The Cooks' Den » DeLonghi Coffee Makers http://www.thecooksden.com Cooking Tools - Gear for Cooks and Chefs Thu, 27 Oct 2011 04:49:11 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.2.1 DeLonghi Italian Espresso Coffee Machine | Burr Grinder | Magnifica Super Automatic ESAM3300 http://www.thecooksden.com/delonghi-italian-espresso-coffee-machine-burr-grinder-magnifica-super-automatic-esam3300/ http://www.thecooksden.com/delonghi-italian-espresso-coffee-machine-burr-grinder-magnifica-super-automatic-esam3300/#comments Tue, 22 Dec 2009 23:55:31 +0000 Dan http://www.thecooksden.com/?p=8808 DeLonghi Italian Espresso CoffeeThe ESAM3300 is known as a Super-Automatic for good reason. This style of machine is designed for absolute push-button convenience when preparing Italian coffee drinks.

Manufactured in Italy, this model features a burr grinder and will hold up to 7 oz. of coffee beans ready for automatic grinding right before the brewing commences. There is a 60 oz. removable water reservoir and a water level indicator for easily seeing when it's time to refill. For those that like to really dial in the details when preparing a cup, the controls allow you to set the quantity of coffee grounds and the water amount for each cup brewed. Also, the coffee spigot can be raised or lowered to accommodate different sized cups, a novel feature. The heart of any machine is the boiler -- in this case, two stainless steel boilers with an instant heat function that keeps the machine at an "ideal" temperature regardless of how much time has passed between brewing.

In my experience, the more automatic the machine, the more complicated to keep it clean and working properly. DeLonghi has built in some clever features to assist in this task. The stainless steel boiler actually snaps out for cleaning while the unit has its own automatic rinse and decalcification settings. The burr grinder is designed to expel all the grounds so no stale coffee remains to affect the flavor. There is a heated cup tray, and the unit features an automatic shut-off after 3 hours. This model from DeLonghi has been very well received by consumers since its arrival on these shores.

Also see the Jura Capresso Coffee and Espresso Center, "Best in Category" winner of the 2009 Houseware Design Award.

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]]> http://www.thecooksden.com/delonghi-italian-espresso-coffee-machine-burr-grinder-magnifica-super-automatic-esam3300/feed/ 0 DeLonghi Steam Driven Coffee Maker | Espresso Cappuccino Machine 4 Cup EC5 http://www.thecooksden.com/delonghi-steam-driven-coffee-maker-espresso-cappuccino-machine-4-cup-ec5/ http://www.thecooksden.com/delonghi-steam-driven-coffee-maker-espresso-cappuccino-machine-4-cup-ec5/#comments Sat, 06 Jun 2009 11:25:18 +0000 Dan http://www.thecooksden.com/?p=5015 DeLonghi Steam Driven Coffee Maker For those seeking espresso style drinks on a budget, DeLonghi has the machine for you. Although not up to the professional quality of their more commercial machines, this promises to deliver a decent cup at a modest price.

This model is a basic steam-driven coffeemaker. It differs from the more expensive pump-driven machines due to its inability to produce sufficient pressure to produce a true cup of espresso from the ground beans. That being said, many people would not notice the difference and just want a fast and potent cup of Italian-style coffee. That's why these machines are so popular in America. This features a frother for milk, and the filter will accommodate two espresso cups as an alternative to the included glass carafe. The unit sits compactly on the counter and has a removable drip tray and easy operation. If you enjoy frothed milk you will be a bit disappointed by the abilities here, as it will take a second round of steam pressure after the coffee is made to properly froth the milk.

Of all the comparably priced espresso makers available, this is not the best, and you will want to shop around and read all the user reviews before making a purchase. In my personal opinion, you would do better to invest in a little stovetop Italian coffeepot and a separate milk frother for half the price. Sorry DeLonghi.

Compare this with the Bialetti Mukka Express Cappuccino Machine.

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]]> http://www.thecooksden.com/delonghi-steam-driven-coffee-maker-espresso-cappuccino-machine-4-cup-ec5/feed/ 0 DeLonghi Espresso and Capuccino Coffee Maker EC140B http://www.thecooksden.com/delonghi-espresso-and-capuccino-coffee-maker-ec140b/ http://www.thecooksden.com/delonghi-espresso-and-capuccino-coffee-maker-ec140b/#comments Fri, 03 Apr 2009 00:09:52 +0000 Alice http://www.thecooksden.com/?p=3399 DeLonghi Espresso and Capuccino CoffeeThe DeLonghi Espresso and Capuccino Maker comes equipped with a self priming pump and stainless steel boiler which makes one or two shots at a time. The sempre crema filter holder will create authentic crema with just the right color and thickness.

