Weighing vs. Scooping Coffee – What’s the no. 1 way to measure coffee at home? 

Precision makes a huge difference when it comes to brewing the perfect cup of coffee. Home brewers often use scoops to measure the coffee, rather than asking you to weigh it on a scale. We often get asked our recommendation on how many scoops per cup of coffee. However, we always recommend weighing coffee before brewing, rather than using a scoop or other form of measurement. Why? Because it gives you the most control over the result, leading to a more enjoyable cup.  

Consistent Flavor  

By taking the extra few seconds to measure or weigh your coffee, your cup of joe will yield a uniform and consistent body and flavor, day to day. Measuring may feel limiting to some coffee enthusiasts, but it actually gives you freedom to experiment! Whether you prefer a bold, strong coffee or a milder cup, weighing your coffee gives you the control to adjust the ratios until you find your ideal cup.  

Consistent Body 

Alongside flavor, the body of your coffee is determined by the amount of coffee used. The body of coffee is its mouthfeel, richness, and viscosity. These variables can change drastically if measurements are not consistent, which can lead to unpredictable coffee that is too thick, muddy, and not enjoyable to drink.  

Weighting vs. Scooping 

A common way to measure coffee is by using a scoop instead of weighing it on a scale. People tend to do this because scoops come in all shapes and sizes and are readily available at home.  

Mass Matters 

Coffee beans come in various shapes and sizes, which means that scooping can lead to inconsistent measurements. For example, a scoop of Kenya AA coffee will yield much less coffee compared to a scoop of Yemen peaberry, due to the size of the beans. Weighing your coffee provides a dependable way to account for these differences, ensuring that you use the same amount of coffee for each cup.  

Grind-Size Variations 

Grind size is another factor to consider. A scoop of finely-ground coffee is going to hold significantly more coffee than a scoop of coarsely-ground coffee. If you are using the same scoop to measure coffees with different grinds, you will have vastly different results. Whether you grind the coffee at home or buy pre-ground, by weighing your coffee, you ensure that you have the same amount regardless of the grind size, leading to more consistent brews. 

If a Scoop is the Only Option 

But what should I do if I don’t have access to a scale, or the battery is dead? While scooping isn’t as precise as weighing, it can still work for home brewers. The most important thing to know is the size of your scoop. Try to stick to common measurements like one or two tablespoons.  

One tablespoon of medium-fine ground coffee typically weighs around 6-8 grams. While the following recipe isn’t an exact science, it is a good baseline to modify according to your preference.  Most home brewers use between 9-11 tablespoons of ground coffee for a pot, but feel free to adjust based on your preferred strength.  

Conclusion 

The difference between a good cup and a great cup comes down to the details. By weighing your coffee, you ensure consistency in flavor and body, while also allowing for experimentation. Whether you choose to weigh or scoop, understanding the importance of measurement can elevate your coffee experience.  

If you need a scale, we have some excellent options available for purchase here. 

Happy brewing!