How to Make Coffee

There are lots of ways to make coffee, but there are a few tricks you can use to make a good cup of coffee in a coffee maker. If you don't have a coffee maker handy, don't worry; you can still enjoy coffee by placing a coffee dripper over a mug, using a French press, or using a mug and a tea towel.

Method 1
Method 1 of 6:

Using a Coffee Maker

  1. Watermark wikiHow to Make Coffee
    How much water you use depends on how many servings of coffee you want to make. In general, you will need 6 ounces (180 mL) of water for each serving of coffee. You can measure the water using the carafe, or you can use a measuring cup. [1]
    • Use filtered or bottled water; avoid tap, distilled, or softened water.
    • If your brewer has serving lines, refer to those instead. Some brewers call for extra water to make up for water loss due to evaporation.
  2. Watermark wikiHow to Make Coffee
    Open up the filter compartment and take a look inside. Some coffee makers have a mesh filter basket, which can take the place of a paper filter. If your coffee maker does not have a filter basket, insert a paper filter now.
    • There are different types of paper filters for coffee makers. Some are shaped like cups while others look like envelops. Choose the one that's right for your coffee maker.
    • If your coffee maker has a mesh filter basket, you don't need an extra filter. The mesh will filter out the coffee grounds.
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  3. Watermark wikiHow to Make Coffee
    Again, how much coffee you add depends on how many servings you plan to make. In most cases, you will need 1 tablespoon (7 g) of ground coffee for each serving. If you prefer stronger coffee, use 2 tablespoons (14 g) instead. [2]
    • Whether you use fine, medium, or coarse grounds is up to you.
    • For even better tasting coffee, grind up whole coffee beans, and use those instead.
  4. Watermark wikiHow to Make Coffee
    Slide the filter back into place or close the lid (depending on your machine's design). Turn on the coffee maker and wait for it to finish brewing. How long this takes depends on how much water you put into the reservoir. In most cases, this will take about 5 minutes.
    • Listen for the dripping noise from your coffee maker. Once it stops dripping, your coffee has finished brewing.
  5. Watermark wikiHow to Make Coffee
    Some coffee makers automatically switch off while others do not. If your coffee maker is not an automatic one, you'll need to turn it off yourself once it stops dripping. Once the coffee maker has been turned off, pull out the filter and discard the grounds.
    • Be careful when opening the coffee maker. Sometimes, it will release hot steam, which can burn you. Don't lean right over it.
  6. You can serve the coffee as-is, of you can sweeten it with milk, creamer, or half-and-half. For even sweeter coffee, add some sugar, maple syrup, or other sweetener. Enjoy the coffee immediately.
    • If you are vegan or lactose-intolerant, try a non-dairy milk, such as soy, almond, or coconut.
    • Be aware that flavored creamers and some non-dairy milk already come sweetened, so you won't need the extra sugar.
    • Don't let the coffee sit too long. Not only will it grow cold, but it will also taste stale.
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Method 2
Method 2 of 6:

Using a French Press

  1. Remove the lid and plunger first, then add the coffee. You will need 2 tablespoons (14 g) of ground coffee for each serving. [3]
    • Don't use coarsely-ground coffee, or it will clog the mesh and make it difficult to clean.
    • Don't use finely-ground coffee, or it will go through the mesh and into the brewed coffee.
  2. Bring some water to a complete boil, then let it sit off-heat for about 10 seconds. Measure out 8 ounces (240 mL) for each serving of coffee, and pour it into the canister. [4]
  3. Press the plunger jut enough so that the mesh filter is just above the water level. Don't press down on it all the way yet. [5]
  4. Hold the French press steady with one hand while you press down on the plunger with the other. Push down on the pump slowly until you reach the bottom of the French press. [6]
  5. If you'd like to, you can flavor the coffee with some milk and sugar. Be sure to clean the French press afterwards with water and a mild detergent.
    • Let the plunger and canister dry separately. Don't reassemble them until everything is completely dry.
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Method 3
Method 3 of 6:

