Guide
How To Make French Press Coffee
Learn how to make French press coffee with the right grind size, ratio, steep time and pressing technique.
On This Page5 Sections
Quick Answer
To make French press coffee, use a coarse grind, a ratio around 1:15 to 1:16, hot water, and a 4-6 minute steep. Start with 30g coffee and 480g water. Stir gently, steep, then press slowly. If the cup tastes silty or bitter, grind coarser or pour more gently. If it tastes weak, use more coffee or extend the steep.
Key Takeaways
- 1French press coffee is full-bodied because it uses immersion brewing and no paper filter.
- 2Coarse grind and gentle pressing reduce sludge and bitterness.
- 3A scale and timer make French press much more consistent.
French press is forgiving, but it is not foolproof. Because the coffee grounds stay in contact with water, grind size, steep time and pressing technique matter.
The reward is body. French press keeps more oils and fine particles than paper-filter coffee, which gives a richer mouthfeel and heavier cup.
Starting Recipe
Step-By-Step Method
- Add coarse-ground coffee to the French press.
- Pour hot water evenly over the grounds.
- Stir gently to wet all coffee.
- Steep for 4-6 minutes.
- Skim foam or floating grounds if desired.
- Press slowly without forcing the plunger.
- Pour immediately into cups or a server.
Do not leave brewed coffee sitting in the press. It will keep extracting and become rougher.
Troubleshooting
What To Read Next
Use this with the French Press Ratio Guide, Coffee Grind Size Guide, Coffee Brewing Methods Guide, and the French Press method page. For method choice, compare options in Coffee Brewing Methods Guide.