Researchers Reveal Simple Trick To Make Your Coffee Stronger – Without Changing Your Beans

If you're one of the millions who can’t start the day without a steaming cup of coffee, you're going to love this. A group of researchers has discovered a surprisingly straightforward adjustment that can significantly increase your coffee's strength without purchasing new beans or fancy equipment.

The Secret? Before you grind the beans, chill them.

A recent study by food scientists at the University of Bath found that cooling your coffee beans before grinding them can result in a coffee that is more robust. Yes, that’s right—just pop your beans in the freezer for a little while before you grind them.

Why It Works

According to the findings of the researchers, colder beans grind more uniformly, resulting in a more consistent particle size. And when your grounds are more even, the extraction process (i.e., the part where hot water pulls flavor from the grounds) becomes more efficient.

"Uniform particles mean better extraction," explained Dr. Christopher Hendon, a chemistry professor involved in the study. "You're not over-extracting the tiny dust-like bits or under-extracting the bigger chunks. Instead, you get a smoother, bolder brew every time."

What About Flavor?

Interestingly, it's not just strength that improves—flavor clarity does too. The researchers found that bitterness caused by uneven extraction can be mitigated by using cooler ground. Rather, depending on the variety of beans, you will experience enhanced notes of chocolate, fruit, or nuttiness. Your coffee will taste cleaner and more refined because of this subtle but noticeable change, especially if you drink it black. For home brewers who take their morning ritual seriously, this trick offers a deeper appreciation of the coffee's true character.

How To Do It At Home

The best part? This hack is incredibly easy. Here’s how to try it:

Beans should be kept in the freezer in an airtight container. This prevents moisture from entering and maintains freshness. Before grinding, only take out the amount you need. Grind immediately while the beans are still cold, then brew as usual.

Bonus tip: Using a burr grinder instead of a blade grinder will enhance the uniformity effect even more, boosting flavor and strength.

No Need for Expensive Upgrades

This trick is a game-changer for people who have spent years trying different roasts or buying expensive espresso machines to get stronger coffee. It's a free addition to your current routine that may just transform your morning cup of coffee into an entirely new experience.

Final Sip

The best ways to get a stronger cup of coffee have been debated for a long time, with double shots and longer brew times among the options. However, it turns out that the solution might have been in your freezer all along. Therefore, the next time you grind beans, chill them first. Your taste buds will thank you.

The Science of the Sip

Delving deeper into the science, the cooling effect alters the physical properties of the beans, making them more brittle. In high-speed grinders, where friction can slightly warm and unevenly crush room-temperature beans, this brittleness contributes to a more precise grind. Particle analysis was used by the research team to confirm that frozen beans resulted in a smaller particle size distribution—scientific jargon for more consistency and fewer "boulders" or fines in the ground.

Real-Life Results

Those who have tried the trick are already raving about it. Leila, a Seattle-based barista and coffee blogger, states, "I've been grinding frozen beans for a week now." The distinction is undeniable despite being subtle. My espresso shots are stronger and smoother, and I haven’t changed my technique or beans.” Whether you're making pour-over, French press, or cold brew, the improvement can be noticed across brewing styles.