Using a Percolator

  1. If you have not already, remove the top chamber and filter basket. Heat some water, then pour it into the bottom chamber of the percolator. Keep filling until the water level is just below the steam valve. [7]
    • A percolator is also known as a "stovetop espresso maker" or a "moka pot."
    • For best results, use filtered or bottled water.
  2. How much coffee you use depends on the capacity of the percolator. In most cases, there will be a fill line. Otherwise, use 1 to 2 tablespoons (7 to 14 g) of coffee for every 6 ounces (180 mL) of water. [8]
    • After you fill the filter basket, pat the coffee down.
  3. Hold the percolator steady with 1 hand, then screw the top chamber back on. Be aware that the percolator may be hot from the water already, so it might be a good idea to handle it with an oven mitt or a pot holder.
  4. Place the percolator on top of the burner. Turn the heat up to medium, and allow the water to get hot. Leave the lid off so you can observe the brew in progress, and remove when done. [9]
    • Make sure the handle is not directly over the heating element, be it gas or electric!
  5. As the water comes to a boil, coffee will begin to fill the upper section. It will start out dark, then lighten up as the brewing progresses. When the coffee stream becomes pale or blonde, it is ready.
    • This entire process should only take about 5 minutes, but it may take longer/shorter.
  6. Once the upper chamber is pull, use an oven mitt or a pot holder to put the lid back on. Lift the percolator up by the handle, and pour out the coffee. Add some creamer or sugar, if desired, and serve immediately.
    • The pot will be hot, so handle it with care!
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Method 4
Method 4 of 6:

Using a Mug and Coffee Dripper

  1. A coffee dripper looks like an upside down cone set atop a saucer. Place the coffee dripper on top of the mug with the saucer part touching the rim, and the cone part sticking up. Insert a coffee filter into the cone.
    • You can use this same method to prepare coffee using a Chemex brewer. Simply insert a coffee filter into the top part, then proceed with the method.
    • Use the same type of filter you would use inside a coffee machine. You can use either the envelope type or the cup type.
    • Consider running hot water through your filter, then discarding the water. This will take the paper flavor out of the filter.
  2. For a stronger brew, use 2 tablespoons (14 g) instead. You can use pre-ground coffee, but your brew will tast much better if you use freshly-ground coffee beans instead.
  3. Bring some water to a complete boil, take it off the heat, then let it cool for about 10 seconds. Pour enough of the water over the ground coffee to saturate it. [10]
    • Don't add all of the water just yet. You want the coffee to "bloom" first, which will take about 30 seconds. This is when it soaks up the water and turns a little bubbly.
  4. Plan on using about 6 ounces (180 mL) of water total. To prevent overflow, pour the water into the filter 1 inch (2.5 cm) at a time, letting it drain each time. [11]
    • If you pour all 6 ounces (180 mL) of water into the coffee dripper, it may not drain fast enough. As a result, it may overflow.
  5. Once your mug is filled, lift the dripper off. Discard the filter and the ground coffee beans. Add some creamer and sugar into the coffee, then serve it immediately.
    • Discard the paper filter and coffee grounds immediately. Rinse the coffee dripper to keep it clean and prevent residue.
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Method 5
Method 5 of 6:

Making Coffee without a Coffee Maker

  1. Use your hand to tuck the handkerchief into the mug, creating a 3 to 4-inch (7.62 to 10.16-centimeter) deep pocket. You can also use a bandana, handkerchief, cotton fabric, or muslin fabric as long as they are clean. [12]
    • Make larger servings by placing the tea towel over a mason jar. You will need to increase the amount of coffee grounds and water later on, however.
    • If the fabric has a loose weave, fold it into a square first. [13]
  2. You can use binder clips, paper clips, or clothespins. You will need at least two clips, one for each side, but four would be more secure.
    • Alternatively, wrap a rubber band around the top of the mug, cinching the tea towel to it.
  3. Freshly-ground coffee would work the best, but you can use pre-ground if you have nothing else. You will need 1 to 2 tablespoons (7 to 14 g) of coffee for each serving. The more coffee you add, the stronger the brew will be.
    • Don't use finely-ground coffee, or the grounds will filter through the tea towel and get into the brewed coffee.
    • Don't use coarsely-ground coffee. They will get clogged between the fine weave of the tea towel.
  4. It would be best if you heat the water to somewhere between 195 to 205°F (91 and 97°C). If this is not possible, simply boil some water, then let it sit off-heat for about 30 seconds. [14]
    • You don't want to use too-hot water, or it will spoil the taste of the coffee.
  5. Pour enough water to cover the coffee grounds. Wait 30 seconds, then add half of the water. Wait another 30 seconds, then add the rest of the water in 4 portions. [15]
    • Don't add the water all at once, or it won't drain fast enough and lead to overflow.
  6. Once the water has finished draining, about 2 minutes, un-clip the tea towel and lift it out of the mug. Serve the coffee immediately, with cream and sugar, if desired. [16]
    • Discard the coffee grounds immediately and rinse the tea towel. Be aware that the ground coffee may stain the towel.
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Method 6
Method 6 of 6:

