The Cooks' Den » Krups 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 Krups Coffee Maker & Combination Espresso Machine | Black 10 Cup XP1500 http://www.thecooksden.com/krups-coffee-maker-combination-espresso-machine-black-10-cup-xp1500/ http://www.thecooksden.com/krups-coffee-maker-combination-espresso-machine-black-10-cup-xp1500/#comments Wed, 06 Jan 2010 23:44:28 +0000 Dan http://www.thecooksden.com/?p=8785 Krups Coffee Maker & CombinationThe Krups XP1500 Coffee and Espresso Machine is a moderately priced combination coffeemaker that wants to please everyone but unfortunately ends up falling short in its coffeemaking abilities and convenience.

With the aim to produce an appliance that satisfies the coffee as well as the espresso drinker, Krups has come out with this model that features a ten-cup drip coffeemaker and a steam driven espresso machine. The coffee side uses a swing-out basket filter and glass carafe. Pretty standard stuff. The carafe sits on a nonstick warming plate, and the unit includes a brew pause feature for sampling a cup while brewing. The espresso machine advertises water pressure of 4-bar (I think just to get the word "bar" in there because it is not a very impressive feature). Virtually all the steam driven machines deliver this pressure, compared to the more costly pump driven machines that produce an impressive 15-bar for a superior espresso product. The controls could not be simpler: On/Off and a steam control valve for the milk frother. Sorry, no fancy programmable clock for this coffeemaker. While I appreciate the stripped down style of this model, the included features really don't make it worth the price when there are so many competing combo machines on the store shelves.

Users have been very vocal with opinions, and there are precious few buyers of this coffeemaker that are satisfied with the performance. Weak coffee and espresso, leaking from filter basket, and poorly constructed components are the most common complaints from the coffee community. It seems Krups is in danger of brand dilution if they continue to manufacture these budget appliances that disappoint the consumer.

Here's a similar Krups coffee & espresso maker.

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]]> http://www.thecooksden.com/krups-coffee-maker-combination-espresso-machine-black-10-cup-xp1500/feed/ 0 Krups Quartz Convection Toaster Oven | Digital Black Programmable http://www.thecooksden.com/krups-quartz-convection-toaster-oven-digital-black-programmable/ http://www.thecooksden.com/krups-quartz-convection-toaster-oven-digital-black-programmable/#comments Sat, 19 Dec 2009 23:40:00 +0000 Dan http://www.thecooksden.com/?p=8782 Krups Quartz Convection Toaster Oven This convection toaster oven from Krups offers sophisticated electronic controls along with innovative quartz heating. All meant to elevate the experience beyond what you would expect from a countertop appliance.

The oven has an interior capacity of .59 cubic feet, which is roomier than most toaster ovens in this category according to the manufacturer. It features a soft-touch control panel with six pre-set cooking controls for common foods such as pizza, brownies, and bagels. The convection function circulates air around the food while cooking for quicker more even results. The toaster uses a patented quartz cycling technology that moves 1600 watts of power between the upper and lower elements for maximizing the efficiency of the heat. The temperature controls are adjusted in 25 degree increments for speedy setting up to 450 degrees using the backlit digital display. Also worth noting is the defrost feature and the toasting controls with nine darkness settings. The controls are all located on a panel to the right of the door with lighted details for easier viewing.

I was impressed with this toaster when it arrived on the scene. Krups designed it with a host of impressive controls, and it has a no-nonsense technological look that suits a modern kitchen. The temperature control is accurate, and the quartz elements seem to heat up instantly, doing an impressive job of cooking food. This is a heavy unit -- it sits solidly on the counter with no rattle to the components. Ultimately, for all its handy features, I found it a bit too small inside for real practicality in my kitchen. Just a bit more height inside and it would fit a small roast or a whole bird, two things that I hate to have to cook in a large oven.

Also take a look at this digital convection toaster oven by Sanyo.

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]]> http://www.thecooksden.com/krups-quartz-convection-toaster-oven-digital-black-programmable/feed/ 0 Krups Coffee Burr Grinder | Black Anti Static GVX1-14 http://www.thecooksden.com/krups-coffee-burr-grinder-black-anti-static-gvx1-14/ http://www.thecooksden.com/krups-coffee-burr-grinder-black-anti-static-gvx1-14/#comments Sun, 04 Oct 2009 20:50:06 +0000 Alice http://www.thecooksden.com/?p=8174 Krups Coffee Burr Grinder Each morning in our house, a distinct and welcoming noise issues from our kitchen. It is my signal to drag myself out of bed. It is the whir and crunch of my partner grinding fresh beans for coffee. That is a sound far more pleasant than the harsh demand of an alarm clock. And I know that freshly brewed coffee will be waiting at the end.

