As a coffee connoisseur, you’re likely no stranger to the world of espresso machines and the rich flavors they can produce. The Breville Barista Touch is a popular choice among coffee enthusiasts, offering a user-friendly interface and a wide range of customizable options. However, for those who prefer to use ground coffee, navigating the machine’s settings can be a bit more complex. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of ground coffee and explore how to use it in your Breville Barista Touch to create the perfect brew.
Understanding the Breville Barista Touch
Before we dive into the specifics of using ground coffee, it’s essential to understand the basics of the Breville Barista Touch. This espresso machine is designed to provide a seamless coffee-making experience, with a range of features that cater to both beginners and experienced baristas. Some of the key features include:
- A 3.7-inch touchscreen display that allows for easy navigation and customization
- Automatic temperature control, ensuring optimal brewing conditions
- A built-in grinder, which can be adjusted to suit your preferred grind size
- A steam wand, perfect for creating silky microfoam
Why Use Ground Coffee in Your Breville Barista Touch?
While the Breville Barista Touch comes with a built-in grinder, there are several reasons why you might prefer to use ground coffee instead. Some of the benefits include:
- Increased control: By using pre-ground coffee, you have more control over the grind size and quality, which can result in a more consistent flavor.
- Convenience: If you’re short on time or prefer not to grind your own beans, using pre-ground coffee can be a convenient alternative.
- Experimentation: Ground coffee allows you to experiment with different roasts, blends, and grind sizes, which can help you find your perfect cup.
Preparing Your Ground Coffee for Use in the Breville Barista Touch
Before you can start brewing with your ground coffee, there are a few steps you need to take to prepare it for use in the Breville Barista Touch.
Choosing the Right Grind Size
The grind size of your coffee is crucial when it comes to brewing with the Breville Barista Touch. If the grind is too fine, it can lead to over-extraction and a bitter taste, while a grind that’s too coarse can result in under-extraction and a weak flavor. The ideal grind size will depend on the type of coffee you’re using and your personal preference, but as a general rule, you’ll want to aim for a medium to medium-fine grind.
Grind Size Chart
| Grind Size | Description |
| — | — |
| Fine | Similar to powdered sugar, fine grinds are best suited for Turkish coffee and espresso roasts. |
| Medium | A medium grind is similar to kosher salt and is ideal for most coffee brewing methods, including the Breville Barista Touch. |
| Coarse | A coarse grind is similar to sea salt and is best suited for French press and percolator brewing methods. |
Measuring and Loading the Ground Coffee
Once you’ve selected the right grind size, it’s time to measure and load the ground coffee into the Breville Barista Touch. The machine comes with a built-in portafilter, which can hold up to 19 grams of coffee. To ensure the perfect brew, it’s essential to use the right amount of coffee.
- Use the recommended amount: The Breville Barista Touch comes with a recommended coffee dosage of 14-17 grams. However, this can be adjusted to suit your personal preference.
- Use a scale: To ensure accuracy, use a scale to measure the coffee. This will help you achieve a consistent flavor and prevent over- or under-extraction.
Brewing with Ground Coffee in the Breville Barista Touch
Now that you’ve prepared your ground coffee, it’s time to start brewing. The Breville Barista Touch offers a range of brewing options, including espresso, cappuccino, and latte.
Espresso Brewing
To brew an espresso using ground coffee in the Breville Barista Touch, follow these steps:
- Load the portafilter with the recommended amount of coffee.
- Tamp the coffee using the built-in tamper to ensure even extraction.
- Place a demitasse cup under the spout.
- Select the espresso brewing option on the touchscreen display.
- The machine will automatically adjust the brewing parameters to ensure the perfect shot.
Cappuccino and Latte Brewing
To brew a cappuccino or latte using ground coffee in the Breville Barista Touch, follow these steps:
- Load the portafilter with the recommended amount of coffee.
- Tamp the coffee using the built-in tamper to ensure even extraction.
- Place a cup under the spout.
- Select the cappuccino or latte brewing option on the touchscreen display.
- The machine will automatically adjust the brewing parameters and steam the milk to the perfect temperature and texture.
Tips and Tricks for Using Ground Coffee in the Breville Barista Touch
While the Breville Barista Touch is designed to be user-friendly, there are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind when using ground coffee:
- Experiment with different roasts and blends: The Breville Barista Touch is a versatile machine that can handle a range of coffee roasts and blends. Experiment with different options to find your perfect cup.