Ensuring the Best Taste

  1. There are different types of coffee beans, each coming from different regions. Some regions produce higher-quality coffee than others. For example, Arabica beans will be much higher in quality than robusta. [17]
    • You can buy pre-ground coffee, but if you want your coffee to taste better, grind the beans yourself.
    • Only grind what you will use in a single brew. Ground coffee loses its freshness even faster than whole beans.
  2. Keep the coffee beans at room temperature in an airtight container, preferably glass or ceramic. Do not store the coffee in the fridge or freezer; this causes the coffee to absorb moisture and odors. [18]
    • If you must store ground in the freezer, use it within 3 to 5 months.
    • Don't let ground coffee go to waste! If it lost its freshness, use it in a coffee scrub.
  3. Oxygen-bleached or dioxin-free paper filters work well. You can also use a long-lived, gold-plated filter instead. Avoid using a cheap filter, as it will affect the taste of the coffee. [19]
    • Paper filters will sometimes give your coffee a papery taste. To prevent this, run hot water through the filter first.
  4. Don't use tap water, unless you know that your city has high-quality water. If you are going to use tap water, let it run for a few seconds before filling the pot; make sure that it is cold. [20]
    • Never use distilled or softened water. This will result in poor-tasting coffee.
  5. The water need to be between 195 to 205°F (91 and 97°C). Water that is too hot or too cold will result in poor-tasting coffee. [21]
    • If you are not using a coffee machine, let the water come to a full boil first, then let it cool for 30 to 60 seconds before adding it to the coffee grounds.
  6. The longer you wait, the less-flavorful it will be. If you will be keeping it in a thermos, be sure to drink it within 1 hour. [22]
    • The longer coffee sits, the more stale it will become.
  7. Rinse the pot and the filter basket with hot water. Wipe it dry with a clean towel, then put it back together. This will prevent the build up of grounds and caffeol (coffee oil), which can make future cups taste bitter. [23]
    • Clean your coffee maker once a month with vinegar. Rinse it thoroughly afterwards. [24]
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Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    How can you make iced coffee in a French press?
    Jaden Zhao
    Barista
    Jaden Zhao is a Barista and the Owner of Jiaren Cafe & Yoga Studio in Santa Clara, California. Her cafe specializes in matcha drinks, espresso, coffee, fruit drinks, and herbal drinks. Additionally, the cafe hosts classes and features a yoga studio and a community space. Jaden earned an MS from Santa Clara University Leavey School of Business and a BA from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
    Jaden Zhao
    Barista
    Expert Answer
    Ice the French press container itself and then pour the chilled coffee over ice. Cold brew is the better option if you want cold coffee, though.
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    Not Helpful 0 Helpful 1
  • Question
    Is drinking a cup of coffee every day good for a teenager?
    Community Answer
    It isn't "good," but it probably isn't that bad either. Just try to keep it to one cup. Caffeine is addictive and with any addictive substance it's easy to start consuming more and more. Don't have caffeine in the late afternoon/evening, and try to quit if you find you're not getting adequate sleep.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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  • Question
    How do I make coffee without a coffeemaker?
    Community Answer
    Some people can drink instant coffee, provided the water is not allowed to reach boiling point; stop the kettle just before the water starts bubbling or even at a lower temperature, this is an art more than it's a science because it depends on ambient temperature, humidity and barometric pressure. This is to try not to destroy the fragile aromatic molecules that give Coffee its pleasant smell and taste. Some people go a bit further and put a certain amount of cold water, to mix with the incoming hot water to try to preserve the aromatic compounds. Some people don't like instant coffee, so they drink other coffee blends; the best way is to experiment.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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      Video

      Tips

      • When possible, buy beans from a local roaster, then grind them at home. This will ensure the freshest, most flavorful cup of coffee.
        Thanks
        Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
      • The flavor of the coffee will depend on a lot of factors, including: where the beans are grown, at what the beans elevation are grown, the variety of coffee tree, and how the beans are processed, dried, and roasted.
        Thanks
        Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
      • If you have a sweet tooth, put a bit of chocolate or sugar in with the grounds; it will brew with a sweeter flavor.
        Thanks
        Helpful 1 Not Helpful 3
      Show More Tips
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      Things You'll Need

      Using a Coffee Maker

      • Coffee maker
      • Whole coffee beans or ground coffee beans
      • Coffee mill (if grinding whole beans)
      • Coffee filter
      • Filtered or bottled water

      Using a Mug and Coffee Dripper

      • Coffee dripper
      • Mug
      • Whole coffee beans or ground coffee beans
      • Coffee mill (if grinding whole beans)
      • Coffee filter
      • Filtered or bottled water

      Using a French Press

      • French press
      • Medium-ground coffee
      • Filtered or bottled water

      Using a Percolator

      • Percolator
      • Coarsely-ground coffee
      • Coffee filter
      • Filtered or bottled water

