DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew Review

I recently got my hands on the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine, a coffee enthusiast's dream come true. As a coffee lover who enjoys a mix of hot espresso drinks, cappuccinos, and the increasingly popular cold brew, I was incredibly excited to see what this machine could do. In this review, I'll share my experience with the DeLonghi Eletta Explore and discuss its pros, cons, and how it stacks up against other espresso machines out there.

Initial Impressions of the DeLonghi Eletta Explore

From the moment I unboxed the DeLonghi Eletta Explore, I was taken aback by its sleek design and intuitive interface. It has a modern, premium look with its stainless-steel accents, and I could immediately tell that it was built with quality in mind. The machine also came with an informative guide that made setting it up quite simple—a huge plus for anyone who's ever struggled with complex appliance instructions.

One of the standout features of the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine is its capability to brew both traditional espresso and cold brew. Not every espresso machine in this price range offers the option for cold brew, which is a huge advantage for anyone who loves a bit of variety.

Brewing the Perfect Espresso with DeLonghi Eletta Explore

The first thing I wanted to try was, of course, the espresso. With its bean-to-cup brewing system, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore effortlessly grinds fresh beans and brews espresso with a rich, bold flavor. I was particularly impressed with the ease of customizing the settings. The machine allows you to control various aspects of your drink, including the strength of the coffee, the temperature, and the volume of the brew.

I found that the espresso shots had a deep crema, a hallmark of high-quality espresso. The machine's 19-bar pressure pump definitely played a key role in extracting every bit of flavor from the coffee grounds. The Eletta Explore also comes with a milk frother that produces velvety froth for cappuccinos or lattes. It’s easy to use and made my homemade cappuccino taste almost like one I’d order from my favorite cafe.

DeLonghi Eletta Explore Cold Brew Review

One of the most exciting features of the DeLonghi Eletta Explore is the Cold Brew functionality. As someone who loves sipping on a chilled coffee in the afternoon, I was eager to see if this machine could deliver on its promise of a true cold brew experience.

The process is incredibly straightforward. You select the cold brew option on the touch screen, and the machine takes care of the rest. It’s much faster compared to traditional cold brew methods, which require steeping coffee grounds for 12 to 24 hours. Within just a few minutes, I had a glass of cold brew that was smooth, with less bitterness than regular iced coffee. While the flavor may not be quite as complex as a traditional slow-steeped cold brew, the convenience factor more than makes up for it.

Customization Options on the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine

Another feature that I truly appreciated with the DeLonghi Eletta Explore is the level of customization it offers. You can set up your favorite drinks and save the settings, which makes it easy to brew your perfect cup with just the press of a button. For espresso lovers, the ability to choose your grind size, temperature, and intensity is crucial. I particularly enjoyed being able to tweak these options based on my mood or preference each day.

The machine also allows you to brew multiple drinks back-to-back without any lag time. This makes it perfect for when you have guests over, and everyone has their own coffee preference. My friends were quite impressed with the machine's ability to quickly switch from hot espresso to cold brew with no fuss.

Comparing the DeLonghi Eletta Explore to Other Espresso Machines

Having used a variety of espresso machines over the years, I can confidently say that the DeLonghi Eletta Explore stands out for its versatility. Many espresso machines in this price range do an excellent job at hot coffee drinks, but few can seamlessly transition to cold brew. If you enjoy cold coffee drinks as much as you do hot ones, the Eletta Explore is worth considering.

Compared to other machines like the Philips 3200 Series or the Jura E8, the Eletta Explore has the added advantage of providing cold brew—something that most other machines lack. Additionally, the intuitive interface and programmable drink options make it easier to get that consistent cup of coffee every morning. Where other machines might be a bit fiddly, the Eletta Explore streamlines the entire process, making it more enjoyable for someone like me who just wants a quality cup of coffee without the hassle.

Cleaning and Maintenance of the DeLonghi Eletta Explore

No espresso machine review would be complete without mentioning cleaning and maintenance. With the DeLonghi Eletta Explore, I was pleasantly surprised at how easy the cleaning process is. The machine has a self-cleaning function that runs after each use, ensuring that milk residue and coffee grounds don’t build up over time.

The drip tray, water tank, and bean container are all removable, which makes it easy to give everything a thorough cleaning when needed. The milk frother has its own rinse cycle, which saves time and reduces the effort required to keep it spotless. Overall, I found that maintenance was much less of a hassle compared to other espresso machines I've owned in the past.

DeLonghi Eletta Explore’s User-Friendly Features

One aspect that I truly appreciate about the DeLonghi Eletta Explore is how user-friendly it is. The digital display is clear and easy to navigate, making the machine accessible even for those who are not tech-savvy. Each button is clearly labeled, and the touch interface responds quickly without any lag.

For someone like me who values simplicity, the ability to press a button and let the machine do the work is invaluable. Whether I want a latte in the morning or a refreshing cold brew in the afternoon, I can quickly select the drink and go about my business while the Eletta Explore takes care of the rest. It’s the kind of convenience that makes you actually look forward to making coffee each day, rather than seeing it as a chore.

The DeLonghi Eletta Explore’s Milk Frothing Capabilities

I also have to highlight the milk frothing capabilities of this machine. The automatic frothing system creates a consistent, creamy froth that really elevates drinks like cappuccinos and lattes. As someone who likes to experiment with different coffee recipes, I found this particularly helpful. I could easily control the froth density and texture, which means I could make anything from a frothy macchiato to a silky flat white.

