The French press is one of the simplest and most beloved coffee brewing methods around the world. It’s affordable, easy to use, and produces a rich, full-bodied cup of coffee. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your technique, this step-by-step guide will teach you how to make the perfect French press coffee at home.
Why Use a French Press?
- Full flavor extraction: Coffee oils and fine particles remain in the brew.
- No paper filters: More eco-friendly and retains the bean’s natural character.
- Simple equipment: Just hot water, ground coffee, and the press.
- Great for small or large batches.
The French press is ideal for those who enjoy bold, aromatic, and textured coffee with minimal fuss.
What You’ll Need
- French press (also called cafetière or press pot)
- Freshly roasted whole beans
- Burr grinder
- Filtered hot water (195°F–205°F / 90°C–96°C)
- Digital scale (optional, but helpful)
- Timer
- Spoon or wooden stirrer
Ideal Coffee-to-Water Ratio
Start with a standard brew ratio of:
1:15 to 1:17
(1 gram of coffee for every 15–17 grams of water)
For example:
- 30g coffee to 450ml water = a strong 2-cup brew.
If you don’t have a scale, use roughly 2 tablespoons of ground coffee for every 6 oz (180 ml) of water.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Measure and Grind the Coffee
- Use a coarse grind, similar to sea salt.
- Too fine, and your coffee will be muddy and over-extracted.
- Too coarse, and it will be weak or sour.
Tip: Grind right before brewing for the best flavor and aroma.
Step 2: Heat the Water
- Bring filtered water to a boil, then let it sit for 30 seconds.
- Ideal temperature: 195°F–205°F (90°C–96°C)
Too hot can scald the coffee. Too cold won’t extract enough flavor.
Step 3: Preheat the French Press (Optional)
- Pour hot water into the empty press to warm it up.
- Swirl and discard the water.
- This helps maintain temperature during brewing.
Step 4: Add Ground Coffee
- Place your French press on the scale (if using).
- Add the coffee grounds to the carafe.
Example: 30g ground coffee for 450ml water.
Step 5: Start the Brew
- Pour half of the water evenly over the grounds.
- Start your timer.
- Let the coffee bloom for 30–45 seconds.
This releases gases and improves extraction.
Step 6: Stir and Add Remaining Water
- Use a spoon or wooden stick to stir gently.
- Add the rest of the water, ensuring all grounds are wet.
Step 7: Place the Lid and Steep
- Place the plunger/lid on top—but don’t press down yet.
- Let the coffee steep for 4 minutes.
For stronger coffee, you can extend to 5 minutes.
Step 8: Press and Pour
- After the timer ends, slowly and steadily press the plunger down.
- Don’t force it—if it’s too hard to push, your grind may be too fine.
Pour your coffee immediately into cups or a thermal carafe. Leaving it in the French press can lead to over-extraction and bitterness.
Cleaning the French Press
- Discard grounds (they’re great for compost).
- Rinse and wash all parts with mild soap and warm water.
- Avoid metal scrubbers to keep glass or stainless surfaces intact.
- Clean thoroughly after each use to avoid oil buildup.
Tips for Better French Press Coffee
- Use filtered water to avoid off-flavors from tap minerals or chlorine.
- Adjust grind and steep time if your coffee tastes too bitter (grind coarser) or sour (grind finer).
- Experiment with different beans—French press works great with medium to dark roasts.
- Decant immediately to preserve flavor and avoid bitterness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using pre-ground coffee: It goes stale faster and often has the wrong grind size.
- Over-extracting: Leaving the coffee in the press too long.
- Wrong water temperature: Leads to dull or harsh flavors.
- Neglecting bloom: Skipping the bloom can cause uneven extraction.
Final Thoughts: Master the Press
The French press is timeless for a reason: it’s approachable, forgiving, and makes incredibly flavorful coffee. With a little practice, you’ll be able to brew rich, smooth cups that rival any café.
So next time you want to slow down and savor the process, reach for your press—and let the ritual become part of your morning routine.