Coffee Ratio Calculator

Coffee Ratio Calculator Updates

19 December 2024: We have updated the colors: we made the text and elements more contrasting to make it easier for people with poor eyesight to read the information.

15 December 2024: Now you can specify an arbitrary volume of coffee instead of a number of servings in cups.

13 December 2024: Now the calculator instantly provides the result. We’ve removed the "Calculate" button since it’s no longer needed! Here’s how it works:

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07 December 2024: We have added more detailed information about the water-to-coffee ratio below the calculator. You will also find tables there for each coffee brewing method. For convenience, you can take a screenshot of the table you need.

06 December 2024: Often, the coffee-to-water ratio is given only in grams, for example: 15 grams of coffee to 240 grams of water. Since the density of water is close to 1 g/ml, we usually don’t specify the unit of measurement in grams for water, but we believe it’s important to clarify this point.

Why We Use These Ratios?

The coffee-to-water ratio is a critical parameter in coffee brewing that influences the strength, flavor, and overall quality of the final beverage. Precise ratios facilitate consistent extraction, allowing the unique characteristics of different coffee beans to be highlighted while minimizing the risks of over-extraction or under-extraction.

Espresso Ratios

Espresso is a concentrated coffee preparation method that utilizes finely ground coffee, high water pressure, and precise temperature control. The coffee-to-water ratio plays a significant role in determining the strength and flavor profile of the espresso shot.

What to Expect from Each Ratio

• Light & Mellow (1:3): This ratio results in a less concentrated espresso, which may exhibit higher acidity and a lighter body. Suitable for individuals preferring a milder espresso experience.
• Balanced & Flavorful (1:2.5): Produces a moderately concentrated espresso with a balanced flavor profile, suitable for a wide range of taste preferences.
• Rich & Smooth (1:2): Generates a more concentrated espresso with a fuller body and pronounced flavor notes, commonly used as a base for milk-based beverages.
• Bold & Intense (1:1.5): Yields the most concentrated espresso, characterized by intense flavors and a substantial body, suitable for those seeking a strong espresso experience.

Pro Tips for Brewing Espresso

1. Grind Size: Utilize a fine grind to facilitate proper extraction and crema formation. Consistency in grind size is essential to ensure uniform extraction.
2. Tamping Pressure: Apply consistent tamping pressure (approximately 30 pounds) to create an even coffee bed, promoting uniform water flow and extraction.
3. Brew Time: Aim for an extraction time of 25–30 seconds per shot to achieve a balanced flavor without over-extracting undesirable compounds.
4. Water Temperature: Maintain water temperature between 90–96°C (194–205°F) to optimize extraction. Deviations can lead to under-extraction (sour taste) or over-extraction (bitter taste).
5. Equipment Calibration: Regularly clean and calibrate your espresso machine to maintain consistent pressure and temperature, ensuring reliable brewing results.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Sour Taste: Indicative of under-extraction. Adjust by using a finer grind or a stronger ratio (e.g., 1:1.5) to increase extraction.
• Bitter Taste: Resulting from over-extraction. Mitigate by employing a coarser grind or a lighter ratio (e.g., 1:2.5 or 1:3).
• Inconsistent Crema: Ensure the use of freshly ground coffee and proper machine calibration. Variations in tamping pressure can also affect crema consistency.
• Weak Flavor: Check for stale coffee beans or insufficient coffee dose. Increasing the coffee amount or using fresh beans can enhance flavor intensity.

Pour-Over Ratios (V60, Kalita, etc.)

Pour-over methods, such as the Hario V60 and Chemex, are designed to produce a clean and balanced cup by emphasizing the clarity and nuanced flavors of the coffee. The coffee-to-water ratio is integral to achieving desired extraction levels and flavor profiles.

