If you bought Full Throttle Coffee at our Branson location, you’ll want it strong, rich, and full of flavor, whether you’re a tourist starting your day in a hotel or a local trying a new routine at home.
Home brewers often get frustrated with weak coffee, but the problem is usually the method, not the bean. We put the same care into our coffee bar as we do our distilled spirits. Below are three main ways people make coffee at home, along with simple tips to make your cup perfect every time.
Three Easy Ways to Make Your Best Cup
The way you brew your coffee changes the final taste and strength. Choose the method that fits your morning best!
1. The Everyday Standard: Automatic Drip Brewer
This is the fastest and most common way people make coffee, especially for families and tourists in hotel rooms.
- How it Works: The machine heats the water and runs it automatically over the grounds.
- Key Detail: You need a medium grind, which looks like coarse sand. If the grounds are too fine, they will clog the machine and make a bitter cup.
- Flavor Outcome: Clean, consistent, and easy to drink. Great for daily use.
2. The Clean Taste: Pour-Over (Manual Brew)
Pour-over is a simple way to make coffee that gives you the most control over the flavor. It’s perfect for couples or anyone who likes to take their time in the morning.
- How it Works: You heat the water separately and pour it slowly, in circles, over the coffee grounds and filter.
- Key Detail: You need a medium-fine grind (a little finer than drip coffee). Pouring slowly is how you get the best flavor out of the grounds.
- Flavor Outcome: The cleanest, purest taste that lets the unique flavor of your Full Throttle Coffee bean shine.
3. The Bold and Rich Flavor: French Press
This method soaks the grounds directly in the water, which results in the boldest and heaviest cup possible. It’s ideal for locals or bikers who like their coffee seriously strong.
- How it Works: Mix coarse grounds and hot water in the container, let it sit for about 4 minutes, then gently press the plunger down to separate the grounds.
- Key Detail: You must use a coarse grind, like sea salt. This prevents fine “mud” from getting into your cup.
- Flavor Outcome: Full-bodied, heavy, and very rich, with a powerful taste.
No matter which method you use, these two simple tips will stop you from making weak coffee.
The Golden Ratio: Perfect Proportions
The most common mistake is guessing the amount of coffee and water. Always measure your ingredients!
- Rule: The simplest way to start is the 1:15 proportion, which means 2 tablespoons of grounds for every 6 ounces of water.
- Tip: Measuring your coffee and water is the only sure way to control the final strength. If you need a stronger cup, use a little more coffee, not more time.
Use the Right Temperature
Water that is too hot burns the coffee and tastes bitter. Water that is too cool makes sour, weak coffee.
- Tip: Let your water sit for about 30 seconds after it boils before you pour it. The perfect temperature range is between 195∘F and 205∘F (90.5∘C to 96∘C).
The Simple Solution: Visit Our Branson Coffee Bar
You can skip the hassle of perfecting the technique at home and get a guaranteed bold cup of coffee from our experts.
- For Tourists & Locals: Stop by our downtown Full Throttle Distillery location for breakfast and a guaranteed bold cup of coffee. We handle the whole process so you can start your day right. Our coffee bar offers a full menu of expresso, mixed drinks, and cold brew.
- For Event Planners: Need to power a large group? We offer coffee catering and can set up a high-quality espresso bar for your corporate event or private party, keeping your guests energized and happy. Contact our events team for information.
Check our coffee menu here before your visit
Quick Coffee Questions Answered
Do I need to buy special coffee for each brewing method?
You do not need different beans, but you do need the right grind size for each method. The same Full Throttle Coffee beans can be ground coarse for a French Press or medium for a drip machine.
Does the water used affect the taste of my coffee?
Yes. Water with too many minerals or chemicals can ruin the flavor. We recommend using filtered water, especially if your tap water has a strong taste or smell.
What is the benefit of letting a French press sit for 4 minutes?
This is called “steeping” time. Four minutes is the minimum time needed for the water to fully soak the coarse grounds and pull out all the rich, bold flavors without making the final cup taste muddy or bitter.
Why does my coffee taste bitter even when I use the right ratio?
Bitterness is most often caused by water that is too hot. Make sure you let the boiling water cool for 30 seconds before pouring it over the grounds to avoid scorching them.
