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| Meta Title | 11 Best Coffee Beans of 2023 to Brew at Home | |||||||||
| Meta Description | Experts tasted over 100 whole bean coffees to find the best coffee beans. This includes light, dark, espresso and medium roasts and everything in between. | |||||||||
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| Boilerpipe Text | Pros
Available nationwide
Comes in an air-free, pressurized can, great for freshness
Cons
The ground version of this coffee occasionally sprayed out when opening the pressurized can
This beloved best is a staple in the Test Kitchen (we'll sip it hot, cold, or even room temp!), so we weren't surprised when it was also a favorite among the broader pool of tasters. The medium roast coffee is smooth and robust without much bitterness or acidity, leaving you with a subtle, lingering sweetness and desire to take another sip. Plus, it comes in an air-free, pressurized can for maximum freshness and easy storage.
It's made from 100% arabica coffee, which is often considered the higher quality pick between the world's two most common coffees, arabica and robusta. (Of course, the final quality and taste of a coffee also depends on its origin, processing and more). The balanced brew is available in retailers nationwide (including Kroger, Safeway and Target) so it's a great, accessible option for anyone looking for a new go-to cup.
Roast
Size
Origin
Manufacturer tasting notes
Medium
8.8 oz.
N/A
Caramel, orange blossom and jasmine
Pros
Under $15 per bag
Organic
Cons
Slight bitterness
This under-$15 bag impressed tasters with its rich, slightly floral aroma and deep, dark chocolatey flavors. With a medium-bodied, smooth mouthfeel and pleasant taste, it held its own against speciality coffees that cost twice as much. Pick up this bag if you love a truly dark roast coffee that'll definitely give you a kick first thing in the a.m. Outside of Amazon, it's exclusively sold at Whole Foods Market.
While "organic" coffees don't inherently taste better than regular coffees, they are often grown in a more sustainable, petroleum-based-fertilizer-free environment where workers tend to experience better conditions. Since this is one is also a delicious brew, we'd call it a win-win.
Roast
Size
Origin
Manufacturer tasting notes
Dark
12 oz
N/A
Velvety, rich, bittersweet
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Pros
Extra-strong, invigorating taste
Value-size bags available
Cons
Not a good option if you are prone to jitters
...And they
mean
knee buckling. This extra-dark roast wowed tasters when prepared in an espresso machine: Each sip boasted an invigorating, bold flavor that will instantly wake you up, similar to a classic Italian espresso that you'd get from a bar in Rome. While some super dark roast coffees can taste burnt, this one maintained its brightness and offered a smooth finish that wasn't too harsh when enjoyed as an espresso without milk. If you prefer milk, however, its full-bodied texture and strong taste can definitely stand up to a little dairy. Don't have an espresso machine? Try this in a
Bialetti Moka Pot
or French press instead.
RELATED:
How to Make Espresso at Home: Our Complete Guide for With and Without a Machine
Pros
Great hot or iced
Great for flavored coffee drinkers
Cons
It might be too sweet if you prefer an unflavored coffee
Though it's called "Vanilla Blend," the flavor of this crowd-favorite medium roast coffee is subtle and suitable for both unflavored and flavored coffee fans. The vanilla notes impart a pleasant sweetness, which plays well with the coffee's nutty, chocolately flavor profile, while a light acidity makes for a deliciously balanced cup. The brand is the brainchild of Emma Chamberlain, a 21 year-old YouTuber, whose youthful, playful spirit is reflected in every cup. If you're looking for an easy-drinking, sweeter option that still packs a caffeine punch, this brew is likely for you.
Roast
Size
Origin
Manufacturer tasting notes
Medium
12 oz.
Nicaragua, Mexico, Peru
Madagascar vanilla, roasted nuts
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Pros
Unique blend of washed and naturally processed coffees
Subscription offered
Cons
Not suitable for extra-dark roast lovers
Even self-proclaimed dark roast skeptics enjoyed this robust brew, citing its pleasant, subtle fruity notes that we didn't find in other dark roast coffees. It's made from a blend of washed and naturally processed coffees, two different processing techniques that bring out different flavors in coffee beans. Washed coffee beans, which are dried after completely removing the "cherry" (the fleshy fruit that encases a coffee bean, which is the fruit's seed), exhibit complex, fermented tasting notes. Naturally processed coffee beans are dried in their cherry and tend to have stronger fruit flavors. Combined into one brew and roasted 'til dark, Hudson is for people looking for a rich cup that still offers up some of the subtleties of a light roast. Dare we say, it's the best of both worlds?
Roast
Size
Origin
Manufacturer tasting notes
Dark
10 oz.
N/A
Black cherry, licorice, clove
Pros
Very little acidity
Performs well in multiple brewing methods
Cons
Expensive
For anyone who prefers coffees with very little to no acidity, this one's for you. It offers a robust, straightforward taste without any strong fruit or fermented flavors and a medium-bodied richness that stands up to the addition of milk. One taster noted, "It makes a killer latte." It leans more toward a nutty, chocolatey profile (rather than a fruity profile) but it's not too sweet and definitely offers a welcome caffeine jolt on the first sip. In other words, it's a delicious cup of coffee on the darker side of a medium roast that tastes the way your favorite coffee shop smells: inviting, comforting and easy to enjoy.
Roast
Size
Origin
Manufacturer tasting notes
Medium-dark
12 oz., 5 lb.
South America, Indonesia, Africa
Hazelnut, vanilla, cocoa
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Pros
Under $15 per bag
Great hot or iced
Cons
Hard to find whole bean
Light roast doesn’t mean light coffee. The roast level is a better indication of flavor, with light roast beans offering a more delicate flavor compared to dark roast beans’ bold taste. Think about it this way: Dark roast coffees are exposed to more heat than light roast, and just like food, they develop deep, toasted flavors. Roasted for a shorter amount of time, light roast coffees will better preserve the original complexity of the bean.
This medium-bodied light roast cup is straight-up easy drinking (it doesn’t even need milk), with one taster noting that it would be great as iced coffee. Try this bag if you prefer to ease into your morning with a sweet, nutty cup of something special. At about $55 for six bags, it’s also a value pick. Go ahead, brew that second (or third) cup!