What to Expect from Each Ratio

• Light & Floral (1:17): Results in a lighter brew with delicate floral notes and higher acidity, suitable for highlighting subtle characteristics in lighter roasts or single-origin beans.
• Medium & Balanced (1:16): Produces a balanced cup with smooth flavor progression and moderate complexity, accommodating a wide range of coffee beans and roast levels.
• Rich & Fuller-Bodied (1:15): Yields a richer and fuller-bodied coffee with more pronounced flavor notes, ideal for medium to dark roasts seeking enhanced depth.
• Bold & Intense (1:14): Creates a more intense brew with deeper flavor profiles, maintaining clarity while increasing body and richness.

Pro Tips for Pour-Over Brewing

1. Grind Size: Utilize a medium to coarse grind, adjusted according to the specific pour-over device to ensure proper extraction.
2. Water Temperature: Maintain water temperature between 92–96°C (198–205°F) to optimize extraction efficiency without causing over-extraction.
3. Pour Technique: Employ a controlled and steady pour to ensure even saturation of the coffee grounds. Begin with a bloom pour to release CO₂, followed by slow, circular additions.
4. Filter Rinsing: Rinse the filter with hot water prior to brewing to eliminate any paper taste and preheat the brewing vessel.
5. Consistent Pour Rate: Maintain a consistent pour rate to facilitate uniform extraction and a balanced flavor profile.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Under-Extraction (Sour Taste): Address by using a finer grind or increasing the coffee dose to enhance extraction.
• Over-Extraction (Bitter Taste): Mitigate by employing a coarser grind or reducing the coffee dose to decrease extraction.
• Inconsistent Flow: Ensure appropriate grind size and steady pour technique to maintain an even flow rate.
• Weak Flavor: Increase the coffee dose or utilize fresher beans to enhance flavor intensity.

Auto Drip Ratios

Auto drip machines provide a consistent and convenient method for brewing coffee. While offering limited customization compared to manual methods, understanding the appropriate coffee-to-water ratios can enhance the quality and flavor of the brewed coffee.

What to Expect from Each Ratio

• Light & Delicate (1:18): Produces a coffee with a delicate profile and light acidity, suitable for light roasts and those preferring a milder coffee experience.
• Medium & Balanced (1:17): Offers a balanced cup with smooth and rich flavors, adaptable to various coffee beans and roast levels.
• Strong & Bold (1:16): Yields a richer and bolder coffee with a fuller body, ideal for medium to dark roasts seeking enhanced flavor depth.
• Very Strong & Intense (1:15): Creates an intense and bold flavor profile, suitable for dark roasts or individuals desiring a robust coffee experience.

Pro Tips for Auto Drip Brewing

1. Grind Size: Use a medium grind to ensure proper extraction without clogging the machine’s filter.
2. Water Quality: Utilize filtered water to prevent mineral buildup and enhance the coffee’s natural flavors.
3. Machine Maintenance: Regularly clean the auto drip machine to remove stale coffee oils and maintain consistent performance.
4. Pre-Wetting Grounds: Apply a small amount of water to pre-wet the coffee grounds before initiating the full brew to ensure even extraction.
5. Consistent Measurement: Employ a kitchen scale to measure coffee and water accurately, ensuring consistency in brewing results.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Weak Coffee: Verify the coffee-to-water ratio and ensure the use of fresh coffee. Increasing the coffee dose may enhance strength.
• Bitter Taste: May result from over-extraction. Consider using a slightly coarser grind or reducing the coffee dose.
• Clogged Filter: Ensure appropriate grind size (medium) and avoid overfilling the filter. Regular cleaning can prevent clogging.
• Inconsistent Brewing: Check machine calibration and ensure a steady water flow. Confirm that the coffee bed is even and not overly compacted.

French Press Ratios

The French press employs an immersion brewing method, allowing coffee grounds to steep in hot water. This method is known for producing a rich and full-bodied coffee by retaining oils and fine particles. The coffee-to-water ratio is essential for balancing flavor and avoiding over-extraction.