An adjustable steam emission knob, a swivel jet frother, and two thermostats for water and steam are just a few of the features. The unit comes with a built in tamper for leveling grounds. Three switches control power to the unit, espresso and water delivery, and steam, making the process very uncomplicated. The thirty five ounce water tank is removable for easy cleaning or filling. The machine goes the extra mile, preheating the cups and filter holder with hot water. The drip tray can be removed for cleaning and the DeLonghi comes with a one year warranty .

Pair this machine with a good burr grinder and milk thermometer and you will be set to prepare your own espresso. It also works with prefilled pods. People often start with a steam version and graduate to a pump as they give better results. This model is a perfect home machine- affordable while still standing up to long term daily use. People find the frothing wand works very well and the machine rarely if ever clogs. While most users find it takes a few tries to get used to the machine and make small adjustments in their process, they find it is possible to make a perfect capuccino or espresso at home.

Here's another DeLonghi model you might like.

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]]> http://www.thecooksden.com/delonghi-espresso-and-capuccino-coffee-maker-ec140b/feed/ 0 DeLonghi Retro Espresso Machine | Coffee Maker Pump Driven 35 Ounce BAR32 http://www.thecooksden.com/delonghi-retro-espresso-machine-coffee-maker-pump-driven-35-ounce-bar32/ http://www.thecooksden.com/delonghi-retro-espresso-machine-coffee-maker-pump-driven-35-ounce-bar32/#comments Tue, 24 Feb 2009 15:23:04 +0000 Dan http://www.thecooksden.com/delonghi-retro-espresso-machine-coffee-maker-pump-driven-35-ounce-bar32/ DeLonghi Retro Espresso Machine This is an adorable countertop espresso maker from DeLonghi, although why they refer to it as "Retro" I cannot figure out. Espresso makers from the past looked to me like little steam engines torn from tiny farm tractors. In any case, this model is a compact, fairly uncomplicated coffee making machine for your home kitchen.

It's a pump-driven unit, as opposed to the lower priced steam-driven espresso makers you find crowding the shelves at the discount retailer. A stainless steel boiler and dual thermostats add up to maximum pressure and precise temperature control for espresso drinks said to rival coffeeshop quality. This machine self-primes automatically, and when ready indicates its status with a little "OK" light. There are so many coffee choices and picky coffee drinkers, so DeLonghi has provided two filter handles- one that accommodates the ESE coffee pods, and another for your own ground beans. There is a plastic tamper onboard, and the plastic drip tray is removable for cleaning.

A couple of features indicate that the company is listening to user feedback from previous espresso maker models. The 35 oz. water reservoir is removable for filling at the tap, and this machine was designed with ample room under the filter to fit not only a pair of standard espresso cups but also a large cappuccino mug.

Users "upgrading" from drip coffee to an espresso maker such as this will have to make some adjustments, as espresso making is a bit more involved than just throwing in some grounds and water, and flipping a switch. The results are well worth it if you care to take the time.

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]]> http://www.thecooksden.com/delonghi-retro-espresso-machine-coffee-maker-pump-driven-35-ounce-bar32/feed/ 0 DeLonghi Drip Coffee Maker | Front Access Digital w/ Filter DCF212T http://www.thecooksden.com/delonghi-drip-coffee-maker-front-access-digital-w-filter-dcf212t/ http://www.thecooksden.com/delonghi-drip-coffee-maker-front-access-digital-w-filter-dcf212t/#comments Thu, 05 Feb 2009 20:21:15 +0000 Cheyenne http://www.thecooksden.com/delonghi-drip-coffee-maker-front-access-digital-w-filter-dcf212t/ DeLonghi Drip Coffee Maker This coffee maker has a lot of special features?but most of them aren't features that I find that useful.

Let's start with the special features that are useful. I like the front access. This is the big differentiator with this model. And if you keep your coffee maker on a counter underneath a cupboard, this is very nice?you don't have to keep moving the machine out just to pour water into the top.

I love the permanent filter. You never have to buy a filter again. Just wash and reuse. (Paper filters suck the flavor out of your coffee, anyway.) Although I was surprised that this coffee maker uses a basket-shaped filter rather than a cone shaped one. I thought that most manufacturers had gone the way of cone-shaped filters. (It was my understanding that the cone shape saturates more of the coffee for a better brew?or something like that.)

Some people can't live without that programmable digital timer. And I see the appeal of waking up to the smell of freshly brewed coffee. But if you grind your beans at night before you go to bed then they really aren't freshly ground?they've been sitting out all night.

