French Press Espresso
The right way to make real espresso using a French Press. Perfect for sipping, Americano, lattes, iced espresso drinks, tiramisu, and more!
Servings 2 shots
Calories 1kcal
Ingredients
- 3 rounded tablespoons of ground espresso beans (18 grams)
- ⅓ cup filtered water (80 ml)
Instructions
- Espresso Grounds: Pour the grounds into the bottom of the French press.
- Water: Heat the water to about 200 degrees F. This is just below boiling, so either use a thermometer or allow the water to boil then wait for two minutes for the temperature to drop slightly.
- Bloom: Pour just a few splashes of water into the french press and swirl or stir the grounds. Wait for 30 seconds. This is called blooming. It allows the carbon dioxide to escape quickly and makes a better tasting espresso. Then pour the remaining water into the French press. Cover with the lid but do not press the plunger down. Wait 4 minutes.
- Plunge: After 4 minutes, press the plunger down slowly. To create crema, gently pull the plunger back out and plunge again (you can do this a couple of times to create a thicker layer of foam). Pour out the espresso immediately to prevent over-extraction. You should get ¼ cup of espresso (two shots).*
- Enjoy: Enjoy your espresso, or use it to make an Americano ("Espresso Coffee", see notes) or in one of our espresso drinks!
Notes
*Check to make sure no water is trapped in the bottom of the French press after pouring out the espresso. This can happen because espresso grounds are finer than regular coffee grounds. If water is trapped, try adjusting the plunger or setting the French press upright for a moment and pouring again. You may not need to do this at all or more than once, depending on your French Press.
Variations and Uses
Here are a few ways to enjoy or vary this espresso recipe:- Americano - An Americano is a shot of espresso with additional water added to dilute to the size of a traditional American coffee. Use 2 rounded tablespoons of espresso powder per 1 cup of filtered water to make an Americano. Or simply make the espresso as listed and top with additional hot water to your desired taste.
- Latte - Make your espresso as listed then top with steamed milk to your desired taste.
- Espresso for Tiramisu - If you are making Tiramisu, you can use full strength espresso or very strong Espresso Coffee for dipping ladyfingers. Using 3-4 rounded tablespoons of espresso grounds for every 1 cup of water is an ok ratio for Tiramisu or Espresso Coffee. Try our impossibly authentic Dairy-Free Tiramisu or traditional Strawberry Tiramisu with this French Press Espresso recipe!
Nutrition
Calories: 1kcal