What to Expect from Each Ratio

• Light & Smooth (1:15): Produces a smoother and more subtle flavor profile with delicate nuances, suitable for those preferring a lighter coffee experience without sacrificing richness.
• Medium & Balanced (1:14): Offers a balanced cup with enhanced complexity and a harmonious blend of flavors, adaptable to various coffee beans and roast levels.
• Strong & Bold (1:13): Yields bold flavors with an increased body, ideal for medium to dark roasts seeking deeper and more pronounced flavors.
• Very Strong & Intense (1:12): Creates an intense and robust coffee with a full body, suitable for individuals desiring a strong and rich coffee experience.

Pro Tips for French Press Brewing

1. Grind Size: Use a coarse grind to prevent over-extraction and sediment in the final cup. Consistency in grind size is important for uniform extraction.
2. Water Temperature: Maintain water temperature between 90–96°C (194–205°F) to optimize extraction without scorching the coffee.
3. Steeping Time: Allow the coffee to steep for approximately 4 minutes. Adjust steeping time based on desired strength and flavor profile.
4. Stirring: Stir the coffee gently halfway through steeping to ensure even saturation of the grounds.
5. Plunging Technique: Plunge slowly and steadily to avoid agitating the grounds excessively, which can lead to over-extraction and bitterness.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Sour Taste: Indicative of under-extraction. Adjust by using a finer grind or increasing the steeping time to enhance extraction.
• Bitter Taste: Resulting from over-extraction. Mitigate by employing a coarser grind or reducing the steeping time.
• Sludgy Coffee: May occur if the grind is too fine. Ensure the use of a coarse grind to prevent excessive sediment.
• Weak Flavor: Check for insufficient coffee dose or stale beans. Increasing the coffee amount or using fresh beans can enhance flavor.

Cold Brew Ratios (Concentrate)

Cold brew coffee involves steeping coarse coffee grounds in cold water over an extended period, resulting in a smooth and low-acid concentrate. Understanding the appropriate coffee-to-water ratios is essential for producing a versatile concentrate that can be adjusted to individual taste preferences.

What to Expect from Each Ratio

• Light & Subtle (1:5): Results in a smooth and subtle concentrate with mild flavors, suitable for easy dilution without significant loss of complexity.
• Medium & Balanced (1:4.5): Produces a balanced concentrate with richer complexity, adaptable for various dilution preferences and flavor profiles.
• Strong & Robust (1:4): Yields a robust concentrate with fuller body and more pronounced flavors, ideal for those seeking a stronger coffee base.
• Very Strong & Intense (1:3.5): Creates an intense and highly concentrated coffee, maintaining complexity even when diluted, suitable for individuals desiring a highly flavorful experience.

Pro Tips for Cold Brew Concentrate

1. Grind Size: Use a coarse grind to prevent over-extraction and sediment in the concentrate. Consistent grind size is important for smooth extraction.
2. Steeping Time: Steep the coffee grounds in cold water for 12–24 hours. Extended steeping times enhance flavor extraction without increasing bitterness.
3. Water Quality: Utilize cold, filtered water to avoid off-flavors and ensure a clean concentrate.
4. Storage: Store the cold brew concentrate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks to maintain freshness.
5. Dilution Ratio: Adjust the dilution ratio based on individual taste preferences. Starting with a 1:1 ratio and modifying as needed allows for customization of strength and flavor.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Weak Concentrate: Increase the coffee dose or decrease the water volume to enhance the strength and flavor of the concentrate.
• Overly Strong Concentrate: If the concentrate is too intense, dilute it further with water, milk, or a milk alternative to achieve the desired strength.
• Sediment in Concentrate: Ensure the use of a coarse grind and consider double filtering the concentrate through a fine mesh sieve or a coffee filter to remove sediment.
• Stale Flavor: Use fresh coffee beans and store the concentrate properly to prevent stale or flat flavors.

Cold Brew Ratios (Ready-to-Drink)

Ready-to-drink cold brew coffee provides convenience by eliminating the need for dilution. Proper coffee-to-water ratios ensure a balanced and refreshing cup directly from the container.

