Brewing Technique
Aeropress Techniques
Discover 5 different brewing methods with the versatile Aeropress. From standard to inverted techniques for exceptional coffee.
Discover 5 different brewing methods with the versatile Aeropress. From standard to inverted techniques for exceptional coffee.
Brew Time
Equipment Cost
Brewing Options
Difficulty
The Aeropress is one of the most versatile brewing devices available. Invented in 2005, it combines immersion and pressure brewing to produce clean, full-bodied coffee. What makes it special is its flexibility—there are dozens of brewing methods, each producing slightly different results.
Research shows that Aeropress brewing produces exceptional extraction consistency. The paper filters create a clean cup similar to pour-over, while the pressure element adds body. This combination makes it ideal for exploring different brewing techniques and understanding coffee extraction.
✓ Aeropress Advantages:
Aeropress
Standard or Go model ($30-50)
Filters
Paper or metal (included with purchase)
Grinder
Medium-fine grind required ($30-150)
Kettle
Any kettle works ($15-50)
Scale
For precise measurements ($20-50)
Timer
For consistent brewing
Metal Filter
For fuller-bodied cups ($10-15)
Thermometer
For water temperature ($10-30)
The Aeropress's versatility allows for multiple brewing approaches. Here are 5 popular methods, from beginner-friendly to advanced.
The official Aeropress method. Combine coffee and water, stir, then press. Produces a clean, balanced cup in about 3 minutes.
Ratio: 1:16 (17g coffee to 270g water)
Grind: Medium-fine
Time: 3 minutes total
Best For: Beginners, consistent results, learning
Flip the Aeropress upside down, brew longer, then flip and press. This method produces a fuller-bodied cup with more control over extraction.
Ratio: 1:16 (17g coffee to 270g water)
Grind: Medium-fine
Time: 4 minutes total
Best For: Fuller body, more control, advanced brewers
Use a finer grind and shorter brew time to create a concentrated shot similar to espresso. Perfect for milk-based drinks.
Ratio: 1:2 (20g coffee to 40g water)
Grind: Fine (espresso-like)
Time: 1-2 minutes
Best For: Lattes, cappuccinos, concentrated shots
Use cold water and a longer brew time for a smooth, low-acid concentrate. Research shows this produces excellent cold brew.
Ratio: 1:4 (20g coffee to 80g cold water)
Grind: Coarse
Time: 10 minutes
Best For: Cold brew, low-acid coffee, smooth flavor
Combine coffee and water, let steep for 4-5 minutes with minimal agitation, then press gently. Produces a full-bodied, immersion-style cup.
Ratio: 1:16 (17g coffee to 270g water)
Grind: Medium
Time: 4-5 minutes
Best For: Full body, immersion-style extraction, bold flavors
Place a paper filter in the basket and rinse with hot water. This removes paper taste and preheats the device.
Grind 17g of coffee to a medium-fine consistency, similar to pour-over grind. Consistency is researched to improve extraction uniformity.
Pour ground coffee into the Aeropress chamber. Level the grounds gently.
Pour 270g of water heated to 200°F into the chamber. Start with just enough to saturate the grounds.
Stir vigorously for 10 seconds. This ensures even water contact and improves extraction.
Let the coffee steep for 1-2 minutes. This allows extraction to occur.
Slowly press the plunger down over 30 seconds. You should hear a slight hiss as air is pushed out.
Your Aeropress coffee is ready! Serve immediately or dilute with hot water for a larger cup.
Water Temperature
Use 200°F water. Hotter water extracts more aggressively. Cooler water produces under-extracted, sour coffee.
Brew Time Too Short
If extraction is under 2 minutes, your grind is too coarse. Grind finer or use less water.
Brew Time Too Long
If extraction exceeds 5 minutes, your grind is too fine. Grind coarser or use more water.
Bitter Taste
Over-extraction. Grind coarser, use cooler water, or reduce brew time.
Sour Taste
Under-extraction. Grind finer, use hotter water, or increase brew time.
The Aeropress is one of the most versatile brewing devices available. Start with the standard method, then experiment with other techniques to find your favorite.
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