Roast
Size
Origin
Manufacturer tasting notes
Light
12 oz.
N/A
toasted malt, baking chocolate
Pros
Transparent pricing
Brand pays 3-4x more than Fair Trade standard
Cons
Expensive
Treat yourself to this luxurious cup made with beans from El Salvador. The dedicated team at Onyx Coffee Lab worked with local partners over multiple days of picking, processing and tasting to build the ideal blend. Tasters loved the full, roasted flavor and acidity that was present but not overpowering. While it shines as a drip coffee enjoyed on its own, it also stands up to other applications, such as stirred into a vanilla latte with cinnamon, as one taster noted.
"Washed" refers to the coffee's processing: It was fermented underwater for 12-36 hours, during which the outer layer broke down, making the coffee easier to dry. Once the fermentation is complete, the coffee is "washed," where it is agitated to remove the last of the outer fruit layer. Once the washing is complete, the coffee is spread out on tables to dry in the sun.
Roast
Size
Origin
Manufacturer tasting notes
Medium
10 oz
El Salvador
Rose, white grape, fig, black tea
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Now 15% Off
Pros
Offered in different grind sizes to suit your coffee machine
Transparent pricing
Cons
Expensive
This bag proves that a high concentration of caffeine is not necessary for a delicious cup of coffee (the decaffeination process only removes about 97% of the caffeine in coffee beans, so a typical cup of decaf still contains about 2 mg of caffeine). Tasters raved about its rich, roasted scent and chocolatey flavor that tasted "stronger" than other decafs they tried. One taster noted, "Its fermented, malted flavor reminds me of a stout beer." Clearly it's not the caffeine that makes for a complex cup.
The women, latinx-owned company was founded by Jen Apodaca, the 2022 Roasters Championship Runner-up and 2019 Cup Tasting Winner at the U.S. Coffee Championships.
Roast
Size
Origin
Manufacturer tasting notes
Medium
10 oz.
Cajamarca, Peru
chocolate malted ice cream
Pros
Performs well in multiple brewing methods
Great for drinkers who enjoy a slightly sweet, yet strong, cup
Cons
Expensive
While these beans were great prepared both in an espresso machine and a drip coffee maker, they performed exceptionally well when we put them to the French press test. A
French press coffee maker
involves steeping coarsely ground beans in hot water for a few minutes before pressing on the grounds to extract all of the water, which turns into a strong and luxurious coffee. This brewing method creates a robust flavor and almost creamy mouthfeel that works well with this vanilla-scented, lightly sweet brew.
Named after the San Francisco neighborhood that was home to the brand's first-ever brick-and-mortar location, this is their darkest blend, exhibiting deeply roasted notes with only a hint of acidity.
Roast
Size
Origin
Manufacturer tasting notes
Dark
6 oz., 12 oz.
N/A
baking chocolate, orange zest, brown sugar
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Pros
Make-ahead
Available in multiple quantities
Cons
Not recommended for hot coffee drinkers
While you can technically use any type of coffee bean to make cold brew, this bag was specifically designed for the process: "We selected the coffee for its flavor and profiled it in a way so the solubility of the coffee works with cold brewing," says Kaleena Teoh, Co-Founder of Coffee Project New York. Tasters loved the low acidity and ultra-smooth finish of this sweet, chocolatey and slightly fruity cup.
Never made cold brew before? It's easy with a
cold brew coffee maker
, but you can also prep it without one. Just combine 1 cup of coarsely ground coffee with 4 cups cold water in a covered container, refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours, then strain and enjoy. Bonus: Because grounds have to steep for several hours, this is a great make-ahead option for busy mornings.
Roast
Size
Origin
Manufacturer tasting notes
Cold brew
10 oz., 2 lb., 5lb.
N/A
Dark chocolate, vanilla, cinnamon, brown sugar, stone fruit. Low acidity, creamy body.
What to look for when shopping for coffee beans
✔️
Roast Type:
Specialty roasters usually default to light roast because it shows off more of the bean’s inherant characteristics. Light roasted beans tend to be sweeter with a balanced acidity, whereas dark roast is often bolder and less acidic. Medium-roasted beans fall somewhere in between. Dark-roasted beans also go stale more quickly, so it’s extra important to drink them fresh.
✔️
Roast Date:
More recent roast date = fresher coffee. If you’re buying from a specialty roaster, there’s a good chance you’ll find a roast date on the bag. With larger commodity roasters, you’ll typically only have a “best-by” date: This doesn’t tell you much about freshness, only that it’s still okay to drink (coffee is technically safe to drink for a very, very long time — smell and taste are better indications of when a bag has gone bad).
✔️
Price:
A more expensive bean (in terms of per-pound cost) will generally have more attention paid to each individual step of production: growing, harvesting, roasting, etc. It’s often easier to tell where more expensive, higher-quality beans came from based on flavor profile – e.g. Ethiopia vs. Kenya. You can pay upwards of $25 a pound or more for great coffee, but you can find perfectly good coffee for much less at the supermarket – it just may not be as complex or balanced.
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How to store coffee beans
It’s best to store coffee beans in an airtight container in a dark, non-humid location at room temperature. Packaging wise, if your coffee comes in an unlined paper bag, transfer to an airtight container for longer-term storage; if it comes in a thick, foil-lined bag with a valve (this lets CO2 out but does not let air in), keep it in the bag until it’s time to open it. Refrigerating coffee is not recommended, as the damp environment and fridge odors can negatively impact flavor and freshness, though freezing can work fine: just make sure to store in fully airtight bags. You can brew straight from frozen!
How to grind coffee beans
The best way to grind coffee, according to experts like
James Hoffman
, is to use a burr grinder: This produces a more consistent grind, and a better-tasting, more balanced cup of coffee. Blade grinders are much less sharp, so they tend to smash the coffee and produce large pieces along with some very fine pieces, which can create a muddier, less pleasant consistency. Burr grinders also allow for more control over the grind than blade grinders, so you can easily adjust the grind size.
This is important because every
coffee brewing method
requires a slightly different size grind, depending on how much water is required to brew, how much time the brewing process takes, and other factors. For example, French Press coffee requires a much larger grind size than espresso. It’s also important to grind coffee as soon before brewing as possible, as smaller pieces go stale and lose their flavors and aromas more quickly than whole beans: this is why grinding your own coffee is ideal.
