Dark roast vs. French roast coffee

The primary differences between dark roast and French roast coffee lie in the degree of roasting, appearance, and flavor profile—factors that influence the taste, aroma, and overall drinking experience.

Roast Level
French roast is considered an extra dark roast, roasted longer and hotter than typical dark roasts. It is roasted past the “second crack,” a stage in coffee roasting marked by audible cracking sounds caused by the expansion of the bean’s internal moisture and structure. Dark roast beans, by contrast, are roasted until the beginning of the second crack, resulting in a less intense roast.

Appearance
Due to the extended roasting time, French roast beans appear almost black and develop a shiny oil coating on their surface. Dark roast beans are dark brown but usually less oily and not as black.

Flavor
French roast boasts a bold, smoky, and intense flavor, often described as burnt caramel or toasted marshmallow, with a slight bitterness. This roasting process tends to dominate and mask the original character of the coffee bean. On the other hand, dark roast coffee delivers a richer, more balanced flavor with hints of chocolate, toasted nuts, and subtle fruitiness, allowing some of the bean’s inherent notes to shine through.

Acidity and Body
French roast has very low acidity and a smooth, sometimes lighter body, making it ideal for those who prefer less tanginess in their coffee. Dark roast has a fuller body and moderately low acidity, offering a slightly more complex mouthfeel.

Caffeine Content
Despite the longer roasting time, caffeine content is similar between French roast and dark roast since caffeine is relatively stable through roasting.

Choosing the Right Roast
If you prefer a robust, smoky coffee with bold flavors and low acidity, French roast might be your go-to. But if you enjoy a coffee that balances roast intensity with some nuanced bean character and fuller body, a dark roast could be the better choice.