DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew Review

As someone who’s used multiple espresso machines over the years, I was particularly curious about the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew. With a name that hints at adventure, the Eletta Explore indeed delivers an impressive combination of versatility and innovation. From traditional espressos to its quick cold brew function, this machine appears to cater to every coffee mood imaginable. But how does it hold up in a busy kitchen with a regular demand for caffeine?

After weeks of brewing, experimenting, and figuring out the nuances of the Eletta Explore, I can say this machine has a unique spot in my coffee routine. If you're thinking about upgrading your coffee experience at home or just exploring an all-in-one machine, here’s everything I’ve learned from my hands-on time with this model.

Setting Up the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew

The setup process for the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine was straightforward, even though the machine has an impressive range of functions. Right out of the box, the machine provides a simple guide that walks you through the initial settings. From setting the water hardness level to adjusting the grind size and strength, the setup is fairly intuitive and doesn’t require any technical know-how. I appreciated the simple layout of the digital display, which made navigating the settings a breeze.

One thing to keep in mind: this machine is larger than some single-function espresso machines. If your kitchen counter is on the smaller side, you may need to get creative with space. That said, it’s designed to consolidate multiple appliances, from an espresso maker to a cold brew system, so it could end up freeing more counter space in the long run.

Coffee Customization with the DeLonghi Eletta Explore

As a fan of experimenting with different types of coffee, I found the customization options on the Eletta Explore to be a major advantage. From adjusting the grind size to the strength and temperature of each brew, I was able to tweak every setting until I hit my sweet spot. Unlike some other machines I’ve tried, which only allow basic adjustments, the Eletta Explore offers a high degree of control. This flexibility lets me tailor my morning espresso shot to be strong and bold, while making a lighter, smoother coffee later in the day.

For anyone who has different coffee preferences throughout the day or shares the machine with someone else, these adjustable settings are invaluable. It’s also easy to switch between different types of coffee drinks without needing to reset your preferences each time.

DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew: Hot Drinks and Espresso

The espresso feature on the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew delivers a robust shot with excellent crema—a golden layer that sits perfectly on top of each espresso. I found the taste comparable to high-quality café espresso, which surprised me, as I wasn’t sure a machine with such broad capabilities could also excel at making pure espresso. The 19-bar pressure pump ensures a full-bodied extraction, and you can taste the richness in each sip.

This machine also makes cappuccinos and lattes with ease. The built-in milk frother is automatic but adjustable, letting you choose from a dense foam for cappuccinos or a lighter froth for lattes. Since I enjoy experimenting with milk-based drinks, I appreciated the convenience of a frothing system that delivers consistent results without requiring too much manual intervention.

Discovering the Cold Brew Feature on the Eletta Explore

One of the highlights for me has been the cold brew feature on the Eletta Explore. Traditional cold brew can take anywhere from 12 to 24 hours to prepare, but this machine speeds up the process significantly. With just the touch of a button, I can get a quick, chilled coffee in under five minutes. While it doesn’t have the same depth as a traditional cold brew, the Eletta Explore’s version is impressively smooth and less acidic than an iced coffee.

As someone who enjoys cold coffee in the afternoons, this feature has been a game-changer. It’s perfect for when I don’t want to plan hours ahead but still crave that refreshing, low-acid profile of a cold brew.

Maintenance and Cleaning: Keeping the DeLonghi Eletta Explore in Top Shape

One of the challenges with high-end coffee machines is often the maintenance, but the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew makes cleaning surprisingly manageable. The drip tray and the milk container are removable, making it easy to rinse them after each use. The machine also includes a built-in descaling program, which guides you through the process to ensure that it continues to perform optimally over time.

For milk-based drinks, the machine prompts you to clean the frothing system after each use, which I found reassuring from a hygiene perspective. While it may seem like a minor detail, I’ve used machines in the past that require more manual intervention for cleaning, so this automatic prompt feels like a small luxury.

Is the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew Suitable for Your Daily Coffee Routine?

The Eletta Explore is undeniably versatile, but it’s also an investment. So, is it worth it? For me, the answer has been yes, especially because it fits so seamlessly into my daily coffee routine. On busy mornings, I can rely on it for a quick espresso, and on slower weekends, I love experimenting with different drinks, thanks to its wide range of settings.

This machine is ideal for households where multiple people enjoy different coffee styles or for anyone who wants to enjoy café-quality coffee without leaving home. That said, if you’re a dedicated purist who only drinks one type of coffee, a simpler machine might suffice. But if you’re like me and enjoy variety, the Eletta Explore is a worthy investment.

Comparing the Cold Brew and Hot Drink Functions on the DeLonghi Eletta Explore

One question I had before purchasing the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew was how the cold brew function would stack up against its hot coffee options. I’ve found that while the hot drinks are impressively robust and flavorful, the cold brew is best for quick and casual drinking. It doesn’t replace the depth of a slow-steeped cold brew, but it’s an enjoyable option that’s ready in minutes.

