The AeroPress is one of the most versatile brewing devices available — compact, nearly indestructible, and capable of producing anything from a light, tea-like cup to a concentrated, espresso-like shot depending on technique. This guide covers the standard method to get you started, with room to experiment from there.
Quick Answer
AeroPress brewing uses a medium-fine grind, a 1:15 coffee-to-water ratio, and roughly 90-96°C water, combining immersion steeping with a quick paper-filtered press for a clean, full-bodied cup in under two minutes.
What You'll Need
An AeroPress, paper filters, a kettle, a scale, a stirrer, and a medium-fine grind of coffee — similar in texture to table salt, slightly finer than standard drip grind.
Step-by-Step Method
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1. Rinse | Rinse the paper filter with hot water to remove papery taste |
| 2. Dose | Add 15g coffee to the chamber |
| 3. Bloom | Pour 30g water, stir, let bloom 30 seconds |
| 4. Fill | Pour remaining water to reach 225g total |
| 5. Steep | Stir gently, steep 1 minute |
| 6. Press | Attach cap, press down slowly over 20-30 seconds |
Tips for a Better Cup
Pressing too quickly forces water through unevenly and can introduce bitterness — aim for a slow, steady press over 20-30 seconds. If pressing becomes difficult partway through, your grind may be too fine.
Inverted Method
Many AeroPress users prefer the inverted method — brewing upside down before flipping onto the cup — which allows for longer steep times without dripping prematurely through the filter.
If your AeroPress coffee tastes thin, try the inverted method with a slightly longer steep time. It gives you more control over contact time than the standard upright method.
Common Mistakes
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Frequently Asked Questions
What grind size is best for AeroPress?
A medium-fine grind, similar to table salt, works well for the standard method.
Should I use the standard or inverted method?
Both work well — inverted gives more control over steep time, while standard is simpler and less prone to leaks.
How long should I press?
Aim for a slow, steady press over 20-30 seconds for the most even extraction.
Can I make espresso-style coffee with AeroPress?
You can make a concentrated, espresso-like shot using a higher coffee dose and less water, though it won't have true crema.
How long does AeroPress brewing take?
The full process, from bloom to press, typically takes under two minutes.
Small Device, Big Range
Few brewers offer as much room to experiment as the AeroPress. Start with the standard method above, then start adjusting grind, ratio, and steep time to find your own signature cup.
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