If you've ever wondered whether you can make espresso with a French press, the answer is yes. While a French Press won't give you an authentic espresso with the high pressure you'd get from a machine, it's possible to create a bold, concentrated brew rich enough to be used in espresso-based drinks. And when you start with freshly roasted Solai Coffee, the results are full-bodied, aromatic, and satisfyingly brew.

This guide covers everything you need to know, from the right coffee-to-water ratio to the best grind size to brew espresso-style coffee at home using your French Press.

Can French Press Make Espresso?

A French press is one of the most accessible brewing tools out there. It's simple, affordable, and versatile. While traditional espresso relies on pressure, the French press method uses immersion to extract deep flavor over time. When done correctly with the right grind and proportions, you can achieve a concentrated, espresso-like cup perfect for lattes, iced coffee, or even coffee cocktails.

To make French press espresso, you need a stronger coffee-to-water ratio than your regular French press brew. The ideal ratio is 1:7 or 1:8, which means for every 1 gram of coffee, you'll use 7 to 8 grams of water.

One heaping tablespoon of ground coffee is roughly 6 grams, so if you aim for a strong, espresso-like taste, use three tablespoons for every 4 ounces of water if you're brewing more than one serving, scale up while keeping the same ratio.

How to Make Espresso in a French Press without a machine?

Step 1: Grind Your Coffee

Use freshly roasted Solai Coffee and grind it medium-fine. A medium-fine grind is not as powdery as espresso but finer than the coarse grind typically used for immersion brewing. This helps you get that punchy, concentrated flavor.

Step 2: Preheat Your Press

Pour hot water into your French Press and swirl to preheat it. Discard the water. Preheating stabilizes the brewing temperature and avoids any drop during extraction.

Step 3: Add the Coffee

Add 18g of ground coffee into the empty Press.

Step 4: Bloom It

Start your timer. Pour enough hot water (about 1 oz) to saturate the grounds. Wait 30 seconds. This "bloom" phase allows gases to escape and flavors to develop.

Step 5: Add more Water

Slowly pour the remaining 3 oz of water (total 4 oz). Stir gently.

Step 6: Steep

Place the lid on, but don't plunge yet. Let it steep for 4 minutes.

Step 7: Press

Gently press down the plunger with steady pressure. You should feel a little resistance from the finer grounds.

Enjoy it straight, or add steamed milk, cream, or your favorite flavor syrup. It's also an excellent base for a cold brew espresso tonic or a homemade iced mocha.

Final Thoughts

Making espresso-style coffee in a French press is easy, affordable, and incredibly rewarding. With the right grind, ratio, and technique, you can brew a bold, rich, and versatile cup for any coffee drink you love. No machines. No café lines. Just quality coffee, fresh from your kitchen.

Brew Bold, Brew Easy with the These French Presses

Designed for simplicity and consistency, these French presses are easy to use, quick to clean, and built to last. With heat-resistant handles, sturdy bodies, and fine mesh plungers for a smooth, grit-free cup, they’re ideal for both home brewing and life on the go.

Ready to press for greatness? Experience the bold, smooth flavor from quality beans and a reliable brew. Pair your French press with freshly roasted coffee for a cup that truly stands out.

Try It with Single-origin Kenya Coffee Beans