The Breville Barista Express is a popular espresso machine that has gained a reputation for its ease of use and high-quality espresso shots. However, many coffee enthusiasts wonder if this machine is limited to only making espresso-based drinks. Can you make regular coffee with the Breville Barista Express? In this article, we’ll explore the possibilities and limitations of using this machine to brew regular coffee.
Understanding the Breville Barista Express
Before we dive into the world of regular coffee, it’s essential to understand the Breville Barista Express and its capabilities. This machine is a semi-automatic espresso machine that allows users to grind their beans, tamp them, and extract a perfect shot of espresso. The Barista Express features a built-in grinder, a 15-bar pump, and a stainless steel body that makes it a durable and reliable addition to any coffee lover’s kitchen.
Key Features of the Breville Barista Express
- Built-in conical burr grinder with 18 grind settings
- 15-bar pump for optimal espresso extraction
- Stainless steel body and trim
- 67 oz water tank
- Manual frothing system for cappuccinos and lattes
- Automatic temperature control
Can You Make Regular Coffee with the Breville Barista Express?
While the Breville Barista Express is designed primarily for making espresso, it is possible to make regular coffee using this machine. However, it’s essential to understand that the machine is not designed for drip brewing, and the results may vary depending on the method you use.
Method 1: Americano-Style Coffee
One way to make regular coffee with the Breville Barista Express is to use the Americano method. This involves pulling a shot of espresso and then adding hot water to create a milder coffee drink. This method is an excellent way to enjoy a regular coffee without having to use a separate drip brewer.
To make an Americano-style coffee using the Breville Barista Express, follow these steps:
- Pull a shot of espresso using the machine’s standard settings
- Pour 6-8 oz of hot water over the espresso shot
- Stir the mixture and enjoy
Method 2: Long Shot Espresso
Another way to make regular coffee with the Breville Barista Express is to use the long shot espresso method. This involves pulling a longer shot of espresso than usual, which results in a milder coffee drink.
To make a long shot espresso using the Breville Barista Express, follow these steps:
- Adjust the grind setting to a coarser grind
- Tamp the grounds firmly to ensure proper extraction
- Pull a shot of espresso for 20-30 seconds, or until the desired volume is reached
- Pour the long shot into a cup and enjoy
Limitations of Making Regular Coffee with the Breville Barista Express
While it is possible to make regular coffee with the Breville Barista Express, there are some limitations to consider. The machine is designed primarily for making espresso, and the results may not be as consistent as those achieved with a dedicated drip brewer.
Some of the limitations of making regular coffee with the Breville Barista Express include:
- Lack of control over brewing time and temperature: The Breville Barista Express is designed for espresso, and the brewing time and temperature are optimized for this type of coffee. As a result, the machine may not provide the same level of control over brewing time and temperature as a dedicated drip brewer.
- Limited volume capacity: The Breville Barista Express is designed to make single or double shots of espresso, and the volume capacity is limited. This means that you may need to make multiple shots to achieve the desired volume of regular coffee.
- Grind setting limitations: The Breville Barista Express features a built-in grinder with 18 grind settings. However, the grind settings are optimized for espresso, and you may need to experiment with different grind settings to achieve the desired flavor profile for regular coffee.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the Breville Barista Express is designed primarily for making espresso, it is possible to make regular coffee using this machine. The Americano method and long shot espresso method are two ways to enjoy regular coffee using the Breville Barista Express. However, it’s essential to understand the limitations of making regular coffee with this machine, including the lack of control over brewing time and temperature, limited volume capacity, and grind setting limitations.
