What is the correct coffee-to-water ratio for brewing drip coffee?

The recommended coffee-to-water ratio for brewing drip coffee is 1:16. This means that for every 1 gram of coffee, you should use 16 grams of water. This ratio strikes a balance, allowing for optimal extraction of flavors and aromas from the coffee grounds during the brewing process.

When the ratio is proper, the resulting coffee has a well-rounded taste, avoiding over-extraction, which can lead to bitterness, or under-extraction, which can result in a sour or weak flavor profile. The 1:16 ratio is a widely accepted benchmark among coffee enthusiasts and baristas because it effectively highlights the coffee's unique characteristics while providing a consistent, enjoyable cup.

While other ratios such as 1:10, 1:14, and 1:18 can be used, they typically do not offer the same level of balance and flavor complexity that the 1:16 ratio does. A ratio of 1:10 would result in a much stronger and potentially overwhelming brew, while 1:14 and 1:18 might produce coffee that's too weak or lacking in flavor depth. Thus, the 1:16 ratio is favored to ensure an enjoyable and harmonious coffee experience.