AeroPress is one of the most versatile and appreciated coffee brewing methods, offering a fast, clean, and flavorful extraction. Invented by Alan Adler in 2005, this compact device has gained popularity among specialty coffee enthusiasts due to its flexibility and ability to produce a well-balanced cup without excessive bitterness.

Why choose AeroPress?

  1. Total control over extraction – You can adjust the brewing time, water temperature, and grind size to achieve different flavor profiles.

  2. Fast and efficient – Brewing coffee with an AeroPress takes only 1-2 minutes, making it ideal for those on the go.

  3. Easy to clean – Unlike other methods, the AeroPress is simple and quick to clean.

  4. Excellent portability – Thanks to its compact design, it’s perfect for travel, camping, or the office.

Secrets to a perfect extraction

  1. Choose the right coffee – For the best experience, use freshly roasted coffee with a medium-fine grind.

  2. Use quality water – Filtered water with a balanced TDS will highlight the coffee’s flavors.

  3. Experiment with recipes – AeroPress allows both the traditional and inverted methods, each providing different nuances in the cup.

  4. Play with brew time – A brew time between 1 and 3 minutes can significantly impact the body and complexity of the coffee.

  5. Apply proper pressure – The plunger should be pressed down evenly and steadily for a balanced extraction.

Popular brewing methods

  • Classic method: Add coffee and water, stir gently, then press slowly.

  • Inverted method: Allows for a longer infusion, resulting in a fuller-bodied coffee.

  • Competition method: Used in AeroPress championships, involving precise variations in temperature, coffee-to-water ratio, and pressing techniques.

Conclusion

AeroPress is an incredibly versatile brewing method that allows you to experiment and discover new flavors in every cup. Whether you prefer a sweeter, more acidic, or fuller-bodied coffee, adjusting the parameters helps you find the perfect balance. Whether you’re a beginner or a specialty coffee enthusiast, AeroPress offers a simple and innovative way to enjoy a perfect extraction anywhere you go.

Cafetaria's AeroPress Method

At Cafetaria, this is the AeroPress method we use, based on a ratio of approximately 1:16.7:

  • Dose: 13.2 g coffee to 220 ml water (or 15 g coffee to 250 ml water)
  • Grind: medium
  • Setup: assemble and preheat the AeroPress, place it on a scale, add the ground coffee, and tare
  • First pour: pour 50 ml of hot water and stir gently for 5–10 seconds
  • Second pour: add the remaining water to reach the total dose
  • Filter and press: wet the paper filter, attach it, turn the AeroPress upside-down over the cup — a widely-used approach known as the inverted method — then press the plunger down gently and steadily

We don't fix an exact water temperature or press duration for this recipe. As a general starting point, AeroPress's own brewing guidance suggests around 80°C for darker roasts and 85°C for medium/light roasts, pressing steadily until you hear a hissing sound — usually over about 20–30 seconds.