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Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Samantha MacAvoy
is the assistant editor in the Good Housekeeping Test Kitchen, where she writes about tasty food and drink recipes, must-try products and top-tested secrets for home cooking success. She researched, collected and distributed over 150 coffees across dozens of tasters and combed through hundreds of survey responses to gather a pool of top contenders to taste again in the Test Kitchen. She then conducted several blind taste test with her colleagues on the Food Team, including Chief Food Director
Kate Merker
, to determine the final winners on this list.
Samantha (she/her) is the Senior Editor at Delish, where she edits the most-talked-about food news and features on the internet. In her previous role as Assistant Editor in the Good Housekeeping Test Kitchen, she taste-tested hundreds of products and recipes (tough job!). A graduate of Fordham University, she considers the kitchen to be her happiest place. | |||||||||
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# The Best Coffee Beans, According to Taste Tests
Perfect for espresso, French press and more\!
By [Samantha MacAvoy](https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/author/225114/samantha-macavoy/ "Samantha MacAvoy"), [Rachel Baron](https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/author/258829/rachel-baron/)
Published: Apr 5, 2023
Save Article
amazon/drinktrade/drinktrade/bluebottlecoffee/umamicart
We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our [review process.](https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/institute/about-the-institute/a19748212/good-housekeeping-institute-product-reviews/)
There's nothing better than kicking off your a.m. with a hot, freshly brewed cup of coffee — in fact, the [espresso machine](https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/appliances/coffee-maker-reviews/g29069348/best-espresso-machines/) is one of the most-used appliances in the GH Test Kitchen, hands down. Fresh coffee beans are a regular item on our grocery list — and we'd bet they're on yours, too — so we set out to find the best coffee beans to make your morning, afternoon or post-dinner (whenever!) sips o' joe even better.
If you don't own a [coffee grinder](https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/appliances/coffee-maker-reviews/g30986295/best-coffee-grinders/), you can purchase the ground version of these whole bean coffees or get them ground at the grocery store. Better yet, consider investing in a [coffee maker *with* a grinder](https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/appliances/g38869600/best-coffee-maker-with-grinder/) so you can enjoy fresh beans without taking up extra space on your counter.
## Our top picks:
- [](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00112IMUQ?tag=goodhousekeeping_auto-append-20)
### Best Overall
[illy Classico](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00112IMUQ?tag=goodhousekeeping_auto-append-20)
[Read more](https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/food-products/g43146479/best-coffee-beans/#product-3b6fbb42-3ac3-4c90-8f66-b8f8eed922a1 "Read more about Classico")
- [](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074621TG5?tag=goodhousekeeping_auto-append-20)
### Best Value
[Allegro Coffee Organic Italian Roast](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074621TG5?tag=goodhousekeeping_auto-append-20)
[Read more](https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/food-products/g43146479/best-coffee-beans/#product-fd0e2a45-60f0-4ec6-ab15-f15dda4c1eee "Read more about Organic Italian Roast")
- [](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01F5YCV3O?tag=goodhousekeeping_auto-append-20)
### Best for Espresso
[Stone Street Coffee Company Knee Buckling Espresso](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01F5YCV3O?tag=goodhousekeeping_auto-append-20)
[Read more](https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/food-products/g43146479/best-coffee-beans/#product-c1981599-f569-41b6-b4a8-b809770ef9fb "Read more about Knee Buckling Espresso")
## How we chose the best coffee beans
To find our favorite coffee beans, we rounded up dozens of coffee-loving editors (including our Test Kitchen experts) and distributed over 100 (!) popular and highly-rated whole bean coffees. Over the course of several weeks, editors sniffed, sipped and savored their coffees, recording detailed notes and calling out their favorite fuel. The result? This list of expert-recommended coffee beans, where you'll find delicious brews for every drinker: dark roasts made for espresso or French press, light, easy-drinking options, the best cold brew and of course, the ultimate decaf.
After reading our reviews, you can learn what to look for when shopping for coffee beans at the bottom of this guide, plus how to store them and the best way to grind coffee beans next time you're craving a cup.
[](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00112IMUQ?tag=goodhousekeeping_auto-append-20)
1
Best Overall
[illy Classico](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00112IMUQ?tag=goodhousekeeping_auto-append-20)
[\$16Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00112IMUQ?tag=goodhousekeeping_auto-append-20)
Also Consider
[\$17Target](https://goto.target.com/c/3006986/81938/2092?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Filly-classico-medium-roast-whole-bean-coffee-8-8oz%2F-%2FA-15389536&subId1=ghk&subId3=xid:{xid})
[\$16Sur la Table](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1525078&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.surlatable.com%2Fpro-5384490-coffee-bean-classico%2FPRO-5384490.html)
### Pros
- Available nationwide
- Comes in an air-free, pressurized can, great for freshness
### Cons
- The ground version of this coffee occasionally sprayed out when opening the pressurized can
This beloved best is a staple in the Test Kitchen (we'll sip it hot, cold, or even room temp!), so we weren't surprised when it was also a favorite among the broader pool of tasters. The medium roast coffee is smooth and robust without much bitterness or acidity, leaving you with a subtle, lingering sweetness and desire to take another sip. Plus, it comes in an air-free, pressurized can for maximum freshness and easy storage.
It's made from 100% arabica coffee, which is often considered the higher quality pick between the world's two most common coffees, arabica and robusta. (Of course, the final quality and taste of a coffee also depends on its origin, processing and more). The balanced brew is available in retailers nationwide (including Kroger, Safeway and Target) so it's a great, accessible option for anyone looking for a new go-to cup.
| | | | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roast | Size | Origin | Manufacturer tasting notes |
| Medium | 8\.8 oz. | N/A | Caramel, orange blossom and jasmine |
[](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074621TG5?tag=goodhousekeeping_auto-append-20)
2
Best Value
[Allegro Coffee Organic Italian Roast](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074621TG5?tag=goodhousekeeping_auto-append-20)
[\$12Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074621TG5?tag=goodhousekeeping_auto-append-20)
### Pros
- Under \$15 per bag
- Organic
### Cons
- Slight bitterness
This under-\$15 bag impressed tasters with its rich, slightly floral aroma and deep, dark chocolatey flavors. With a medium-bodied, smooth mouthfeel and pleasant taste, it held its own against speciality coffees that cost twice as much. Pick up this bag if you love a truly dark roast coffee that'll definitely give you a kick first thing in the a.m. Outside of Amazon, it's exclusively sold at Whole Foods Market.
