Coffee to Water Ratio Calculator
Your Brewing Recipe
The Ultimate Guide to Coffee to Water Ratios
Whether you are brewing a morning pour-over or a weekend French press, the relationship between your coffee grounds and your water is the single most important factor in determining the taste of your cup. This ratio dictates the "TDS" (Total Dissolved Solids) and the extraction level of your brew.
What is a Coffee Brew Ratio?
A coffee ratio is a simple mathematical relationship expressed as Coffee : Water. In the specialty coffee world, we use weight (grams) rather than volume (scoops or cups) because coffee beans vary significantly in density. A "1:16 ratio" means for every 1 gram of coffee, you use 16 grams (which equals 16 milliliters) of water.
Common Ratios and Flavor Profiles
| Ratio | Common Use | Flavor Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 1:12 | Aeropress / Cold Brew Base | Very intense, concentrated, heavy body. |
| 1:15 | French Press / Siphon | Rich, bold, and syrupy. |
| 1:16 – 1:17 | Pour-over / Auto-Drip | The "Golden Ratio." Balanced and clear. |
| 1:18 | Chemex / Light Roasts | Tea-like, bright, highlights acidity. |
Why Use a Calculator?
Consistency is the hallmark of a great barista. By using our coffee to water ratio calculator, you remove the guesswork. If you find a recipe you love, you can scale it up for guests or down for a single cup without losing that perfect flavor balance.
Example Calculation
If you have a bag of expensive Ethiopian light roast and you want to make a standard 300ml (approx. 10oz) cup using a 1:16 ratio:
- Total Water: 300g
- The Math: 300 / 16 = 18.75
- Result: Use 18.8 grams of coffee.
Pro Tips for Better Brewing
- Use a Scale: Kitchen scales are more accurate than measuring spoons. One tablespoon of dark roast weighs less than one tablespoon of light roast.
- Water Quality: Since coffee is 98% water, use filtered water for the best taste.
- Adjust to Taste: If your coffee tastes too bitter, try a higher ratio (e.g., move from 1:15 to 1:17). If it tastes sour or thin, try a lower ratio (e.g., move from 1:17 to 1:15).