Brewing the Perfect French Press Coffee
A French Press, also known as a press pot or plunger pot, is one of the simplest and most effective ways to brew rich, full-bodied coffee. This classic brewing method allows the natural oils and flavors of the coffee beans to shine, creating a smooth and aromatic cup.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making French Press coffee, along with expert tips for achieving the best flavor.
What You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather the following essentials:
- French Press Brewer (any size)
- Freshly roasted coffee beans (medium to coarse grind)Burr grinder (if grinding beans at home)
- Filtered water (heated to 195-205°F)
- Kitchen scale or measuring spoon
- TimerWooden or plastic spoon for stirring
Coffee-to-Water Ratio
A standard ratio for a balanced brew is:
1 tablespoon (or 7-8 grams) of coffee per 4 ounces of water
For a full 32-ounce French Press, use 8 tablespoons (56-64 grams) of coffee
💡 Pro Tip: Using a digital scale helps achieve precise measurements for consistent flavor.
Step-by-Step French Press Brewing Guide
Step 1: Measure & Grind Your Coffee
For the best taste, start with freshly roasted whole beans and grind them just before brewing. A coarse grind (similar to sea salt) prevents over-extraction and makes plunging easier.
💡 Why Fresh Beans Matter: Fresh coffee contains carbon dioxide (CO₂), which releases during brewing, contributing to a more flavorful cup.
Step 2: Heat Your Water
Bring your filtered water to a temperature between 195°F and 205°F (just below boiling). If you don’t have a thermometer, let boiled water sit for 30 seconds before pouring.
Step 3: Preheat Your French Press
Pour hot water into the French Press and swirl it around to warm the glass. This step helps maintain an even brewing temperature. Dump the water before adding your coffee grounds.
Step 4: Bloom Your Coffee
Add the ground coffee to the French Press. Then, pour just enough hot water (twice the amount of coffee used) over the grounds to fully saturate them. Stir gently and let it sit for 30-45 seconds to allow CO₂ gases to escape. This process, called blooming, enhances flavor extraction.
Step 5: Add Remaining Water & Steep
Slowly pour the remaining hot water in a circular motion over the coffee. Do not fill to the top—leave about an inch of space. Place the lid on top with the plunger pulled all the way up.
💡 Brew Time: Set a timer for 4 minutes. A shorter brew time (3 minutes) produces a lighter cup, while a longer time (4-5 minutes) creates a stronger, more robust coffee.
Step 6: Stir & Plunge
At the 4-minute mark, gently stir the coffee with a wooden or plastic spoon. Then, slowly press the plunger down with steady, even pressure. If you feel too much resistance, your grind is too fine.
Step 7: Serve Immediately
Pour your freshly brewed coffee into a preheated mug and enjoy. Don’t leave coffee sitting in the French Press, as it will continue extracting and may become bitter.
Best Coffee for French Press
For a bold and full-bodied experience, we recommend using a dark roast coffee. Our dark roast collection is an excellent choice, offering deep, smoky notes with a smooth finish.
☕ Shop Dark Roasts → Browse Our collection
French Press Maintenance Tips
Clean your French Press after every use by disassembling the plunger and washing all parts thoroughly.Use a non-abrasive sponge to prevent scratching the glass.Remove any coffee oils and residue with a mix of warm water and baking soda or a specialized coffee cleaner.
By following these steps, you’ll enjoy a consistently delicious cup of coffee with every brew. Ready to level up your French Press game? Try our premium coffee selections today!