No Café? No Problem! |How to Make Espresso at Home?

Have you got a favorite way to get your coffee fix? For me, it's all about the perfect shot of espresso. Bold, rich, and just the right amount of bitter—it's a small drink with a punch! But guess what? You don't need a pricey espresso machine or a barista certification to create great espresso at home. Seriously, you can achieve that café-like flavor with just a French press and some decent coffee.

So, if you're ready to enhance your coffee game, continue reading. I'm sharing my incredibly simple method for brewing espresso at home, as well as some tips and techniques for perfecting that powerful, rich flavor.

Why Espresso? A Peek into Coffee Culture

In Italy, espresso is all about making quick stops at the café, standing at the bar, conversing with friends, and sipping a little but potent drink that provides just the boost you require. At home, it's your secret weapon for making mornings feel more special, afternoons brighter, and every moment more delightful.

Indeed, espresso is the foundation for many more incredible coffee concoctions (which you can check here). From lattes to cappuccinos to affogatos, preparing espresso offers a whole new world of options.

Ingredients

10 tablespoons of finely ground coffee
310 ml of freshly boiled water

Making an espresso shot using a French Press.

Coffee Maker: French Press

You might be wondering how to make espresso with a French press. Here's the thing: while a French press may not provide the same high-pressure environment as an espresso machine, it can nonetheless produce a strong, concentrated brew with the typical espresso flavor. It's a simple, straightforward method for getting a great shot without all the bells and whistles.

How to Make Espresso Shot?

Step 1: Prep the Coffee and Water

Measure out your coffee—10 tablespoons of finely ground coffee for that strong, bold taste. The finer the grind, the more intense the flavor. While your coffee sits pretty, bring your water to a boil. You want it hot but not scorching; somewhere around 200°F is the sweet spot for extracting the best flavors without burning the grounds.

Step 2: Brew in the French Press

Place the ground coffee into your French press, then pour in the boiling water. This is where the magic starts! Pour slowly to make sure all the grounds get evenly saturated. Let it sit for about 30 seconds to bloom, when the coffee releases its most vibrant flavors and aromas. Please give it a quick, gentle stir to make sure everything’s mixed, then let it steep for about 4 minutes.

Step 3: Press and Pour

Now, it’s time for the fun part. Slowly press down the filter to separate the grounds from the liquid. The result? A rich, espresso-like coffee that’s full of flavor. Pour it into cups, aiming for about 60 ml per serving. It’s strong, it’s bold, and it’s all yours.

Creative Ways to Use Espresso

Espresso is just the beginning! Here are some fun ways to use your homemade espresso:

Iced Espresso: Pour your espresso over ice and add a splash of milk for a refreshing twist on your usual drink.
Affogato: Scoop some vanilla ice cream into a bowl and pour an espresso over it. It’s the easiest, most delicious dessert ever.
Mocha Magic: Add your espresso to hot chocolate for a decadent, rich drink that is perfect for those moments when you want a little extra indulgence.
Espresso Tonic: Mix your espresso with tonic water and add a slice of lemon. It’s fizzy, refreshing, and completely unexpected.

A glass of espresso tonic served at home.

Our Expert Tips for Making the Best Espresso at Home

Go Fresh: Freshly ground coffee makes all the difference. If you can, grind your beans right before brewing to capture all those rich, aromatic flavors.
Tweak the Grind: The grind size matters—too coarse, and your espresso will be weak; too fine, and it can taste bitter. Experiment a little until you find that perfect balance.
Preheat Everything: From your French press to your cup, a quick rinse with hot water helps keep everything warm, preserving the temperature of your brew.
Experiment with Roasts: Espresso doesn’t have to be just dark roast. Try medium or light roasts to explore different flavor profiles—think bright, fruity notes or hints of caramel.
Keep It Clean: Residual coffee oils can impact the taste of your next cup. Clean your French press thoroughly after each use for the freshest flavor.

Let Us Know What You Think!

Have you tried making espresso at home? What’s your favorite way to enjoy it? Whether you’re a straight-shot drinker or like mixing it up, we’d love to hear your thoughts. Please drop a comment below, and let’s chat about all things coffee!

Share the Coffee Love

Know someone who’s obsessed with espresso? Share this guide with them, and let’s bring the joy of homemade espresso to everyone’s kitchen. And hey, if you try this recipe, don’t forget to tag us @ZulayKitchen and use #kitchenhappiness on social media. Happy brewing!