The French press, also known as a press pot or plunger pot, is one of the most beloved and accessible coffee brewing methods in the world. Known for producing a rich, full-bodied cup with deep flavor, the French press is a favorite among both casual coffee drinkers and enthusiasts alike.
In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you how to brew the perfect French press coffee at home—covering everything from grind size to steep time, so you get a delicious, café-quality cup every time.
Why Choose French Press?
- Full flavor extraction: The metal mesh filter allows oils and fine particles to pass through, enhancing flavor and body.
- No paper filters required: Which means less waste and no filtered-out oils.
- Simple and portable: No need for electricity or complex equipment.
- Great for multiple cups: Most French presses brew 2–4 cups at once.
What You’ll Need
- French press (standard size: 350ml–1L / 12–34 oz)
- Freshly ground coffee (coarse grind)
- Hot water (just off the boil, around 195–205°F / 90–96°C)
- Burr grinder (optional but recommended)
- Scale or measuring spoon
- Timer
- Spoon or stirrer
- Mug
Recommended Ratio: Coffee to Water
The standard French press ratio is:
👉 1:15 — 1 gram of coffee for every 15 grams of water
(For imperial: about 2 tablespoons of coffee per 6 oz water)
Example:
- 30 grams of coffee (about 4 tablespoons)
- 450 ml (15 oz) of water
Feel free to adjust to taste—stronger or milder depending on your preference.
Step-by-Step: How to Brew French Press Coffee
Step 1: Heat the Water
Boil water, then let it cool for 30 seconds to reach the ideal brewing temperature (195–205°F / 90–96°C).
Tip: Pre-warm your French press by rinsing it with hot water to maintain brew temperature.
Step 2: Measure and Grind the Coffee
Use a coarse grind, similar to sea salt. Finer grinds can pass through the mesh filter and create a gritty brew.
- Measure your coffee using a kitchen scale or scoop.
- Grind just before brewing for the freshest flavor.
Step 3: Add Coffee to the French Press
Place the ground coffee in the bottom of the French press.
Example:
- 30g coffee
- Ready for 450ml water
Step 4: Pour in Hot Water
Start your timer and pour hot water evenly over the grounds.
- First pour: Wet all the grounds (about half the water), then wait 30 seconds. This is called the bloom, where gases escape from the fresh grounds.
- Second pour: Pour in the rest of the water slowly and evenly.
Step 5: Stir the Brew
After blooming and pouring, gently stir the coffee with a wooden or plastic spoon to ensure all grounds are saturated.
This helps with even extraction, resulting in better flavor.
Step 6: Place the Lid and Steep
Put the plunger lid on top, but don’t press down yet. Let the coffee steep for 4 minutes.
You can experiment with 3–5 minutes depending on your taste preference.
Step 7: Plunge Slowly
After steeping, press the plunger down slowly and evenly. Don’t force it—too much pressure can agitate the grounds and create bitterness.
The plunger’s metal mesh will separate the grounds from the brewed coffee.
Step 8: Serve Immediately
Pour your coffee into a mug or carafe right after plunging. Don’t let it sit in the French press—it will over-extract and become bitter over time.
Tips for a Better Brew
- Use filtered water for cleaner flavor.
- Stir gently, not aggressively.
- Use fresh, quality beans (medium to dark roasts work especially well in French press).
- Grind consistency is key—too fine = sludge, too coarse = weak brew.
- Clean your French press regularly to avoid old oil buildup and bitterness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using water that’s too hot → Can burn the coffee and make it bitter.
- Letting it steep too long → Results in over-extraction and harsh flavors.
- Using pre-ground coffee → Tends to be too fine and stale.
- Not serving immediately → Sitting in the press leads to bitterness.
Flavor Profile of French Press Coffee
French press coffee is:
- Full-bodied
- Rich and aromatic
- Less acidic than pour-over
- Ideal for medium to dark roasts
It emphasizes the natural oils and depth of the coffee, giving you a robust and satisfying brew.
Conclusion
The French press is a timeless brewing method that offers simplicity, versatility, and a rich, flavorful cup of coffee. With the right technique and a few basic tools, you can enjoy barista-level coffee in your own kitchen—no paper filters, no electricity, no fuss.
So next time you want to slow down and truly savor your brew, reach for your French press and let the ritual begin.