How to Make French Press Coffee

Making coffee with a French press is one of those deceptively simple tasks that has sparked countless debates among coffee enthusiasts. At first glance, it seems straightforward: ground coffee, hot water, and a plunger. Yet, learning how to make French press coffee can feel surprisingly complex.

The French press is defined by full immersion—the coffee grounds are steeped in hot water for the entire brewing process, allowing for maximum flavor extraction. The plunger, fitted with a fine metal mesh filter, is used to separate the brewed coffee from the grounds.

For many, this brewing method is the first foray into brewing coffee at home—and while it’s super accessible, there’s a learning curve involved.

Getting the Coffee-to-Water Ratio Right

The coffee-to-water ratio is where many people trip up. Unlike drip coffee, which typically follows a golden ratio of 1:16 or 1:17, French press brewing requires a slightly stronger ratio to account for its less efficient extraction. A range of 1:14 to 1:15 is generally ideal, translating to about 66-70 grams of coffee per liter of water.

Precision matters here. While it’s tempting to eyeball measurements, using a scale ensures consistency—a crucial factor in making great coffee. Too little coffee results in a flat, watery brew, while too much can lead to overpowering bitterness. Remember, ratios are a starting point. Experimentation allows you to fine-tune the flavor to your taste.

Brew Timing and Temperature

Brewing with a French press starts with heating water to just below boiling—about 195-205°F. Pouring boiling water directly onto the grounds can scorch them, creating a bitter aftertaste. Using a kettle with a built-in thermometer can simplify this step, but even letting boiled water cool for 30 seconds works in a pinch.

Once the water is ready, add your ground coffee to the carafe and pour just enough water to saturate the grounds. This step, known as the bloom, allows trapped carbon dioxide to escape, enhancing flavor extraction. After stirring gently, add the remaining water and place the lid on the carafe without plunging. The coffee should steep for about four minutes, though this can vary depending on grind size and personal preference.

When the timer goes off, press the plunger down slowly and evenly. Rushing this step can agitate the grounds, allowing fine particles to escape into the brew. A steady, controlled motion ensures a cleaner cup.

The Role of the Crust and Agitation

One of the lesser-known aspects of French press brewing is how the coffee grounds behave during steeping. As the grounds release CO2, they form a crust on the surface. This crust acts as a natural filter, trapping fine particles and contributing to a cleaner brew. Stirring too aggressively—or breaking the crust too soon—can disrupt this self-filtering process.

A gentle stir after adding half the water provides just enough agitation to ensure even extraction. Once the crust forms, it’s best to leave it undisturbed until you’re ready to plunge. For those following James Hoffmann’s method, skimming the surface after breaking the crust can also enhance clarity. However, this step requires a longer wait time to allow sediment to settle—something to keep in mind if you’re in a hurry.

A French press isn’t limited to hot coffee.

It’s also an excellent tool for making cold brew. Simply combine coarsely ground coffee and cold, filtered water at a 1:7 ratio, stir gently, and refrigerate for 18-24 hours. After plunging, you’ll have a smooth, concentrated brew perfect for iced coffee or diluting with milk and water.

For those craving a creamier option, the French press can also double as a milk frother. Heat milk until warm, pour it into the carafe, and plunge vigorously until it’s light and frothy. Combine the frothed milk with brewed coffee for a simple cafe au lait.

Is There a Difference Between Cheap and Expensive French Press?

The market is flooded with French presses ranging from under $20 to over $150. While all models operate on the same basic principles, premium options often include features like double-walled insulation, silicone seals, or finer mesh filters. These details can enhance the brewing experience but aren’t strictly necessary for making good coffee.

For beginners, an affordable glass model like the Bodum Brazil is a solid choice. It’s easy to use and provides a great introduction to the method. On the other end of the spectrum, high-end models like the Fellow Clara or Yeti Rambler offer improved heat retention and aesthetic appeal, making them ideal for coffee enthusiasts looking to refine their setup. Ultimately, the best French press is the one that fits your budget and brewing priorities.

Keeping Your French Press Clean

One often-overlooked aspect of French press brewing is cleanup. Coffee grounds can be messy, and failing to clean your press thoroughly can lead to lingering odors or stale flavors.

Start by discarding the used grounds (composting is a great option). Rinse the carafe and plunger thoroughly, and occasionally disassemble the filter for a deeper clean.