How Many Tablespoons of Coffee for French Press

If you’re looking for a simple way to brew a bold, rich cup of coffee, the French press continues to be one of the best methods in 2025. This updated guide walks you through the ideal coffee measurements and latest best practices to help you get the most out of every press.

Why Is French Press Still a Fan Favorite?

There’s a reason the French press never goes out of style—it’s a practical, eco-conscious, and flavorful way to enjoy coffee. Here’s why so many coffee lovers swear by it:

• Minimal Setup – No power outlets, paper filters, or complicated machinery.
  
• Bold Flavor – The mesh filter allows natural coffee oils and micro-grounds to shine through, giving you a full-bodied brew.
  
• Portability & Reliability – Perfect for outdoor adventures or unexpected blackouts.
  
• Sustainable Brewing – With zero disposable parts, it’s a greener way to make coffee.
  

So, How Many Tablespoons of Coffee for a French Press?

The secret to great French press coffee lies in a balanced coffee-to-water ratio. A general rule of thumb is 1 part coffee to 15 parts water by weight (1:15).

To simplify things for everyday brewing, here’s a helpful conversion using tablespoons (1 tbsp ≈ 5g of coffee):

Water (ml)	Coffee (g)	Tablespoons
250 ml	17 g	~3.5 tbsp
500 ml	33 g	~6.5 tbsp
750 ml	50 g	~10 tbsp
1,000 ml	67 g	~13.5 tbsp

💡 Want a stronger cup? Try a 1:13 ratio. Prefer it milder? Go for 1:17 instead.

How to Brew French Press Coffee Like a Pro (2025 Method)

Here’s What You’ll Need:

• A clean French press
  
• Fresh whole beans or quality pre-ground coffee
  
• Coffee grinder (if using beans)
  
• Kettle
  
• Timer
  
• Spoon or stir stick
  
• Mug
  
• Scale or measuring spoons
  

Step-by-Step Brewing Instructions:

1. Preheat Your French Press
   Fill your press with hot water, swirl it around, then discard. This preps the glass for optimal brewing temperature.
   
2. Grind the Coffee (if applicable)
   Measure the amount based on the table above and grind coarsely—aim for a consistency like sea salt.
   
3. Add Grounds to Your French Press
   Dump the measured coffee into the pre-warmed carafe.
   
4. Heat Your Water
   Bring water to a boil, then let it cool for about 30 seconds to reach around 200°F (93°C)—the sweet spot for extraction.
   
5. Let the Coffee Bloom
   Pour just enough water to saturate the grounds (about double the amount of coffee), then let sit for 30 seconds. This helps release trapped gases and enhances flavor.
   
6. Add the Rest of the Water
   Fill the French press to your desired level. Give it a quick stir to ensure even saturation.
   
7. Place the Lid and Wait
   Put the lid on and pull up the plunger. Let the coffee steep for 4 minutes. If you like it stronger, go for 5 minutes, but be careful not to go too far—over-steeping can make your coffee bitter.
   
8. Plunge Slowly
   Push the plunger down with firm but steady pressure. If it sticks, ease up, then continue.
   
9. Serve & Enjoy
   Pour your coffee immediately—don’t leave it sitting in the press or it will continue brewing and turn harsh.
   

Final Pour

Knowing exactly how many tablespoons of coffee to use in your French press unlocks one of the easiest and most rewarding coffee experiences at home. With the right tools and ratios, you’ll be brewing rich, aromatic cups that rival your favorite café—without stepping out the door.

Want to explore coffee beans, brewing gear, or grind settings next? Let’s dive into that! ☕✨