How to Brew Kenya AA Plus Like a Pro
How to Brew Kenya AA Plus Like a Pro
You've invested in specialty coffee. Now let's make sure you're getting every bit of flavor out of it.
Our Kenya AA Plus wasn't chosen by accident. Known for its bright acidity, smooth body, and notes of citrus, berry, and sweetness, this coffee deserves more than a scoop tossed into a coffee maker and forgotten about.
Here's how to brew Kenya AA Plus like a pro.
Start With Fresh Coffee
The best cup starts with fresh beans.
If possible, grind your coffee right before brewing. Freshly ground coffee preserves the aromas and flavors that make specialty coffee special.
A burr grinder is ideal because it creates a consistent grind size, helping produce a more balanced cup.
Pro Tip: Buy whole bean whenever possible and grind only what you need.
Use Quality Water
Coffee is nearly 98% water.
If your water doesn't taste good on its own, it won't make good coffee.
Use filtered water whenever possible and avoid distilled water, which can make coffee taste flat.
The Golden Ratio
A great cup of Kenya AA Plus starts with the right coffee-to-water ratio.
For most home brewers:
- 5 tablespoons of coffee
- 17 ounces of water
This ratio creates a balanced cup that highlights the bright fruit notes, smooth body, and clean finish that Kenya AA Plus is known for.
If you prefer a stronger cup, add an extra tablespoon of coffee. If you prefer a lighter cup, reduce the coffee slightly.
Pour Over Method (Recommended)
What You'll Need
- Kenya AA Plus
- Pour-over dripper
- Paper filter
- Gooseneck kettle (optional)
- Fresh filtered water
Brewing Steps
- Heat water until just below boiling (about 30 seconds after boiling).
- Rinse the paper filter with hot water.
- Add 5 tablespoons of medium-ground Kenya AA Plus.
- Slowly pour 2 ounces of hot water over the grounds and let them bloom for 30-45 seconds.
- Continue pouring slowly in circles until you've added 17 ounces of water total.
- Let the coffee finish dripping.
Total brew time should be around 3-4 minutes.
The result is a bright, flavorful cup with notes of citrus, berry sweetness, and a smooth finish.
French Press Method
For a richer, fuller-bodied cup:
Brewing Steps
- Add 5 tablespoons of coarse-ground Kenya AA Plus to your French press.
- Pour in 17 ounces of hot water.
- Stir gently.
- Let steep for 4 minutes.
- Slowly press the plunger.
- Pour and enjoy.
This method emphasizes the coffee's sweetness and body while creating a heavier mouthfeel.
Quick Brew Guide
One Large Mug
- 2½ tablespoons coffee
- 8 ounces water
Two Large Mugs
- 5 tablespoons coffee
- 17 ounces water
Four Large Mugs
- 10 tablespoons coffee
- 34 ounces water
Full 12-Cup Coffee Maker
- 15 tablespoons coffee
- 51 ounces water