How To Make Coffee in a Cafetiere

How to Make Coffee in a Cafetière

There’s something wonderfully satisfying about brewing coffee in a cafetière — also known as a French press. This classic brewing method allows you to enjoy rich, full-bodied flavor and complete control over your coffee’s strength. Whether you’re using a Bodum cafetière or another brand, the process is simple, rewarding, and perfect for coffee lovers who value freshness.

What You’ll Need

Before we dive in, make sure you have everything ready:

  • A cafetière (French press)

  • Freshly ground coffee beans (medium to coarse grind)

  • Digital scales (optional, but great for precision)

  • Boiling water, left to cool for around 30 seconds

  • A spoon or stirrer

  • A mug for serving

How Much Coffee Per Cup?

A good rule of thumb is 1 tablespoon (about 7 g) of ground coffee per 120 mL of water. For a standard 8-cup cafetière, that’s around 56 g of coffee.

If you prefer a stronger brew, you can increase the ratio slightly — or use a bold roast like our Cowboy Blend Coffee for an extra kick.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Coffee in a Cafetière

1. Measure Your Coffee

Use your digital scales or scoop to measure the right amount of coffee. Aim for a coarse grind — too fine and it can slip through the filter, leaving sediment in your cup.

2. Add Coffee to the Cafetière

Place the ground coffee into the base of the cafetière. If you love variety, try a rich and nutty option like Breakfast Blend Coffee or a smooth 6 Bean Blend Coffee for a mellow brew.

3. Add Hot Water

Pour in hot water that’s just off the boil (around 200°F / 92–96°C). Pour slowly to saturate all the grounds, then give it a gentle stir to mix.

4. Brew the Coffee

Place the lid on the cafetière but don’t press down yet. Let the coffee brew for around 4 minutes. If you prefer a bolder taste, leave it for an extra minute.

5. Press and Pour

After brewing, press the plunger down slowly and evenly. Pour immediately to avoid over-extraction — which can make your coffee taste bitter.

Enjoy your freshly brewed cafetière coffee straight away for the best flavor and aroma.

Tips for the Perfect Cafetière Coffee

  • Always use freshly ground beans — grind just before brewing for maximum freshness.

  • Avoid boiling water — it can scorch your grounds and ruin the taste.

  • Clean your cafetière thoroughly after each use to prevent old oils from tainting the flavor.

  • Experiment with different roasts and origins, such as Ethiopia Sidamo Coffee for floral notes or Brazil Santos Coffee for a smooth, nutty finish.

Cafetière vs Espresso Machine

A cafetière creates a more rounded, full-bodied cup compared to an espresso machine, which produces a sharper, more intense shot. If you enjoy the flavor of French press coffee, you might find it more aromatic and less acidic than espresso-based drinks like lattes or cappuccinos.

For a strong morning start, pair your cafetière brew with Cowboy Blend Coffee — perfect for those who love their coffee bold.

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