What to Expect from Each Ratio

• Light & Refreshing (1:10): Produces a light and refreshing cold brew with subtle flavors, suitable for high drinkability.
• Medium & Smooth (1:9): Offers a smooth and balanced cup with moderate complexity, adaptable to various flavor preferences.
• Strong & Bold (1:8): Yields bold flavors with a fuller body, ideal for those seeking a more pronounced coffee experience without dilution.
• Very Strong & Intense (1:7): Creates an intense and robust cold brew with deep richness, suitable for individuals desiring a highly concentrated and flavorful beverage.

Pro Tips for Ready-to-Drink Cold Brew

1. Grind Size: Use a coarse grind to ensure smooth extraction and prevent sediment in the final product.
2. Steeping Time: Steep the coffee grounds in cold water for 12–24 hours to achieve a well-extracted concentrate.
3. Filtering: Double filter the cold brew through a fine mesh sieve or multiple layers of coffee filters to remove sediment for a clear beverage.
4. Storage: Refrigerate the ready-to-drink cold brew in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to two weeks.
5. Flavor Enhancements: Add natural sweeteners, milk, or flavor syrups as desired to customize the cold brew without compromising its refreshing profile.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Weak Flavor: Increase the coffee dose or decrease the water volume to enhance strength and flavor.
• Overly Strong Flavor: Dilute with water or milk to achieve a more balanced flavor profile.
• Sediment in Brew: Ensure thorough filtering using a fine mesh sieve or multiple layers of coffee filters to eliminate sediment.
• Flat Taste: Use fresh coffee beans and adhere to proper steeping times to maintain a vibrant and flavorful cold brew.

Chemex Ratios

The Chemex brewer, distinguished by its elegant design and thick filters, produces a clean and bright cup of coffee. Mastering the coffee-to-water ratio is essential for highlighting the clarity and nuanced flavors that the Chemex is known for.

What to Expect from Each Ratio

• Light & Delicate (1:17): Highlights subtle and delicate notes with high clarity and bright acidity, suitable for showcasing lighter roast profiles and single-origin beans.
• Medium & Balanced (1:16): Offers a balanced cup with smooth flavors and enhanced complexity, adaptable to various coffee beans and roast levels.
• Rich & Fuller-Bodied (1:15): Delivers a fuller body with richer and more pronounced flavors, ideal for medium to dark roasts seeking enhanced depth.
• Bold & Intense (1:14): Creates an intense and rich coffee with deep flavors while maintaining the Chemex’s signature clarity, suitable for those desiring a robust coffee experience.

Pro Tips for Chemex Brewing

1. Grind Size: Use a medium-coarse grind to ensure proper extraction and prevent clogging of the thick Chemex filters.
2. Water Temperature: Maintain water temperature between 92–96°C (198–205°F) to optimize extraction without causing over-extraction.
3. Blooming: Perform a bloom pour by adding a small amount of water initially to release CO₂ from the coffee grounds, enhancing flavor extraction.
4. Pour Technique: Utilize a steady and controlled pour in a circular motion to ensure even saturation of the grounds and consistent extraction.
5. Filter Rinsing: Rinse the Chemex filter with hot water before brewing to eliminate any paper taste and preheat the brewer.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Sour Taste: Indicative of under-extraction. Adjust by using a finer grind or increasing the ratio strength (e.g., 1:14) to enhance extraction.
• Bitter Taste: Resulting from over-extraction. Mitigate by employing a coarser grind or reducing the ratio strength (e.g., 1:16 or 1:17).
• Clogged Filter: Ensure appropriate grind size (medium-coarse) and avoid over-pouring to prevent clogging.
• Weak Flavor: Check for insufficient coffee dose or stale beans. Increasing the coffee amount or using fresh beans can enhance flavor.

AeroPress Ratios

The AeroPress is recognized for its versatility, allowing the preparation of a wide range of coffee styles, from espresso-like shots to smooth, tea-like brews. Understanding the optimal coffee-to-water ratios is essential for experimenting and identifying the preferred AeroPress profile.

