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How to make the best cup of coffee with the right-sized grind

Maryal Miller Carter   Paste BN
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Have you ever wondered what makes that coffee shop morning brew so exceptional? Aside from the obvious fact that it’s just nice to have someone else prepare your java, there’s one simple secret that you can replicate at home to elevate your cup of Joe. Hint? It’s all about the grind!

We’re sharing everything you need to know about grinding your coffee beans to perfection so you can bid goodbye to lackluster home brews and produce a cup of coffee that rivals that served by your favorite café. From the difference between blade and burr grinders to the right size grind for espresso, drip coffee, and cold brew, we're showing you how to make your coffee cup sing!

Watch the video above to learn how to get the best grind size to make perfect coffee.

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How to master grind size to make the perfect cup of coffee

  • Freshly ground beans are key to the best coffee, but not all grinders are created equal.
  • Blade grinders, though affordable, can result in inconsistent grind sizes, producing a mix of small and large grounds. Inconsistent grind size isn’t conducive to achieving a balanced brew with the desired flavor.
  • For an upgraded coffee experience, consider investing in a burr grinder.
  • Burr grinders ensure a consistently uniform grind for your beans. These grinders use two abrasive surfaces, known as burrs, to crush the coffee beans to a consistent size. The distance between the burrs can be adjusted, allowing users to set their preferred grind size.
  • Brewing great coffee hinges on the right extraction, and choosing the correct grind size guarantees a perfect cup every time.
  • The appropriate grind size depends on your chosen brewing method. With a burr grinder, you can customize your grind size every time to achieve the desired flavor profile. Most simple burr grinders offer:
    • Fine grounds, which are ideal for espresso.
    • Medium grounds, which suit pour-over and drip coffee.
    • Coarse grounds, which work well for French Press and cold brew.
  • Weigh your beans before grinding to avoid wasting expensive coffee.

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