Why does my coffee taste watery (what makes coffee taste watery + more information)?

Nothing is as disappointing as making a cup of coffee, only to taste and discover that it is watered down. So, why exactly does coffee sometimes taste watery? Read on to find out.

Your coffee might taste watery for several reasons such as incorrect coffee size grind and wrong water temperature, among others. I once disposed my coffee machine for making watered down coffee and purchased a new one. Unfortunately, the problem persisted even with the new machine. I decided to do extensive research to get to the bottom of the issue and discovered various reasons that cause coffee to taste watery. My problem was solved by simply changing my coffee grind. If you’ve ever been excited to watch as your coffee brews and to take that first sip only to be disappointed, you are not alone. I wrote this post to educate anyone wondering why their coffee is watery. Read on to also learn the solutions to this problem.

What makes my coffee taste watery?

Not using enough coffee.

The poor coffee-to-water ratio is the most common reason coffee might taste watery. Proper coffee-to-water balance ensures you get the best flavor from your cup of coffee. Using too little coffee and too much water will water down your coffee. It is important to note that the proper coffee-to-water ratio depends on the brewing method used.

Incorrect coffee-size grind

The incorrect size and consistency of coffee grinds used when brewing coffee will result in a watery taste. Coffee grind sizes range from extra coarse to medium to extra fine. If your coffee size grind is too big, your coffee will have a watery taste. The coffee beans will need to be adequately infused in the water. This problem is mainly observed in espresso shots since the coffee grinds must be finely grounded.

Using a coffee maker unsuitable for a particular coffee grind size will also result in an incorrect grind size. Therefore, adjusting your grind size to your coffee maker is necessary. Luckily, some coffee roasters will do this task by asking how you would like your coffee beans to be ground.

Wrong water temperature

Let’s get a little bit scientific, shall we? It is scientifically proven that introducing more energy, such as heat, speeds up chemical reactions. This is also applied in the coffee brewing process. If your coffee tastes watery, it could be because the water is not hot enough. However, ensure your water is not too hot since that will give your coffee a burnt taste.

Not brewing your coffee for long enough.

In addition to using the correct water temperature, brewing your coffee at the right time is essential. If you fail to brew your coffee adequately, the coffee grinds will be under-steeped, giving your coffee a watery taste.

Dirty or malfunctioned equipment

A dirty or malfunctioning coffee or espresso machine will undoubtedly alter the taste of your coffee. Residue and scale build-up from previous pots of coffee grounds will lead to a watery taste. Blockage in the upper and lower needles leads to under-extracted, weak coffee.

What should I do when my coffee tastes watery?

Change the coffee-to-water ratio.

Being the most common reason coffee tastes watery, it seems fit to address this issue first. Ensure that the brewing method you are using corresponds with the coffee-to-water ratio that you need. However, if you are using the correct coffee-to-water balance and your coffee still tastes watery, you can adjust the amount of coffee.

Select the right grind size for your brewing method

As you brew your coffee, ensure you have selected the right grind size for your coffee maker. For example, espresso requires a fine grind to allow the coffee beans to infuse appropriately with the water. If selecting the right grind size becomes difficult, you can grind the coffee beans at home using a mortar and pestle.

Ensure that the water temperature is hot enough.

Hot water allows for maximum flavor extraction, preventing your coffee from being watery. The water should be just off the boil before steeping. The ideal water temperature ranges between 195°F to 205°F. It is also important to note that despite high temperatures being needed for proper brewing, some coffee bean strains, such as dark roasted beans, require lower temperatures. This is to avoid a bitter flavor.

Brew your coffee for an adequate amount of time.

If your brewing time is too short, your coffee will be under-extracted. The water must stay in contact with the coffee long enough to be well-extracted. The time required for your coffee to be adequately brewed will vary with each coffee maker. For example, espresso needs to brew for 20-30 seconds, while cold brew coffee needs to brew for 14-18 hours.

Check for dirt or malfunctions in your coffee machine

If you have tried all these tips and your coffee still tastes watery, it might be time to clean or fix your coffee machine. To clean it, use ½ water and ½ vinegar solution and run it through the coffee machine to remove build-up. Use a toothpick or paperclip to clear the clogged coffee ground that causes blockage in the needles.

FAQ Section

How long does it take coffee to oxidize?

Coffee can take 60 minutes to oxidize.

What should coffee smell like?

Coffee smells can range from nutty to smoky, fruity, and lightly caramelized.

What should coffee taste like?

Coffee taste can range from slightly acidic, bitter, or sweet depending on how it is brewed.

Do I need a new coffee maker when my water starts tasting watery?

No, you do not. You might need to clean it or check for malfunctions.

Is coffee that tastes watery bad for you?

No, coffee that tastes watery is not bad for you. It is just not enjoyable to drink.

Should I drink water that tastes watery?

You can drink water that tastes watery. However, it might not be tasty.