Can You Make Coffee Using Seltzer Water?

Quick answer

• Yes, you can technically make coffee with seltzer water, but it’s generally not recommended for optimal flavor.
• The carbonation in seltzer can interfere with proper coffee extraction, leading to a less desirable taste.
• Seltzer water lacks the minerals found in tap or filtered water that contribute to a balanced coffee flavor.
• If you must use seltzer, opt for plain, unflavored varieties to avoid introducing off-tastes.
• Expect a coffee that might taste weak, bitter, or have an unusual mouthfeel due to the dissolved CO2.
• For the best results, stick to fresh, filtered water for your coffee brewing.

If you must use seltzer, opt for plain, unflavored varieties to avoid introducing off-tastes. You can find a good selection of plain seltzer water online.

Polar Seltzer Water Original, 12 fl oz cans, 18 pack

• Polar Seltzer is made of 3 simple ingredients water, bubbles & natural fruit flavors
• Family Made Since 1882, Polar Seltzer has been crafted with the same care and attention for over 139 years
• Pure water, zillions of tiny bubbles to tingle your taste buds, and great tasting fruit flavor to satisfy cravings
• Why be flat when you can sparkle? Enjoy naturally calorie-free refreshment made with nothing but water, bubbles and natural fruit essence
• No Sugar, No Sweeteners, No Sodium, No Carbs, Gluten Free, Vegan & Kosher

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Who this is for

• Home brewers curious about experimenting with different water sources.
• Individuals who are out of regular water and only have seltzer on hand in a pinch.
• Coffee enthusiasts looking to understand how water composition impacts brewing.

What to check first

Brewer type and filter type

Your coffee maker and the filter it uses are fundamental to the brewing process. Different brewers (drip, pour-over, French press, AeroPress) and filter materials (paper, metal, cloth) interact with the coffee grounds and water in unique ways. A paper filter, for example, will remove more oils and fine particles than a metal filter, impacting the final cup’s clarity and body. Ensure your filter is compatible with your brewer and is clean.

Water quality and temperature

The water you use is the largest component of your coffee, so its quality matters. Tap water can contain chlorine or other minerals that affect taste. Filtered water is often preferred for its neutral profile. For brewing, water temperature is critical for proper extraction. Aim for a temperature between 195°F and 205°F (90.5°C and 96°C) for most brewing methods. Water that is too cool will result in under-extracted, sour coffee, while water that is too hot can scald the grounds and lead to bitterness.

For the best results, stick to fresh, filtered water for your coffee brewing. Investing in a quality coffee brewing setup can make a significant difference.

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Grind size and coffee freshness

The size of your coffee grounds determines how quickly water can extract flavor. Coarser grinds are suitable for methods like French press, while finer grinds are needed for espresso. Freshly roasted coffee beans, ground just before brewing, offer the best flavor potential. Pre-ground coffee loses its volatile aromatics quickly, leading to a stale taste. Store your beans in an airtight container away from light and heat.

Coffee-to-water ratio

The ratio of coffee grounds to water is a key factor in achieving a balanced brew. A common starting point for drip coffee is a ratio of 1:15 to 1:18 (e.g., 1 gram of coffee to 15-18 grams of water). Using too little coffee can result in a weak, watery cup, while too much coffee can lead to an overly strong, bitter, or even undrinkable brew. Measuring your coffee and water by weight (grams) is more accurate than using volume (cups or scoops).

Cleanliness/descale status

A clean coffee maker is essential for good-tasting coffee. Coffee oils can build up over time, turning rancid and imparting off-flavors. Mineral deposits from water (scale) can also accumulate, affecting the brewer’s performance and the water temperature. Regularly cleaning your coffee maker, including descaling it periodically (following the manufacturer’s instructions), will ensure that your coffee tastes as it should.

Step-by-step (brew workflow)

1. Prepare your brewer and filter.

• What to do: Assemble your brewing device and insert the appropriate filter. If using a paper filter, rinse it with hot water to remove any papery taste and preheat the brewer.
• What “good” looks like: The brewer is clean, the filter is securely in place, and if using paper, it’s been rinsed.
• Common mistake and how to avoid it: Forgetting to rinse a paper filter. This can leave a papery taste in your coffee. Always rinse with hot water.

2. Heat your water.

• What to do: Heat fresh, filtered water to the optimal brewing temperature, typically between 195°F and 205°F (90.5°C and 96°C).
• What “good” looks like: Water is at the correct temperature, not boiling vigorously.
• Common mistake and how to avoid it: Using boiling water directly from the kettle. Let it sit for about 30-60 seconds off the boil to reach the ideal temperature range.

3. Measure and grind your coffee.

• What to do: Weigh your coffee beans and grind them to the appropriate size for your brewing method. For example, medium-coarse for drip, coarse for French press.
• What “good” looks like: Coffee is ground just before brewing, with particles consistent for the chosen method.
• Common mistake and how to avoid it: Using pre-ground coffee or grinding too far in advance. This leads to stale coffee and a loss of aromatics.

4. Add coffee grounds to the brewer.

• What to do: Place the freshly ground coffee into the prepared filter or brewing chamber.
• What “good” looks like: The grounds are evenly distributed in the filter or chamber.
• Common mistake and how to avoid it: Not leveling the grounds. Uneven grounds can lead to uneven extraction. Gently shake the brewer to level the bed of coffee.

