Brewing coffee at home requires precision, and one of the most fundamental questions is determining the correct amount of ground coffee per cup. The answer is not a single universal measurement but depends on the brewing method, coffee roast, and personal taste preferences. Using the correct coffee-to-water ratio is critical for extracting the optimal balance of flavors from the coffee grounds.
This guide provides a factual overview of the standard measurements and ratios used to determine how much ground coffee per cup is needed for various brewing techniques.
The Golden Standard for Coffee-to-Water Ratio
In specialty coffee, the most accurate way to measure coffee and water is by weight using a small kitchen scale. This method ensures consistency and repeatability. The standard brewing ratio, often called the “Golden Ratio,” is recognized by the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA).
The SCA recommends a brewing ratio between 1:15 and 1:18 (coffee to water). For example:
- A 1:16 ratio means for every 1 gram of coffee, you use 16 grams of water.
- For a standard 200ml (or 200g) cup of coffee, this equates to approximately 12.5 grams of coffee.
When measuring by volume with tablespoons, a standard benchmark is to use 1 to 2 tablespoons of ground coffee per cup. It is crucial to define what “one cup” means, as a coffee cup is not the same as a measuring cup.
Defining a “Cup” of Coffee
The term “cup” can be ambiguous. In coffee brewing, two definitions are prevalent:
- The American Measuring Cup: This is 8 fluid ounces (approximately 236 ml). Many automatic drip coffee makers use this definition.
- The Coffee Maker Cup: Many coffee machine manufacturers define a “cup” as 5 to 6 fluid ounces (150-180 ml). This is a smaller, historical standard.
For clarity in this article, a “cup” refers to 6 fluid ounces (180 ml) unless stated otherwise, as this is a common measurement in coffee brewing guidelines.
Standard Measurements for Ground Coffee Per Cup
The amount of ground coffee per cup varies by brew method. The following table outlines standard measurements for a 6oz (180ml) cup.
| Brewing Method | Ground Coffee per 6oz (180ml) Cup | Water Temperature | Brew Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drip Coffee Maker | 1 – 2 tablespoons (approx. 10-15g) | 195°F – 205°F (90°C – 96°C) | 5-6 minutes (full cycle) |
| French Press | 2 tablespoons (approx. 15g) | 200°F (93°C) | 4 minutes |
| Pour-Over (e.g., V60) | 2 tablespoons (approx. 15g) | 200°F – 205°F (93°C – 96°C) | 2.5 – 4 minutes |
| AeroPress | 1.5 – 2 tablespoons (approx. 11-15g) | 175°F – 205°F (80°C – 96°C) | 1 – 2 minutes |
| Cold Brew | 1.5 – 2 tablespoons (approx. 11-15g) per cup of water | Cold or Room Temp | 12 – 24 hours |
Detailed Breakdown by Brewing Method
Each brewing technique extracts flavors differently, necessitating adjustments in the amount of ground coffee per cup.
1. Automatic Drip Coffee Maker
Drip machines are the most common brewing appliances. They work by heating water and dripping it over a basket of ground coffee, which then filters into a carafe.
- Standard Ratio: A common starting point is 1 tablespoon of medium-ground coffee for every 6 ounces of water. For a full 12-cup (72oz) pot, this equates to roughly ¾ to 1 cup of whole coffee beans once ground.
- Weight-Based Measurement: For greater precision, use 55-60 grams of coffee per liter of water, which aligns with the 1:17 ratio.
2. French Press (Cafetière)
The French Press uses a full-immersion method, where coffee grounds steep in hot water before being separated by a metal plunger. This method requires a coarser grind to prevent sediment from passing through the mesh filter.
- Standard Ratio: A stronger coffee-to-water ratio is used, typically 1:12 to 1:15. For a standard 8-cup (34oz) French Press, this requires approximately 70-80 grams of coarsely ground coffee.
- Measurement per Cup: For a single 6oz cup, use about 2 tablespoons (15g) of coarsely ground coffee.
3. Pour-Over (e.g., Hario V60, Kalita Wave)
Pour-over methods involve manually pouring hot water over coffee grounds in a filter. This technique allows for precise control over water flow and saturation, resulting in a clean and nuanced cup.
- Standard Ratio: The ratio is typically 1:15 to 1:17. A common recipe for a 300ml (about 10oz) serving uses 20 grams of medium-fine ground coffee.
- Measurement per Cup: This translates to roughly 2 tablespoons (15g) of coffee for a 6oz (180ml) cup.
4. AeroPress
The AeroPress is a versatile device that uses air pressure to push hot water through finely ground coffee quickly. It can produce a concentrated brew similar to espresso or a regular Americano-style coffee.
- Standard Ratio: Recipes vary widely, but a standard dilution uses 1:8 to 1:12 for a concentrate, which is then diluted with hot water. A common starting point is 15-17 grams of fine to medium-fine ground coffee.
- Measurement: This is approximately 1.5 to 2 tablespoons of coffee for a single serving.
5. Cold Brew
Cold brew is made by steeping coarsely ground coffee in cold water for an extended period. This process produces a smooth, low-acidity coffee concentrate.
- Standard Ratio: Cold brew requires a much higher coffee-to-water ratio because it is a concentrate. A typical ratio is 1:4 to 1:8. For example, 100 grams of coffee to 400 ml of water.
- Measurement per Cup: When preparing the concentrate, use about 1.5 to 2 tablespoons of coffee for every 6 ounces of cold water. The final concentrate is then diluted with water or milk before drinking.
Factors Influencing the Ideal Amount
Several variables affect the optimal amount of ground coffee.
- Grind Size: The surface area of the coffee particles impacts extraction. A finer grind extracts faster and more intensely, potentially requiring a slightly smaller amount. A coarser grind extracts more slowly, often needing a larger quantity to achieve the same strength.
- Coffee Roast: Darker roasts are less dense than lighter roasts because they lose more moisture during the longer roasting process. Therefore, a tablespoon of a dark roast will weigh less than a tablespoon of a light roast. Weight-based measurement eliminates this inconsistency.
- Desired Strength: Personal preference is a key factor. A ratio of 1:15 will produce a stronger, more intense cup than a 1:18 ratio. Adjustments can be made in 2-gram increments to fine-tune the strength to your liking.
Measuring Accurately: Volume vs. Weight
- Volume (Tablespoons): This is the most accessible method, but is less accurate. The weight of a tablespoon of coffee can vary based on the grind size (a tablespoon of fine grind contains more coffee than a tablespoon of coarse grind) and the roast level.
- Weight (Grams): Measuring by weight with a digital scale is the industry standard for accuracy and consistency. It removes the variables of grind size and roast density, ensuring the same amount of coffee is used every time.
Key Takeaways for Ground Coffee Per Cup
Determining the correct amount of ground coffee per cup is a science that leads to a better-tasting beverage. The standard measurement of 1 to 2 tablespoons per 6-ounce cup is a reliable starting point.
For ultimate precision and consistency, transitioning to a weight-based measurement using a 1:16 coffee-to-water ratio is recommended. By applying these factual measurements, you can systematically achieve a balanced and flavorful cup of coffee.
I write for FnB Coffee, and I always have a passion for writing anything that can presents Indonesian Coffee Diversity. From the highlands of Sumatra to the volcanic soils of Java and the unique flavours of Sulawesi, I hope to tell a plethora of stories to showcase the history, customs, and creativity behind Indonesia’s coffee culture. From the cultivation side of farming and sustainability, to brewing and flavor notes, my articles dive into everything to find out what makes Indonesian coffee truly one of a kind.
