DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew Review

As someone who thrives on that morning cup of coffee to jumpstart the day, I’ve tried my fair share of coffee machines. Some were underwhelming, others overly complex. When I stumbled upon the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew, it promised to bring versatility to my coffee routine, from bold espressos to refreshing cold brews. Intrigued, I decided to give it a shot and see if it could truly meet my coffee needs while simplifying the brewing process.

My First Impressions of the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew

When I first unpacked the machine, its design immediately stood out. It has a premium look that blends matte and shiny finishes with well-thought-out ergonomics. At 10.2 x 18.9 x 14.2 inches, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore isn’t the smallest appliance, but it’s not overwhelmingly bulky either. It fits well in my kitchen without feeling intrusive.

The inclusion of separate hot and cold milk carafes was intriguing and suggested that the machine could handle both types of drinks effectively. While some machines require manual switching or extensive cleaning between hot and cold milk functions, the Eletta Explore offers a seamless alternative.

Getting Acquainted: Setting Up and Customizing

The initial setup process was smooth and straightforward. The bright, responsive 3.5-inch touchscreen guided me step by step, and within minutes, I was ready to start brewing. The DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew can connect to the DeLonghi Coffee Link app, which enhances functionality. I was able to adjust recipes, create user profiles, and even brew remotely through the app. Although app connectivity isn’t a dealbreaker for me, it added a modern touch that I appreciated.

One of the first things I noticed was the Bean Adapt Technology, which adjusts the grind, temperature, and brewing time based on the type of beans I was using. I like experimenting with different roasts, so this feature was a game-changer, ensuring consistent results without having to tweak settings manually every time.

Brewing the Perfect Espresso: A Test of Consistency

Espresso quality is where many machines falter, but the DeLonghi Eletta Explore delivered a well-balanced, rich shot with impressive crema. The stainless-steel conical burr grinder offers 13 grind settings, and I found myself adjusting them depending on whether I wanted a bold espresso or a lighter lungo. I appreciated the precision and how it allowed me to fine-tune the flavor.

What stood out most was the machine’s consistency. Whether I used dark-roasted beans or a lighter, fruitier roast, the Eletta Explore extracted the flavors perfectly.

Why the Cold Brew Functionality is a Game-Changer

The cold brew function was a significant draw for me since I love iced coffee, especially during warmer months. The DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew simplifies the traditionally long cold brew process. Instead of waiting 12 to 24 hours, I had a smooth, refreshing cold brew in less than five minutes.

The process is simple: the machine uses a specific brewing method that adjusts water flow and pressure for optimal extraction at a lower temperature. I tried it with a medium roast, and the result was a crisp and nuanced cold brew. Adding ice cubes and a splash of milk made it feel like a café-quality iced coffee.

Milk Frothing: Hot or Cold, You’re Covered

The dual milk systems were another standout feature. For hot milk drinks like lattes and cappuccinos, the machine creates a creamy, stable froth. It also offers customization options for froth density, which I found useful when making everything from macchiatos to flat whites.

On the cold side, the machine’s frothing capabilities surprised me. The cold foam was velvety and light, perfect for iced lattes. The LatteCrema system really delivers on its promise to elevate both hot and cold milk-based drinks.

The To-Go Function: Perfect for Busy Mornings

For someone like me, always rushing out the door in the morning, the to-go function was a lifesaver. The machine accommodates travel mugs and brews larger portions directly into them. I loved being able to set the size to 12 or 16 ounces, depending on my caffeine needs.

This feature might seem minor, but it’s incredibly convenient. It eliminates the need for transferring coffee from a regular cup to a travel mug, saving time and reducing mess.

Cleaning and Maintenance: A User-Friendly Approach

One concern I always have with coffee machines is maintenance. Some models require so much upkeep that it negates the convenience of having a machine in the first place. Thankfully, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore excels in this area.

The machine has automatic cleaning cycles for both the coffee system and the milk carafes. The drip tray and brew unit are removable, which makes rinsing them a breeze. It even alerts you when it’s time to descale, so you don’t have to keep track manually.

Who is the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew For?

While I’ve enjoyed my experience with this machine, I recognize it’s not for everyone. The DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew is perfect for people who:

• Want a wide variety of coffee options, from espressos to cold brews.
• Appreciate the convenience of automatic brewing with minimal manual effort.
• Value customizable settings to fine-tune their drinks.
• Love iced coffee and want a machine that makes cold brew quickly.