5. Begin the bloom (if applicable).

• What to do: For pour-over or drip methods, gently pour just enough hot water over the grounds to saturate them evenly. Wait 30-45 seconds for the coffee to “bloom” – releasing CO2.
• What “good” looks like: The coffee grounds expand and bubble, indicating freshness.
• Common mistake and how to avoid it: Pouring too much water during the bloom or skipping it entirely. Too much water can wash away grounds, and skipping it means you miss out on degassing.

6. Continue pouring water.

• What to do: Slowly and steadily pour the remaining hot water over the grounds in a controlled manner, following the pattern recommended for your brewer (e.g., concentric circles for pour-over).
• What “good” looks like: Water is incorporated evenly into the grounds, and the brew bed remains relatively stable.
• Common mistake and how to avoid it: Pouring too quickly or in a concentrated stream. This can create channels in the coffee bed, leading to uneven extraction.

7. Allow the coffee to brew/drip.

• What to do: Let the water pass through the coffee grounds and filter into your carafe or mug.
• What “good” looks like: The brewing process completes within the expected timeframe for your method (e.g., 3-5 minutes for drip).
• Common mistake and how to avoid it: Over-extraction (brew takes too long) or under-extraction (brew finishes too quickly). This is often related to grind size or pour rate.

8. Remove the spent grounds.

• What to do: Once brewing is complete, carefully remove the filter and spent coffee grounds.
• What “good” looks like: The grounds are contained within the filter, and no coffee has spilled into the brewed coffee.
• Common mistake and how to avoid it: Leaving the grounds in the brewer too long after brewing. This can continue to extract bitter compounds.

9. Serve and enjoy.

• What to do: Pour the freshly brewed coffee into your mug.
• What “good” looks like: Aromatic, well-balanced coffee.
• Common mistake and how to avoid it: Letting the brewed coffee sit on a hot plate for too long. This can “cook” the coffee, making it taste burnt or bitter.

Common mistakes (and what happens if you ignore them)

Decision rules (simple if/then)

• If your coffee tastes sour, then increase your grind size slightly or brew for a shorter time because sourness often indicates under-extraction.
• If your coffee tastes bitter, then decrease your grind size slightly or brew for a longer time because bitterness often indicates over-extraction.
• If your coffee tastes weak, then use more coffee grounds or less water because a low coffee-to-water ratio results in a diluted brew.
• If your coffee tastes too strong, then use fewer coffee grounds or more water because a high coffee-to-water ratio results in an intense brew.
• If you notice off-flavors like chlorine, then use filtered water because tap water impurities can negatively impact taste.
• If your brewing time is significantly shorter than usual, then check your grind size; it might be too coarse, leading to fast drainage.
• If your brewing time is significantly longer than usual, then check your grind size; it might be too fine, causing the water to flow too slowly.
• If your coffee tastes flat or dull, then ensure you are using freshly roasted and freshly ground beans because stale coffee lacks vibrancy.
• If you’re using seltzer water, then expect a different taste profile and consider using it only if no other water is available because carbonation and lack of minerals alter extraction.
• If your coffee maker is noisy or not heating water properly, then it’s likely time to descale because mineral buildup can impede performance.
• If your coffee has a papery taste, then ensure you rinsed your paper filter thoroughly with hot water before brewing.

FAQ

Can you make coffee with seltzer water?

Yes, you can technically brew coffee using seltzer water. However, the carbonation and lack of minerals can negatively affect the taste and extraction process.

Will seltzer water make my coffee taste bad?

It’s likely to alter the flavor. The dissolved carbon dioxide can interfere with how coffee compounds dissolve, potentially leading to a weaker, more bitter, or simply “off” taste compared to brewing with regular water.

What kind of seltzer water is best if I have to use it?

If you must use seltzer, opt for plain, unflavored varieties. Flavored seltzers will introduce additional tastes that are unlikely to complement your coffee.

Are there any benefits to using seltzer water for coffee?

There are no widely recognized benefits for coffee flavor. The primary advantage might be convenience if it’s the only water source available.

What happens to the carbonation when brewing?

The heat of the brewing process will cause the dissolved carbon dioxide (CO2) in the seltzer water to rapidly escape. This can affect the initial pour and potentially the way the coffee grounds are agitated.

Can I use flavored seltzer water?

While technically possible, it’s highly discouraged. Flavors like lemon, lime, or berry will likely clash with the coffee’s natural notes, resulting in an unpleasant beverage.

What’s the difference between seltzer and club soda for coffee?

Club soda contains added minerals like sodium bicarbonate and potassium sulfate, which can further alter coffee flavor. Seltzer is generally just carbonated water. Both are less ideal than filtered water.

Is it safe to use seltzer water in my coffee maker?

Yes, it is safe for your coffee maker. The main concern is the impact on taste, not the safety of the machine itself.

What this page does NOT cover (and where to go next)

• Specific recommendations for bottled water brands or types.
• Detailed comparisons of water filters and their impact on coffee taste.
• Advanced water chemistry and its precise effects on coffee extraction.
• Recipes for coffee drinks that intentionally incorporate sparkling elements.

Next, you might want to explore guides on choosing the best filtered water for coffee, understanding the science behind coffee extraction, or learning about different coffee brewing methods in more detail.