While "organic" coffees don't inherently taste better than regular coffees, they are often grown in a more sustainable, petroleum-based-fertilizer-free environment where workers tend to experience better conditions. Since this is one is also a delicious brew, we'd call it a win-win.
| | | | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roast | Size | Origin | Manufacturer tasting notes |
| Dark | 12 oz | N/A | Velvety, rich, bittersweet |
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
[](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01F5YCV3O?tag=goodhousekeeping_auto-append-20)
3
Best for Espresso
[Stone Street Coffee Company Knee Buckling Espresso](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01F5YCV3O?tag=goodhousekeeping_auto-append-20)
[\$22Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01F5YCV3O?tag=goodhousekeeping_auto-append-20)
### Pros
- Extra-strong, invigorating taste
- Value-size bags available
### Cons
- Not a good option if you are prone to jitters
...And they *mean* knee buckling. This extra-dark roast wowed tasters when prepared in an espresso machine: Each sip boasted an invigorating, bold flavor that will instantly wake you up, similar to a classic Italian espresso that you'd get from a bar in Rome. While some super dark roast coffees can taste burnt, this one maintained its brightness and offered a smooth finish that wasn't too harsh when enjoyed as an espresso without milk. If you prefer milk, however, its full-bodied texture and strong taste can definitely stand up to a little dairy. Don't have an espresso machine? Try this in a [Bialetti Moka Pot](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0000CF3Q6?tag=goodhousekeeping_auto-append-20) or French press instead.
**RELATED:** [How to Make Espresso at Home: Our Complete Guide for With and Without a Machine](https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/food-recipes/cooking/a35952377/how-to-make-espresso/)
[](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09ZJSMSD4?tag=goodhousekeeping_auto-append-20)
4
Best Medium Roast
[Chamberlain Coffee Fluffy Lamb Vanilla Blend](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09ZJSMSD4?tag=goodhousekeeping_auto-append-20)
[Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09ZJSMSD4?tag=goodhousekeeping_auto-append-20)
### Pros
- Great hot or iced
- Great for flavored coffee drinkers
### Cons
- It might be too sweet if you prefer an unflavored coffee
Though it's called "Vanilla Blend," the flavor of this crowd-favorite medium roast coffee is subtle and suitable for both unflavored and flavored coffee fans. The vanilla notes impart a pleasant sweetness, which plays well with the coffee's nutty, chocolately flavor profile, while a light acidity makes for a deliciously balanced cup. The brand is the brainchild of Emma Chamberlain, a 21 year-old YouTuber, whose youthful, playful spirit is reflected in every cup. If you're looking for an easy-drinking, sweeter option that still packs a caffeine punch, this brew is likely for you.
| | | | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roast | Size | Origin | Manufacturer tasting notes |
| Medium | 12 oz. | Nicaragua, Mexico, Peru | Madagascar vanilla, roasted nuts |
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5
Best Dark Roast
[Irving Farm Hudson](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1525078&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.drinktrade.com%2Frainforest-foundation-project%2Fp%2F102)
[\$21drinktrade.com](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1525078&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.drinktrade.com%2Frainforest-foundation-project%2Fp%2F102)
### Pros
- Unique blend of washed and naturally processed coffees
- Subscription offered
### Cons
- Not suitable for extra-dark roast lovers
Even self-proclaimed dark roast skeptics enjoyed this robust brew, citing its pleasant, subtle fruity notes that we didn't find in other dark roast coffees. It's made from a blend of washed and naturally processed coffees, two different processing techniques that bring out different flavors in coffee beans. Washed coffee beans, which are dried after completely removing the "cherry" (the fleshy fruit that encases a coffee bean, which is the fruit's seed), exhibit complex, fermented tasting notes. Naturally processed coffee beans are dried in their cherry and tend to have stronger fruit flavors. Combined into one brew and roasted 'til dark, Hudson is for people looking for a rich cup that still offers up some of the subtleties of a light roast. Dare we say, it's the best of both worlds?
| | | | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roast | Size | Origin | Manufacturer tasting notes |
| Dark | 10 oz. | N/A | Black cherry, licorice, clove |
[](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00176QPJG?tag=goodhousekeeping_auto-append-20)
6
Best Medium-Dark Roast
[Caffe Vita Queen City](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00176QPJG?tag=goodhousekeeping_auto-append-20)
[Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00176QPJG?tag=goodhousekeeping_auto-append-20)
### Pros
- Very little acidity
- Performs well in multiple brewing methods
### Cons
- Expensive
For anyone who prefers coffees with very little to no acidity, this one's for you. It offers a robust, straightforward taste without any strong fruit or fermented flavors and a medium-bodied richness that stands up to the addition of milk. One taster noted, "It makes a killer latte." It leans more toward a nutty, chocolatey profile (rather than a fruity profile) but it's not too sweet and definitely offers a welcome caffeine jolt on the first sip. In other words, it's a delicious cup of coffee on the darker side of a medium roast that tastes the way your favorite coffee shop smells: inviting, comforting and easy to enjoy.
| | | | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roast | Size | Origin | Manufacturer tasting notes |
| Medium-dark | 12 oz., 5 lb. | South America, Indonesia, Africa | Hazelnut, vanilla, cocoa |
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
[](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01EYCIBZ0?tag=goodhousekeeping_auto-append-20)
7
Best Light Roast
[Starbucks Veranda Blend](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01EYCIBZ0?tag=goodhousekeeping_auto-append-20)
[\$56Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01EYCIBZ0?tag=goodhousekeeping_auto-append-20)
### Pros
- Under \$15 per bag
- Great hot or iced
### Cons
- Hard to find whole bean
Light roast doesn’t mean light coffee. The roast level is a better indication of flavor, with light roast beans offering a more delicate flavor compared to dark roast beans’ bold taste. Think about it this way: Dark roast coffees are exposed to more heat than light roast, and just like food, they develop deep, toasted flavors. Roasted for a shorter amount of time, light roast coffees will better preserve the original complexity of the bean.