What to Expect from Each Ratio

• Light & Tea-like (1:16): Produces a light and smooth brew with subtle flavors, suitable for individuals preferring a gentle coffee experience.
• Medium & Balanced (1:15): Offers a balanced cup with smooth and rich flavors, adaptable to various coffee beans and roast levels.
• Strong & Espresso-like (1:14): Yields strong, espresso-like flavors with a fuller body, ideal for those seeking a robust coffee experience.
• Very Strong & Concentrated (1:13): Creates an intense and concentrated coffee with deep richness, suitable for individuals desiring a highly flavorful brew.

Pro Tips for AeroPress Brewing

1. Grind Size: Use a fine to medium grind for espresso-like brews or a medium-coarse grind for a smoother, tea-like profile. Adjust based on desired strength and flavor.
2. Water Temperature: Maintain water temperature between 85–95°C (185–203°F) to optimize extraction without causing over-extraction.
3. Pressing Technique: Press slowly and steadily to ensure even extraction and avoid over-extraction, which can lead to bitterness.
4. Stirring: Gently stir the coffee grounds after adding water to ensure even saturation and extraction.
5. Filter Preparation: Rinse the AeroPress filter with hot water before brewing to eliminate any paper taste and preheat the device.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Sour Taste: Indicative of under-extraction. Adjust by using a finer grind or a stronger ratio (e.g., 1:13) to enhance extraction.
• Bitter Taste: Resulting from over-extraction. Mitigate by employing a coarser grind or reducing the ratio strength (e.g., 1:15 or 1:16).
• Weak Flavor: Check for insufficient coffee dose or stale beans. Increasing the coffee amount or using fresh beans can enhance flavor.
• Inconsistent Extraction: Ensure appropriate grind size and a steady pressing technique. Avoid pressing too quickly or unevenly.

Moka Pot Ratios

The Moka pot is a stovetop brewing device that produces a strong, espresso-like coffee by forcing steam pressure through finely ground coffee. Mastering the coffee-to-water ratio is essential for balancing strength and taste, ensuring a consistent and flavorful cup.

What to Expect from Each Ratio

• Light & Mellow (1:11): Delivers a balanced flavor with smooth richness, suitable for individuals preferring a milder espresso-like experience.
• Medium & Balanced (1:10): Offers a harmonious blend with enhanced complexity, adaptable to various coffee beans and roast levels.
• Strong & Bold (1:9): Produces bold and intense flavors with a fuller body, ideal for those seeking a robust coffee experience.
• Very Strong & Intense (1:8): Creates highly concentrated coffee with deep richness, suitable for individuals desiring a highly flavorful and intense brew.

Pro Tips for Moka Pot Brewing

1. Grind Size: Use a fine grind, similar to espresso, to ensure proper extraction without clogging the Moka pot’s filter.
2. Water Level: Fill the bottom chamber with water up to the safety valve to ensure consistent pressure and extraction.
3. Heat Control: Use medium heat to allow gradual extraction. High heat can cause over-extraction and bitterness.
4. Brewing Time: Monitor the brewing process to prevent boiling over. Remove from heat once the coffee begins to sputter.
5. Cleaning: Regularly clean the Moka pot to prevent oil buildup and maintain the quality of the brewed coffee.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Sour Taste: Indicative of under-extraction. Adjust by using a finer grind or a stronger ratio (e.g., 1:8) to enhance extraction.
• Bitter Taste: Resulting from over-extraction. Mitigate by employing a slightly coarser grind or reducing the ratio strength (e.g., 1:10 or 1:11).
• Weak Flavor: Check for insufficient coffee dose or stale beans. Increasing the coffee amount or using fresh beans can enhance flavor.
• Inconsistent Extraction: Ensure appropriate grind size and proper assembly of the Moka pot. Avoid overfilling the water chamber.

