Brewing Brightside: AeroPress

How to Brew a Bright and Bold Aeropress Coffee

The Aeropress might look like a gadget from an Austin Powers movie, but it’s one of the best ways to get a great cup of coffee, wherever you are. Portable, easy to use, and delivering a flavor punch, this method is versatile enough for a range of taste preferences.

Brightside’s Quick Guide for a Light & Bright Coffee

If you’re after a lively, fruity flavor that’s light and bright, this guide’s for you.

1. Prep the Filter: Rinse a paper filter with hot water and place it in the filter holder. Attach it to the outer cylinder of the Aeropress and set it over your mug or serving vessel.

2. Add Coffee: Measure 14 grams of finely ground coffee, aiming for a light roast to bring out fruity, acidic notes, and place it in the Aeropress.

3. First Pour: Pour 100 grams of boiling water over the grounds, then stir to make sure everything’s well saturated.

4. Top Off with Water: Pour another 100 grams of boiling water in, then place the plunger in the outer cylinder without pressing – this helps keep the water from dripping through prematurely.

5. Steep & Press: Let it steep for about 1 minute and 30 seconds. Then, slowly press the plunger down with steady force until all that bright, fruity coffee is in your cup. Remember, it should feel like moderate pressure – no need to Hulk-smash it!

Brightside Tip: Light roasts with a lighter coffee-to-water ratio will give you a juicier, fruitier cup. Perfect for those who like their coffee with a refreshing kick.

A Stronger, Bolder Aeropress Brew

If you’re more into a full-bodied, bold flavor with a bit of a caffeine punch, try this more intense recipe.

1. Prep the Filter: Just like before, rinse your paper filter and place it in the filter holder. Attach it to the Aeropress and set it on your cup.

2. Add Coffee: For this brew, go for 20 grams of finely ground coffee. Choose a darker roast or a blend that delivers those rich, chocolatey flavors.

3. First Pour: Pour 100 grams of boiling water over the grounds and give it a good stir to kick-start the extraction.

4. Top Off with Water: Add another 100 grams of boiling water, then carefully insert the plunger to hold everything in place until you’re ready to press.

5. Steep & Press: Let this one steep a bit longer, around 2 minutes, for a stronger extraction. Then, press down slowly until you’ve squeezed every drop of bold, intense flavor into your cup.

Brightside Tip: This higher coffee-to-water ratio and longer brew time bring out a richer, intense flavor. Ideal if you’re planning to add milk or just want a heartier coffee to start the day.

Now you’ve got two killer recipes for your Aeropress – one light and bright, one bold and rich. Take your pick, and remember, experimenting with grind size, coffee type, and brew time can unlock even more flavors to suit your style. Happy brewing!