A French press coffee maker is the easiest way to make rich, full-bodied coffee with no paper filters and no electricity beyond a kettle. Coarse grounds steep in hot water for 4 minutes, then a metal mesh plunger separates them from the coffee.
Here is exactly how to do it, plus how to avoid gritty sludge.
The Short Answer
Use about 1:15 coffee to water (30 g of coarsely ground coffee to 450 g of water for 2 mugs), water at 195 to 205°F, and a 4-minute steep. Stir, break the crust, press slowly, and pour right away so the coffee does not keep extracting.
What You Need
- A French press (the 34 oz size makes about 3 to 4 mugs).
- Coarse ground coffee. Grind right before brewing with a conical burr grinder; blade grinders make uneven dust that slips through the mesh.
- A kettle and a timer.
- A scale or tablespoon (about 2 tablespoons per 8 oz of water).
How to Use a French Press, Step by Step
Step 1: Preheat
Rinse the press with hot water to warm it, then discard.
Step 2: Add coarse coffee
Add 30 g of coffee ground coarse, like breadcrumbs or sea salt.
Step 3: Add water and stir
Pour in 450 g of water at 195 to 205°F, making sure all the grounds are wet. Stir gently and set the lid on top without pressing.
Step 4: Steep 4 minutes
At 4 minutes, stir the crust on top so the grounds sink.
Step 5: Press and pour
Press the plunger down slowly and steadily over about 20 seconds. Pour all the coffee out immediately, into mugs or a carafe.
French Press Ratio Chart
| Serving | Coffee | Water |
|---|---|---|
| 1 mug (12 oz) | 23 g (about 3 tbsp) | 350 g |
| 2 mugs | 30 g | 450 g |
| Full 34 oz press | 60 g | 900 g |
Why Coarse Ground Coffee Matters
Fine grounds pass through the metal mesh and keep extracting, making coffee muddy and bitter. Coarse ground coffee for French press gives a clean, rich cup. If you buy pre-ground coffee, look for a bag labeled coarse or French press.
Tips for Better French Press Coffee
- Do not leave coffee sitting in the press; it gets bitter.
- Let the last few sips stay in the cup; the fine silt settles there.
- Clean the mesh filter after each use.
- Try it cold: see our cold brew French press method.
Equipment I Used
- Stainless steel measuring cups and spoons: for sauces and spice blends.
Planning a busy week? The Slow Cooking for Busy Days guide covers time-saving slow cooker recipes and meal planning.
French Press Coffee FAQ
What is the ratio for French press coffee?
About 1:15, for example 30 g of coffee to 450 g of water. Use 1:12 for strong coffee.
How long should French press coffee steep?
4 minutes is the classic time. Go to 5 for bolder coffee.
Why is my French press coffee muddy?
The grind is too fine or uneven. Use a coarse, consistent grind from a burr grinder.
Can I use regular ground coffee in a French press?
You can, but it is usually too fine and will taste muddy. Coarse ground is best.
