Bialetti Moka Express 3 cups – classic espresso maker/moka pot

Bialetti Moka Express 3 cups – the original moka pot

The Bialetti Moka Express 3 cups is the iconic Italian aluminium moka pot that, since 1933, has been closely associated with the classic way of brewing coffee on the stove.

Its characteristic octagonal shape, black handle, and the Bialetti safety valve make the Moka Express easily recognizable.

The 3-cup model brews approximately 130 ml of concentrated moka pot coffee and is well-suited for those who want a compact size for a smaller portion of coffee.

Why choose the Bialetti Moka Express 3 cups

• The original Bialetti Moka Express
• Capacity of approx. 130 ml
• Made of aluminium
• Iconic octagonal design
• Ergonomic handle
• Bialetti safety valve
• Suitable for gas, electric, and ceramic hobs
• Can be used on induction with the Bialetti Induction Plate 13 cm
• Brews without capsules or paper filters
• Compact size
• Made in Italy

See our entire selection of espresso makers and moka pots.

How much coffee does the Bialetti Moka Express 3 cups make?

Bialetti states a capacity of approximately 130 ml of brewed coffee.

The term 3 cups therefore does not refer to three standard coffee mugs. Bialetti's cup measurement is based on small portions of moka pot coffee.

Moka pot coffee is also more concentrated than regular drip coffee and is therefore often served in smaller portions or used as a base for milk-based drinks.

The 3-cup model is a good choice if you:

• typically brew coffee for one person
• want to share a smaller portion between two people
• want concentrated coffee for a milk-based drink
• prefer a compact moka pot

Does the Moka Express brew real espresso?

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

When the water is heated in the bottom chamber, pressure builds up, forcing the water through the ground coffee and into the top of the pot.

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

If you want to work more with dosing, grind size, and brewing technique, you can read our guide to coffee using a moka pot and espresso maker.

Can the Bialetti Moka Express 3 cups be used on induction?

Not directly.

The Moka Express is made of aluminium and is therefore not inherently designed for induction hobs.

If you have an induction hob, you can use the Bialetti Induction Plate 13 cm between the induction hob and the Moka Express.

The induction plate transfers the heat to the aluminium pot, making it possible to continue using the classic Moka Express on a compatible induction stove.

If you would prefer a moka pot that can be used directly on induction without an adapter plate, you can see our selection of espresso makers and moka pots for induction.

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
• clearly gritty rather than powder-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 coffee seems thin, you can try a slightly finer grind.

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

How to use the Bialetti Moka Express 3 cups

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

2. Insert the filter basket
Place the filter basket into the bottom chamber.

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

The coffee should not be tamped.

4. Assemble the Moka Express
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 should be kept under the base and must not creep up the sides of the pot.

If using induction, place the Bialetti Induction Plate 13 cm on the hob first, and the Moka Express on top.

6. Remove the pot from the heat
Once the coffee has reached the top chamber, remove the moka pot from the heat.

Avoid letting it boil or sputter for longer than necessary, as this can lead to a harsher and more bitter taste.

Which coffee beans are suitable for the Moka Express?

You can use various roast levels in a moka pot.

Medium-roast coffee beans are a good starting point if you want a balance between sweetness, body, and the coffee's character.

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

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

Aluminium Moka Express

The classic Bialetti Moka Express is made of aluminium.

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

If you specifically want stainless steel or a moka pot that can be used directly on induction, you can see the various options among our espresso makers and moka pots.

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 top chamber

so that old coffee residue does not accumulate.

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 that is intended to be drunk.

Specifications

Manufacturer: Bialetti
Series: Moka Express
Size: 3 cups
Capacity: Approx. 130 ml of brewed coffee
Material: Aluminium
Height: Approx. 16 cm
Base width: Approx. 9 cm
Induction: Not directly – can be used with Bialetti Induction Plate 13 cm
Gas: Yes
Electric hob: Yes
Ceramic hob: Yes
Safety valve: Yes
Dishwasher: No – hand wash recommended
Made in Italy: Yes

Frequently asked questions about the Bialetti Moka Express 3 cups

How many ml does the Moka Express 3 cups make?

Bialetti states approximately 130 ml of brewed coffee.

Is 3 cups the same as three standard coffee mugs?

No. Bialetti uses small moka pot cups as a size designation.

Can the Moka Express 3 cups be used on induction?

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

Is the Moka Express made of aluminium?

Yes. The classic Moka Express is made of aluminium.

Should the coffee be tamped?

No. Fill the coffee loosely and evenly into the filter basket without pressing it down.

What grind size should I use?

A medium-fine grind is a good starting point.

Can the Bialetti Moka Express go in the dishwasher?

No. Bialetti recommends hand washing in warm water.

Does the Moka Express brew real espresso?

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

How big is the Moka Express 3 cups?

It is approximately 16 cm high, and the base measures approximately 9 cm at its widest point.