Hello, coffee lovers! So, youâre a fan of espresso, but you donât have an espresso machine at home? No worries! Weâve got a method for you to make a strong, concentrated coffee thatâs similar to espresso using your trusty drip coffee maker.
Before we dive in, itâs important to note that while this method gets you close to the taste of espresso, itâs not the same as true espresso made with an espresso machine. But hey, letâs make the most of what we have and enjoy a delicious cup of coffee!

The Espresso Experience (With a Twist)
Espresso is known for its intense flavor and rich crema, but achieving that at home without an espresso machine can be a challenge. True espresso is made by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee under high pressure.
Drip coffee makers work a bit differentlyâthey use gravity to filter water through the coffee grounds, resulting in a milder brew. However, with a few simple tweaks, we can make a coffee thatâs bold, robust, and espresso-like!
Espresso vs. Espresso-Like Coffee: A Comparison
Aspect | Espresso | Espresso-Like Coffee (Drip Coffee Maker) |
---|---|---|
Brewing Pressure | High pressure | Gravity-based, low pressure |
Grind Size | Fine | Fine to medium-fine |
Coffee-to-Water Ratio | Concentrated, less water | Adjusted to be concentrated |
Crema | Yes | No |
Equipment | Espresso machine | Drip coffee maker |
Brewing Espresso-Like Coffee in 3 Easy Steps
Follow these simple steps to brew a coffee thatâs close to espresso:
- Start with the Right Coffee Grounds: Use one heaping tablespoon of fine to medium-fine coffee grounds (bold blend recommended) and gently press them in the coffee filter.
- Less Water, More Flavor: Pour two ounces of warm water into the water reservoir for a concentrated brew. Aim for 195-205 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Letâs Get Brewing!: Press âBrewâ and wait. Use âConcentrate Brewâ if available. Enjoy your bold, flavorful coffee!
Extra Tips for the Perfect Brew
- Experiment with the coffee-to-water ratio to suit your taste preferences.
- Use fresh, high-quality coffee beans for the best flavor.
- Try different coffee blends to explore various flavor profiles.
- Clean your coffee maker regularly to ensure a clean and tasty brew.
Cheers to Good Coffee
Whether youâre enjoying a shot of true espresso or a cup of espresso-like coffee from your drip coffee maker, we hope you savor every sip. Try this method, and let us know how it works for you. Cheers to good coffee and happy brewing!

Editorial Staff
The editorial staff at Crazy Coffee Crave is a team of coffee enthusiasts & Baristas who enjoy the one thing we all think about as soon as we get up in the morning. Trusted by thousands of readers worldwide.