee through the filter and into your mug or carafe. (note: this is the step we mentioned being very careful about.
9. Dilute the coffee with hot water or milk, if desired.
10. Enjoy.

How To Brew Coffee With A Moka Pot

Brewing with a Moka pot involves steam pressure to push hot water through ground coffee, creating a strong and flavorful cup of coffee. This method is perfect for those who want the boldness of espresso without an actual espresso machine.

The ideal grind size for Moka pot coffee is medium-fine, which allows for a balance between flavor extraction and clarity. 

The water temperature should be between 195-205°F (90-96°C) to ensure proper extraction. 

Make sure to use the correct amount of coffee and water according to the size of your Moka pot. Overfilling the water or coffee basket can cause uneven extraction and even clog the filter.

how to brew with a Moka Pot:

1. Fill the bottom chamber of the Moka Pot with hot water, ensuring the water level is just below the safety valve.
2. Insert the funnel-shaped filter basket into the bottom chamber and fill it with medium-fine coffee grounds, leveling it off without packing it down.
3. Screw the top chamber onto the bottom chamber securely.
4. Place the Moka Pot on a stovetop burner over medium heat. The ideal water temperature for brewing with a Moka Pot is between 195-205°F (90-96°C).
5. Keep the lid open and wait for the water to heat up and begin to boil. The boiling water will be forced through the coffee grounds, resulting in brewed coffee.
6. As soon as the coffee starts to come out of the spout, turn off the heat and remove the Moka Pot from the burner.
7. Once the coffee has finished brewing, serve it immediately.
8. Yum.

How To Brew Coffee With A Turkish Coffee Pot (Cezve)

Turkish coffee is a traditional way to brew coffee in the Middle East and parts of Europe. It involves boiling finely ground coffee and water together in a small pot called a cezve. 

The ideal temperature for brewing Turkish coffee is between 158-176°F (70-80°C).

How to brew with a Turkish coffee pot (Cezve)

1. Start by adding finely ground coffee and water to the cezve. The ratio is typically one heaping tablespoon of coffee for every 3 oz (90 mL) of water.
2. Stir the coffee and water together until the grounds are fully saturated.
3. Place the cezve on a stove or heat source, and slowly bring the coffee to a boil over low heat.
4. As the coffee begins to boil, it will start to foam up. Remove the cezve from the heat source and wait for the foam to subside.
5. Return the cezve to the heat source and let the coffee come to a boil again. Repeat this step two more times for a total of three times.
6. Once the coffee has boiled three times, remove the cezve from the heat source and let it sit for a few moments to allow the grounds to settle.
7. Pour the coffee into demitasse cups, taking care not to pour any of the grounds that have settled at the bottom of the cezve.
8. Serve the coffee hot, along with a glass of water to cleanse the palate.

How To Brew Coffee With A Vacuum Coffee Maker (Siphon)

A vacuum coffee maker, also known as a siphon or syphon coffee maker, is a unique brewing device that uses vapor pressure and vacuum suction to extract coffee flavors. It consists of two chambers, one for water and the other for coffee grounds, and uses heat to create pressure and force water up into the coffee chamber before gravity pulls it back down through a filter. 

This creates a unique, clean, and flavorful cup of coffee that is highly sought after by coffee enthusiasts.

The medium-fine grind size allows for a balance between flavor extraction and clarity, and can be adjusted to your personal preference.

The ideal water temperature for siphon brewing is between 195-205°F (90-96°C), which can be achieved by heating the water on a stove or with an electric kettle. 

how to brew using a vacuum coffee maker (siphon):

1. Begin by filling the bottom chamber of the siphon with cold water, then place the top chamber on top of the bottom chamber.
2. Place a filter in the top chamber and add medium-fine ground coffee, using about 1 tablespoon of coffee per 4 ounces of water.
3. Turn on the heat source, and as the water in the bottom chamber heats up, it will begin to boil and rise into the top chamber, where it will mix with the coffee grounds.
4. Stir the mixture gently and let it steep for about 2-3 minutes.
5. Turn off the heat source, which will cause the brewed coffee to filter back down into the bottom chamber as the air pressure in the top chamber decreases.
6. Once all the coffee has filtered back into the bottom chamber, remove the top chamber and pour the coffee into your mug or carafe.

Remember that these are just general guidelines and can vary depending on personal preference and the specific coffee beans being used.

Other Coffee Brewing Equipment You May Want

If you’re looking to expand your coffee lab, there are a number of things you may want to consider to help with everything from freshness to the brewing experience, to the taste: Coffee Accessories For Your Home Coffee Bar

Happy brewing!