How to Use an AeroPress: A Beginners Guide to Brewing the Perfect Cup

Looking for a fast, flavorful, and foolproof way to brew coffee—without the grit or bitterness? The AeroPress might just be your new go-to. Compact, portable, and endlessly versatile, it delivers smooth, full-bodied coffee in minutes. Whether you're at home or on the go, this brewer makes it easy to enjoy a clean, balanced cup every time.

What Is an AeroPress?

The AeroPress is a manual coffee maker that uses air pressure to brew coffee quickly and efficiently. Invented by Alan Adler in 2005, it’s beloved for its unique brewing style that combines immersion and pressure to extract rich flavor without bitterness.

Why Use an AeroPress?

• Fast Brew Time: A delicious cup in just 2 minutes
• Low Acidity: Smooth and easy on the stomach
• No Grit: Paper or metal filters keep your cup clean
• No Bitterness: Short brew time and controlled extraction prevent harsh flavors
• Easy to Clean: Rinse and go
• Travel-Friendly: Lightweight and durable
• Versatile: Make espresso-style shots, American style coffee, iced coffee, and more.

What You Need

• AeroPress
• Paper or metal filter
• Freshly ground coffee (medium-fine)
• Hot water (about 185°F / 85°C)
• Spoon or stirrer
• Scale (optional)
• Your favorite mug

Standard Method AeroPress Recipe

Ingredients:

• Water to coffee ratio: 15:1
• 15–17g coffee (about 1 AeroPress scoop)
• 225g-255g hot water

Instructions:

1. Heat Water: Heat water to 185°F (85°C).
2. Separate Plunger: Separate plunger from immersion chamber.
3. Install Filter: Place a filter in the cap and install filter cap.
4. Add Coffee: Add ground coffee to the immersion chamber. Gently shake to level the coffee bed then place it on your mug.
5. Pour Water: Pour hot water over the grounds filling chamber to #4.
6. Stir: Stir gently for about 5 seconds. 
7. Insert Plunger: Insert plunger tip 1/2" into chamber
8. Let sit: Wait 30 seconds
9. Plunge: Insert the plunger and press down slowly until you hear a roar or hissing sound. 
10. Enjoy: Sip as an American style coffee or pour over ice. 

Pro Tips for AeroPress Brewing

• Grind Size: Medium-fine is best—similar to table salt.
• Water Temperature: Aim for 185°F (let water sit 45-60 seconds after boiling).
• Use a Scale: A 1:15 coffee-to-water ratio helps achieve consistency.
• Clean Immediately: Pop the puck and rinse—it takes seconds.

Clean-Up Made Easy

Just unscrew the cap, push the grounds into the trash or compost, and rinse all parts under water. Quick and effortless.

Why the AeroPress Belongs in Your Coffee Routine

Whether you're brewing at home or on the go, the AeroPress is one of the best tools to create consistently delicious coffee. Now that you know how to use an AeroPress, it's time to experiment, find your favorite method, and enjoy every sip.