How many coffee beans in a shot ?

A shot of espresso is a concentrated form of coffee crafted by forcing nearly boiling water under high pressure through finely ground coffee beans. This distinctive brewing method sets espresso apart from other coffee types, delivering a rich, intense flavor and a thicker, syrupy texture that is absent in regular drip coffee. Whether exploring coffee in australia types or savoring different varieties globally, one truly remarkable experience is discovering the diverse world of espresso flavors. One of its defining features is the signature crema—a golden-brown frothy layer on top—that adds depth to the aroma and flavor profile of the espresso shot.

More than just a simple coffee measure, a shot of espresso is a delicate art of extraction that balances pressure, temperature, grind size, and brewing time to create a bold and aromatic coffee experience.

Espresso shots are available in different sizes, but the most common are single and double shots. A single shot typically requires around 7 to 9 grams of finely ground coffee and yields approximately 25 to 30 milliliters (around 1 fluid ounce) of brewed espresso.

On the other hand, a double shot—frequently referred to as a doppio—utilizes roughly 14 to 18 grams of coffee grounds and produces about 60 milliliters (2 fluid ounces) of espresso. This doubling of coffee and output has become the standard in many cafes worldwide, especially in the United States, where double shots are the norm. With growing popularity of unique drinks like magic coffee in specialty cafes, the ability to customize espresso styles highlights the versatility of modern coffee culture. It's worth noting that the grind size, tamping pressure, and extraction time all play roles in determining the final volume and quality of the shot. These standard measurements serve as a foundation for customizing your ideal espresso.

While you can technically turn any coffee beans into espresso with the right grind size and brewing technique, not all beans are created equal when it comes to pulling the perfect espresso shot. There’s no such thing as a bean labeled “espresso only,” but many roasters craft blends specifically designed for espresso extraction, often labeled as “espresso blends” or “espresso roast.” These blends are typically roasted to a medium or dark level, which helps deliver that classic espresso profile—think chocolate, caramel, and nutty notes that shine even when mixed with steamed milk.

For home baristas, medium to dark roast espresso blends are usually more forgiving and consistent, especially if you’re just starting out on your espresso journey.

If you want a truly classic Italian-style espresso, look for blends that include both Arabica and a small percentage of Robusta beans, which add body and a distinctive crema to your shot. For those seeking the best coffee beans for crafting their perfect cup, exploring high-quality blends can provide a tremendous difference in flavor depth and consistency. However, if you’re a fan of specialty coffee, you might enjoy experimenting with single-origin beans or lighter roasts, which can bring out unique floral, fruity, or citrusy notes in your espresso shot.

The key is to choose coffee beans that match your taste preferences and brewing experience—there’s no single “correct” answer, just what tastes best to you.

The type of coffee beans you use will dramatically shape the flavor of your espresso shot. For example, dark-roasted beans often deliver bold, smoky, and chocolatey flavors that pair well with milk-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos. When comparing flat white vs latte, dark roasts further amplify the subtle richness in texture and taste that distinguishes these espresso-based beverages.

These beans are especially forgiving in terms of extraction, making it easier for you to achieve that velvety mouthfeel and rich crema that define a great espresso shot.

Medium roasts, on the other hand, can offer a smoother, more balanced cup with subtle hints of fruit or spice, often appealing to those who prefer a less intense coffee experience. Lighter roasts can be more challenging for espresso because their bright, acidic notes may be overpowering as a straight shot, but they can create complex and vibrant drinks when dialed in just right.

Single-origin beans can showcase distinct terroir-driven flavors—such as berries, citrus, or floral tones—providing a unique twist for adventurous palates.

Ultimately, your choice of coffee beans, roast level, and even origin will influence every aspect of your espresso, from aroma to body to aftertaste. As you explore different beans, pay attention to how changes in your selection affect the grind size, brewing ratio, and final taste of your shot. The world of coffee beans is vast—don’t be afraid to experiment until you find your perfect espresso match.

