Brewing Like a Pro: Common Coffee Mistakes and How to Fix Them
Even the most passionate coffee lovers can sometimes miss the mark when it comes to brewing their perfect cup. Whether it’s a bitter aftertaste or a brew that’s too weak to enjoy, small mistakes can make a big difference. The good news? Most coffee-brewing errors are easy to fix once you know what to look for!
In this guide, we’ll break down some common coffee mistakes and share tips on how to avoid them—so you can make every cup café-quality, especially with beans from Makario Coffee.
1. Using the Wrong Coffee-to-Water Ratio
Have you ever brewed coffee that tastes either too strong or too watery? Chances are, your coffee-to-water ratio is off.
How to Fix It:
Stick to the golden ratio: 1 gram of coffee for every 15–17 grams of water.
Use a digital scale to measure your coffee and water for precision.
For example, our Makario Classic Blend delivers a perfectly balanced cup when brewed with the right ratio—neither overpowering nor underwhelming.
2. Grinding Your Coffee Incorrectly
The grind size directly affects the flavor of your coffee. A grind that’s too fine or too coarse for your brewing method can ruin the extraction process, leading to overly bitter or weak coffee.
How to Fix It:
French Press: Use a coarse grind to avoid over-extraction.
Espresso: Go for a fine grind to get that rich, concentrated flavor.
Pour-Over: A medium-fine grind ensures even extraction and crisp flavors.
Pair your grind size with the perfect bean. Our Single-Origin Ethiopian Beans, for instance, shine with a medium-fine grind for pour-over brewing.
3. Stale or Old Coffee Beans
Nothing ruins a cup of coffee faster than using stale beans. Coffee loses its flavor quickly after it’s ground, and even whole beans can become flat if not stored properly.
How to Fix It:
Always buy freshly roasted beans, like those at Makario Coffee.
Store your beans in an airtight container, away from heat and light.
Grind your coffee just before brewing for maximum flavor.
4. Water Temperature Troubles
Too hot, and your coffee turns bitter. Too cold, and it’s weak and underwhelming. Finding the right water temperature is key to a great brew.
How to Fix It:
Use water between 195–205°F (90–96°C).
Avoid boiling water directly; let it cool for 30 seconds after boiling.
For cold brew fans, room temperature or cold water works best with our Brazilian Medium Roast, which creates a smooth, refreshing cup.
5. Ignoring Your Brewing Equipment
Dirty or poorly maintained equipment can introduce unwanted flavors to your coffee. Old oils and residue can ruin even the best beans.
How to Fix It:
Clean your coffee maker, grinder, and any reusable filters regularly.
Descale your coffee machine every 1–3 months, especially if you use hard water.
Clean equipment paired with high-quality beans like our Makario Espresso Blend ensures every cup is bursting with flavor.
6. Skipping the Bloom Phase
If you’re using fresh beans, skipping the bloom phase can result in uneven extraction and a flat-tasting brew.
How to Fix It:
Pour a small amount of hot water over the grounds and let them bloom for 30–45 seconds.
This releases trapped CO2 and prepares the coffee for even brewing.
Our Makario Dark Roast develops a fuller, richer flavor when you take the time to bloom it properly.
Make Every Cup Count
Perfecting your coffee brewing process is all about attention to detail. By avoiding these common mistakes and using premium beans from Makario Coffee, you’ll be well on your way to brewing like a pro.
Ready to elevate your coffee game? Shop our selection of freshly roasted beans and discover the difference in every sip.