With the ability to produce specialty coffees at home, there is a growing need for quality products to support our coffee habit. This Krups model makes it possible to select among seventeen grind options from fine to coarse. Measure right inside the container to create just enough grounds for the amount of coffee you want to prepare. There's less waste and no need to compromise quality by having to use leftover grindings. The airtight hopper will keep any extra beans fresh until the next use.

What really grinds my beans is dealing with the static that can build up inside a grinder. Thankfully, this model has an anti-static container. The Krups doesn't have a ton of fancy, but pointless, features. It has the basics, done well, just enough to support and serve. It reliably provides an accurate grind without a lot of noise.

Want a machine that does it both? Check out the Cuisinart Grind & Brew Coffeemaker.

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]]> http://www.thecooksden.com/krups-coffee-burr-grinder-black-anti-static-gvx1-14/feed/ 0 Krups Espresso Machine | Black Pump Thermoblock XP4030 http://www.thecooksden.com/krups-espresso-machine-black-pump-thermoblock-xp4030/ http://www.thecooksden.com/krups-espresso-machine-black-pump-thermoblock-xp4030/#comments Sat, 26 Sep 2009 13:53:44 +0000 Dan http://www.thecooksden.com/?p=7865 Krups Espresso Machine This espresso machine certainly looks to have all the features one desires for producing quality coffee drinks at home, and the sale price makes it a very attractive competitor to costlier appliances.

First of all, the XP4030 is manufactured by Krups, a leader in the field of coffee brewing devices for the kitchen. It features some commercial quality components, most notably the 15 bar pump system and the thermoblock heating element. These separate the machine from the more common and budget priced steam driven units that produce an inferior espresso drink. Typically, you will pay upwards of $200 and more to get an espresso machine with a pump and thermoblock system such as this. Other features include the simple controls, one dial to set the brewing and steaming functions for easy milk frothing, and the removable water reservoir that allows multiple brewing and steaming before needing a refill. For additional convenience, this model comes with three separate filters. One each for single or double sized shots, and one for using a coffee pod -- one of those pre-measured coffee packets available in a variety of flavors. Something this espresso maker doesn't come with is a carafe of any sort. You will have to find a small cup of your own that fits underneath the spout.

As with any espresso making appliance, user experience has been mixed. This machine has some fans, but there are plenty that have been unsatisfied with the ease of use and the resulting coffee. Numerous complaints of excessive leaking, trouble finding replacement gaskets, and short working life have me questioning whether this truly is a bargain.

Might want to check out this Cuisinart espresso machine instead.

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]]> http://www.thecooksden.com/krups-espresso-machine-black-pump-thermoblock-xp4030/feed/ 0 Krups Moka Brew Coffee Maker | Steam 8 Cup 468-42 http://www.thecooksden.com/krups-moka-brew-coffee-maker-steam-8-cup-468-42/ http://www.thecooksden.com/krups-moka-brew-coffee-maker-steam-8-cup-468-42/#comments Tue, 12 May 2009 04:28:06 +0000 Alice http://www.thecooksden.com/?p=4940 Krups Moka Brew Coffee Maker The Krups Moka Brew is unusual even in how the water is added- it is filled through a container below the warming plate. The Moka brewing system refers to the use of pressure from steam to extract the flavor from coffee. A stainless steel heating element and water reservoir produce fast results at an optimal temperature while the aroma-saving filter chamber helps preserve the fragrant aroma of the coffee.

To get more from this machine, it should be paired with a good grinder and a carafe for storage. These are recommended to preserve the temperature and quality of the coffee. It takes a little more prep time than regular drip coffee (it works better with a bit of packing to the grounds), but you get a greater intensity of flavor from your beans. You'll likely need to use less coffee and want to re-experience some brands you've passed over previously as the machine and preparation change the taste significantly.

The machine comes with filters, but using the filters and finding replacements have given people some concern. Thankfully, regular filters can be easily adapted for use. In fact, for some, the use of slightly larger filters has made their manipulation even simpler.

Many refer to this as the best coffee maker they've ever used, period. The beverage produced approaches European-style coffee without requiring an espresso maker. The simplicity of operation is refreshing; the coffee is strong, smooth, and not bitter.

