Table in sunlight sho ong a cafetière for coffee from Procaffeinate

How much coffee for a cafetière?

Brewing the perfect cup of coffee with a cafetière, also known as a French press, hinges on using the right coffee-to-water ratio. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you achieve an exceptional brew every time.


Understanding the Coffee-to-Water Ratio

The ideal coffee-to-water ratio for a cafetière is generally between 1:15 and 1:17. This means for every gram of coffee, you should use 15 to 17 grams of water. This balance ensures optimal extraction, resulting in a flavorful and well-rounded cup.

Measuring Your Ingredients

Coffee: Use freshly ground coffee beans with a coarse grind size, similar to breadcrumbs. This grind size prevents over-extraction and minimizes sediment in your cup.

Water: Filtered water heated to approximately 93-94°C (200°F) is ideal. Avoid using boiling water, as it can scald the coffee grounds, leading to bitterness.

Recommended Measurements for Common Cafetière Sizes

3-Cup (350ml):

Coffee: 21 grams

Water: 350 grams (ml)

8-Cup (1 liter):

Coffee: 60 grams

Water: 1,000 grams (ml)


These measurements are based on a 1:16 ratio, which is a balanced starting point. Adjust according to your taste preferences.


Brewing Steps

1. Preheat the Cafetière: Rinse the cafetière with hot water to maintain the brewing temperature.

2. Add Coffee Grounds: Place the measured coffee into the cafetière.

3. Pour Water: Start your timer and pour the hot water evenly over the coffee grounds, ensuring all are saturated.

4. Stir and Steep: Stir gently to mix, then place the lid on with the plunger pulled up. Let it steep for 4 minutes.

5. Plunge and Serve: Slowly press the plunger down to separate the grounds from the coffee. Pour immediately to enjoy.


Additional Tips

Experimentation: Feel free to adjust the ratio to suit your taste. A stronger brew can be achieved with a 1:15 ratio, while a milder cup may prefer a 1:17 ratio.

Consistency: Using a digital scale ensures precise measurements, leading to consistent results.

Freshness: For the best flavor, use freshly roasted and ground coffee beans.


For more insights into brewing techniques and coffee pairings, explore our other blog posts:

How to Pair Coffee with Food Like a Pro: Elevate Your Taste Experience

The Art of Latte Design: A Beginner’s Guide

Natural vs. Washed Coffee: Understanding the Differences


By mastering the coffee-to-water ratio and following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to brewing exceptional cafetière coffee at home.

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