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]]> http://www.thecooksden.com/delonghi-drip-coffee-maker-front-access-digital-w-filter-dcf212t/feed/ 0 DeLonghi Esclusivo Coffee Maker | Large Stainless Programmable 14 Cup DC514T http://www.thecooksden.com/delonghi-esclusivo-coffee-maker-large-stainless-programmable-14-cup-dc514t/ http://www.thecooksden.com/delonghi-esclusivo-coffee-maker-large-stainless-programmable-14-cup-dc514t/#comments Wed, 04 Feb 2009 20:21:15 +0000 Cheyenne http://www.thecooksden.com/delonghi-esclusivo-coffee-maker-large-stainless-programmable-14-cup-dc514t/ DeLonghi Esclusivo Coffee Maker This is a mammoth-sized coffeemaker. It has lots of bells and whistles: a timer so you can make up-to-the-minute fresh coffee, auto shut off (a must for me), plus a permanent filter (another must). It would be great for a large family or in an office environment.

I wish it had a thermal carafe to keep the coffee fresh. I never drink coffee that's more than 30-45 minutes old. So if I'm using a hot-plate coffee maker I tend to brew coffee, as I need it to keep it fresh. With a coffeemaker that makes this much coffee, you really need a thermal carafe. If you want to buy this machine and you tend to drink your pot of coffee over the course of several hours, you should also invest in a thermal carafe to pour your coffee into.

The reusable brew basket is a very important feature to me. It saves money, I don't have to worry about running out of filters, and it cuts back on trash. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.

It has a 'pause' feature that allows you to pour coffee from the pot before the brewing is finished. That can be useful, especially since it takes a while to make a 14-cup pot. But I don't use this feature. I've always understood that you get stronger coffee at the beginning of the brewing cycle, and weaker coffee at the end. So if you pour a cup from the pot before the brew cycle is finished, the coffee might not be evenly flavored. Try it and you'll see what I'm saying is true.

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]]> http://www.thecooksden.com/delonghi-esclusivo-coffee-maker-large-stainless-programmable-14-cup-dc514t/feed/ 0 DeLonghi Coffee Espresso Maker | Kitchen Combination 10 Cup BCO130T http://www.thecooksden.com/delonghi-coffee-espresso-maker-kitchen-combination-10-cup-bco130t/ http://www.thecooksden.com/delonghi-coffee-espresso-maker-kitchen-combination-10-cup-bco130t/#comments Tue, 03 Feb 2009 20:21:15 +0000 Cheyenne http://www.thecooksden.com/delonghi-coffee-espresso-maker-kitchen-combination-10-cup-bco130t/ DeLonghi Coffee Espresso Maker Your coffeemaker is one of the most used appliances in your kitchen so it pays to put some thought into his purchase. DeLonghi is an Italian company known for their sleek design. And this machine is a sexy beast to be sure. It's also a pretty good price for an espresso maker and a 10-cup coffee maker, and only goes to show that shopping for a dual espresso/coffee maker doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg.

But I'm afraid that form took precedence over function in this model.

I am a latte lover and this machine is not perfect for making lattes. The problem lies with the milk steamer. This frother is a bit easier to use than others I've seen. You just turn a knob. There is no weird "arm" to deal with. No need to perfect your technique. But according to the instructions you should only use skim or 2% milk, not whole milk. That's a strange recommendation for a pretty important piece of this machine. What if you prefer whole milk? I bet a lot of people never read their instruction manual and run into problems with this frothing doohickey.

I love the auto shut-off feature. But I rarely use the timer: yes, your coffee is ready for you in the morning, but your ground beans will be left to lose flavor overnight (kind of defeats the purpose of grinding your beans in the first place).

Also, if I am going to spend this kind of money on a coffee machine, I want one with a thermal carafe rather than glass. When coffee sits on a hot plate it gets that burnt taste. Yuck!

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]]> http://www.thecooksden.com/delonghi-coffee-espresso-maker-kitchen-combination-10-cup-bco130t/feed/ 0 DeLonghi Twenty Four Seven Coffee Maker | Kitchen Black 4 Cup http://www.thecooksden.com/delonghi-twenty-four-seven-coffee-maker-kitchen-black-4-cup/ http://www.thecooksden.com/delonghi-twenty-four-seven-coffee-maker-kitchen-black-4-cup/#comments Mon, 02 Feb 2009 20:21:14 +0000 Cheyenne http://www.thecooksden.com/delonghi-twenty-four-seven-coffee-maker-kitchen-black-4-cup/ DeLonghi Twenty Four Seven Coffee Maker This model proves that you don't have to spend a lot of beans to get a good coffeemaker. (Some of the high-priced modes have features you really don't need anyway.)

This is a very basic coffee maker. It's small. It's easy to operate. It makes exactly as much coffee as I drink in the morning. (The four-cup capacity is more like two large cups-- perfect for me. I like to drink one large cup when I wake up and one more after my morning walk with the dogs) Good coffee is hot coffee-- and this coffee maker doesn't disappoint. And the longer it sits on the hotplate, the hotter it gets to nearly mouth-scalding temperatures, which might be a problem if I were the type of person who lets my coffee sit for too long.

