Brew Like a Barista - No Scale Required

At Main Street Roasters, we believe every cup of coffee should taste as rich and rewarding as the community that gathers around it. One of the simplest ways to elevate your at-home brewing experience is by nailing the coffee-to-water ratio. 

Whether you're using a French press, pour-over, drip machine, or AeroPress, this cheat sheet will help you brew with confidence. Let's break down the math... and the flavor. 

Why Coffee-to-Water Ratio Matters

Getting the right ratio ensures that your coffee isn't too weak or too bitter. Use too much water, and your coffee is watery and dull. Use too little, and it becomes overly concentrated and harsh. 

Bottom line: A precise coffee-to-water ratio is the key to a consistent, flavorful brew.

The Golden Ratio for Coffee

The SCA (Specialty Coffee Association) recommends a 1:16 ratio... that's 1 gram of coffee for every 16 grams (or ml) of water. 

Here's what that looks like in everyday measurements: 

Pro Tip: Use a burr grinder for even grind size and better extraction. 

Brew Method Quick Guide

Different brewing methods work best with slightly adjusted ratios. Here's your cheat sheet: 

Don't Have a Scale? No Problem.

Here's a quick guide using tablespoons and cups: 

• 1 Tbsp of coffee ≈ 5 grams
• 1 cup of water = 8 fluid ounces or 240 ml

So, for one 8 oz cup:

• Use 2 tablespoons of ground coffee for a solid 1:16 brew. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I adjust the ratio for stronger or lighter coffee?
A: Start with 1:16 and adjust gradually. For stronger coffee, try 1:15 or even 1:14. For a lighter brew, go up to 1:17.

Q: Does grind size affect the ratio??
A: Not the ratio, but it does affect how fast the water extracts flavor. Finer grinds extract faster (great for espresso), coarser grinds need more time (like in a French press).

Q: Can I use this cheat sheet with flavored or specialty beans? 
A: Absolutely. Our roasts at Main Street Roasters are crafted to shine with balanced brewing. This guide helps you highlight those flavors... not hide them. 

Final Pour: Brew with Confidence

With this coffee-to-water ratio cheat sheet, you're set to make better, more consistent coffee every time. Great coffee starts with great beans... and the right balance. 

Want to experiment with small-batch roasts, seasonal blends, and single-origin coffees? Explore our freshly roasted coffees and taste the Main Street difference. 

☕️ Side Note: 

If you're ready to take your brewing skills even further, check out our guide:
👉 Brew Better at Home: A Step-by-Step Guide to Making Coffee Like a Pro

It's packed with easy tips to help you refine your technique and bring out the best in every cup.