Bialetti Moka Express 2 cups – classic espresso maker/moka pot

Bialetti Moka Express 2 cups – the original Italian moka pot

The Bialetti Moka Express 2 cups is the compact version of the iconic Italian aluminum moka pot, which has been part of Bialetti's range since 1933.

The distinctive octagonal shape, the black handle, and Bialetti's safety valve make the Moka Express easily recognizable.

The 2-cup model brews approximately 90 ml of concentrated moka pot coffee and is perfect for you if you want a small portion of coffee without having to brew more than necessary.

Why choose the Bialetti Moka Express 2 cups

• The classic Bialetti Moka Express
• Capacity of approx. 90 ml
• Made of aluminum
• Compact size
• Iconic octagonal design
• Ergonomic nylon handle
• Bialetti safety valve
• Suitable for gas, electric, and ceramic stovetops
• Can be used on induction with a Bialetti Induction Plate 13 cm
• Brews without pods or paper filters
• Made in Italy

See our full selection of espresso makers and moka pots.

How much coffee does the Bialetti Moka Express 2 cups make?

The Bialetti Moka Express 2 cups provides approximately 90 ml of brewed coffee.

The term 2 cups does not mean two standard coffee mugs. Bialetti uses small moka pot/espresso cups as a size reference.

The 2-cup model is particularly suitable if you:

• typically brew for one person
• want a small, concentrated coffee
• use the moka pot coffee as a base for one milk-based drink
• do not need the larger capacity of a 3- or 4-cup model

If you need a bit more coffee, you can check out the Bialetti Moka Express 3 cups or Bialetti Moka Express 4 cups instead.

Does Moka Express brew real espresso?

Although the Moka Express is often called an espresso maker, it does not brew traditional espresso like an espresso machine.

When the water is heated in the bottom container, pressure builds up, pushing the water through the ground coffee and up into the upper container.

The result is an intense and concentrated moka pot coffee, but the brewing happens at a lower pressure than with classic espresso.

If you need help with dosing, grind size, and brewing technique, you can read our guide to coffee on a moka pot and espresso maker.

Can the Bialetti Moka Express 2 cups be used on induction?

Not directly.

The Moka Express is made of aluminum and is therefore not natively compatible with an induction stovetop.

If you have induction, you can use a Bialetti Induction Plate 13 cm between the stovetop and the moka pot.

The induction plate is heated by the stove and transfers the heat to the Moka Express.

If you are looking for a moka pot that can be used directly on induction, you can check our selection of espresso makers and moka pots.

What grind size should be used?

A medium-fine grind is a good starting point for the Moka Express.

The coffee should be:

• finer than regular drip coffee
• coarser than traditional espresso
• gritty rather than powdery fine

Fill the filter basket loosely and evenly with coffee.

The coffee should not be tamped.

If the brewing process is very slow or the coffee becomes bitter, you can try a slightly coarser grind.

If the result becomes thin, you can try a slightly finer one.

A good coffee grinder makes it easier to find and repeat the desired grind size.

How to use the Bialetti Moka Express 2 cups

1. Fill the bottom container with water
Fill with water to just below the safety valve.

2. Insert the filter basket
Place the filter basket in the bottom container.

3. Add coffee
Fill the basket loosely with medium-fine ground coffee.

The coffee should not be tamped.

4. Screw the Moka Express together
Screw the top and bottom parts together securely.

Avoid using the handle as leverage when tightening or loosening the pot.

5. Place the moka pot on the stove
Use low to medium heat.

On gas, the flame must be kept under the base and must not lick up the sides of the pot.

If using induction, place the Bialetti Induction Plate 13 cm between the stovetop and the Moka Express.

6. Remove the pot from the heat
Once the coffee has risen to the top container, remove the moka pot from the heat.

Avoid letting it boil or sputter unnecessarily long, as this can result in a harsher and more bitter taste.

Which coffee beans are suitable for the Moka Express?

You can use different roast levels in a moka pot.

Medium-roast coffee beans are a great all-around choice if you want a balance between sweetness, body, and the character of the coffee.

If you prefer a more robust and classic flavor profile, you can try dark-roast coffee beans.

Lighter roasts can also be used if you prefer more fruitiness and acidity.

Moka Express 2, 3, or 4 cups?

The most important difference between the sizes is the capacity.

Moka Express 2 cups
Approx. 90 ml – for a small portion.

Moka Express 3 cups
Approx. 130 ml – slightly more capacity and a popular size for one person.

Moka Express 4 cups
Approx. 185 ml – for a larger portion or sharing.

Therefore, choose the size based on the amount of coffee you usually want to brew, rather than the number of standard coffee mugs.

Moka Express in aluminum

The classic Bialetti Moka Express is made of aluminum.

This differentiates it from, among others, the Bialetti Venus series, which is made of stainless steel.

The aluminum construction also means that the Moka Express cannot be used directly on induction. Here, you must use a compatible adapter such as the Bialetti Induction Plate 13 cm.

Cleaning the Bialetti Moka Express

Let the moka pot cool down after brewing.

Unscrew the parts, remove the coffee grounds, and wash the parts in warm water.

The Bialetti Moka Express must not be washed in the dishwasher.

Let the parts dry completely before reassembling the pot.

Also check regularly:

• the gasket
• the filter
• the safety valve
• the coffee spout in the upper container

to ensure old coffee residues do not build up.

Before first use

Before the Bialetti Moka Express is used for the first time, all parts should be washed in warm water.

Bialetti also recommends that the first three brews be discarded before the moka pot is used for coffee to be consumed.

Specifications

Manufacturer: Bialetti
Series: Moka Express
Size: 2 cups
Capacity: Approx. 90 ml brewed coffee
Material: Aluminum
Height: Approx. 14.5 cm
Base width: Approx. 8 cm
Handle and knob: Nylon
Induction: Not directly – can be used with Bialetti Induction Plate 13 cm
Gas: Yes
Electric stovetop: Yes
Ceramic stovetop: Yes
Safety valve: Yes
Dishwasher: No – hand wash recommended
Made in Italy: Yes

Frequently asked questions about the Bialetti Moka Express 2 cups

How many ml does the Moka Express 2 cups make?

Bialetti states approximately 90 ml of brewed coffee.

Is 2 cups the same as two regular coffee mugs?

No. Bialetti uses small moka pot cups as a size reference. The total volume is approximately 90 ml.

Can the Moka Express 2 cups be used on induction?

Not directly. It can be used on induction together with a Bialetti Induction Plate 13 cm.

What is the difference between Moka Express 2 and 3 cups?

The 2-cup model brews approximately 90 ml, while the Moka Express 3 cups brews approximately 130 ml.

What grind size should I use?

A medium-fine grind is a good starting point.

Should the coffee be tamped?

No. The coffee is filled loosely and evenly into the filter basket without being compressed.

Can the Moka Express be put in the dishwasher?

No. Bialetti recommends hand washing in warm water.

Is the Moka Express made of stainless steel?

No. The classic Moka Express is made of aluminum.

Does the Moka Express brew traditional espresso?

No. It brews concentrated moka pot coffee at a lower pressure than a traditional espresso machine.