This medium-bodied light roast cup is straight-up easy drinking (it doesn’t even need milk), with one taster noting that it would be great as iced coffee. Try this bag if you prefer to ease into your morning with a sweet, nutty cup of something special. At about \$55 for six bags, it’s also a value pick. Go ahead, brew that second (or third) cup\!
| | | | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roast | Size | Origin | Manufacturer tasting notes |
| Light | 12 oz. | N/A | toasted malt, baking chocolate |
[](https://onyxcoffeelab.com/products/el-salvador-santa-rosa-washed)
8
Best Single Origin
[Onyx Coffee Lab El Salvador Santa Rosa Washed](https://onyxcoffeelab.com/products/el-salvador-santa-rosa-washed)
[onyxcoffeelab.com](https://onyxcoffeelab.com/products/el-salvador-santa-rosa-washed)
### Pros
- Transparent pricing
- Brand pays 3-4x more than Fair Trade standard
### Cons
- Expensive
Treat yourself to this luxurious cup made with beans from El Salvador. The dedicated team at Onyx Coffee Lab worked with local partners over multiple days of picking, processing and tasting to build the ideal blend. Tasters loved the full, roasted flavor and acidity that was present but not overpowering. While it shines as a drip coffee enjoyed on its own, it also stands up to other applications, such as stirred into a vanilla latte with cinnamon, as one taster noted.
"Washed" refers to the coffee's processing: It was fermented underwater for 12-36 hours, during which the outer layer broke down, making the coffee easier to dry. Once the fermentation is complete, the coffee is "washed," where it is agitated to remove the last of the outer fruit layer. Once the washing is complete, the coffee is spread out on tables to dry in the sun.
| | | | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roast | Size | Origin | Manufacturer tasting notes |
| Medium | 10 oz | El Salvador | Rose, white grape, fig, black tea |
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9
Best decaf
[Mother Tongue Yummy Decaf](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1525078&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.drinktrade.com%2Fyummy-decaf-guji-ethiopia%2Fp%2F3728)
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### Pros
- Offered in different grind sizes to suit your coffee machine
- Transparent pricing
### Cons
- Expensive
This bag proves that a high concentration of caffeine is not necessary for a delicious cup of coffee (the decaffeination process only removes about 97% of the caffeine in coffee beans, so a typical cup of decaf still contains about 2 mg of caffeine). Tasters raved about its rich, roasted scent and chocolatey flavor that tasted "stronger" than other decafs they tried. One taster noted, "Its fermented, malted flavor reminds me of a stout beer." Clearly it's not the caffeine that makes for a complex cup.
The women, latinx-owned company was founded by Jen Apodaca, the 2022 Roasters Championship Runner-up and 2019 Cup Tasting Winner at the U.S. Coffee Championships.
| | | | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roast | Size | Origin | Manufacturer tasting notes |
| Medium | 10 oz. | Cajamarca, Peru | chocolate malted ice cream |
[](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1525078&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbluebottlecoffee.com%2Fus%2Feng%2Fproduct%2Fhayes-valley-espresso)
10
Best for French press
[Blue Bottle Coffee Hayes Valley Espresso](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1525078&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbluebottlecoffee.com%2Fus%2Feng%2Fproduct%2Fhayes-valley-espresso)
[\$22Blue Bottle Coffee](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1525078&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbluebottlecoffee.com%2Fus%2Feng%2Fproduct%2Fhayes-valley-espresso)
### Pros
- Performs well in multiple brewing methods
- Great for drinkers who enjoy a slightly sweet, yet strong, cup
### Cons
- Expensive
While these beans were great prepared both in an espresso machine and a drip coffee maker, they performed exceptionally well when we put them to the French press test. A [French press coffee maker](https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/appliances/coffee-maker-reviews/g30679911/best-french-press/) involves steeping coarsely ground beans in hot water for a few minutes before pressing on the grounds to extract all of the water, which turns into a strong and luxurious coffee. This brewing method creates a robust flavor and almost creamy mouthfeel that works well with this vanilla-scented, lightly sweet brew.
Named after the San Francisco neighborhood that was home to the brand's first-ever brick-and-mortar location, this is their darkest blend, exhibiting deeply roasted notes with only a hint of acidity.
| | | | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roast | Size | Origin | Manufacturer tasting notes |
| Dark | 6 oz., 12 oz. | N/A | baking chocolate, orange zest, brown sugar |
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
[](https://umamicart.com/products/coffee-project-32-degrees-cold-brew-coffee)
11
Best Cold Brew
[Coffee Project NY 32 Degrees Cold Brew Coffee Beans](https://umamicart.com/products/coffee-project-32-degrees-cold-brew-coffee)
[\$20umamicart.com](https://umamicart.com/products/coffee-project-32-degrees-cold-brew-coffee)
### Pros
- Make-ahead
- Available in multiple quantities
### Cons
- Not recommended for hot coffee drinkers
While you can technically use any type of coffee bean to make cold brew, this bag was specifically designed for the process: "We selected the coffee for its flavor and profiled it in a way so the solubility of the coffee works with cold brewing," says Kaleena Teoh, Co-Founder of Coffee Project New York. Tasters loved the low acidity and ultra-smooth finish of this sweet, chocolatey and slightly fruity cup.
Never made cold brew before? It's easy with a [cold brew coffee maker](https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/appliances/coffee-maker-reviews/g21564299/best-cold-brew-coffee-makers/), but you can also prep it without one. Just combine 1 cup of coarsely ground coffee with 4 cups cold water in a covered container, refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours, then strain and enjoy. Bonus: Because grounds have to steep for several hours, this is a great make-ahead option for busy mornings.
| | | | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roast | Size | Origin | Manufacturer tasting notes |
| Cold brew | 10 oz., 2 lb., 5lb. | N/A | Dark chocolate, vanilla, cinnamon, brown sugar, stone fruit. Low acidity, creamy body. |
## What to look for when shopping for coffee beans
****✔️**** **Roast Type:** Specialty roasters usually default to light roast because it shows off more of the bean’s inherant characteristics. Light roasted beans tend to be sweeter with a balanced acidity, whereas dark roast is often bolder and less acidic. Medium-roasted beans fall somewhere in between. Dark-roasted beans also go stale more quickly, so it’s extra important to drink them fresh.
