If you’re a coffee lover, you know that getting the right coffee-to-water ratio is crucial for the perfect cup. But how many scoops of coffee per cup should you use? The answer depends on your brewing method, desired strength, and the size of your coffee scoop.


The Golden Coffee Ratio

The standard rule for brewing a well-balanced cup of coffee is:

1 standard scoop (2 tablespoons) per 6-8 ounces of water

This ratio ensures a rich and flavorful cup, but it can be adjusted based on personal preference.


Adjusting for Strength

  • Mild Coffee – 1 scoop per 8-10 ounces of water
  • Regular Coffee – 1 scoop per 6 ounces of water
  • Strong Coffee – 1.5 scoops per 6 ounces of water

If you like a bolder taste, simply increase the amount of coffee rather than decreasing the water, as this helps maintain the flavor balance.


Scoop Size Matters

A standard coffee scoop holds 2 tablespoons (10 grams) of coffee. If you’re using a regular tablespoon instead of a coffee scoop:

  • 1 scoop = 2 tablespoons
  • 1 tablespoon = half a scoop

If you’re using a kitchen scale, the ideal coffee-to-water ratio is about 1 gram of coffee per 15-18 grams of water.


Brewing Method & Coffee Scoops

Different coffee makers require different coffee-to-water ratios:

Brewing MethodScoops per 6-8 oz Cup
Drip Coffee Maker1 scoop
French Press1 to 1.5 scoops
Espresso Machine1 scoop per shot (around 2 oz)
Pour-Over1.5 scoops
Cold Brew1 scoop per 4 oz (strong concentrate)

Final Tips for the Perfect Cup

✅ Use freshly ground coffee beans for the best flavor.
Measure accurately with a scoop or scale for consistency.
✅ Adjust the ratio to match your taste—stronger or milder.

So next time you make your morning coffee, remember: one scoop per cup is the golden rule, but feel free to tweak it to your taste! ☕✨