The AeroPress is a beloved manual coffee maker that has won the hearts of coffee enthusiasts throughout the world, including us here at our roastery in Ballarat! Its unique design and brewing method offer a quick and highly customisable cup of coffee. But how did this innovative device come to be? And how can you make the most out of it? Let’s dive into the history of AeroPress and explore a favourite recipe from renowned coffee expert James Hoffmann.
The Birth of AeroPress
The AeroPress was invented by Alan Adler, a retired Stanford engineering lecturer. Adler began developing the brewer in 2004 with the intention of reducing acidity and bitterness in his daily cup of coffee. He was dissatisfied with the limited control over parameters such as brew time, water temperature, and grind size offered by other brewers like espresso machines, pour-over brewers, and French presses.
Adler started prototyping the AeroPress in his garage. The final product consisted of a translucent cylindrical chamber and a plunger with an airtight silicone seal, similar to a syringe. Ground coffee beans and water are steeped inside, then forced through a filter at the bottom of the chamber by pressing the plunger down.
The Evolution of AeroPress
The AeroPress was officially unveiled in November 2005 at the CoffeeFest trade show in Seattle. Over the years, it gained a cult following among coffee enthusiasts, who praised its flexibility and brewing consistency.
The AeroPress's design has undergone a few changes since its inception. Early models used polycarbonate, but in 2009, the material was switched to BPA-free copolyester and then to polypropylene in 2014. In 2019, AeroPress, Inc. released the AeroPress Go, a travel-sized model with a reduced chamber capacity, smaller accessories, and a mug with a lid. In 2023, the company released the AeroPress Clear, constructed of a new material called Tritan they also released a larger version called XL.
James Hoffmann’s AeroPress Recipe
James Hoffmann, a well-known figure in the coffee world, has shared his own AeroPress recipe. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Set the AeroPress in the standard position (filter in) on a serving jug.
- Don’t rinse or preheat the brewer.
- Add 11g of finely coffee (coarser than espresso but finer than filter).
- Start a timer and add 200mL of water, aiming to wet all the coffee during pouring.
- Immediately place the plunger on top of the brewer, about 1cm in. This creates a vacuum to stop the coffee from dripping through.
- Wait for 2 minutes.
- Holding the brewer and the plunger, gently swirl the brewer.
- Wait for 30 seconds.
- Press gently all the way, which should take about 30 seconds.
- Enjoy your coffee!
This recipe is simple and flexible, making it a great starting point for any AeroPress enthusiast. Click here to watch the youtube video - https://youtu.be/j6VlT_jUVPc?si=BKo6rQSbznSjVtaJ
 The AeroPress is a testament to the power of innovation and the pursuit of the perfect cup of coffee. Its unique design and brewing method have made it a favourite among coffee lovers worldwide. Whether you’re a seasoned barista or a coffee novice, the AeroPress offers a quick, easy, and customizable way to enjoy your daily brew. You can get hold of any of the four Aeropress options here on our website https://karonfarmcoffee.com.au/collections/coffee-brewing-equipment.
Happy drinking!