Why Your Coffee Is Bitter And How To Fix It

When your brew comes out harsh it’s not necessarily the beans or the roast level—it’s likely something in the brewing process. Bitterness in coffee usually comes from over extraction which means the water has pulled out too many compounds from the coffee grounds. You don’t need to buy new gear to solve this and doesn’t require new equipment.



Start by checking your grind size If your grounds are too fine, water will flow through them too slowly, extracting more than it should. Drip coffee works best with a medium consistency similar to table salt. For French press, go coarser like breadcrumbs. Changing your grind is often the quickest solution to bitter coffee.



The duration of extraction matters greatly If you’re using a pour over or French press, make sure you’re not letting the coffee steep too long. Allow 120 to 180 seconds for optimal pour over extraction A French press should steep for about 4 minutes, then be plunged immediately. Extending steep time creates an unpleasant bitterness.



The heat of your water plays a crucial role Water that’s too hot—above 205 degrees Fahrenheit—can scald the grounds and pull out bitter oils. Let your water cool slightly after boiling to 195–205°F If you don’t have a thermometer, فروشگاه قهوه Wait half a minute before pouring.



An imbalanced ratio is a frequent mistake Too much coffee for the amount of water will make the brew strong and bitter. Start with a 1:15 to 1:12 coffee-to-water ratio Using a digital scale ensures precision.



Finally, make sure your equipment is clean Old coffee oils can build up in your grinder, carafe, or filter basket and contribute to a bitter taste. Clean your gear regularly with warm water and a mild detergent and rinse well.



Try adjusting one variable at a time so you can tell what’s making the difference Often, modifying your grind or steep duration will turn a bitter cup into a smooth, enjoyable one.