The question of how many cups of coffee is 80 mL can be confusing because the term "cup" has multiple meanings, ranging from a baking measurement to a specialty coffee volume. The key to finding the right answer lies in understanding the context of the measurement, particularly whether you are measuring for baking, general beverage volume, or brewing a specific type of coffee like espresso.
80 mL in Standard US Customary Measurements
In the context of standard baking and kitchen measurements used in the United States, 80 mL is a straightforward conversion. A standard US cup is defined as 240 mL. This makes the math simple:
- $80 \text{ mL} \div 240 \text{ mL per cup} = 1/3$ of a cup.
This is the most direct and universally understood conversion for general cooking and liquid measurement purposes. For instance, if a recipe calls for one-third of a cup of liquid, 80 mL is the metric equivalent. While this standard applies to liquids like water, it's not the final word for coffee, where different cup sizes are the norm.
Understanding "Cup" in Coffee Context
In the world of coffee, a "cup" is often not the same as a standard US 240 mL measuring cup. Coffee cup sizes are influenced by the brewing method and cultural norms, leading to different interpretations of what a "cup" actually is.
Specialty Coffee Standards
For many specialty coffee enthusiasts and professional baristas, a standard cup for brewed coffee is often defined as 150 mL (5 fluid ounces). This smaller, more precise measurement is used to maintain consistency and adhere to guidelines like the Specialty Coffee Association's "Golden Ratio". In this context:
- $80 \text{ mL} \div 150 \text{ mL per cup} \approx 0.53$ cups
This means 80 mL is roughly half of a standard, small specialty coffee cup.
Espresso Shot Measurements
When talking about high-concentration coffee drinks, particularly espresso, the volumes are much smaller. An espresso is not meant to fill a standard mug. Instead, it is measured in small, concentrated shots:
- A single espresso shot is typically 30 mL.
- A double espresso shot (doppio) is approximately 60 mL.
- Some systems, like Nespresso, define a standard espresso at 40 mL and a double espresso at 80 mL.
Based on these standards, 80 mL could be interpreted as:
- Two standard single espresso shots (30 mL each, totaling 60 mL, with 20 mL extra).
- One standard double espresso shot (60 mL, with 20 mL extra).
- One specific double espresso shot, such as the 80 mL offering from certain capsule machines.
A Visual Guide to Different "Cups"
To better visualize the difference, consider a table comparing various interpretations of a "cup" and how 80 mL fits into each one.
| Measurement Standard | Cup Volume (mL) | 80 mL Equivalent | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| US Customary | 240 mL | 1/3 cup | Standard kitchen measurement. |
| Specialty Coffee (SCA) | 150 mL | $\approx 0.53$ cups | Standard for home brewers following the "Golden Ratio." |
| Espresso Single Shot | 30 mL | $\approx 2.67$ shots | Foundational volume for espresso drinks. |
| Espresso Double Shot | 60 mL | $\approx 1.33$ shots | Common base for lattes, cappuccinos. |
| Nespresso Double Espresso | 80 mL | Exactly 1 shot | Volume for a specific pod-based system. |
| Takeaway Espresso | 60 mL | $\approx 1.33$ shots | Commonly served in dedicated, small demitasse cups. |
Practical Implications for Home Brewing
For the home brewer, this variation in cup size means you must choose your standard and stick with it. If you are using a drip coffee maker, the manufacturer's definition of a "cup" is often 150 mL (5 fl oz) or 180 mL (6 fl oz), not a standard 240 mL measuring cup.
Here are some practical tips for brewing with 80 mL in mind:
- Espresso-Based Drinks: If you're using an espresso machine, 80 mL is a generous double shot. It's perfect for a small, strong beverage or as the base for a cortado (traditionally 135 mL total) or a macchiato.
- Drip or Pour-Over: For a larger volume brew, 80 mL is not a full cup. You would need to scale up your coffee grounds and water accordingly. For example, using the SCA's 1:18 ratio, 80 mL of water would require approximately 4.4 grams of ground coffee for a small, concentrated pour-over.
- Measuring Tools: To ensure accuracy, especially for espresso, consider using a scale instead of relying solely on volume measurements. A gram scale is the most precise way to achieve a consistent brew ratio every time.
- Different Brew Types: The desired strength and flavor profile will also dictate your recipe. For a stronger brew like French Press, a different ratio than a standard drip coffee is often used.
Conclusion
Ultimately, there is no single answer to how many cups of coffee is 80 mL because the definition of a "cup" is not universal. For standard US measurement, it's a clear one-third of a cup. In the context of coffee, 80 mL can be seen as slightly more than half a typical specialty coffee cup or as a generous double espresso shot. The most important takeaway for any coffee enthusiast is to understand the measurement standard you are using and to remain consistent with your brewing ratio for the best results. Precision, whether measured in grams or milliliters, is the key to unlocking a better coffee experience.
For more detailed information on metric conversions, consult the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Guide to the SI.