- Adjust the grind size: If you find that your coffee is too strong or too weak, adjust the grind size to suit your preference.
- Clean the machine regularly: To ensure optimal performance and flavor, clean the Breville Barista Touch regularly, paying particular attention to the portafilter and group head.
By following these tips and guidelines, you’ll be well on your way to creating the perfect brew using ground coffee in your Breville Barista Touch. Whether you’re a coffee novice or a seasoned barista, this machine is sure to impress, and with a little practice, you’ll be crafting delicious coffee drinks like a pro.
What is the ideal grind size for using ground coffee in Breville Barista Touch?
The ideal grind size for using ground coffee in Breville Barista Touch is a medium to fine grind. This grind size allows for the perfect balance of flavor and crema. If the grind is too coarse, it can lead to a weak or under-extracted shot, while a grind that is too fine can cause the machine to clog.
To achieve the perfect grind size, it’s recommended to use a burr grinder. Blade grinders can generate heat, which can damage the coffee beans and affect the flavor. A burr grinder, on the other hand, produces a consistent grind size and doesn’t generate heat, ensuring that the coffee beans are not damaged.
How do I adjust the grind size on my Breville Barista Touch?
Adjusting the grind size on your Breville Barista Touch is a straightforward process. The machine comes with a built-in grinder, and you can adjust the grind size by turning the grind dial. The dial is usually located on the side or top of the machine, and it has different settings for different grind sizes.
To adjust the grind size, simply turn the dial to the desired setting. If you’re unsure which setting to use, you can consult the user manual or experiment with different settings to find the one that works best for you. It’s also a good idea to clean the grinder regularly to ensure that it continues to function properly.
What is the recommended coffee-to-water ratio for using ground coffee in Breville Barista Touch?
The recommended coffee-to-water ratio for using ground coffee in Breville Barista Touch is between 1:15 and 1:17. This means that for every 1 gram of coffee, you should use 15-17 grams of water. This ratio can be adjusted to suit your personal taste preferences, but it’s a good starting point.
Using the right coffee-to-water ratio is crucial for achieving the perfect brew. If the ratio is too high, the coffee can taste bitter, while a ratio that is too low can result in a weak or under-extracted shot. Experimenting with different ratios can help you find the perfect balance of flavor and strength.
How do I clean and maintain my Breville Barista Touch?
Cleaning and maintaining your Breville Barista Touch is essential for ensuring that it continues to function properly and produce high-quality coffee. The machine should be cleaned after every use, and it’s recommended to descale it every 3-6 months.
To clean the machine, simply wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth and clean the brew group and portafilter with a brush and soap. The machine also comes with a cleaning cycle that can be activated by pressing a button. This cycle uses hot water to clean the machine and remove any built-up residue.
Can I use any type of ground coffee in my Breville Barista Touch?
While you can use any type of ground coffee in your Breville Barista Touch, it’s recommended to use high-quality Arabica beans. Arabica beans have a more delicate flavor and a higher acidity than Robusta beans, which makes them better suited for espresso.
It’s also a good idea to use freshly roasted and ground coffee for the best flavor. Coffee that is too old or has been sitting on a shelf for too long can lose its flavor and aroma. Experimenting with different types of coffee can help you find the one that works best for you.
How do I troubleshoot common issues with my Breville Barista Touch?
If you’re experiencing issues with your Breville Barista Touch, such as a clogged machine or a weak shot, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take. First, check the user manual to see if the issue is covered. If not, you can try cleaning the machine or adjusting the grind size.
If the issue persists, you may need to descale the machine or replace a worn-out part. It’s also a good idea to consult the Breville website or contact customer support for further assistance. They can provide you with more detailed troubleshooting steps and help you resolve the issue.
Can I use ground coffee in my Breville Barista Touch if I don’t have a grinder?
Yes, you can use ground coffee in your Breville Barista Touch even if you don’t have a grinder. However, it’s recommended to use a burr grinder to grind your coffee beans just before brewing. This ensures that the coffee is freshly ground and has the best flavor.
If you don’t have a grinder, you can purchase pre-ground coffee from a coffee shop or store. However, keep in mind that pre-ground coffee may not be as fresh as grinding your own beans, and it may not produce the same quality of coffee.