The French press—also known as a press pot or plunger pot—is a timeless coffee brewing method loved for its simplicity, rich flavor, and full-bodied results. With just hot water, coffee, and a few minutes of your time, the French press allows you to extract deep, bold flavors that drip methods sometimes miss.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to use a French press the right way, avoid common mistakes, and discover why this classic brewer still has a place in the modern coffee lover’s kitchen.
Why Use a French Press?
- Full-bodied flavor: Immersion brewing allows oils and fine particles to remain in the brew
- No paper filters: You retain more of the coffee’s natural oils
- Simple and low-tech: No electricity or special equipment needed
- Customizable strength: Easy to adjust ratio, time, and grind size
It’s ideal for those who love strong, flavorful coffee and don’t mind a bit of sediment at the bottom of the cup.
What You’ll Need
- A French press (8-cup/1-liter size is common)
- Fresh, coarsely ground coffee (breadcrumb texture)
- Hot water (just off the boil, ~93–96°C / 200–205°F)
- A stirring spoon or chopstick
- A kitchen scale (optional but recommended)
- A timer or watch
Recommended Coffee-to-Water Ratio
A great starting point:
- 1:15 ratio – For every 1 gram of coffee, use 15 grams (ml) of water
- For a standard 1-liter French press:
- Use 60–65g of coffee
- Add 900–1000ml of water
You can adjust based on your taste: more coffee for strength, more water for a lighter brew.
Step-by-Step: How to Brew with a French Press
Step 1: Heat Your Water
Boil water, then let it sit for 30 seconds to cool slightly. You want it just below boiling (~96°C / 205°F).
Meanwhile, preheat your French press with hot water, then discard that water before brewing.
Step 2: Grind Your Coffee
Use coarse grind, like sea salt or breadcrumbs. A burr grinder gives the best consistency. Too fine a grind can clog the mesh filter and lead to over-extraction.
Step 3: Add Coffee Grounds
Add the ground coffee to the empty, preheated French press. Level the bed for even extraction.
Step 4: Pour in Water and Stir
- Start your timer
- Pour in about half of the hot water (just enough to saturate the grounds)
- Let it bloom for 30–45 seconds—this releases CO₂ and enhances flavor
- Then pour in the remaining water up to the top
- Stir gently to break the crust and ensure even saturation
Step 5: Steep for 4 Minutes
Cover the press with the lid (plunger up) and let the coffee steep for 4 minutes.
Some people prefer steeping for 5–6 minutes for stronger coffee, but 4 is a great balance for clarity and richness.
Step 6: Press and Pour
Slowly press the plunger down with steady pressure. Don’t force it—this could agitate the grounds and release bitterness.
Pour the coffee immediately into cups or a carafe to stop extraction. Don’t leave it sitting in the press, or it will become bitter over time.
Tips for Better French Press Coffee
- Use freshly roasted, high-quality beans
- Grind just before brewing
- Use filtered water for cleaner flavor
- Don’t use boiling water—this can burn the coffee
- Clean your French press thoroughly after each use to avoid oil buildup
What About Sediment?
French press coffee naturally contains some sediment—this is part of its character. If you prefer a cleaner cup:
- Pour slowly to leave sediment behind
- Use a second filter or decant through a fine mesh sieve
- Let coffee settle before sipping the last bit
Best Beans for French Press
Because of its rich extraction style, French press works beautifully with:
- Medium to dark roasts for bold, chocolaty flavors
- Natural processed coffees for added body and sweetness
- Blends with nutty or earthy profiles
Lighter roasts can work too but may lack the clarity they need to shine without filtration.
Cleaning Your French Press
After brewing, disassemble and rinse all parts. Scrub the mesh filter with a sponge or brush. Every few uses, soak in warm water and baking soda or a mild dish soap to remove oil residue.
Dry thoroughly to prevent mold or odor buildup.
Final Thoughts: Simple, Rich, and Satisfying
The French press remains one of the most beloved coffee brewing methods for good reason—it’s simple, reliable, and delivers a cup that’s both bold and comforting.
If you’re looking for a method that highlights richness, texture, and the full depth of your beans, the French press is a timeless tool worth mastering.
So go ahead—press play on your morning ritual.