If you’re looking for a machine that can make both espresso and regular coffee, the Breville Barista Express may not be the best option. However, if you’re looking for a machine that can make high-quality espresso and occasional regular coffee, the Breville Barista Express is an excellent choice.
| Feature | Breville Barista Express | Dedicated Drip Brewer |
|---|---|---|
| Brewing Method | Espresso, Americano, Long Shot | Drip Brewing |
| Volume Capacity | Single or Double Shots | Multiple Cups |
| Grind Setting | 18 Grind Settings (Optimized for Espresso) | Variable Grind Settings (Optimized for Drip Brewing) |
| Control over Brewing Time and Temperature | Limited | Variable |
By understanding the capabilities and limitations of the Breville Barista Express, you can make an informed decision about whether this machine is right for you. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or a casual coffee drinker, the Breville Barista Express is an excellent choice for anyone looking to make high-quality espresso and occasional regular coffee.
Can I use the Breville Barista Express to make regular coffee?
The Breville Barista Express is primarily designed for making espresso-based drinks, but it can also be used to make regular coffee. However, it’s essential to note that the machine is not a drip coffee maker, and the process of making regular coffee will be slightly different.
To make regular coffee with the Breville Barista Express, you’ll need to use the machine’s manual brewing mode. This involves adding coffee grounds to the portafilter, pouring hot water over the grounds, and then allowing the coffee to drip into a cup. The result will be a strong, rich coffee that’s similar to a French press or pour-over.
What type of coffee beans should I use to make regular coffee with the Breville Barista Express?
When making regular coffee with the Breville Barista Express, it’s best to use a medium to dark roast coffee bean. These beans will provide a richer, more full-bodied flavor that’s well-suited to the machine’s brewing method. Avoid using very light or very dark roasts, as they may not provide the best flavor.
In terms of grind size, you’ll want to use a slightly coarser grind than you would for espresso. This will allow for the right amount of water to flow through the coffee grounds and result in a well-balanced flavor. You can adjust the grind size using the machine’s built-in grinder or by using a separate grinder.
How do I adjust the grind size on the Breville Barista Express?
Adjusting the grind size on the Breville Barista Express is a straightforward process. The machine features a built-in grinder with 18 grind settings, allowing you to customize the grind size to suit your brewing method. To adjust the grind size, simply turn the grind dial to the desired setting.
When adjusting the grind size, it’s essential to consider the type of coffee you’re making. For regular coffee, you’ll want to use a slightly coarser grind than you would for espresso. Experiment with different grind settings to find the one that works best for you.
Can I use pre-ground coffee with the Breville Barista Express?
While it’s technically possible to use pre-ground coffee with the Breville Barista Express, it’s not recommended. The machine’s built-in grinder is designed to provide the optimal grind size for each brewing method, and using pre-ground coffee may result in a subpar flavor.
If you do choose to use pre-ground coffee, make sure to use a high-quality coffee that’s freshly ground. Avoid using coffee that’s been sitting on a shelf for weeks or months, as it may have lost its flavor and aroma.
How much coffee should I use to make regular coffee with the Breville Barista Express?
The amount of coffee you should use to make regular coffee with the Breville Barista Express will depend on your personal taste preferences. As a general rule, use about 1-2 tablespoons of coffee for every 6 ounces of water. You can adjust this ratio to suit your taste preferences.
When using the Breville Barista Express to make regular coffee, it’s essential to use the right amount of coffee to avoid over- or under-extraction. Experiment with different coffee-to-water ratios to find the one that works best for you.
Can I make large quantities of regular coffee with the Breville Barista Express?
The Breville Barista Express is designed to make single servings of coffee, and it’s not ideal for making large quantities of regular coffee. However, you can make multiple servings in succession by simply repeating the brewing process.
If you need to make large quantities of regular coffee, you may want to consider using a separate drip coffee maker or French press. These machines are designed specifically for making large quantities of coffee and may be more convenient for your needs.
Is the Breville Barista Express worth it for making regular coffee?
Whether or not the Breville Barista Express is worth it for making regular coffee depends on your personal preferences and needs. If you’re looking for a machine that can make high-quality espresso-based drinks and also produce a good cup of regular coffee, the Breville Barista Express may be a good choice.
However, if you’re only looking to make regular coffee, you may want to consider a separate drip coffee maker or French press. These machines are often less expensive and may be more convenient for your needs.