      Making Coffee without a Coffee Maker

      • Mug
      • Tea towel
      • Clothespins or binder clips
      • Whole coffee beans or ground coffee beans
      • Coffee mill (if grinding whole beans)
      • Filtered or bottled water

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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.folgerscoffee.com/coffee-how-to/how-to-videos/how-to-make-coffee
      2. ↑ https://www.folgerscoffee.com/coffee-how-to/how-to-videos/how-to-make-coffee
      3. ↑ https://www.gocoffeego.com/professor-peaberry/brewing-tips/how-to-make-coffee
      4. ↑ https://www.gocoffeego.com/professor-peaberry/brewing-tips/how-to-make-coffee
      5. ↑ http://www.illy.com/wps/wcm/connect/en/coffee/how-prepare-french-press-coffee
      6. ↑ http://www.illy.com/wps/wcm/connect/en/coffee/how-prepare-french-press-coffee
      7. ↑ http://www.jamieoliver.com/news-and-features/features/how-to-make-the-perfect-cup-of-coffee/
      8. ↑ http://www.jamieoliver.com/news-and-features/features/how-to-make-the-perfect-cup-of-coffee/
      9. ↑ http://www.jamieoliver.com/news-and-features/features/how-to-make-the-perfect-cup-of-coffee/
      1. ↑ https://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/cooking-tips-techniques/how-make-coffee
      2. ↑ https://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/cooking-tips-techniques/how-make-coffee
      3. ↑ https://www.littlecoffeeplace.com/make-coffee-without-a-coffee-maker
      4. ↑ http://www.artofmanliness.com/2015/06/18/how-to-brew-coffee-without-a-coffee-maker/
      5. ↑ http://www.artofmanliness.com/2015/06/18/how-to-brew-coffee-without-a-coffee-maker/
      6. ↑ http://www.artofmanliness.com/2015/06/18/how-to-brew-coffee-without-a-coffee-maker/
      7. ↑ http://www.artofmanliness.com/2015/06/18/how-to-brew-coffee-without-a-coffee-maker/
      8. ↑ http://www.eatingwell.com/article/41595/9-rules-for-how-to-make-a-perfect-cup-of-coffee/
      9. ↑ http://www.eatingwell.com/article/41595/9-rules-for-how-to-make-a-perfect-cup-of-coffee/
      10. ↑ http://www.eatingwell.com/article/41595/9-rules-for-how-to-make-a-perfect-cup-of-coffee/
      11. ↑ http://www.ncausa.org/About-Coffee/How-to-Brew-Coffee
      12. ↑ http://www.ncausa.org/About-Coffee/How-to-Brew-Coffee
      13. ↑ http://www.ncausa.org/About-Coffee/How-to-Brew-Coffee
      14. ↑ http://www.ncausa.org/About-Coffee/How-to-Brew-Coffee
      15. ↑ http://www.eatingwell.com/article/41595/9-rules-for-how-to-make-a-perfect-cup-of-coffee/

      About this article

      Article Summary X

      To make coffee, first decide which method you want to use. A few options include a conventional coffee maker, a french press, or a pour-over dripper. To brew coffee in a coffee maker, first fill the reservoir with water. Use about 6 ounces (180 mL) of water for every cup of coffee you want to make. Next, put a filter in the basket located under the lid of the coffee maker. Measure 1-2 tablespoons of coffee grounds per cup of coffee into the filter. Then, close the lid and start the coffee maker. Pour and enjoy! To make coffee with a French Press, first heat two times the amount of water than coffee you want to make. While the water is heating, measure 2 - 3 tablespoons of coffee grounds into the press. When the water is almost boiling, remove it from the heat. Pour enough hot water into the press to completely saturate the grounds. Stir the mixture gently. Let the coffee sit for 30 seconds. Then, fill the press up with water and let the coffee steep for an additional 4 minutes. Finally, put the lid on the press and slowly push down the plunger until it reaches the bottom of the press. Serve and enjoy! To make coffee in a pour-over dripper, heat about 20 oz (600 ml) of water in a kettle. Set the pour-over coffee dripper over your mug and place a filter in it. When the water is almost boiling, pre-wet the entire filter by pouring some of the water through it. Empty the water from the mug. Next, add 2 - 3 tablespoons of coffee grounds to the filter. Now, start to pour the water over the coffee grounds, starting from the outer edge of the filter and moving towards the center in a spiral. Once all the grounds are wet, let the coffee “bloom” for about 30 seconds. Then, slowly pour the remainder of the water over the grounds, pausing occasionally to allow the coffee to drip down into the mug. Serve and enjoy!

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