Brewing Your First Cup with AeroPress: A Beginner’s Guide

The AeroPress is a forgiving, portable coffee maker that blends simplicity with rich flavor. Here’s how to brew a smooth cup in minutes, even if you’ve never used one before.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools

You’ll need an AeroPress, paper filters, freshly ground coffee (aim for a fine-to-medium grind, like table salt), hot water (around 200°F/94°C), a mug, and a spoon.

Preheat your mug with hot water to keep your coffee warm longer.

Step 2: Prep the AeroPress

Insert a filter into the plastic cap, then rinse it with hot water to eliminate paper taste.

Attach the cap to the brew chamber and place it on your mug.

Add 17–18 grams of coffee (about one rounded AeroPress scoop).

Step 3: Bloom and Brew

Start a timer as you pour hot water until the chamber reaches the “4” mark (roughly 200g of water).

Stir gently for 10 seconds to ensure all grounds are soaked.

Place the plunger on top to create a vacuum seal, preventing drips.

Step 4: Press and Enjoy

After 1 minute, remove the plunger, stir once more, then reattach it.

Press down slowly and steadily until you hear a hiss (this means all coffee is extracted, stop here to avoid bitterness).

Discard the filter and grounds, rinse the AeroPress, and savor your brew!

Recommended Video

For a visual guide, watch the above video, which demonstrates techniques like controlled pressing and temperature adjustments.

Customization Tips

Adjust grind size, water temperature, or brew time to tweak strength. Use The Coffee Calculator to help you determine the right coffee-to-water ratio based on your brew method (standard or inverted), amount of water, and coffee strength.

For a bolder cup, try the inverted method.

With practice, you’ll master this versatile brewer and maybe even invent your own award-winning recipe!