For anyone who’s looking to add cold coffee to their routine without investing in a separate cold brew maker, the Eletta Explore’s cold brew is a convenient and tasty option.

Additional Tips for Using the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine

After a few weeks with the Eletta Explore, I’ve discovered a few tips to maximize the machine’s performance:

1. Experiment with Different Beans: The dual bean container allows you to use two types of beans, which I found helpful for switching between lighter and darker roasts. It’s worth trying different combinations to find your favorite.
2. Adjust the Froth Level: Whether you prefer dense foam or a lighter froth, the frother is adjustable. Play around with the settings to match the texture you like best in your lattes or cappuccinos.
3. Keep an Eye on Cleaning Prompts: The machine regularly prompts you to clean the frothing system, which is important to maintain hygiene and ensure consistent frothing.
4. Optimize Cold Brew Settings: If you want a stronger cold brew, try using darker beans and adjusting the grind size to achieve a richer flavor profile.

Product Review Conclusion: DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew

In summary, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew is a versatile and well-designed machine that delivers high-quality coffee at the touch of a button. From espresso with a thick crema to a quick and smooth cold brew, it offers an impressive range of drinks to suit different tastes and moods. The machine’s user-friendly interface, coupled with its extensive customization options, makes it an excellent choice for coffee enthusiasts looking to bring a café experience into their home.

While it’s a premium investment, the Eletta Explore’s versatility and quality justify the price. If you’re someone who enjoys exploring different coffee drinks and values the convenience of a one-stop machine, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore could be the perfect addition to your kitchen.

FAQ

Q1: Does the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine actually make cold brew?
A: Yes, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore has a cold brew function, allowing it to make a quick, chilled coffee similar to cold brew. While traditional cold brew requires several hours to steep, this machine’s process delivers a smooth, cold coffee in under five minutes. The flavor may differ slightly from slow-steeped cold brew, but it’s less acidic than a typical iced coffee and ideal for a quick cold drink.

Q2: Is it easy to clean the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine?
A: Yes, the machine is designed for easy maintenance. It has a removable drip tray and milk container, both of which are simple to rinse after each use. Additionally, the Eletta Explore has a built-in descaling program and prompts you to clean the frothing system after making milk-based drinks, which keeps the machine in top shape with minimal effort.

Q3: Can I use pre-ground coffee with the DeLonghi Eletta Explore?
A: Yes, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore allows you to use either whole beans or pre-ground coffee. There’s a designated compartment for pre-ground coffee, which is ideal if you occasionally want to use decaf or a specific blend. However, using freshly ground beans from the built-in grinder will usually yield the best flavor.

Q4: Does the machine let you adjust coffee strength and temperature?
A: Absolutely. The DeLonghi Eletta Explore allows you to customize the strength and temperature of your coffee to suit your preferences. You can adjust these settings on the digital display, making it easy to get a strong espresso shot in the morning and a milder coffee later in the day, for example.

Q5: How does the dual bean container work on the Eletta Explore?
A: The dual bean container lets you keep two types of coffee beans in the machine simultaneously, which is perfect if you enjoy switching between different roasts or caffeine levels. You can easily select which container to use when making a drink, so there’s no need to swap out beans manually each time you want to switch types.

Q6: How much counter space does the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine require?
A: The Eletta Explore is slightly larger than a standard single-function espresso machine due to its range of features. While it may take up more counter space, it replaces the need for multiple coffee appliances, making it a practical choice if you’re looking to consolidate coffee tools in one machine. Measurements may vary, so it’s best to check the machine’s dimensions against your available space.

Q7: Can the machine froth milk automatically?
A: Yes, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore has an automatic milk frothing system that creates froth for cappuccinos, lattes, and other milk-based drinks. You can adjust the frothing level for denser foam or lighter froth depending on the drink. The machine prompts you to clean the frother after each use, which keeps it in great condition.

Q8: How does the Eletta Explore compare to a traditional espresso machine?
A: Unlike traditional espresso machines that focus solely on espresso, the Eletta Explore is a multi-functional machine that also makes cold brew, cappuccinos, lattes, and more. While it may not have the same level of manual control as some traditional espresso machines, it offers a broader range of options with easy-to-use digital controls, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy variety.

Q9: Is the cold brew function worth it if I already own a traditional cold brew setup?
A: The Eletta Explore’s cold brew is a quick, convenient option that can’t completely replace the rich, layered flavors of slow-steeped cold brew, but it’s ideal for times when you want a refreshing cold coffee without the wait. If you enjoy cold brew regularly and want a quick option, this feature is a convenient addition to your coffee setup.

Q10: Can I make multiple drinks at once with the DeLonghi Eletta Explore?
A: The machine is designed for one drink at a time, but it operates quickly enough that you can make several drinks in succession without much delay. The Eletta Explore’s dual bean container and adjustable settings make it easy to switch between different drink types, allowing you to quickly customize each cup for different preferences.