****✔️**** **Roast Date:** More recent roast date = fresher coffee. If you’re buying from a specialty roaster, there’s a good chance you’ll find a roast date on the bag. With larger commodity roasters, you’ll typically only have a “best-by” date: This doesn’t tell you much about freshness, only that it’s still okay to drink (coffee is technically safe to drink for a very, very long time — smell and taste are better indications of when a bag has gone bad).
****✔️**** **Price:** A more expensive bean (in terms of per-pound cost) will generally have more attention paid to each individual step of production: growing, harvesting, roasting, etc. It’s often easier to tell where more expensive, higher-quality beans came from based on flavor profile – e.g. Ethiopia vs. Kenya. You can pay upwards of \$25 a pound or more for great coffee, but you can find perfectly good coffee for much less at the supermarket – it just may not be as complex or balanced.
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## How to store coffee beans
It’s best to store coffee beans in an airtight container in a dark, non-humid location at room temperature. Packaging wise, if your coffee comes in an unlined paper bag, transfer to an airtight container for longer-term storage; if it comes in a thick, foil-lined bag with a valve (this lets CO2 out but does not let air in), keep it in the bag until it’s time to open it. Refrigerating coffee is not recommended, as the damp environment and fridge odors can negatively impact flavor and freshness, though freezing can work fine: just make sure to store in fully airtight bags. You can brew straight from frozen\!
## How to grind coffee beans
The best way to grind coffee, according to experts like [James Hoffman](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bgjvLQu5NlE), is to use a burr grinder: This produces a more consistent grind, and a better-tasting, more balanced cup of coffee. Blade grinders are much less sharp, so they tend to smash the coffee and produce large pieces along with some very fine pieces, which can create a muddier, less pleasant consistency. Burr grinders also allow for more control over the grind than blade grinders, so you can easily adjust the grind size.
This is important because every [coffee brewing method](https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/food-recipes/cooking/g32223075/how-to-make-coffee-at-home/) requires a slightly different size grind, depending on how much water is required to brew, how much time the brewing process takes, and other factors. For example, French Press coffee requires a much larger grind size than espresso. It’s also important to grind coffee as soon before brewing as possible, as smaller pieces go stale and lose their flavors and aromas more quickly than whole beans: this is why grinding your own coffee is ideal.
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## Why trust Good Housekeeping?
[Samantha MacAvoy](https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/author/225114/samantha-macavoy/) is the assistant editor in the Good Housekeeping Test Kitchen, where she writes about tasty food and drink recipes, must-try products and top-tested secrets for home cooking success. She researched, collected and distributed over 150 coffees across dozens of tasters and combed through hundreds of survey responses to gather a pool of top contenders to taste again in the Test Kitchen. She then conducted several blind taste test with her colleagues on the Food Team, including Chief Food Director [Kate Merker](https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/author/11320/kate-merker/), to determine the final winners on this list.
[Samantha MacAvoy](https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/author/225114/samantha-macavoy/)
Senior Editor
Samantha (she/her) is the Senior Editor at Delish, where she edits the most-talked-about food news and features on the internet. In her previous role as Assistant Editor in the Good Housekeeping Test Kitchen, she taste-tested hundreds of products and recipes (tough job!). A graduate of Fordham University, she considers the kitchen to be her happiest place.
Watch Next
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[Cookies Choices](https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/food-products/g43146479/best-coffee-beans/ "Cookies Choices") | |||||||||
| Readable Markdown | [](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00112IMUQ?tag=goodhousekeeping_auto-append-20)
### Pros
- Available nationwide
- Comes in an air-free, pressurized can, great for freshness
### Cons
- The ground version of this coffee occasionally sprayed out when opening the pressurized can
This beloved best is a staple in the Test Kitchen (we'll sip it hot, cold, or even room temp!), so we weren't surprised when it was also a favorite among the broader pool of tasters. The medium roast coffee is smooth and robust without much bitterness or acidity, leaving you with a subtle, lingering sweetness and desire to take another sip. Plus, it comes in an air-free, pressurized can for maximum freshness and easy storage.
It's made from 100% arabica coffee, which is often considered the higher quality pick between the world's two most common coffees, arabica and robusta. (Of course, the final quality and taste of a coffee also depends on its origin, processing and more). The balanced brew is available in retailers nationwide (including Kroger, Safeway and Target) so it's a great, accessible option for anyone looking for a new go-to cup.
| | | | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roast | Size | Origin | Manufacturer tasting notes |
| Medium | 8\.8 oz. | N/A | Caramel, orange blossom and jasmine |
[](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074621TG5?tag=goodhousekeeping_auto-append-20)
### Pros
- Under \$15 per bag
- Organic
### Cons
- Slight bitterness
This under-\$15 bag impressed tasters with its rich, slightly floral aroma and deep, dark chocolatey flavors. With a medium-bodied, smooth mouthfeel and pleasant taste, it held its own against speciality coffees that cost twice as much. Pick up this bag if you love a truly dark roast coffee that'll definitely give you a kick first thing in the a.m. Outside of Amazon, it's exclusively sold at Whole Foods Market.
While "organic" coffees don't inherently taste better than regular coffees, they are often grown in a more sustainable, petroleum-based-fertilizer-free environment where workers tend to experience better conditions. Since this is one is also a delicious brew, we'd call it a win-win.
| | | | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roast | Size | Origin | Manufacturer tasting notes |
| Dark | 12 oz | N/A | Velvety, rich, bittersweet |
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[](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01F5YCV3O?tag=goodhousekeeping_auto-append-20)
### Pros
- Extra-strong, invigorating taste
- Value-size bags available
### Cons
- Not a good option if you are prone to jitters
...And they *mean* knee buckling. This extra-dark roast wowed tasters when prepared in an espresso machine: Each sip boasted an invigorating, bold flavor that will instantly wake you up, similar to a classic Italian espresso that you'd get from a bar in Rome. While some super dark roast coffees can taste burnt, this one maintained its brightness and offered a smooth finish that wasn't too harsh when enjoyed as an espresso without milk. If you prefer milk, however, its full-bodied texture and strong taste can definitely stand up to a little dairy. Don't have an espresso machine? Try this in a [Bialetti Moka Pot](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0000CF3Q6?tag=goodhousekeeping_auto-append-20) or French press instead.