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]]> http://www.thecooksden.com/krups-moka-brew-coffee-maker-steam-8-cup-468-42/feed/ 0 Stainless Steel Krups Coffee Maker | Programmable Digital 12 Cup KM4065 http://www.thecooksden.com/krups-coffee-maker-stainless-steel-programmable-12-cup-km4065/ http://www.thecooksden.com/krups-coffee-maker-stainless-steel-programmable-12-cup-km4065/#comments Sun, 15 Mar 2009 22:15:58 +0000 Alice http://www.thecooksden.com/?p=3962 Krups Coffee Maker The Krups 12 Cup Designer Coffeemaker garners attention first with its upward facing control panel. The panel sits on the top and front of the machine and offers the user large, soft touch buttons and a high contrast black on white LCD screen. The commands are easy to see and program. The machine provides 1100 watts of power inside attractive brushed stainless steel housing. The item comes with a one year limited warranty.

The features are where this machine really stands apart from others. Dual auto-on presets allow you to set the machine for separate days and times, such as weekday and weekend brewing or morning and evening cycles, so you won't have to wait or fuss with settings to get your regular pot started. The aroma selection option will create an extended brew for better flavor. The warming plate has a one, two, or three hour auto off function to keep your coffee warm and help prevent heating a pot until dry. An automatic shut off safety feature is also included.

The glass carafe is well designed; it has markings near the handle for easier measuring and a lip which prevents drips. With an oversized shower head to thoroughly wet your grounds, the added convenience of an auto lift brew basket, and a duo filter water filtration system, the Krups aims to provide better coffee flavor and to extend the life of your machine.

Compare this with the Cuisinart Brew Central coffeemaker.

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]]> http://www.thecooksden.com/krups-coffee-maker-stainless-steel-programmable-12-cup-km4065/feed/ 0 Krups 5 Speed Blender | Black Chrome Glass Jar KB720 1000 Watt http://www.thecooksden.com/krups-5-speed-blender-black-chrome-glass-jar-kb720-1000-watt/ http://www.thecooksden.com/krups-5-speed-blender-black-chrome-glass-jar-kb720-1000-watt/#comments Tue, 10 Mar 2009 19:46:03 +0000 Alice http://www.thecooksden.com/?p=4352 Krups 5 Speed Blender The Krups KB720 five speed blender comes with an ice crushing function and a pulse option which can be used at any speed to enhance blending. Powerful, yet quiet, the blades are driven by a thousand-watt motor. The touch pad control is illuminated. The sixty ounce, heavy duty glass jar is shock resistant and comes with a waterproof locking lid and removable measuring cap. The blades are detachable. For safety, the blender won't start unless properly fitted to the base. The die cast metal base and oversized collar give the machine added stability. The Krups comes with dishwasher safe parts, a recipe book and a one year limited warranty included.

People have found the blender to indeed run more quietly than most other blenders despite its power. And it is one of the most powerful I've seen on the market, but many people are also experiencing failures of the motor and of parts. There appears to be a problem that, depending on who you believe, is either the fault of users who assemble it incorrectly or is a flaw in the design where the jar meets the blade assembly. I have to say, if attaching the parts correctly is so often and easily done wrong, that itself speaks against the product, even if it is due to human error. Spills not only ruin ingredients, but they cause a tremendous mess in and on the machine that is difficult to impossible to get completely clean.

I'd go with the all metal drive Oster BPST02-B Professional Series with one half horsepower or the Breville 800BLXL, 1000 watt for the unique blade shape with no still zones rather than chance the Krups.

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]]> http://www.thecooksden.com/krups-5-speed-blender-black-chrome-glass-jar-kb720-1000-watt/feed/ 0 Krups Expert Waffle Maker w/ Rotary | Belgian Stainless Steel FDD912 http://www.thecooksden.com/krups-expert-waffle-maker-w-rotary-belgian-stainless-steel-fdd912/ http://www.thecooksden.com/krups-expert-waffle-maker-w-rotary-belgian-stainless-steel-fdd912/#comments Sat, 07 Mar 2009 23:47:40 +0000 Alice http://www.thecooksden.com/?p=3073 Krups Expert Waffle Maker w/ Rotary The Krups Expert Waffle Maker is a brushed stainless steel, professional-looking device. Removable nonstick plates are formed to make two 1 1/4 inch thick Belgian waffles. The thermostat is variable so waffles can be cooked to order. Indicator lights denote when the unit is on and when batter is needed. A handy drip tray catches any batter spillage. The insulated handle will fold for better storage. The cooking plates can be removed to place in the dishwasher or wiped clean. The Krups carries a one year warranty.

