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Coffee to Water Ratio Calculator

Strong (1:15) – French Press Standard (1:16) – Pour Over The Golden Ratio (1:17) – Drip Light (1:18) – Chemex Espresso (1:2) Custom Ratio

Your Recipe

Water Required: 0

Approximate Volume: 0

Tip: 1 gram of water is exactly 1 milliliter (ml).

document.getElementById('ratioSelect').onchange = function() { var customDiv = document.getElementById('customRatioDiv'); if (this.value === 'custom') { customDiv.style.display = 'block'; } else { customDiv.style.display = 'none'; } }; function calculateCoffeeBrew() { var coffeeGrams = parseFloat(document.getElementById('coffeeInput').value); var selectedRatio = document.getElementById('ratioSelect').value; var ratioValue; if (selectedRatio === 'custom') { ratioValue = parseFloat(document.getElementById('customRatioInput').value); } else { ratioValue = parseFloat(selectedRatio); } if (isNaN(coffeeGrams) || coffeeGrams <= 0) { alert('Please enter a valid amount of coffee.'); return; } if (isNaN(ratioValue) || ratioValue <= 0) { alert('Please enter a valid ratio.'); return; } var waterGrams = coffeeGrams * ratioValue; var waterOz = waterGrams * 0.033814; document.getElementById('waterOutput').innerHTML = waterGrams.toFixed(1) + ' g (ml)'; document.getElementById('ozOutput').innerHTML = waterOz.toFixed(2) + ' fl oz'; document.getElementById('brewResult').style.display = 'block'; }

Mastering the Coffee to Water Ratio

The secret to a barista-quality cup of coffee at home isn't just the beans; it's the precision of your coffee-to-water ratio. Using a coffee ratio calculator ensures consistency, allowing you to dial in the strength and flavor profile of your brew perfectly every time.

The "Golden Ratio" Explained

The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) recommends a "Golden Ratio" of 1:17. This means for every 1 gram of coffee, you use 17 grams of water. This ratio generally results in a well-balanced extraction, highlighting the acidity, sweetness, and body of the bean without over-extracting bitter notes.

Common Ratios by Brew Method

  • French Press (1:15): A tighter ratio for a richer, heavier body.
  • Pour Over (1:16 to 1:17): Provides clarity of flavor and a clean finish.
  • Drip Coffee Maker (1:17): The standard for most automatic machines.
  • Chemex (1:18): A higher ratio to account for the thick filters that strip away oils, producing a tea-like clarity.
  • Espresso (1:2): A highly concentrated ratio for intense flavor.

How to Use This Calculator

To get started, simply weigh your coffee beans using a digital scale. Enter that weight into the calculator, select your preferred brewing method, and the tool will instantly tell you how much water (in grams/milliliters) you need to add. Since 1 gram of water equals 1 milliliter, you can use a scale or a measuring cup for the water.

Coffee Weight Ratio (1:16) Water Needed
15g (Single Cup) 1:16 240ml
30g (Two Cups) 1:16 480ml
60g (Full Pot) 1:16 960ml

Barista Tips for Better Brewing

Use a Scale: Volume measurements (scoops and cups) are inaccurate because coffee density varies by roast level. Always measure by weight for the best results.

Water Quality: Your coffee is 98% water. Use filtered water to ensure no chlorine or mineral odors interfere with the taste of your specialty beans.

Adjust to Taste: If your coffee tastes too strong or bitter, try a 1:18 ratio. If it tastes sour or weak, move toward 1:15.

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