How much ground coffee per espresso?

For a perfect espresso, the right amount of ground coffee is very important. Usually, you use between 7 and 9 grams for a single shot (~30 ml). For a double espresso, this is doubled to 14 to 18 grams. This dosage determines the strength, flavour balance and crema. Here you’ll learn how much coffee you need and how it affects your cup.

How much coffee for a standard espresso?

For a single espresso, you typically use 7 to 9 grams of ground coffee.

This amount yields about 25 to 30 ml of espresso, the classic shot. The ratio baristas usually follow is 1:2: for every gram of coffee, about 2 grams of liquid ends up in your cup.

If you use less than 7 grams, the espresso will be weak and watery. Use more than 9 grams, and the coffee can become too strong or bitter. With a scale, you can easily measure the right amount and pull a consistent shot every time.

How much coffee for a double espresso?

For a double espresso, you use 14 to 18 grams of ground coffee.

A doppio espresso (double espresso) is basically two shots in one cup. Because you use twice as much coffee, you also get twice as much drink, about 50 to 60 ml.

Many baristas prefer to use 18–20 grams for a doppio, as this gives a bit more body and ensures a rich crema. Using a bean-to-cup machine? It usually automatically sets the double dose. With a piston machine, you measure it yourself, and a scale is really essential for consistent quality.

What does more or less coffee mean for the flavour?

The amount of coffee directly affects the flavour, body and balance of an espresso.

• More coffee (for example 10+ grams for a single shot) makes the espresso fuller and more intense, but can also lead to a bitter, “over-extracted” taste.
• Less coffee (under 7 grams) results in a thin, watery espresso without the characteristic crema.
• The right amount (7–9 grams for single, 14–18 grams for doppio) ensures balance: a rich aroma, full body and a beautiful golden-brown crema layer.

If you want to play with flavour, experiment carefully, but remember that too much or too little coffee quickly affects the quality of your shot.

Which coffee beans do you use for espresso?

The right espresso beans make just as much difference as the right amount of coffee.

For espresso, you usually use medium to dark roast beans. A medium roast gives a nice balance between sweet, sour and bitter, while a dark roast delivers a stronger, more “Italian” flavour with notes of chocolate and nuts.

Blends are ideal for a stable, full espresso with lots of body. But if you want to experiment, you can also try single origin beans. Beans from one country often have a more distinct flavour, like fruity notes from Ethiopia or caramel-like sweetness from Brazil.

It’s important to use fresh coffee beans and grind them just before use. This way you get the most aroma and the best crema from every espresso shot.