A tablespoon of coffee is not the same as a teaspoon of coffee

by Aaron
(Lancaster, Wisconsin)

QUESTION:

On every question where coffee ratio is mentioned, you say two level (or one heaping, which is roughly two level) tablespoons per 6oz cup, but then at least once a similar number of level teaspoons(in particular an archived question, in reference to the slightly larger mugs) at 2 to 2.5 level teaspoons.

If you are referring to average silverware(I'll refer to them as Eating and Serving, from here) spoons, well, they're horrible for measuring anything (heaped is more like 3x, and Serving is only 1.5-2 times an Eating spoon usually.)

Also because of that measure, it seems your count is affected as well. The average nearly-flat "table" spoon is really only about half a measured tablespoon, which I've found one per 6oz gets in most coffee makers very close to the strong vs. bitter threshold. Because you consistently recommend two tablespoons per cup, and two real tablespoons per cup is consistently too bitter to drink for anyone I've met, (in addition to the inaccuracy point above, 1tbsp=3tsp,) I assume you are looking at the kitchen standard "table" spoon. This is not an accurate measure, please check your numbers.


ANSWER:

You’re right, it’s meant to be two tablespoons, not teaspoons. I’ll find the errors and correct them. Thanks for the heads up.

Measuring the right amount of coffee can get confusing, particularly with different cup and mugs sizes. Not to mention people’s different preferences when it comes to the strength of their coffee.

You’ll find a more detailed explanation on the how to measure coffee page.