Now that you know the standard amount of ground coffee for a shot—typically 7 to 9 grams—you might be curious about how many whole coffee beans that actually is. On average, a single shot of espresso uses about 50 to 70 whole coffee beans, depending on their size and density. This number is based on the fact that most coffee beans weigh between 0.1 and 0.14 grams each, so 7 grams of ground coffee translates to roughly 50 to 70 beans.

For a double shot, you’d simply double that amount, using about 100 to 140 beans. While it’s not practical to count beans for every shot, this gives you a sense of the scale and helps you appreciate the precision involved in espresso brewing.

The exact number of beans needed for a shot can vary due to several factors. Bean size and density are the most significant—larger, denser beans will weigh more, so you’ll need fewer of them to reach your target dose.

Conversely, smaller or less dense beans will require more to hit the same weight. The roast level also plays a role; darker roasts tend to be lighter in weight due to moisture loss, so you might need a few more beans for the same dose compared to lighter roasts.

Additionally, the grind size can affect how much coffee you use, as finer grinds pack more tightly and may require slight adjustments to your dose for optimal extraction. Ultimately, while the number of beans is interesting to know, the most reliable way to ensure consistency is to measure your coffee by weight, not by counting beans.

When it comes to pulling a truly great espresso shot, the grind size is just as important as the amount of coffee you use. For espresso, you need a very fine grind—think the texture of fine table salt or even finer, usually between 180 and 380 microns.

This fine grind creates enough resistance for the high-pressure water to extract the full flavor and aroma from the coffee grounds in just 25 to 30 seconds. If your grind is too coarse, the water will rush through too quickly, leaving you with a weak, under-extracted shot.

On the other hand, if it’s too fine, the water will struggle to pass through, resulting in a slow, bitter, over-extracted espresso. The best way to find your ideal grind size is by experimenting: start with a fine setting, brew a test shot, and adjust based on the extraction time and taste. This process, known as “dialing in,” is essential for achieving that perfect espresso shot every time.

While pre-ground coffee is convenient, freshly grinding your beans just before brewing is the key to unlocking the best flavor in your espresso. As soon as coffee is ground, it begins to lose its aromatic compounds and freshness, which can dull the taste of your shot. Freshly ground beans ensure that you’re getting the full spectrum of flavors and aromas, making your espresso more vibrant and enjoyable.

If you’re using a burr grinder, you’ll have even more control over the grind size and consistency, which is important for espresso extraction. Pre-ground coffee, on the other hand, is often ground for a general purpose and may not be the right size for your espresso machine, leading to inconsistent results.

For the best espresso experience, always opt for freshly ground beans whenever possible.

To consistently brew the perfect espresso shot, using a digital scale to measure your coffee grounds is essential. Scales provide precise control over the grams of coffee you use, ensuring you hit the ideal dose every time. This accuracy helps maintain the optimum brew ratio and extraction, which directly impacts the flavor of your shot.

Many home baristas find that weighing coffee—whether before grinding or directly in the portafilter—eliminates guesswork and minimizes waste, making each espresso experience more reliable and enjoyable.

Though scales are best for precision, visual and volume estimations can be useful in casual settings or when you don’t have a scale handy. For example, a typical single espresso shot uses about one level tablespoon of ground coffee, which roughly matches 7 to 9 grams. Understanding these general measures can help you avoid dramatic errors, especially when dialing in your grind size or adjusting your machine.

However, to perfect your espresso shot, transitioning from estimation to weighing is highly recommended.

Remember, investing just a bit of time in learning to measure consistently—whether by weight or volume—will elevate your espresso brewing from good to great. Start using a scale today and experiment with doses and grind settings to unlock the full potential of your coffee beans and espresso machine.

At L’Anse French Café, quality is at the heart of every cup. Each coffee is prepared with care and precision to bring out the perfect balance of aroma and taste. From the first grind to the final pour, our team ensures that every shot reflects our passion, our attention to detail, and our French touch. Because here, a good coffee isn’t just a drink — it’s an experience to be savored.