Need to brew a full pot of coffee but unsure how much to use? Whether you’re hosting brunch or fueling a workday marathon, nailing the coffee-to-water ratio is key. We’ll break down exactly how many scoops of coffee you need for 12 cups—plus pro tips for a perfect brew every tim

The Short Answer
For a standard 12-cup coffee maker:
- Use 12 scoops (or 24 tablespoons) of ground coffee + 72 ounces of water.
Why? Most drip coffee makers define 1 “cup” as 6 ounces, not 8 oz. So 12 “cups” = 72 ounces of water.
The Golden Coffee-to-Water Ratio
The industry standard for balanced flavor is 1–2 tablespoons of coffee per 6 ounces of water. Here’s the math:
- Light brew: 1 tbsp per 6 oz → 12 scoops for 12 cups.
- Medium brew: 1.5 tbsp per 6 oz → 18 scoops for 12 cups.
- Strong brew: 2 tbsp per 6 oz → 24 scoops for 12 cups.
Pro Tip: A standard coffee “scoop” holds 2 tablespoons. So:
- 12 cups = 12 scoops (medium strength).
Cheat Sheet: Coffee Scoops for 12 Cups
Cup Size | Total Water | Scoops (Medium Brew) |
---|---|---|
6 oz cups | 72 oz | 12 scoops (24 tbsp) |
8 oz mugs | 96 oz | 16 scoops (32 tbsp) |
⚠️ Got a jumbo mug? Adjust scoops based on your cup size!
3 Factors That Change the Game
- Bean Type: Dark roasts taste stronger—use slightly fewer scoops. Light roasts? Add an extra scoop.
- Grind Size: Finer grinds = more extraction. Use 1 fewer scoop for espresso-like grinds.
- Your Taste Buds: Love bold coffee? Add 1–2 extra scoops. Prefer mild? Subtract 1–2.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
🚫 Eyeballing scoops: Inconsistent scooping leads to weak or bitter coffee. Use a measuring spoon!
🚫 Ignoring your machine: Some brewers run too hot/fast—adjust scoops after a test batch.
🚫 Using stale beans: Freshness matters! Grind beans right before brewing.
Pro Tip: Brew Smarter, Not Harder
- Cold brew? Use 1.5x the scoops (it’s diluted later).
- Travel mug user? Brew stronger to compensate for melting ice or cooling.
Final Sip
For a classic 12-cup pot, 12 scoops (24 tbsp) of coffee is your magic number. Adjust up or down based on your taste, grind, and mug size. Now go forth and brew with confidence! ☕✨
Found this helpful? Share it with your coffee crew or save it for your next brew day! 📌
Still have questions? Drop a comment below—we’re here to help!
ALL ABOUT COFFEE
Q: Can stone coffee cups go in the dishwasher?A: Yes! For precision, aim for a 1:17 coffee-to-water ratio (e.g., 72g coffee for 1,224g water).
Q: What if my coffee tastes bitter?A: You’re over-extracting. Use fewer scoops, coarser grinds, or less brew time.
Q: Does decaf need the same amount?A: Yes! Strength depends on roast, not caffeine content.