Can You Use an AeroPress as a Pour Over? (Solved & Explained!)

You can definitely use an AeroPress as a Pour Over device. Otherwise called a “No Press,” it’s great for traveling or when you want to make AeroPress coffee for two people. Alternatively, you might want to make a pour-over style coffee for something a little different than the norm.

You will still need to have your filter cap loaded with a moistened filter. But, you can make hot or iced pour over with an AeroPress. Plus, you don’t even need to have a kettle like you do for a normal pour over, although you can use one. But it’s advisable to have a thermometer so you can reach the appropriate temperature.

What Kind of Filters Do You Need to Use an AeroPress as a Pour Over Device?

You can use the standard AeroPress filters that come with the device. However, V60 filters may be better. But, you’ll have to cut into one so that it fits the shape of the AeroPress. You could also use standard paper filters for a drip machine. But, once again, you’ll have to cut it to fit the AeroPress.

Either of these will help the brew draw down better. Plus, you can have a little peace of mind knowing that none of the grounds will get into the resulting final product.

What Kind of Roast Type and Grind Should You Use for AeroPress Pour Over Coffee?

The best type of roast for an AeroPress will be the one you most favor. You can use anything from a light roast to one that’s intended for espresso, the choice is yours. But it’s advisable to use a medium to dark roast.

However, in regards to the grind, you should use a medium to coarse grind. This will be able to hold up longer under the extended brewing period.

Do You Use the Inverted or Traditional Method for an AeroPress to Create Pour Over Coffee?

It’s best to stick with AeroPress’s traditional method when doing a pour-over style coffee. The immersion of water with grounds will be best this way. Another reason for this is because you won’t need to use the plunger in the process. You will simply let the brew drip out into your cup.

How Do You Make an AeroPress Hot Coffee Pour Over?

Follow the recipe steps below to make a hot pour-over style coffee with an AeroPress. After trying it this way, you can always adjust the variables to make it more to your liking.

Items You’ll Need

  • AeroPress Brewing Chamber
  • Paper Filters
  • Filter Cap
  • Measuring Cups & Spoons
  • Thermometer

Ingredients

  • 1¼ Cups (295.1 milliliters) Hot Water (either from a kettle or use the plunger to pour water in)
  • 1 Tbsp Coffee Grounds

Instructions

  1. Heat the water until it reaches a temperature between 175°F to 205°F.
  2. Moisten the paper filter with hot water and put it inside the brewing chamber.
  3. Put the filter cap on the bottom of the device.
  4. Set the AeroPress over your cup.
  5. Grind and measure one tablespoon of coffee grounds; pour them into the filter inside the brewing chamber.
  6. Pour in ¼ cup of water to make the grinds bloom; they’ll be slightly foamy and frothy.
  7. Wait 30 to 45 seconds before you pour in the rest of the water.
  8. Give the grounds a little stir and allow the brew to drip through the filter into your cup.
  9. When you see the level get down to the number 1 on the brewing chamber, swirl the mixture to allow it to finish flowing out.
  10. Wait about 5 to 10 minutes to let it to finish seeping through the filter.

How Do You Make an AeroPress Iced Coffee Pour Over?

To make an iced coffee pour-over style with an AeroPress, follow the instructions above. But, the difference will be you’ll use ¼ cup of ice (by volume, not measurement) directly in the cup. Then, you’ll heat the water only between 175°F to 185°F. And, when you moisten your filter, use cold water.

Depending on how strong and cold you want your coffee, you may have to increase how much grounds you put into the chamber.

How Do You Make AeroPress Pour Over Coffee for Two People?

If you want coffee for two people, you’ll basically double up on the amount. Also, use a metal filter with a standard AeroPress paper filter. This is because the coffee to water ratio makes for a slow extraction. Therefore, a coarse grind is advisable.

Items You’ll Need

  • AeroPress Brewing Chamber
  • Carafe or Small Pot
  • Two Cups
  • Kettle (or other means to heat and pour water)
  • Thermometer

Ingredients

  • 2 Tbsp (30 grams) Coarse Coffee Grounds
  • 2½ Cups (591.5 milliliters) Hot Water

Instructions

  1. Heat the water until it reaches a temperature between 175°F to 205°F.
  2. Set up the AeroPress with the metal filter and cover it with a moistened paper filter.
  3. Measure out the grounds and pour them over the filter.
  4. Place the device over your carafe or small pot.
  5. Pour in ½ cup of the hot water and allow the grounds to bloom for 45 seconds.
  6. Pour in the rest of the water and stir the grounds.
  7. Allow this to seep through the filter.
  8. Give a bit of a swirl once it reaches number 1 on the chamber
  9. This should finish in about 10 minutes or less.

What Does a Cup of Pour Over from an AeroPress Taste Like?

If you do this right, you should end up with a clean cup that has a complex profile and an elevated aroma. Also, it cools as it brews, which enhances the coffee’s taste and complexity.

What if the Coffee Tastes too Watery or Weak?

You can attempt a finer grind the next time you make a pour over to bring out more of the aroma and flavors.

What if the Coffee Is too Strong or Bitter?

If your coffee is too strong or bitter, try using a coarser grind, lower water temperature and/or stir less.