How to Make Coffee with an AeroPress

Now I know what you’re thinkin’. “What’s an old trail cowboy doin’ writin’ about one o’ them fancy contraptions called an AeroPress?” Well, partner, let me tell ya — just ‘cause I wear spurs and brew my joe by firelight don’t mean I can’t appreciate a mighty fine cup of coffee when I see one. And the AeroPress? Well, that little gadget’s the modern cowboy’s sidearm in the world o’ brew.

If you’re lookin’ to rustle up some cowboy coffee that’s bold, smooth, and ready in minutes — whether you’re on the range, on the trail, or just watchin’ the sun rise on your front porch — then saddle up, 'cause I’m about to show you how to make coffee with an AeroPress, western-style.

Why the AeroPress Is Cowboy-Approved

Now I’ve brewed coffee a dozen ways — percolators over hot coals, cowboy kettles danglin’ from tripod rigs, you name it. But I gotta tip my hat to the AeroPress. It’s fast, light, and tough enough to throw in a saddlebag. And the brew? Rich, smooth, and powerful — like a well-trained mustang.

Best part? You don’t need a fancy setup or power. Just hot water, good beans, and the will to wrangle your caffeine fix.

What You’ll Need on Your Brewin’ Trail

• 1 AeroPress (classic or travel size)
• Paper filter (or metal if you’re more the rugged reusable type)
• Fresh-ground coffee (medium-fine grind works best)
• Hot water (around 200°F — just off the boil)
• A sturdy mug or tin cup
• Stir stick (or a clean stick off a mesquite tree — I ain’t judgin’)
• Optional: one of our Wrangler Coffee Co. western blends — might I suggest the Wrangler’s Costa Rican Roast or the Quarter Horse Cowboy Blend — roasted for rugged sippin’ and high noon flavor.

How to Make Coffee with an AeroPress (Cowpoke Style)

There’s more than one trail to take with an AeroPress, but I’ll teach ya my favorite — The Inverted Method — ‘cause it lets the coffee steep a bit longer for a bolder cup, the kind that’ll make your mustache stand up and salute.

1. Get Things Heated: Start by boilin’ some water. Let it cool for 30 seconds to settle around 200°F — no one wants scorched beans.

2. Prep the AeroPress: Turn that AeroPress upside-down with the plunger halfway inserted. Place it on a flat surface like the top of your tin coffee can or a rock you trust.

Drop a paper filter in the cap and give it a quick rinse with hot water to wash out the papery taste. Set the cap aside for now.

3. Add the Grounds: Scoop in about 14–17 grams of coffee (that’s ‘bout 1 rounded tablespoon and a half). Adjust to your taste. You want your brew strong enough to stand on its own, like a lonesome cowboy in a dusty saloon.

4. Add Hot Water: Pour in hot water till you hit the top — usually around the "4" mark. Give it a quick stir for about 10 seconds. That’s when the magic starts.

Let it steep for about 1–2 minutes. Longer if you like your coffee with a kick.

5. Seal the Deal: Screw on the filter cap tight. Then carefully flip the AeroPress onto your mug like you’re turnin’ over a horseshoe — smooth and steady.

6. Press Slowly: Push the plunger down slow and even, like coaxin’ a nervous calf into the pen. You’ll hear a hiss at the end — that’s your signal that the brew’s done and ready to ride.

Enjoy the Ride

Now sit back, take a sip, and let that smooth, bold flavor fill your soul. Rustic coffee, meet modern muscle.

This ain’t no watery diner cup — this is western coffee brewed with intention, the kind that reminds you why mornings were made for quiet, hot cups and cold mountain air.

Tips from a Trail-Seasoned Barista

• Use fresh beans. Always. Pre-ground coffee’s like a tired old mule — it just don’t perform the way it should.
• Grind right before brewin’. A medium-fine grind gives you the best control — like a rope in steady hands.
• Don’t rush the press. Patience makes a better brew. Pressin’ too fast makes it bitter, like a snake-bit gambler.
• Try cowboy-flavored blends. Look for bold, rustic roasts with notes of smoke, dark chocolate, spice, or nuttiness. Our Thoroughbred Espresso or Appaloosa Cinnamon Hazelnut pair mighty fine with the AeroPress as well.

Why AeroPress Is the Campfire Coffee King

For those of us who chase the sunrise, saddle up early, and live close to the land, the AeroPress is the perfect trail companion. It’s campfire coffee without compromise — easy to pack, quick to brew, and strong enough to keep your eyes open after a long night watchin’ cattle or runnin’ fences.

So next time you’re headed out yonder, or just need a break from the grind, grab your AeroPress, load up your favorite western roast, and brew like a cowboy who means business.