Espresso is a concentrated coffee beverage brewed by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee. One of the most critical factors in making a great espresso is the dose—the amount of ground coffee used. Getting this right affects flavor, strength, and balance. This article explores how many grams of ground coffee are ideal for espresso, factors influencing this measurement, and tips for perfecting your brew.
The Standard Espresso Dose
The traditional single shot of espresso uses 7 to 9 grams of coffee, while a double shot typically requires 14 to 18 grams. These measurements are based on decades of industry standards and are widely accepted in specialty coffee.
However, modern espresso trends have shifted slightly. Many specialty coffee shops now use 18 to 20 grams for a double shot, especially when brewing with larger portafilter baskets. The exact dose depends on several factors, including:
- Basket size – Smaller baskets hold less coffee.
- Coffee roast level – Darker roasts are less dense, so you may need slightly more by volume.
- Brew ratio – The ratio of coffee to water affects strength and extraction.
Factors Affecting Espresso Dose
Portafilter Basket Size
Portafilter baskets come in different sizes, usually classified as single, double, or triple. A single basket holds 7 to 9 grams, a double 14 to 18 grams, and a triple 20 to 22 grams. Using the wrong dose for your basket can lead to over- or under-extraction.
Coffee Roast and Density
Lighter roasts are denser than dark roasts. This means 18 grams of a light roast may take up less space than 18 grams of a dark roast. Adjusting the grind size helps compensate for this, but dose may also need slight tweaking.
Brew Ratio
The brew ratio is the relationship between coffee grounds and the final liquid espresso. A common ratio for a double shot is 1:2—18 grams of coffee yields 36 grams of liquid espresso. Some prefer ristretto (1:1) or lungo (1:3) ratios, which require dose adjustments.
Grind Size and Tamping Pressure
Finer grinds increase resistance, requiring careful dosing to avoid choking the machine. Tamping too hard can also slow extraction. Consistency in dose, grind, and tamp ensures even extraction.
How to Measure Coffee for Espresso
Using a Scale
A precision scale (accurate to 0.1 grams) is essential for consistency. Here’s how to measure properly:
- Place the empty portafilter on the scale and tare it.
- Add coffee until you reach the desired dose (e.g., 18 grams).
- Distribute the grounds evenly before tamping.
Adjusting for Taste
If your espresso tastes:
- Sour – Increase the dose slightly or grind finer.
- Bitter – Reduce the dose or coarsen the grind.
Small adjustments (0.5 to 1 gram) can make a big difference.
Common Mistakes in Espresso Dosing
Overfilling the Basket
Using too much coffee can cause the puck to expand and clog the shower screen, leading to uneven extraction. Always leave a small gap (about 2mm) between the coffee and the shower screen.
Underdosing
Too little coffee results in a fast, weak shot with little crema. If the brew time is under 20 seconds, consider increasing the dose.
Inconsistent Tamping
Even with the right dose, uneven tamping causes channeling, where water bypasses parts of the coffee bed. Always tamp level and with consistent pressure (about 15-20 kg of force).
Specialty Coffee and Dose Variations
Third-wave coffee shops often experiment with doses to highlight unique flavors. Some may use 15 grams for a fruity, light roast, while others prefer 20 grams for a bold, chocolatey profile. The key is balancing dose, grind, and extraction time.
Conclusion
The ideal dose for espresso depends on your equipment, coffee beans, and personal taste. A standard double shot uses 14 to 18 grams, but modern trends lean toward 18 to 20 grams. Always use a scale, adjust based on flavor, and maintain consistency in grinding and tamping. With practice, you’ll find the perfect dose for your perfect espresso.
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