Pour-over coffee aficionados follow the precise number of steps to extract the perfect balance of flavor from their coffee grinds. The end result is cup of coffee so full of flavor, it rivals your local coffeehouse. If you've wondered how to make pour over coffee but were unsure of the process, you'll be glad to know brewing it may take a little time but is rather straightforward. By following these steps, you can enjoy the quality and taste of pour-over coffee, the way your favorite coffee shop makes it everyday. To learn more about pour-over coffee, check out our guide What Is Pour-Over Coffee & Is It Worth the Effort?.

In this guide:
How to Make Pour-Over Coffee at Home
Frequently Asked Questions

How to Make Pour-Over Coffee at Home

Products You Will Need:

• Pour-over coffee maker
• Right-sized filter (either paper or permanent)
• Filtered, hot water
• Fresh coffee grinds
• Measuring spoons
• Coffee mug

Optional items for effortless brewing:

• Tea kettle or electric tea kettle
• Coffee grinder
• Kitchen scale

Instructions for Pour-Over Brewing Method

1. Heat your water.

The perfect cup of coffee from the pour-over method starts with heating the water to the right brewing temperature. This is around 205 degrees, but you could go higher or lower depending on your personal preference and the type of coffee beans you're using. A tea kettle or electric kettle makes this process even easier. Although the amount of water may vary, you can start with about 20 ounces, or 600 grams.

2. Place filter in the dripper.

While your water is heating, place a clean filter in the neck or dripper. The size of the filter needed depends on the size of the maker, so refer to the manufacturer's instructions. You can use either a paper filter or metal one. While paper is convenient and ensures a clean flow-through each time, a metal one isn't prone to leaving residue or a paper taste.

3. Grind the coffee beans.

Fresh ground coffee beans are essential in maximizing the flavor of your pour-over coffee. Use a coffee grinder to make this step as easy as possible. Grind to the consistency of sea salt, but again, you can adjust the fineness or courseness based on your preference. If you don't have a coffee grinder, you can ask your local barista to grind a bag of your favorite beans for you and keep your ground coffee in a dedicated coffee storage bin

4. Measure the coffee grounds.

Measure the amount of coffee grounds needed, which will vary base on the amount you're brewing. The amount will adjust based on your taste preferences, but start with 30 grams, or 6 tablespoons. You can use measuring spoons or a kitchen scale for the most accurate measurement. Once measured, place the grinds into the filter.

5. Pour hot water over coffee grinds for blooming.

The first pour of hot water, referred to as "blooming," is the essential first step with brewing. Pour about 60 grams of water on the grinds and let the water sit for 45 seconds. This releases the gas buildup and helps ensure a pure coffee flavor.

6. Continue pouring hot water.

After the initial blooming, continuing pouring more water until the grounds are saturated-about 90 grams of water, but could be more or less depending on your amount. Allow about one minute before letting it drip.

7. Finish pouring remaining water.

Pour the remaining hot water over the grinds for another 20 seconds or so. Allow the grinds to saturate and then drip. You can adjust the amount of water and length of the pours to achieve the perfect, balanced taste.

8. Enjoy!

Pour the coffee from the carafe into your favorite coffee mug. For the ultimate comfort, pre-heat your coffee mugs.

Written by Sara Coleman

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