A single shot moka pot is a small stovetop coffee maker that brews one strong, espresso-style serving at a time. Our version holds 50 ml, works on gas, electric and ceramic stovetops, and is a good fit for anyone who drinks coffee alone and doesn't want to brew a full pot.
Below you'll find how a single shot moka pot works, a step-by-step brewing method, and simple care tips, using our Single-Shot Aluminum Moka Pot as the example.
How does a single shot moka pot work?
A moka pot has three parts. The bottom chamber holds water, a funnel-shaped basket in the middle holds ground coffee, and the top chamber collects the finished coffee. As the water heats on the stove, steam builds pressure in the bottom chamber and pushes hot water up through the coffee grounds and into the top.
The single shot size simply scales this down to 50 ml, so you brew one serving instead of several. A built-in pressure release valve on the pot handles excess steam, and the handle has a heat-resistant, stay-cool grip.
How to brew with a single shot moka pot
- Fill the bottom chamber with water up to just below the safety valve.
- Fill the basket with ground coffee. Use a fine-to-medium grind, slightly coarser than you would use in an espresso machine. Level it off with your finger, but don't press it down.
- Screw the top on firmly. Hold the pot by the base, not the handle, while you tighten it.
- Heat on medium-low. Place the pot on your gas, electric or ceramic stovetop. On a gas burner, keep the flame under the base so it doesn't reach the handle.
- Listen for the gurgle. When coffee has filled the top and you hear a hissing, gurgling sound, take the pot off the heat.
- Pour and serve straight away. Your 50 ml shot is ready.
Single-Shot Aluminum Moka Pot specs
| Capacity | 50 ml (one espresso-style shot) |
| Material | Food-safe aluminum alloy |
| Shape | Classic octagonal design for even heat distribution |
| Stovetops | Gas, electric and ceramic |
| Safety | Built-in steam pressure release valve |
| Handle | Ergonomic, heat-resistant stay-cool grip |
Who is a single shot moka pot for?
- Solo coffee drinkers who want one strong cup in the morning without leftovers.
- Small kitchens and offices where counter space is tight.
- Travel kits. Its compact, portable size makes it easy to pack.
- People learning to brew who want to practise grind and heat with small amounts of coffee.
If you usually make coffee for the whole household, a larger pot is more practical. Our 6-cup aluminum moka pot uses the same stovetop method and brews up to 6 cups at once.
Ways to drink your shot
- Straight, as a short and strong coffee.
- Topped up with hot water for a longer cup.
- With warm or cold milk.
- Poured over ice for a quick iced coffee.
Cleaning and care
Let the pot cool fully before you open it. Unscrew the top, tip out the used grounds, and rinse each part with warm water. Dry everything well before putting it back together, and store it with the parts unscrewed so air can circulate. Simple care like this keeps the pot in good working order.
Want to compare stovetop brewing with other manual methods? Read how a manual espresso machine works, or browse our gift ideas for coffee lovers.
Frequently asked questions
How much coffee does a single shot moka pot make?
Ours makes 50 ml, which is one espresso-style shot.
Is moka pot coffee the same as espresso?
It is close in strength and style, but it is brewed with steam pressure on a stovetop rather than in an espresso machine, so many people call it espresso-style coffee.
Which stovetops does it work on?
The product page lists gas, electric and ceramic stovetops. Induction is not listed.
What grind should I use?
A fine-to-medium grind works well. Very fine powder can slow the flow and taste bitter, so go slightly coarser than espresso-machine grind.
Shop the single shot moka pot: Single-Shot Aluminum Moka Pot · free worldwide shipping, no duties.