**RELATED:** [How to Make Espresso at Home: Our Complete Guide for With and Without a Machine](https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/food-recipes/cooking/a35952377/how-to-make-espresso/)
[](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09ZJSMSD4?tag=goodhousekeeping_auto-append-20)
### Pros
- Great hot or iced
- Great for flavored coffee drinkers
### Cons
- It might be too sweet if you prefer an unflavored coffee
Though it's called "Vanilla Blend," the flavor of this crowd-favorite medium roast coffee is subtle and suitable for both unflavored and flavored coffee fans. The vanilla notes impart a pleasant sweetness, which plays well with the coffee's nutty, chocolately flavor profile, while a light acidity makes for a deliciously balanced cup. The brand is the brainchild of Emma Chamberlain, a 21 year-old YouTuber, whose youthful, playful spirit is reflected in every cup. If you're looking for an easy-drinking, sweeter option that still packs a caffeine punch, this brew is likely for you.
| | | | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roast | Size | Origin | Manufacturer tasting notes |
| Medium | 12 oz. | Nicaragua, Mexico, Peru | Madagascar vanilla, roasted nuts |
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[](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1525078&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.drinktrade.com%2Frainforest-foundation-project%2Fp%2F102)
### Pros
- Unique blend of washed and naturally processed coffees
- Subscription offered
### Cons
- Not suitable for extra-dark roast lovers
Even self-proclaimed dark roast skeptics enjoyed this robust brew, citing its pleasant, subtle fruity notes that we didn't find in other dark roast coffees. It's made from a blend of washed and naturally processed coffees, two different processing techniques that bring out different flavors in coffee beans. Washed coffee beans, which are dried after completely removing the "cherry" (the fleshy fruit that encases a coffee bean, which is the fruit's seed), exhibit complex, fermented tasting notes. Naturally processed coffee beans are dried in their cherry and tend to have stronger fruit flavors. Combined into one brew and roasted 'til dark, Hudson is for people looking for a rich cup that still offers up some of the subtleties of a light roast. Dare we say, it's the best of both worlds?
| | | | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roast | Size | Origin | Manufacturer tasting notes |
| Dark | 10 oz. | N/A | Black cherry, licorice, clove |
[](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00176QPJG?tag=goodhousekeeping_auto-append-20)
### Pros
- Very little acidity
- Performs well in multiple brewing methods
### Cons
- Expensive
For anyone who prefers coffees with very little to no acidity, this one's for you. It offers a robust, straightforward taste without any strong fruit or fermented flavors and a medium-bodied richness that stands up to the addition of milk. One taster noted, "It makes a killer latte." It leans more toward a nutty, chocolatey profile (rather than a fruity profile) but it's not too sweet and definitely offers a welcome caffeine jolt on the first sip. In other words, it's a delicious cup of coffee on the darker side of a medium roast that tastes the way your favorite coffee shop smells: inviting, comforting and easy to enjoy.
| | | | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roast | Size | Origin | Manufacturer tasting notes |
| Medium-dark | 12 oz., 5 lb. | South America, Indonesia, Africa | Hazelnut, vanilla, cocoa |
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
[](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01EYCIBZ0?tag=goodhousekeeping_auto-append-20)
### Pros
- Under \$15 per bag
- Great hot or iced
### Cons
- Hard to find whole bean
Light roast doesn’t mean light coffee. The roast level is a better indication of flavor, with light roast beans offering a more delicate flavor compared to dark roast beans’ bold taste. Think about it this way: Dark roast coffees are exposed to more heat than light roast, and just like food, they develop deep, toasted flavors. Roasted for a shorter amount of time, light roast coffees will better preserve the original complexity of the bean.
This medium-bodied light roast cup is straight-up easy drinking (it doesn’t even need milk), with one taster noting that it would be great as iced coffee. Try this bag if you prefer to ease into your morning with a sweet, nutty cup of something special. At about \$55 for six bags, it’s also a value pick. Go ahead, brew that second (or third) cup\!
| | | | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roast | Size | Origin | Manufacturer tasting notes |
| Light | 12 oz. | N/A | toasted malt, baking chocolate |
[](https://onyxcoffeelab.com/products/el-salvador-santa-rosa-washed)
### Pros
- Transparent pricing
- Brand pays 3-4x more than Fair Trade standard
### Cons
- Expensive
Treat yourself to this luxurious cup made with beans from El Salvador. The dedicated team at Onyx Coffee Lab worked with local partners over multiple days of picking, processing and tasting to build the ideal blend. Tasters loved the full, roasted flavor and acidity that was present but not overpowering. While it shines as a drip coffee enjoyed on its own, it also stands up to other applications, such as stirred into a vanilla latte with cinnamon, as one taster noted.
"Washed" refers to the coffee's processing: It was fermented underwater for 12-36 hours, during which the outer layer broke down, making the coffee easier to dry. Once the fermentation is complete, the coffee is "washed," where it is agitated to remove the last of the outer fruit layer. Once the washing is complete, the coffee is spread out on tables to dry in the sun.
| | | | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roast | Size | Origin | Manufacturer tasting notes |
| Medium | 10 oz | El Salvador | Rose, white grape, fig, black tea |
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Now 15% Off
### Pros
- Offered in different grind sizes to suit your coffee machine
- Transparent pricing
### Cons
- Expensive
This bag proves that a high concentration of caffeine is not necessary for a delicious cup of coffee (the decaffeination process only removes about 97% of the caffeine in coffee beans, so a typical cup of decaf still contains about 2 mg of caffeine). Tasters raved about its rich, roasted scent and chocolatey flavor that tasted "stronger" than other decafs they tried. One taster noted, "Its fermented, malted flavor reminds me of a stout beer." Clearly it's not the caffeine that makes for a complex cup.
