How to Grind Coffee Beans: The Ultimate Guide

4 min read

Quick Summary

The key to perfect coffee is using the right grind size for your brewing method. Use a burr grinder for best results, and grind just before brewing. For espresso, use a fine grind; for drip coffee, medium; for French press, coarse. This guide covers everything you need to know about grinding coffee beans properly.

What You'll Need

Equipment

  • Burr grinder (recommended) or blade grinder
  • Coffee scale or measuring spoon
  • Container for ground coffee

Ingredients

  • Whole coffee beans

Coffee Grind Size Guide

Extra Fine

Like powdered sugar

Best for:

  • Turkish coffee

Fine

Like table salt

Best for:

  • Espresso
  • Moka pot

Medium-Fine

Like sand

Best for:

  • Pour-over
  • Aeropress

Medium

Like kosher salt

Best for:

  • Drip coffee makers
  • Chemex

Coarse

Like sea salt

Best for:

  • French Press
  • Cold brew

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Choose Your Grinder

Burr Grinder (Recommended)

  • More consistent grind size
  • Better control over grind settings
  • Less heat generation
  • Higher price point

Blade Grinder

  • More affordable
  • Less consistent results
  • Requires more technique
  • Can heat beans during grinding

2. Measure Your Beans

  1. Use 2 tablespoons of beans per 6 oz of water
  2. For better precision, use a scale (15g coffee per 250ml water)
  3. Only grind what you need for immediate brewing
Pro Tip: Grinding just before brewing ensures maximum freshness and flavor.

3. Grinding with a Burr Grinder

  1. Select your grind size based on brewing method
  2. Add measured beans to the hopper
  3. Grind until all beans are processed
  4. Check consistency of grounds

4. Grinding with a Blade Grinder

  1. Add measured beans to grinder
  2. Pulse in short bursts (2-3 seconds)
  3. Shake grinder between pulses
  4. Check consistency frequently
Pro Tip: Tilt and shake the grinder between pulses for more even results.

Common Problems and Solutions

Inconsistent Grind Size

  • Clean grinder regularly
  • Check for worn burrs
  • Use shorter pulse intervals

Static Buildup

  • Add a few drops of water to beans
  • Tap grinder gently after grinding
  • Let grounds rest briefly before removing

Bitter Coffee

  • Adjust to coarser grind
  • Check for overheating during grinding
  • Clean grinder thoroughly

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do coffee beans stay fresh after grinding?

Ground coffee starts losing flavor within 15-30 minutes. For best results, grind only what you need just before brewing.

How often should I clean my grinder?

Clean your grinder every 1-2 weeks for regular use. More frequently if you use oily or flavored beans.

Can I use a food processor to grind coffee?

While possible, it's not recommended as it produces very inconsistent results and can heat the beans excessively.