Some people have experienced uneven browning and a tendency for the plates to not meet correctly, however, even those people quite liked the product and found these two problems developed with use, over time. Most people find the Krups fun, simple to use and clean and have no complaints to air. Created waffles release well.

Note: There is no timer to signal when cooking has completed, but this requires only a small learning curve to master. You are the rotary system advertised, but that is part of the fun. The aid of gravity does help form a better waffle. Compared to the Chef's Choice WafflePro and the Presto FlipSide, the Krups leads by a nose because it creates two waffles per batch.

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]]> http://www.thecooksden.com/krups-expert-waffle-maker-w-rotary-belgian-stainless-steel-fdd912/feed/ 0 Krups Belgian Waffle Chef | Electric Iron 4 Slice 654-75 http://www.thecooksden.com/krups-belgian-waffle-chef-electric-iron-4-slice-654-75/ http://www.thecooksden.com/krups-belgian-waffle-chef-electric-iron-4-slice-654-75/#comments Sat, 07 Mar 2009 22:50:31 +0000 JT Hats http://www.thecooksden.com/?p=3191 Krups Belgian Waffle Chef The 1400 Watt Krups Waffle Chef consumes almost as much power as a space heater, so think about where you'll be putting it before you decide to buy. The power cord is short for safety reasons (long cords are easily snagged, possibly pulling the machine off the counter while hot) so you'll need to clear counter space near an outlet. Using the Waffle Chef under an overhanging cabinet isn't a great idea.

By following directions carefully, you can get the great waffles Krups promises from this machine. On the preheated griddle the Waffle Chef will produce four Belgian waffles in four minutes and be ready for another round. It is also possible for that process to go awry.

Common mistakes include forgetting to spray or brush oil or butter on both top and bottom griddles before spooning on the batter; and overfilling the machine. The Waffle Chef is supposedly easy to clean, but I've never used a counter top appliance that was, and this one does not break the pattern. Cleanup is difficult, with many grooves and crevices (even the hinges) where excess batter and stray oils can and will accumulate.

The purpose of the "ready" lights on the machine can be easily misunderstood. One indicates that the unit is plugged in and powered; the other will turn off when the Waffle Chef is heated and ready for batter. It may come on again during the four minute cooking time, but that only means the heating element has turned on again--it has nothing to do with whether the waffles are ready.

Keep a pot holder handy and use it--the stay-cool handle will probably be heated up by venting steam, in spite of what the manual says.

The VillaWare UNO Belgian Waffle Maker is another model to consider.

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]]> http://www.thecooksden.com/krups-belgian-waffle-chef-electric-iron-4-slice-654-75/feed/ 0 Krups Toaster Convection Oven | Kitchen 6 Slice Digital FBC2 http://www.thecooksden.com/krups-toaster-convection-oven-kitchen-6-slice-digital-fbc2/ http://www.thecooksden.com/krups-toaster-convection-oven-kitchen-6-slice-digital-fbc2/#comments Tue, 03 Mar 2009 00:52:45 +0000 Alice http://www.thecooksden.com/?p=3011 Krups Toaster Convection Oven The Krups Toaster Oven has a clean, professional look and uses quartz convection technology (two sets of three quartz heating elements) to produce its even heat. With one half cubic foot of capacity and sixteen hundred watts of power, it can do everything from toast to bake or broil. Every part of the oven works to help circulate the heat wisely, including the reflective crumb tray. The temperature control ranges from 150 to 450 degrees and is adjustable in 25 degree increments. The digital timer can be set for one to ninety minutes and pairs with an automatic shut off. Nine shade selections are available for toasting. The illuminated LCD panel offers a digital clock when not displaying cooking functions. The controls are streamlined, operated by resilient soft touch buttons. Thermal resistant tongs, a bake pan and broiling tray are included. The oven carries a one year warranty.

One of the best features of the oven is extensive use of nonstick material. Where there is cooking, there will be splatter, and with most ovens it is difficult to impossible to get inside and really scrub off cooked on food. The Krups oven has a nonstick interior and a nonstick bake pan. Wipe clean and you're done.

I loved this oven, absolutely wanted it to be a great product, but an alarming number of units have malfunctioned in dangerous ways. A series of less scary but frustrating issues seem to trouble the electronics and door of the machine.

People who were pleased with the oven enjoyed the power of the heating and cooking times which were reduced by up to half the usual. This is a substantial machine, quick to preheat, capable of holding a larger capacity than most ovens of its kind. If you get a good one, it will be one of the best you could hope to own.

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