There's not much in the way of special features. (At this price point you shouldn't expect to see any frills.) It does offer the pause-and-serve function, so you can pour a cup of coffee before the machine is done brewing. But because there are only really two cups of coffee in the pot, this feature isn't terribly useful as it brews up the coffee pretty quickly.

There is a major drawback to be aware of. You must pour coffee out of the carafe very slowly or the lid will open and it will spill. You can use your finger to hold the lid down while you pour, but you run the risk of burning yourself with the steam. Just learn to pour it smoothly and slowly and you'll be okay.

Want to upgrade to something digital? Try the Hamilton Beach coffeemaker with built-in Gold Tone filter.

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]]> http://www.thecooksden.com/delonghi-twenty-four-seven-coffee-maker-kitchen-black-4-cup/feed/ 1 DeLonghi Digital Coffee Maker | Kitchen Programmable White DC59TW 12 Cup http://www.thecooksden.com/delonghi-digital-coffee-maker-kitchen-programmable-white-dc59tw-12-cup/ http://www.thecooksden.com/delonghi-digital-coffee-maker-kitchen-programmable-white-dc59tw-12-cup/#comments Sun, 01 Feb 2009 20:21:14 +0000 Cheyenne http://www.thecooksden.com/delonghi-digital-coffee-maker-kitchen-programmable-white-dc59tw-12-cup/ DeLonghi Digital Coffee Maker I am one of those people that always leave the coffee pot on when I leave the house. And even if I remember to turn it off, I wonder and worry that I haven't until I can go back home to check. This pot does the thinking for you. I love the automatic shut-off feature.

But having a coffee maker with a programmable timer means that you have to program it. There is no on/off button on this thing. You have to set the automatic program feature to get coffee. It's not a big deal. It's just not intuitive so you have to read the instructions. But I like to grind my beans right before I use them so they are super fresh. So I don't use the programmable feature that much. Of course, if you can't function until you get that morning cup of joe, this feature is likely worth any of the drawbacks.

My biggest issue with this machine has more to do with the carafe. A thermal jug is just better than a glass carafe and hotplate, at least for me since I tend to drink my coffee over the course of a couple hours. The thermal carafe keeps your coffee fresh and warm. Coffee that sits too long on a hot plate just tastes stale and burnt.

This model has some other nice features-- the permanent filter, a sleek design, a special "aroma" feature that makes your brewing coffee smell even better (really!). But I can't get over the carafe issue. It's a deal breaker for me for sure.

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]]> http://www.thecooksden.com/delonghi-digital-coffee-maker-kitchen-programmable-white-dc59tw-12-cup/feed/ 0 DeLonghi Espresso Maker | Coffee Machine EC155 http://www.thecooksden.com/delonghi-kitchen-espresso-maker-coffee-machine-appliance-ec155/ http://www.thecooksden.com/delonghi-kitchen-espresso-maker-coffee-machine-appliance-ec155/#comments Wed, 21 Jan 2009 01:20:13 +0000 Alice http://www.thecooksden.com/delonghi-kitchen-espresso-maker-coffee-machine-appliance-ec155/ DeLonghi Kitchen Espresso Maker The DeLonghi EC155 appears to be a good balance between quality and cost. In this model you get two very special features:

First, there are separate thermometer controls for steam and water pressures. Achieve the perfect temperature no matter which beverage you choose. Additionally, there is an adjustable steam emission for cappuccino.

Second, there is no lengthy priming process with the DeLonghi. It self-primes. Other features include an adjustable swivel jet frother, a removable one liter water tank which accomodates remote filling and makes for easier cleaning, and a two in one filter which allows you to use ESE pods or ground espresso. This unique dual action filter mixes in air during the brewing process to produce perfect crema, the essence of authentic espresso (you know it by its caramel color).

This fifteen bar pump-driven espresso machine (a step above the steam driven variety as more pressure means better extraction, better flavor) with durable stainless-steel broiler was designed and engineered in Italy. It has a compact profile and comes with a one year limited warranty.

Customers enjoy the option to use the ESE pods due to speed of heating and the ease of cleaning. A visible water level window also drew praise. Their number one compliment is that delicious foam, but the DeLonghi is also worth owning for the comparable price and quality of coffee and its easy preparation. The two big drawbacks seem to be time and temperature. A fifteen minute preheat before brewing is required and shots can be inconsistent in quality and temperature. Structurally, the frother is too close to counter level and some pitchers won't fit underneath, plus only smaller cups fit under the espresso mouth.

This model is probably not for the average coffee drinker and not for beginners without some research on proper use. For a more convenient approach, see the Mr. Coffee Espresso & Coffee Combo Machine.

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