French Press (Plunger) Coffee: Best Brewing Method Explained
Whether you call it a French Press or a Coffee Plunger, coffee lovers around the world enjoy this classic and versatile brewing method at home.
Follow these easy steps to master the art of plunger coffee and transform your morning routine from ordinary to exceptional.
Everything You Need to Know to Brew the Best French Press Coffee.
What is French Press Coffee
French press coffee uses a simple device, often called a plunger, that includes a cylindrical glass or stainless steel jug and a lid with a built-in plunger and mesh filter. The history of the French Press dates back to the 1800’s, with many changes to the design patent resulting in what we now recognise and use today. Find out more in this interesting write up on French Press History.
The French Press brewing method relies on immersion, soaking the coffee grounds in hot water for several minutes before pressing and pouring. It’s a delightfully simple yet elegant way to brew quality coffee at home and all you need is your favourite plunger, ground coffee beans and a kettle. Now you’re ready to brew amazing coffee!
Because this method avoids pressure and boiling, unlike espresso machines or stovetop brewers, it produces a rich, full-bodied cup that preserves the coffee’s natural oils and bold flavours.
So if you enjoy robust, flavourful coffee without the need for expensive or complicated equipment, then French press coffee could be the perfect option for you!
Benefits of Using a French Press (Plunger)
Easy and Convenient
The French press brewing method keeps things simple. Just add your favourite ground coffee and hot water, and you’re set to brew a full-bodied coffee tailored to your taste. More importantly cleanup is quick and hassle-free; no need for paper filters or special cleaning products!
Plus, plungers are lightweight and portable, making them ideal for travel, work, or camping. All you need is hot water.
Versatile
People love the French press because it offers total control over the brewing process. For example, you can adjust the coffee-to-water ratio, water temperature, and steeping time to create a flavour profile that suits your preferences. Whether you enjoy a bold, full-flavoured cup or a more mellow brew, the French press lets you fine-tune each element for your perfect coffee.
Exceptional Taste
Many coffee drinkers love the French press because it brings out rich and aromatic flavours. The metal filter allows natural oils to pass through, resulting in a smooth body and deep flavour.
Since there’s no high pressure or boiling, the coffee stays balanced rather than bitter.
Inexpensive
A coffee plunger offers one of the most affordable ways to brew great coffee at home. That’s why many accommodation providers and workplaces choose it. In short, you don’t need expensive equipment, disposable parts like paper filters, special skills, or much counter space, just a plunger and your favourite ground coffee to brew a cup that suits your taste.
Environmentally Friendly
French press brewing creates almost zero waste. Because it uses a reusable metal filter, you avoid paper filters and single-use pods.
This makes it one of the most sustainable brewing methods available.
Best Coffee for French Press
Choosing your coffee
For the best results, choose coarse-ground, freshly roasted beans. Coarse grounds prevent over-extraction and stop the filter from clogging.
A medium roast offers bright, balanced flavours. In contrast, a darker roast creates bold, chocolatey notes that pair beautifully with the full body of French press coffee.
Look for tasting notes such as:
- chocolate
- caramel
- nuts
- dried fruits
These flavours shine in immersion brewing.
Eumundi Coffee’s Market Blend and Organic Blend are both known for their rich chocolate and nut flavour profiles and brew beautifully in a French Press. They both work well with or without milk.
Or try something truly unique with Eumundi Coffee’s Ice Breaker Blend. This coffee is blended using a long-fermented Ethiopian Yirgacheffe coffee bean, resulting in a bold and bright coffee with notes of dark cherry chocolate.
How to Brew for French Press
A Step-by-Step Guide for the Best Brewing Method
Equipment
- Plunger – You can choose plungers from single-serve sizes up to 8 cup (1L) volumes depending on your coffee requirements. We have an elegant 350ml Plunger Pack available to get you started.
- Kettle
- Course Ground Coffee – For best results get your coffee freshly ground. We grind your coffee to order and recommend our Market Blend or Limited Edition Ice Breaker for plunger. Or try our Sample Pack and find your favourite!
- Measuring Spoon
- Scales – optional if you want to be precise with your dose but not essential, a measuring spoon is also fine.
- Your favourite coffee cup!
Method
- Preheat the plunger
Add hot water, swirl, and discard. This keeps your brew warm and consistent. - Add your coffee
Use a 1:16 ratio of coffee to water.- 350ml plunger → 20g coffee (about 2 tbsp)
- 1L plunger → 60g coffee
Adjust to taste. More coffee gives a stronger brew.
- Heat your water
Heat to 90–95°C. Avoid boiling water. If your kettle doesn’t show temperature, let it rest for 30–60 seconds after boiling. - Bloom the coffee
Pour in half the water and let the grounds soak for 1 minute. - Top up with the remaining water
Stir gently to ensure all grounds are saturated. - Steep
Place the lid on with the plunger raised. Brew for 4–8 minutes.- Shorter time = lighter, brighter flavour
- Longer time = stronger, bolder flavour
- Press the plunger
Press slowly until the filter meets the grounds. Do not press hard; this stirs up fines and makes the coffee bitter. - Serve immediately
Pour your coffee right away. Leaving it in the jug will cause over-extraction and bitterness. Brew a fresh batch when you want more.
Now you have all the information to make an exceptional French Press coffee at home, get started with our Plunger Pack
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