What is the correct espresso ratio?

The standard espresso ratio is 1:2 — 18g of coffee yields 36g of espresso liquid in 25–30 seconds.

Why is my espresso sour?

Sour espresso is under-extracted. The shot ran too fast (under 25s). Fix: grind finer, increase your dose, or raise water temperature.

Why is my espresso bitter?

Bitter espresso is over-extracted. The shot ran too slowly (over 35s). Fix: grind coarser, reduce dose, or lower water temperature slightly.

What temperature should espresso water be?

Espresso water should be 90–96°C (194–205°F). A good starting point is 93°C. Lighter roasts benefit from higher temps; darker roasts from slightly lower.

All Brew Methods

Espresso

The Perfect Espresso

Master pressure, temperature and grind size to pull a shot that's syrupy, sweet and perfectly balanced.

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A perfect espresso is one of the most rewarding things to make. Follow this guide step by step — with timers and tips — to pull a shot that rivals your favourite café.

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18g

Coffee Dose

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36g

Yield

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93°C

Water Temp

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25–30s

Extract Time

8 steps · Follow along in real time