How Much Loose-Leaf Tea per Cup? A Practical Ratio Guide
The most useful way to measure loose-leaf tea is by grams of tea per volume of water. Teas vary in shape, so a teaspoon of rolled oolong and a teaspoon of long green tea leaves can weigh very different amounts. A small digital scale removes that guesswork, but you can still begin with a simple spoon and adjust by taste.
Starting Ratios
| Method | Tea | Water | Starting time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mug or basket infuser | 2–3 g | 250 ml / 8 oz | 1.5–3 minutes |
| Small teapot | 3–5 g | 250 ml / 8 oz | 1–3 minutes |
| Gaiwan | 4–6 g | 100 ml / 3.4 oz | 10–30 seconds |
| Cold brew | 5–8 g | 500 ml / 17 oz | 6–10 hours refrigerated |
These are starting points, not universal rules. Leaf size, roast, compression and personal taste all matter. Follow the product page when it gives more specific guidance.
If the Tea Tastes Weak
Add a little more leaf before making the infusion much longer. More leaf often increases aroma and body without extracting as much harshness as a very long steep.
If the Tea Tastes Bitter or Dry
Shorten the infusion first. For green tea, a slightly lower temperature can also help. For a tightly rolled or compressed tea, remember that later infusions may become stronger as the leaf opens.
Measuring Without a Scale
Start with one level teaspoon for a normal mug, then make a note about the leaf shape and result. For large, wiry leaves, you may need a fuller spoon. Once you find a repeatable amount, use the same spoon and cup.
Keep the Other Variables Stable
When you change the leaf amount, keep the water temperature and time the same. That tells you what the ratio actually changed. Use the tea temperature guide next, or choose a tea from All Tea and record your starting recipe.