The women, latinx-owned company was founded by Jen Apodaca, the 2022 Roasters Championship Runner-up and 2019 Cup Tasting Winner at the U.S. Coffee Championships.
| | | | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roast | Size | Origin | Manufacturer tasting notes |
| Medium | 10 oz. | Cajamarca, Peru | chocolate malted ice cream |
[](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1525078&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbluebottlecoffee.com%2Fus%2Feng%2Fproduct%2Fhayes-valley-espresso)
### Pros
- Performs well in multiple brewing methods
- Great for drinkers who enjoy a slightly sweet, yet strong, cup
### Cons
- Expensive
While these beans were great prepared both in an espresso machine and a drip coffee maker, they performed exceptionally well when we put them to the French press test. A [French press coffee maker](https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/appliances/coffee-maker-reviews/g30679911/best-french-press/) involves steeping coarsely ground beans in hot water for a few minutes before pressing on the grounds to extract all of the water, which turns into a strong and luxurious coffee. This brewing method creates a robust flavor and almost creamy mouthfeel that works well with this vanilla-scented, lightly sweet brew.
Named after the San Francisco neighborhood that was home to the brand's first-ever brick-and-mortar location, this is their darkest blend, exhibiting deeply roasted notes with only a hint of acidity.
| | | | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roast | Size | Origin | Manufacturer tasting notes |
| Dark | 6 oz., 12 oz. | N/A | baking chocolate, orange zest, brown sugar |
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[](https://umamicart.com/products/coffee-project-32-degrees-cold-brew-coffee)
### Pros
- Make-ahead
- Available in multiple quantities
### Cons
- Not recommended for hot coffee drinkers
While you can technically use any type of coffee bean to make cold brew, this bag was specifically designed for the process: "We selected the coffee for its flavor and profiled it in a way so the solubility of the coffee works with cold brewing," says Kaleena Teoh, Co-Founder of Coffee Project New York. Tasters loved the low acidity and ultra-smooth finish of this sweet, chocolatey and slightly fruity cup.
Never made cold brew before? It's easy with a [cold brew coffee maker](https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/appliances/coffee-maker-reviews/g21564299/best-cold-brew-coffee-makers/), but you can also prep it without one. Just combine 1 cup of coarsely ground coffee with 4 cups cold water in a covered container, refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours, then strain and enjoy. Bonus: Because grounds have to steep for several hours, this is a great make-ahead option for busy mornings.
| | | | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roast | Size | Origin | Manufacturer tasting notes |
| Cold brew | 10 oz., 2 lb., 5lb. | N/A | Dark chocolate, vanilla, cinnamon, brown sugar, stone fruit. Low acidity, creamy body. |
## What to look for when shopping for coffee beans
****✔️**** **Roast Type:** Specialty roasters usually default to light roast because it shows off more of the bean’s inherant characteristics. Light roasted beans tend to be sweeter with a balanced acidity, whereas dark roast is often bolder and less acidic. Medium-roasted beans fall somewhere in between. Dark-roasted beans also go stale more quickly, so it’s extra important to drink them fresh.
****✔️**** **Roast Date:** More recent roast date = fresher coffee. If you’re buying from a specialty roaster, there’s a good chance you’ll find a roast date on the bag. With larger commodity roasters, you’ll typically only have a “best-by” date: This doesn’t tell you much about freshness, only that it’s still okay to drink (coffee is technically safe to drink for a very, very long time — smell and taste are better indications of when a bag has gone bad).
****✔️**** **Price:** A more expensive bean (in terms of per-pound cost) will generally have more attention paid to each individual step of production: growing, harvesting, roasting, etc. It’s often easier to tell where more expensive, higher-quality beans came from based on flavor profile – e.g. Ethiopia vs. Kenya. You can pay upwards of \$25 a pound or more for great coffee, but you can find perfectly good coffee for much less at the supermarket – it just may not be as complex or balanced.
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## How to store coffee beans
It’s best to store coffee beans in an airtight container in a dark, non-humid location at room temperature. Packaging wise, if your coffee comes in an unlined paper bag, transfer to an airtight container for longer-term storage; if it comes in a thick, foil-lined bag with a valve (this lets CO2 out but does not let air in), keep it in the bag until it’s time to open it. Refrigerating coffee is not recommended, as the damp environment and fridge odors can negatively impact flavor and freshness, though freezing can work fine: just make sure to store in fully airtight bags. You can brew straight from frozen\!
## How to grind coffee beans
The best way to grind coffee, according to experts like [James Hoffman](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bgjvLQu5NlE), is to use a burr grinder: This produces a more consistent grind, and a better-tasting, more balanced cup of coffee. Blade grinders are much less sharp, so they tend to smash the coffee and produce large pieces along with some very fine pieces, which can create a muddier, less pleasant consistency. Burr grinders also allow for more control over the grind than blade grinders, so you can easily adjust the grind size.
This is important because every [coffee brewing method](https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/food-recipes/cooking/g32223075/how-to-make-coffee-at-home/) requires a slightly different size grind, depending on how much water is required to brew, how much time the brewing process takes, and other factors. For example, French Press coffee requires a much larger grind size than espresso. It’s also important to grind coffee as soon before brewing as possible, as smaller pieces go stale and lose their flavors and aromas more quickly than whole beans: this is why grinding your own coffee is ideal.
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## Why trust Good Housekeeping?
[Samantha MacAvoy](https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/author/225114/samantha-macavoy/) is the assistant editor in the Good Housekeeping Test Kitchen, where she writes about tasty food and drink recipes, must-try products and top-tested secrets for home cooking success. She researched, collected and distributed over 150 coffees across dozens of tasters and combed through hundreds of survey responses to gather a pool of top contenders to taste again in the Test Kitchen. She then conducted several blind taste test with her colleagues on the Food Team, including Chief Food Director [Kate Merker](https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/author/11320/kate-merker/), to determine the final winners on this list.
Samantha (she/her) is the Senior Editor at Delish, where she edits the most-talked-about food news and features on the internet. In her previous role as Assistant Editor in the Good Housekeeping Test Kitchen, she taste-tested hundreds of products and recipes (tough job!). A graduate of Fordham University, she considers the kitchen to be her happiest place. | |||||||||
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