Turkish Coffee Ratios

Turkish coffee is a traditional brewing method characterized by its unfiltered and rich profile, where finely ground coffee remains in the cup. Mastering the coffee-to-water ratio is essential for achieving the deep and robust flavors typical of this brewing style.

What to Expect from Each Ratio

• Light & Smooth (1:12): Produces a smooth and rich coffee with subtle sweetness, suitable for individuals preferring a milder yet flavorful cup.
• Medium & Balanced (1:11): Offers a balanced profile with enhanced complexity and a harmonious blend of flavors, adaptable to various taste preferences.
• Strong & Rich (1:10): Delivers rich and robust flavors with a full body, ideal for those seeking a strong and satisfying coffee experience.
• Very Strong & Intense (1:9): Creates a highly concentrated coffee with deep richness, suitable for individuals desiring an intense and invigorating brew.

Pro Tips for Turkish Coffee Brewing

1. Grind Size: Use an ultra-fine grind, almost powder-like, to ensure proper extraction and the characteristic texture of Turkish coffee.
2. Brewing Vessel: Utilize a traditional cezve or ibrik to brew Turkish coffee, allowing for even heating and proper foam formation.
3. Water Temperature: Heat the water slowly to prevent burning the coffee, facilitating gradual extraction and foam development.
4. Sweetening: Add sugar during the brewing process if desired, as Turkish coffee is traditionally sweetened before brewing.
5. Serving: Allow the coffee grounds to settle before serving to achieve a clear cup with rich flavors.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Sour Taste: Indicative of under-extraction. Adjust by using a finer grind or slightly increasing the brewing time to enhance extraction.
• Bitter Taste: Resulting from over-extraction. Mitigate by employing a slightly coarser grind or reducing the brewing time.
• Lack of Foam: Ensure appropriate grind size and slow heating to facilitate foam formation.
• Weak Flavor: Check for insufficient coffee dose or stale beans. Increasing the coffee amount or using fresh beans can enhance flavor.

Siphon Ratios

The siphon brewer utilizes vapor pressure to create a rich and aromatic coffee. This method is known for its precision and the ability to highlight the aromatic qualities of the coffee. Mastering the coffee-to-water ratio is essential for achieving a balanced extraction.

What to Expect from Each Ratio

• Light & Floral (1:16): Highlights bright and floral notes with high clarity, suitable for showcasing delicate flavors in light roasts or single-origin beans.
• Medium & Balanced (1:15): Offers a balanced extraction with smooth flavors and enhanced complexity, adaptable to various coffee beans and roast levels.
• Strong & Rich (1:14): Delivers rich and full-bodied flavors with deeper complexity, ideal for medium to dark roasts seeking enhanced depth.
• Very Strong & Intense (1:13): Creates an intense and concentrated coffee with deep richness, suitable for individuals desiring a highly flavorful and robust brew.

Pro Tips for Siphon Brewing

1. Grind Size: Use a medium grind to ensure proper extraction and prevent clogging of the siphon’s filter.
2. Water Temperature: Maintain water temperature between 85–95°C (185–203°F) to optimize extraction without causing over-extraction.
3. Brewing Time: Allow the coffee to steep for approximately 2–3 minutes after the water has fully saturated the grounds to achieve balanced extraction.
4. Stirring: Gently stir the coffee grounds after initial saturation to ensure even extraction and prevent clumping.
5. Cleaning: Regularly clean the siphon brewer to prevent oil buildup and maintain the quality of the brewed coffee.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Sour Taste: Indicative of under-extraction. Adjust by using a finer grind or a stronger ratio (e.g., 1:13) to enhance extraction.
• Bitter Taste: Resulting from over-extraction. Mitigate by employing a slightly coarser grind or reducing the ratio strength (e.g., 1:15 or 1:16).
• Clogged Filter: Ensure appropriate grind size (medium) and avoid over-pouring to prevent clogging.
• Weak Flavor: Check for insufficient coffee dose or stale beans. Increasing the coffee amount or using fresh beans can enhance flavor.