DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew Review

As a coffee enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for tools that bring café-quality beverages to my kitchen. When I first heard about the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew, I was intrigued by its promise of versatility. A machine that not only brews hot drinks but also delivers cold brew and froths milk for both hot and cold drinks? It sounded like the perfect fit for my love of experimenting with different coffee styles. After using it extensively, I’m ready to share my experiences and impressions.

First Impressions of the DeLonghi Eletta Explore

Right out of the box, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore commands attention with its sleek, modern design. Its black and stainless-steel exterior blends seamlessly into any kitchen decor. The compact yet sturdy build hints at its premium quality. I was particularly impressed by the thoughtfully designed touchscreen interface—it’s intuitive, responsive, and well-lit, making it easy to navigate even early in the morning when I haven’t had my first cup of coffee.

The Setup Process: User-Friendly and Efficient

Setting up the machine was surprisingly simple. The instructions were clear and concise, guiding me step-by-step through filling the water reservoir, adding beans to the hopper, and powering on the machine. I appreciated that it came with a water hardness test strip to ensure I was using the right settings for optimal performance.

The built-in burr grinder is a highlight for me. With 13 adjustable grind settings, it was easy to fine-tune the grind size based on my coffee preferences. I typically opt for a medium-fine grind for espresso, and the Eletta Explore delivered a consistent grind every time.

Tailoring the Coffee Experience

What sets this machine apart is its ability to customize nearly every aspect of the brewing process. I could easily adjust the strength, temperature, and size of my espresso shots. This level of control gave me the freedom to experiment with different flavors and intensities. For example, when I was in the mood for a bold and robust coffee, I simply selected the highest strength setting and reduced the volume slightly for a concentrated shot.

The user profiles feature deserves a special mention. My partner and I have different coffee preferences, and the machine allowed us to save our preferred settings under individual profiles. This feature eliminated the hassle of readjusting the settings every time someone else used the machine.

Brewing Cold Brew with the DeLonghi Eletta Explore

As someone who enjoys cold brew year-round, I was particularly curious about the Eletta Explore’s cold brew function. Traditional cold brew methods can be time-consuming, often taking 12 to 24 hours to steep. With this machine, I could prepare a refreshing cold brew in just a few minutes. The result? A smooth, slightly sweet coffee with minimal acidity—a perfect base for iced lattes or just over ice with a splash of milk.

Experimenting with Milk-Based Drinks

I’m a latte lover, so the Eletta Explore’s milk frothing capabilities were a major selling point for me. The machine comes with two milk carafes: one for hot frothing and another for cold frothing. The hot froth was velvety and creamy, ideal for lattes and cappuccinos. Meanwhile, the cold froth was light and airy, adding a luxurious touch to iced drinks.

Switching between the two carafes was seamless. The machine also has a self-cleaning function for the milk system, which I found incredibly convenient. It gave me peace of mind knowing the milk pathways were always clean and ready for use.

The Art of Creating Latte Art

One delightful surprise was how the Eletta Explore’s precise milk frothing made it easier for me to practice latte art. While I’m far from a professional barista, the creamy texture of the frothed milk gave me the perfect canvas to experiment with simple designs like hearts and tulips. It added an extra layer of fun to my coffee-making routine.

The Convenience of Automation

Life gets busy, and the automation features of the Eletta Explore made my mornings much smoother. The machine heats up quickly, so I didn’t have to wait long for my coffee fix. The ability to program my favorite drinks meant I could press a button and let the machine do the rest, whether it was preparing a rich espresso or a frothy cappuccino.

Maintenance: A Breeze to Keep Clean

Maintaining the DeLonghi Eletta Explore has been straightforward. The machine prompts you when it’s time to clean the milk system, empty the grounds container, or refill the water tank. The drip tray and coffee grounds container are easy to remove and dishwasher-safe, which I appreciated for hassle-free cleaning.

Descaling, which is essential for long-term performance, is also a breeze. The machine’s alerts ensure you never forget this important maintenance step. As someone who values both convenience and longevity in appliances, these features stood out.

Perfect for Entertaining Guests

One of my favorite aspects of the Eletta Explore is how it elevates entertaining. When hosting friends, I could easily cater to a variety of tastes, from americanos and flat whites to iced coffees and cold brews. The machine’s ability to quickly switch between hot and cold drinks impressed my guests and made me look like a coffee expert. It’s truly a conversation starter and a practical addition for gatherings.

Things to Consider Before Buying

While I’ve had a positive experience overall, there are a few things to keep in mind. The machine does take up a fair amount of counter space, so it’s worth measuring your kitchen layout before purchasing. Additionally, the premium features come with a higher price tag, which may not suit all budgets. However, for coffee lovers who value convenience, versatility, and quality, it’s a worthwhile investment.

Final Thoughts: A Versatile Machine for Coffee Lovers

The DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew has become an integral part of my daily routine. It’s a well-designed, feature-rich machine that caters to a wide range of coffee preferences. From its customizable settings and quick cold brew function to its excellent milk frothing capabilities, this machine delivers on its promises.

For anyone who loves experimenting with different coffee styles or simply wants a dependable espresso machine, the Eletta Explore is a strong contender. It’s not just a coffee maker; it’s a tool for creating café-quality experiences in the comfort of your own home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the DeLonghi Eletta Explore make both hot and cold drinks?
A: Yes, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore is specifically designed to brew both hot and cold beverages. It includes dedicated cold brew and cold milk frothing functions, making it a versatile option for year-round coffee enjoyment.

Q: How long does it take to brew a cold brew coffee?
A: Unlike traditional methods that take 12 to 24 hours, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore can prepare a smooth and refreshing cold brew in just a few minutes.

Q: Is the DeLonghi Eletta Explore easy to clean?
A: Yes, the machine features automatic cleaning cycles for the milk system and brewing unit. The removable drip tray and grounds container are dishwasher-safe, simplifying maintenance.

Q: Can I use pre-ground coffee with this machine?
A: Absolutely! While the machine has a built-in grinder for fresh beans, it also allows you to use pre-ground coffee via a separate chute.

Q: How customizable are the coffee options?
A: The Eletta Explore offers a high level of customization. You can adjust the coffee strength, temperature, and volume for most drinks. It also supports user profiles to save personalized settings.

Q: Does it take up a lot of counter space?
A: The machine does have a larger footprint compared to smaller espresso machines. It’s advisable to measure your counter space to ensure it fits comfortably.

Q: What types of milk can I use for frothing?
A: The Eletta Explore works well with a variety of milk types, including dairy and plant-based options like almond, oat, and soy. The frothing performance may vary slightly depending on the milk’s protein content.

Q: Is it beginner-friendly?
A: Yes, the machine is very user-friendly, thanks to its intuitive touchscreen interface and clear instructions. Even someone new to espresso machines can easily operate it.

Q: How many grind settings does the built-in grinder have?
A: The built-in burr grinder offers 13 grind settings, allowing you to fine-tune the grind size for different types of coffee beverages.

Q: Does it come with a warranty?
A: Yes, DeLonghi typically provides a warranty with their products. It’s best to check with the retailer or manufacturer for the specific terms and duration of coverage.

Q: Can it make multiple drinks back-to-back?
A: Yes, the Eletta Explore is equipped to handle consecutive drink preparations without compromising quality, making it ideal for serving guests.