Best Cappuccino Machine 2019

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN COFFEE AND CAPPUCCINO

Let us break down the differences between coffee and cappuccino. When do you need to get your dose of caffeine, which one do you usually have? Are you in the coffee or cappuccino team?

Coffee is a beverage made of ground coffee beans. Milk is optional and can be added according to taste and depending on what kind of drink it is. If you walk up to your barista and ask for coffee, you will be asked to choose between black coffee and coffee with cream. It is usually served in a cup or a paper cup.

The method of bean cultivation and kind of roast result in distinct flavors. Roasted coffee beans and ground ones are available in coffee shops. Instant coffee powder is produced from the brewed liquid. Bitterness and acidity levels are different depending on the coffee type.

On the other hand, cappuccino is an espresso-based beverage prepared by combining brewed coffee, milk and froth on top. It’s typically served in a tall glass to appreciate the layering. It’s also possible to request for a double shot for a stronger coffee taste.

Cappuccino has a low-acid flavor. Precise proportions still highlight the strong flavor of espresso. If too much milk is added, it’ll turn into a latte. Add too little and it’ll be a cup of traditional macchiato.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST CAPPUCCINO MACHINE?

After being introduced to the three types of cappuccino machines, there are still more considerations before you find the perfect kitchen equipment.

BUDGET

How many cups of coffee is your dosage? And how fast do you need them? If you don’t expect a lot of guests, you don’t have to buy a machine with a dual boiler. Pod types are cheap dirt compared to fully automated types. Of course, if it’s made with more stainless steel, the price will get higher.

BOILER TYPE:

1. Single boilers
2. Heat exchange boilers
3. Dual boilers

Constant temperature, as well as speed, allows better performance. Single Boilers are usually featured in basic cappuccino machines. Steaming milk and extracting cannot be done at the same time because there’s a lever switch between these two functions. Of course, it means you need more time before you can enjoy your drink. The temperature has to be high enough for steaming milk. After steaming, you have to kill some time and let the boiler cool down before you can finally start extracting. Rushing will only result in burnt coffee. Heat stability is compromised by switching between hot and cool temperatures.

Heat exchange boiler types are pretty much alike single boilers but have a thermo-block feature, water is heated in a shorter time using coils. A pair of thermo-blocks allows simultaneous steaming and extraction. Mid-range machines are often rigged with this type of boiler.

Dual boilers have separate ones for steaming and extraction, which means faster brewing. The pressure output is also high, and the water temperature remains constant. High-end machines have this boiler type.

BEST CAPPUCCINO MACHINE TYPES

We know that’s it’s important for you to choose the best coffee machine. This section will name the different kinds of machines and their pros and cons.

SUPER AUTOMATIC = FRESHLY BREWED COFFEE + CONVENIENT OPERATION

An automatic cappuccino machine is a very expensive option, but it combines the best features of the pod and semi-automatic types to be the best cappuccino machine. It is convenient to use like pod types, and it produces fresh beverage just like a semi-automatic type. Most if not all functions are automated: grinding whole beans, making milk froth, extracting espresso, and pouring. The more expensive it is, the more it automates.

SEMI-AUTOMATIC = FRESHLY BREWED COFFEE

This type is best suited for people who want to copy barista-style coffee. It requires you to manually operate and move around like a barista as you see them behind the counter. You have to steam the milk, grind the coffee beans, and extract the espresso. You might have to continue practicing before you learn by heart how to prepare coffee with these machines.

Semi-automatic types are a little expensive with their superb boiler system and sturdy build. However, to ensure you make the perfect cup, you also have to get a good grinder. For example, if you buy a Brentwood espresso and cappuccino maker, you have to buy a good coffee grinder with it. No matter how good your machine is if you have a bad grinder, the result at best will be an average cup of beverage.

POD TYPE = CONVENIENT OPERATION

This type is a perfect choice for you if you are looking for low maintenance and easy to clean machine. It uses coffee pods, and it features an automated milk froth. Every shot has the same taste because this machine highlights consistency. Buying coffee pods is a lot cheaper than getting a coffee grinder.

Some time ago, people had no choice but to buy pods from where they bought the machine. Nowadays, there are plenty of pod sellers and the selection of flavors has also expanded.

HOW TO MAKE CAPPUCCINO ART?

The cappuccino froth can be decorated to express art. Coffee making itself is a form of art, but you can also make a pleasing presentation. Some people may use cocoa powder, cinnamon powder, or vanilla powder to cap the froth nicely. You can sprinkle them or borrow a technique from baristas who upload their videos on YouTube.

Pouring is another technique used by baristas, but even they have to practice a lot to perfect this art. Here’s an easy one: after extracting, pour the steamed milk circularly to incorporate it, and then make a circle of milk in the middle of the cup. Finally, swiftly pour across the pattern and raise the milk jug to stop pouring. The result should be a heart-shaped design.

For us, BREVILLE the Barista Express BES870CBXL is the best cappuccino machine 2019. It’s quite expensive, but you will get your money’s worth with all the features packed in this automatic cappuccino machine. Start making and drinking your cappuccinos at the comfort of your home.

All of the models in this list are sure winners. Aside from cappuccino maker reviews, we also have reviews on other kitchen gadgets and appliances. Don’t forget to check us out: MyKitchenAdvisor.