However, it might not be the best fit for someone with limited counter space or those looking for a budget-friendly option. It’s an investment, but one that pays off if you’re serious about coffee.

Challenges I Encountered

As much as I liked the machine, it wasn’t without minor drawbacks. The grinder, while efficient, is slightly noisy. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s something to consider if you’re sensitive to sound in the morning.

Also, the plastic build of the milk carafes, while functional, felt less premium compared to the rest of the machine. For the price, I would have preferred a more robust material.

Conclusion: Should You Buy the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew?

If you’re looking for an all-in-one coffee machine that combines the ability to make high-quality espressos, versatile milk-based drinks, and refreshing cold brews, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew is an excellent choice. Its user-friendly features, customizable settings, and reliable performance make it stand out in a crowded market.

That said, it’s not a cheap option, and the size might be a consideration for smaller kitchens. But if you value quality, convenience, and versatility, this machine is well worth the investment. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the variety of drinks it has allowed me to explore, and it’s become an indispensable part of my morning routine.

Frequently Asked Questions About the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew

Q: What types of drinks can the DeLonghi Eletta Explore make?
A: The DeLonghi Eletta Explore can make a wide variety of beverages, including espresso, cappuccino, latte macchiato, flat white, americano, and cold brew. It also allows for iced coffee drinks and hot chocolate, thanks to its dual milk system and cold brew functionality.

Q: Does the cold brew function really work, and how long does it take?
A: Yes, the cold brew function works effectively. Instead of the traditional 12-24 hour steeping process, the machine delivers a smooth and flavorful cold brew in under five minutes by adjusting the water flow and temperature for optimal extraction.

Q: Is the machine easy to clean and maintain?
A: Absolutely. The DeLonghi Eletta Explore features automatic cleaning cycles for both the coffee system and milk carafes. Its removable drip tray, brew unit, and other components make manual cleaning straightforward. It also notifies you when descaling or other maintenance tasks are needed.

Q: Can I customize the coffee strength and temperature?
A: Yes, the machine allows you to customize coffee strength, temperature, and even froth density through its touchscreen interface or the DeLonghi Coffee Link app. This ensures you can tailor each drink to your preferences.

Q: Does the machine come with an app, and what can I do with it?
A: The DeLonghi Eletta Explore is compatible with the DeLonghi Coffee Link app. The app allows you to control the machine remotely, customize drink recipes, save user profiles, and receive notifications for maintenance tasks.

Q: How many user profiles can be saved on the machine?
A: The Eletta Explore supports multiple user profiles, so different users can save their preferred drink settings for quick and easy access.

Q: Does the machine work with pre-ground coffee, or do I have to use beans?
A: The DeLonghi Eletta Explore works with both whole coffee beans and pre-ground coffee. It has a dedicated compartment for pre-ground coffee, which is especially useful if you want to make decaffeinated drinks.

Q: How large is the machine, and will it fit on my countertop?
A: The machine measures approximately 10.2 x 18.9 x 14.2 inches. While it’s not compact, it’s designed to fit well in most kitchen setups without dominating the space.

Q: Is the milk frother good for cold beverages?
A: Yes, the Eletta Explore comes with a dedicated cold milk carafe that creates creamy and velvety foam for iced drinks, making it ideal for iced lattes and other cold milk-based beverages.

Q: How loud is the grinder?
A: The stainless-steel conical burr grinder does make some noise during operation, but it’s comparable to most other machines in this category. If you’re particularly sensitive to noise, it’s something to keep in mind.

Q: Does the machine come with any accessories?
A: Yes, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore includes two separate LatteCrema carafes (one for hot milk and one for cold milk), a travel mug, an ice cube tray, and a user manual.

Q: How does the machine compare to other DeLonghi models?
A: Compared to other models like the Dinamica Plus, the Eletta Explore offers additional features such as a cold brew function and separate hot and cold milk carafes, making it more versatile for users who enjoy a range of coffee drinks, including iced options.

Q: Is it worth the price?
A: If you value a machine that offers high-quality coffee, extensive drink customization, and the ability to make cold brews and iced drinks, the Eletta Explore is worth the investment. However, it may not be the best choice if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly or compact option.