How Many Tablespoons Of Coffee Per Cup | Guide From Experts

Coffee experts and baristas agree that using the right ratio of coffee grounds to water is crucial for brewing a great cup of coffee at home. The ideal balance results in a brew that is rich and full-bodied without tasting overpoweringly bitter or weak and watery. But with so many different cup sizes and brewing methods, how do you know how much coffee to use per cup? Generally, between 1 1⁄2 to 2 tablespoons of ground coffee per 6-ounce cup is recommended, but the proper amount depends on your taste preferences and the brewing method.

Standard Coffee Measurement

Most coffee experts recommend using between 1 1⁄2 to 2 level tablespoons of ground coffee per 6-ounce cup of water. Measuring with level tablespoons eliminates clumping and provides a more precise measurement than scooping directly into the filter basket. The Specialty Coffee Association advises a range of 8 to 10 grams of coffee for every 6 ounces of water. For reference, a leveled tablespoon of medium coffee grounds weighs roughly 5 to 6 grams. So for a standard 6 to 8-ounce coffee mug, about 1 1⁄2 to 2 tablespoons or 10 to 15 grams of coffee is ideal. However, if you prefer strong coffee, you may want to use 2 tablespoons per 6-ounce cup. Those who like mild coffee may be satisfied with just 1 1⁄2 tablespoons.

Keep in mind that the scoop size used affects the amount of coffee measured. A rounded tablespoon heaping with coffee can weigh twice as much as a leveled tablespoon. So the scooping method plays a role when portioning out ground coffee. Be consistent in how the tablespoons are measured to achieve the desired strength. Generally, flatter tablespoons provide better accuracy and precision.

Grind Size

The coarseness or fineness of the coffee grind also impacts the flavor and caffeine level. Finer grinds lead to increased extraction, resulting in bolder, stronger coffee. But finer grinds also need a bit less ground coffee compared to coarser grinds. A medium-fine consistency is considered optimal for drip machines. Slightly coarser French press grinds require slightly more ground coffee for full extraction. Espresso methods utilize the finest grind, which extracts fully with less coffee. So adjust your tablespoons per cup to account for grind size and brewing method. In most cases, 1 1⁄2 to 2 tablespoons per 6 ounce cup makes a great cup of coffee regardless of grind size.

Coffee to Water Ratio and Conversions

The Specialty Coffee Association of America recommends using a standard coffee to water ratio of 1:18. This means 1 gram of ground coffee for every 18 grams of water (or 1 milliliter of water). Based on this ratio, for a 6-ounce cup, use 1 ounce of ground coffee for every 9 ounces of water. Converting this ratio to tablespoons:

• A 6-ounce cup equals approximately 3⁄4 cup or 177 milliliters of water.
• 1 ounce of coffee equals about 2 tablespoons or 10 grams.
• So for a 6-ounce cup, use 2 tablespoons of ground coffee with 6 ounces or 3⁄4 cup of water.

This 1:18 ratio can be applied to other cup sizes:

• 8-ounce cup: Use 2 1⁄2 to 3 tablespoons coffee with 1 cup water
• 10-ounce mug: Use 3 1⁄2 to 4 tablespoons coffee with 1 1⁄4 cups water
• 12-ounce mug: Use 4 to 4 1⁄2 tablespoons coffee with 1 1⁄2 cups water

So in summary, the standard is about 1 1⁄2 to 2 tablespoons of ground coffee for a 6 to 8-ounce cup of coffee. Adjust the amount up or down based on your preferred strength and the size of your mug or cup. Those who enjoy bold, strong coffee may prefer using 2 tablespoons per 6 ounces of water. While a milder brew may only need 1 1⁄2 tablespoons per 6 ounces of water.

Adjusting for Taste

Keep in mind that the standard 1 1⁄2 to 2 tablespoon coffee to 6-ounce water ratio is just a starting point. Taste is subjective, so you may need to adjust the amount to suit your preferences. If your coffee tastes weak and watery, try adding an extra teaspoon of ground coffee next time. Or reduce the amount if the brew tastes too bitter and strong. Brewing time, filter type, and water chemistry also impact taste, so you may need to tweak and dial in the ideal amount of coffee through trial and error. There is no “perfect” amount that suits everyone’s palate. Use the standard measurements as a baseline then adjust according to your tastes.

Conclusion

Achieving the optimal cup of coffee depends on using the right amount of ground coffee for the volume of water brewed. While 1 1⁄2 to 2 tablespoons per 6 ounces of water is typical, adjust the amount based on your preferred strength, cup size, and brew method. Keep in mind that grind size also impacts flavor. Consistency is key when measuring coffee grounds. Weighing with a kitchen scale increases accuracy but using flat leveled tablespoons works well too. Treat the standard coffee-to-water ratios as a starting point then tweak and tailor to your taste. Proper coffee-to-water ratio results in a smooth, balanced, flavorful cup of coffee.