How Many Grams of Coffee Should You Have in a Shot of Espresso?

Have you ever wondered if you're using the right amount of coffee for your espresso shot? Whether you're just starting your espresso journey or fine-tuning your skills, knowing exactly how many grams of coffee to use per shot is critical. From my own experience at Brewed Co Coffee, I've seen how even a small adjustment can transform the taste of your espresso.

What's the right amount of coffee?

If you've asked this question online, you've likely discovered there isn't a straightforward answer. Traditionally, an espresso shot was about 7 grams, but Australian coffee culture—and our tastes—have evolved. Most cafés today use between 9 to 11 grams for a single shot, producing espresso that's richer and creamier.

Espresso extraction isn't one-size-fits-all. Slight variations in dosage can dramatically change the espresso's body, taste, and mouthfeel. To get the most consistent results at home, I've found a reliable coffee scale indispensable. Accurate measurements will help you achieve consistent results, shot after shot.

Your basket matters—a lot

The basket size in your portafilter significantly impacts how much coffee you should use. At Brewed Co Coffee, we've tested numerous combinations, and precision baskets consistently deliver better-tasting espresso. A good precision basket ensures even water flow and consistent extraction, typically accommodating around 9 to 11 grams comfortably.

For maximum accuracy and consistency, I highly recommend using a reliable coffee scale. This ensures you're dosing the exact amount needed every single time.

Does roast level matter?

Definitely! Darker roasts are lighter in density and usually require slightly fewer grams, whereas lighter roasts—denser beans—might require a bit more coffee. This minor tweak can be the difference between a shot that's overly bitter or perfectly balanced and smooth.

We’ve personally found that using high-quality beans significantly elevates espresso quality. Check out our selection of coffee beans, including seasonal blends and single-origin options, to start your espresso-making process right.

Insights from espresso enthusiasts

I've noticed through my participation in coffee communities that many home espresso enthusiasts agree on using around 10-11 grams per shot. A recent coffee forum discussion highlighted that slightly increasing your dosage often results in a more balanced flavour.

It's also essential to think about your extraction ratio. A common guideline is a brewing ratio of roughly 1:2—meaning 10 grams of coffee yields around 20 grams of espresso. This ratio provides a reliable starting point for finding your ideal taste.

Tools that make a difference

From my personal brewing experience, investing in a quality coffee dosing tool can greatly enhance consistency. Combined with a good WDT tool, it helps distribute grounds evenly, reducing channeling and improving flavour extraction.

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For a quick visual guide, check out this engaging TikTok video demonstrating exactly how dosing impacts espresso shot quality.

Experiment to find your sweet spot

No two espresso setups are identical. I always encourage experimentation. If you're initially dosing at around 10 grams and find your espresso too thin or bitter, adjust your dose up or down slightly to find what tastes best for you. Remember, finer grinds generally require slightly fewer grounds, while coarser grinds might benefit from a touch more.

Ready to improve your espresso?

If you're aiming for café-quality espresso at home, accurate measurements and the right tools will set you up for success. At Brewed Co Coffee, we're passionate about helping you craft café-quality coffee right at home.

If you have any questions or need help improving your home espresso setup, get in touch with us. We're always here to help.

Happy brewing!

Written By Laurie Nance

I'm the founder of Brewedco Coffee™, passionate about coffee, coffee tools, and helping others better understand how to utilize them. With years of experience in the coffee industry, I love sharing insights on brewing techniques, choosing the right equipment, and the science behind making the perfect cup.