What is an AeroPress?
The AeroPress is a revolutionary coffee brewing device invented in 2005 by Alan Adler. It uses air pressure to push hot water through coffee grounds, producing a smooth, rich cup of coffee in under 2 minutes. The AeroPress has become beloved by coffee enthusiasts worldwide for its versatility, portability, and ability to produce exceptional coffee with minimal effort.
Unlike traditional brewing methods, the AeroPress gives you complete control over every variable: water temperature, brewing time, grind size, and pressure. This makes it perfect for experimenting and finding your ideal cup.
Equipment You’ll Need
- AeroPress Coffee Maker – The complete kit includes the chamber, plunger, filter cap, stirrer, scoop, and funnel ($30-40)
- AeroPress Filters – Paper or metal reusable filters
- Coffee Grinder – Burr grinder preferred for consistent results
- Fresh Coffee Beans – Medium to light roast works best
- Kettle – Gooseneck kettle for precise pouring (optional but helpful)
- Kitchen Scale – For accurate coffee-to-water ratios
- Timer – Most smartphones work perfectly
- Mug – Sturdy enough to support the AeroPress
The Standard AeroPress Method
This is the classic method that comes with the AeroPress instructions. It’s straightforward and produces excellent results.
Step 1: Setup and Preheat
Place a paper filter in the filter cap and rinse it with hot water. This removes any paper taste and preheats the cap. Attach the filter cap to the chamber and place it on top of your mug.
Step 2: Add Coffee
Grind 15-18 grams of coffee to a fine-to-medium grind (slightly finer than drip coffee). Add the grounds to the AeroPress chamber using the funnel.
Step 3: Add Water and Stir
Heat water to 175-185°F (80-85°C). Pour water up to the number 1 or 2 marking (depending on desired strength). Stir gently for 10 seconds to ensure all grounds are saturated.
Step 4: Brew
Insert the plunger and pull up slightly to create a vacuum seal. Let it brew for 1-2 minutes total (including stirring time).
Step 5: Press and Enjoy
Slowly press down with steady pressure for 20-30 seconds. Stop when you hear a hissing sound. Remove the AeroPress, unscrew the cap, and eject the coffee puck into compost or trash.
The Inverted AeroPress Method
The inverted method is popular among coffee enthusiasts because it allows for longer steep times without dripping. Here’s how:
Step 1: Flip It
Start with the plunger inserted about 1 inch into the chamber. Flip the AeroPress upside down so it stands on the plunger.
Step 2: Add Coffee and Water
Add 15-18 grams of medium-fine ground coffee. Pour water (175-185°F) to fill the chamber, leaving about an inch at the top. Stir for 10 seconds.
Step 3: Steep
Place the filter cap (with rinsed filter) on top and let it steep for 1-2 minutes.
Step 4: Flip and Press
Carefully flip the entire AeroPress onto your mug. Press down slowly and steadily for 20-30 seconds until you hear the hiss.
Pro Tips for AeroPress Perfection
- Experiment with grind size – Finer grinds create more pressure and body, coarser grinds produce cleaner cups
- Try different water temperatures – Lower temps (165-175°F) reduce bitterness, higher temps (185-195°F) increase extraction
- Adjust your coffee-to-water ratio – Start with 1:15 and adjust to taste
- Use the inverted method for longer steeps – Great for lighter roasts that need more extraction time
- Dilute to taste – AeroPress makes concentrated coffee; add hot water to reach your preferred strength
- Clean immediately – Eject the puck right away for easiest cleanup
- Try metal filters – They allow more oils through for a fuller-bodied cup
Common AeroPress Mistakes to Avoid
- Using boiling water – This scorches the coffee and creates bitterness
- Grinding too fine – Creates excessive pressure and can cause blowouts
- Pressing too fast – Leads to channeling and uneven extraction
- Not rinsing the filter – Paper filters have a papery taste if not rinsed
- Overfilling in inverted method – Can leak when flipping
Frequently Asked Questions
How much coffee does an AeroPress make?
A standard AeroPress makes 1-3 cups of concentrated coffee (about 8 ounces), which can be diluted with hot water to make up to 10 ounces of American-style coffee.
Can I make cold brew with an AeroPress?
Yes! Use the inverted method with room temperature water and steep for 24 hours in the refrigerator. Press and dilute with cold water or milk.
How often should I replace AeroPress filters?
Paper filters are single-use. Metal filters can last years with proper cleaning. Some users rinse and reuse paper filters 2-3 times, though this isn’t officially recommended.
What’s the difference between standard and inverted methods?
The standard method allows coffee to drip through immediately, while the inverted method creates a seal that lets you control steep time precisely. The inverted method is preferred for longer brewing times.
Can I travel with an AeroPress?
Absolutely! The AeroPress is incredibly portable and perfect for camping, travel, or office use. It’s durable, lightweight, and requires no electricity.