While the Moka pot remains the preferred method, the French press can also deliver a great cup of Cuban coffee. But how can you achieve that distinctive taste? Here you will find a step-by-step guide on how to brew Cuban coffee with a French press.
☕ Looking for ways to make Cuban coffee? Explore our top picks for the best Cuban Coffee Makers here.
Guide on how to make Cuban coffee in a French press
Brewing Cuban coffee in a French press is an easy and simple process. Here are the step-by-step instructions.
Step 1: Get your ingredients
First off, you’ll need your trusty French press, Cuban coffee beans, sugar, and hot water. The secret to great Cuban coffee is using a dark roast coffee bean, according to Schuil Coffee. For the sugar, we’re going to create a sweet, frothy layer known as “espuma”. This is a signature part of Cuban coffee that adds a delightful sweetness.
Step 2: Prepare your coffee grounds
Measure out enough coffee grounds to fill your French press. The rule of thumb is to use a 1 to 18 ratio of coffee to water for dark roast (for every gram of coffee, add 15 grams of water), says Espro. But feel free to adjust this to your taste preference. Remember, Cuban coffee is known for its strength!
Step 3: Heat your water
Next, heat your water until it’s just about to boil. You don’t want boiling water as it can burn the coffee and lead to a bitter taste. The National Coffee Association of the U.S.A. says that a good target temperature is around 200 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 4: Brew your coffee
Pour your hot water into the French press, making sure all the coffee grounds are fully submerged. Let it steep for about 4 minutes. This allows the water to fully extract the flavors from the coffee grounds.
Step 5: Create your espuma
After your coffee has steeped, slowly press down the plunger of your French press. Take about a teaspoon of sugar for each cup of coffee you’re making and add it to a cup. Add just a splash of the coffee to the sugar. Now comes the fun part – whisk the sugar and coffee vigorously until it becomes a creamy, light-brown paste. This is your espuma!
Step 6: Serve
Pour your brewed coffee into the cup and add your espuma on top.
And there you have it! While it might not be the traditional Moka pot method, this French press version of Cuban coffee still delivers a deliciously strong and sweet cup.
Tips for perfect Cuban coffee in a French press
To prepare a perfect cup of Cuban coffee in a French press, make sure to follow these tips:
- Grind your coffee beans finely: For a strong and authentic Cuban coffee flavor, opt for a fine grind.
- Pay attention to water temperature: As mentioned earlier, water that is too hot can lead to a bitter taste. Aim for a water temperature of around 200 degrees.
- Experiment with coffee-to-water ratio: The strength of your Cuban coffee can be adjusted by altering the ratio of coffee grounds to water.
- Use high-quality Cuban coffee beans: Look for reputable brands that specialize in Cuban-style coffee. The quality of the beans will significantly impact the taste of your brew.
Final thoughts
Even if it is not the most effective way, you can still prepare Cuban coffee in a French press. If you are looking for more alternative ways, here you can learn about the best methods to make Cuban coffee without an espresso maker.
My journey through renowned bars and coffee shops over five years, as a barista, coffee aficionado, and former bartender, has honed my pursuit for the perfect cup. My passion for coffee isn’t just about the brew—it’s about sharing the knowledge and insights I’ve gleaned along the way.
