How to Make and Use Espresso Grounds

The world of espresso can be a little confusing, especially when it comes to coffee grounds. 

Unfortunately, regular coffee grounds are not compatible with espresso machines. Instead, espresso coffee grounds are super finely ground, allowing you to create a very bold shot of espresso with your home espresso machine. 

What Are Espresso Grounds?

Espresso coffee grounds are simply dark-roasted coffee beans that have been ground very finely, much finer than what you’d use for a drip coffee maker or French press. 

The fine grind is essential when making espresso because espresso is brewed by forcing hot water through compacted grounds at high pressure. This process requires resistance to extract the rich flavor, body, and crema that define a great shot of espresso.

The term “espresso beans” usually refers to beans that are roasted and blended specifically for espresso. There is actually no such thing as a special type of bean exclusively for espresso. These beans are purposed for espresso by how they are roasted, typically medium to dark, and how finely they’re ground.

Espresso Grounds vs. Regular Coffee Grounds

Always match your grind to your brew method! Avoid misusing espresso grounds for regular coffee, too. Using espresso grounds for drip or pour-over can lead to over-extraction and bitterness.

Espresso grounds are made from dark-roasted beans and finely ground to suit the high-pressure brewing process that produces a bold, concentrated shot of espresso.

Coffee grounds can come from a variety of bean roasts and are typically ground coarser for brewing methods like French press or cold brew, which require longer steep times. Pour-over methods use a medium grind, which is finer than coarse but not as fine as espresso.

Can You Use Regular Coffee Grounds for Espresso?

Regular, pre-ground coffee won’t work well in an espresso machine. 

• Grind size: Most ground coffee sold for drip or pour-over methods is too coarse for espresso. Using it in an espresso machine can result in under-extraction, leading to a sour, weak shot.
• Consistency: Espresso demands a very fine and uniform grind. Inconsistent grounds can clog the machine or result in uneven extraction.
• Roast: Coffee sold for general brewing methods may not have the intensity or depth of flavor that espresso brewing brings out.

If you’re using a stovetop espresso maker, like a Moka pot, you have a bit more flexibility. Medium-fine coffee grounds can still produce a strong, espresso-style drink with manual methods, though it won’t have the crema or concentration of true espresso.

How to Make Espresso Grounds at Home

To make espresso coffee grounds at home, consider the following ingredients and equipment:

• Fresh whole coffee beans – Look for medium to dark roast, especially those labeled as espresso blends.
• A burr grinder – Blade grinders won’t cut it. Burr grinders produce a uniform grind size, which is crucial for espresso.
• Air-tight bean storage – To keep your espresso beans fresh longer.

Espresso Grounds Steps

Step 1: Select your coffee beans and ensure they’re fresh (within a few weeks of roasting).

Step 2: Set your burr grinder to the finest setting suitable for espresso.

Step 3: Grind what you need for immediate use to preserve freshness. Test the grind by rubbing it between your fingers. The grind should feel powdery with a bit of texture, similar to fine sand.

When you have a grind and brew espresso machine, it will do most of the work for you by grinding the beans to the right size and pulling the shot automatically. These machines offer convenience and consistency, making them a great option for beginners and busy mornings.

Use Espresso Grounds with Confidence

Espresso coffee grounds are all about grind size, roast, and precision. While regular coffee grounds won’t give you that signature espresso shot, making your own espresso grounds at home is simple with the right tools. Whether you use a manual grinder or a fully automatic espresso machine, dialing in the perfect grind is the first step toward rich, café-quality espresso at home.