It is the question that plagues coffee drinkers everywhere…how much coffee should I use when I make a pot of coffee at home? Or more to the point, how much is too much or too little? Although, the standard is 2 tablespoons (tbsp) of coffee for every 6 ounces (oz) of water, the answer largely depends on personal taste and the standard may be too much for you. I am a firm believer in the notion that the perfect cup of coffee is the one you will drink. However, there are some things you need to know.
Measuring Ground Coffee Versus Whole Beans
There is no difference in how much ground coffee you should use and how much whole beans you should use. They will measure out the same. However, for taste and freshness sake, you should always use whole beans.
Knowing How to Measure
If you are using an automatic drip coffee maker than you need to know what the cup size is as indicated by the marks on the water reservoir, some will be 6 ounces while others will be 8 ounces. If you are using another brewing method, then I would recommend using a measuring cup for the water.
Use the Same Scoop
In order to make sure that you’re measuring the same way each time you make a pot or cup of coffee, use the same scoop. Also, do yourself a favor and get a good coffee measuring scoop
The First Steps
If you are not sure and still struggling with how much coffee to use, then try this. If you have a way of measuring to the standard of 2 tbsp per 6 oz. of water, then try that first. If you do not like it and want something lighter than just reduce the amount by one scoop.
If you do not have a way of measuring to the standard than take the number of cups you are brewing and cut it in half and use that number of scoops and adjust accordingly. The thing you need to remember is that you do not want to use too little coffee that you are taking away from the fullness and flavor of the bean.
Simple Rule
If you still have trouble then just remember this simple rule: if you can see through it, you aren’t using enough coffee.
