How to make coffee with an Aeropress
Make yourself an awesome brew with an AeroPress
If you're looking for a fast, easy, and delicious way to make coffee, look no further than the AeroPress! This kitchen gadget is becoming increasingly popular for its ability to brew quality coffee in a matter of minutes. Plus, it's incredibly easy to use - even if you're a beginner.
Here's what we'll cover so you'll be clued up on all things AeroPress coffee:
- What you'll need to make awesome tasting coffee with an AeroPress
- A step-by-step guide to making coffee with an AeroPress
- What is an AeroPress?
- The benefits of making coffee with an AeroPress
- Top tips for making AeroPress coffee
Our recipe for coffee with an AeroPress
What you'll need:
AeroPress body in 3 parts - filter cap, chamber, plunger
AeroPress scoop and plunger
Coffee, ground medium fine
Kettle
Timer
Scales (optional)
15g of ground coffee to 250ml of water, for a filter-like brew
Our step-by-step guide to making coffee with an AeroPress:
The beauty of AeroPress is that everything you'll need (aside from your favourite 92° coffee) comes in the box, including a years' worth of filters. Scales are a good option to provide precision, however, the coffee scoop and chamber are designed so that precise measurements aren't necessary.
Insert a filter paper into the filter cap and screw into the chamber. Place the AeroPress over your cup of choice and use a generous amount of boiling water to rinse the paper and arm your cup. Tip this water away.
Measure out 15g of ground coffee. If you're not using scales, this is a full, levelled scoop. Tip into the chamber and tap to level.
Set your timer and steadily pour water until the chamber is full (or at 250g, if weighing with scales). Grab your spoon and stir three times, using straight rather than circular motions (think of it like drawing a 5-pointed star).
Using a rolling circular motion, insert the plunger into the chamber to create a seal. This entire step should take around 10 seconds - so, be quick!
At the 1-minute mark, remove the plunger and stir again
Replace the plunger and steadily press down until all the liquid has been pushed through. If you hear a hiss - stop! This should take approximately 30 seconds
Allow a couple of seconds for the last of the coffee to drip. Unscrew filter cap over your (compost) bin and press the plunger through to remove the coffee. Rinse the machine body immediately after use. Either pat dry and reassemble or leave to air dry with the chamber and plunger locked together, so as not to warp the rubber and maintain a good seal.
Use the paddle to give one last stir, then drink and enjoy!
What is an AeroPress?
The AeroPress is a coffee brewing gadget that was invented in 2005 by aerobics equipment manufacturer Alan Adler. The AeroPress coffee maker is made up of three parts - the plunger, the chamber, and the filter cap - and works by pressurising water to extract coffee from the ground beans. This process results in a concentrate, which can be diluted with water or milk to make an americano or latte respectively.
The benefits of making coffee with an AeroPress
There are many reasons why people choose to make coffee with an AeroPress over other methods, such as a drip filter or French press. An AeroPress is quick and easy to use, meaning you can have a delicious cup of coffee ready in a matter of minutes. It's a very versatile brewing method as you can make all kinds of coffee drinks with an AeroPress, from espresso to cold brew.
It's relatively low maintenance, as you only need to rinse it out after each use (no need for descaling). The equipment itself is lightweight and portable, making it ideal for taking on camping trips or travels.
Top tips for making AeroPress coffee
Now that you know the basics of how to make AeroPress coffee, here are a few tips to help you make the perfect cup. Use freshly ground beans for the best results - we recommend a medium grind. Use filtered or bottled water if your tap water isn't great quality, as this can affect the quality of your brew.
Note that the whole process is so quick that it might take a few attempts for you to perfect this brewing method. Over-stirring, not making a proper seal, plunging too fast or too slow, could all affect the extraction and taste of your AeroPress coffee. Don’t panic, keep trying! Once you've got the knack of it, muscle memory will take over!