The LatteCrema system is a standout feature, offering the kind of quality froth you'd expect from a barista. It’s also incredibly easy to clean, which is something I find lacking in many other espresso machines with milk systems. The milk carafe can be removed and stored in the fridge, adding another layer of convenience for when I want to prepare coffee quickly without setting up all the components again.

My Experience With Different Coffee Beans and Blends

Over the past few weeks, I experimented with different coffee beans and blends to see how the DeLonghi Eletta Explore handled them. I tried a range of light, medium, and dark roasts, and I was impressed by how the machine brought out the unique characteristics of each one. The Eletta Explore’s grinder has 13 adjustable settings, allowing for a fine level of customization to suit the specific type of bean you’re using.

With light roasts, I was able to enjoy the nuanced, floral notes, while dark roasts provided that deep, robust flavor I often crave in the morning. I also tried some pre-ground coffee for convenience, and while the flavor wasn't as rich as freshly ground beans, the results were still satisfying. The versatility here is key—it means that even if I run out of whole beans, I can still make a decent cup with ground coffee.

The DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew vs. My Previous Machine

Before using the DeLonghi Eletta Explore, I had been using a Nespresso machine that only allowed for capsules. While it was convenient, it lacked the customization and depth of flavor that I craved. Making the switch to a bean-to-cup machine like the Eletta Explore was a game-changer. Not only did I gain control over the strength and type of coffee I brewed, but I also got the added benefit of fresh cold brew—something my previous machine definitely couldn't handle.

The comparison isn’t even close; the DeLonghi Eletta Explore is simply better. The flavor profile of the coffee is deeper, the customization options are more extensive, and the overall experience feels more authentic. If you’re currently using a pod-based machine and considering an upgrade, I can confidently say the Eletta Explore is a huge step up.

DeLonghi Eletta Explore's Cold Brew: Game-Changer or Gimmick?

One thing I’ve been asked is whether the cold brew function is a true game-changer or just a gimmick. After using it consistently for a few weeks, I can say that it’s not just a gimmick. The cold brew that this machine produces is smooth, with a balanced flavor that lacks the bitterness you often get from traditional iced coffee. Plus, the fact that you can get cold brew in under five minutes is incredibly convenient.

For me, the cold brew feature has genuinely made a difference in how I enjoy coffee throughout the day. Whether it's a chilled coffee during a hot afternoon or a traditional espresso shot to kick-start my morning, the Eletta Explore covers all the bases. The versatility of this machine really makes it stand out in the crowded espresso maker market.

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

In conclusion, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew is a fantastic addition to any coffee lover’s kitchen. It provides a perfect blend of versatility, quality, and convenience. With its sleek design, intuitive controls, and the ability to brew both traditional espresso and smooth cold brew, it delivers a coffee experience that’s tough to beat.

If you’re someone who enjoys a wide range of coffee drinks—from hot espressos to cold brews—this machine is definitely worth considering. It might be on the pricier side, but when you factor in the convenience, quality, and versatility it offers, the investment feels justified. The DeLonghi Eletta Explore has genuinely elevated my coffee game, and I can see it being a beloved machine for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions about the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew

Q: Does the DeLonghi Eletta Explore allow customization of coffee drinks?

A: Yes, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore offers extensive customization options. You can adjust the strength, temperature, and volume of your coffee, as well as save your favorite drink settings for easy access. The machine also has 13 grind settings, which allows you to achieve the perfect grind for your beans, tailored to your preference.

Q: How does the cold brew feature work on the DeLonghi Eletta Explore?

A: The cold brew feature is quite easy to use. All you need to do is select the cold brew option on the touch screen, and the machine will take care of the rest. The brewing process takes just a few minutes, much faster compared to traditional cold brew methods, which can take up to 24 hours. The resulting cold brew is smooth, flavorful, and less bitter compared to iced coffee.

Q: Is the DeLonghi Eletta Explore difficult to clean?

A: No, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore is designed with easy maintenance in mind. The machine has a self-cleaning function that runs after each use to prevent residue buildup. Additionally, components like the drip tray, water tank, and bean container are all removable, making deep cleaning straightforward. The milk frother also has an automatic rinse cycle, ensuring minimal effort on your part.

Q: Can I use pre-ground coffee with the DeLonghi Eletta Explore?

A: Yes, you can use pre-ground coffee with the DeLonghi Eletta Explore. Although it’s primarily designed as a bean-to-cup machine, there is a bypass doser for pre-ground coffee, which is convenient if you run out of beans or want to use a decaffeinated blend.

Q: How does the milk frothing system compare to other machines?

A: The DeLonghi Eletta Explore uses the LatteCrema system, which is highly effective for creating a creamy and consistent froth. It’s automated and easy to adjust for different froth textures, whether you want a dense foam for cappuccinos or a lighter froth for lattes. Additionally, the milk container is removable and can be stored in the fridge, which adds convenience compared to other machines that require you to clean the milk system immediately.

Q: Can the DeLonghi Eletta Explore make multiple cups back-to-back?

A: Yes, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore is capable of brewing multiple drinks consecutively without needing a reset or cooling down period. This feature is particularly useful for serving guests with varying preferences. You can seamlessly prepare multiple hot espressos or switch from hot coffee to cold brew without any lag time.

Q: Is the DeLonghi Eletta Explore a good choice for beginners?

A: Absolutely. The intuitive touch display and clearly labeled options make the DeLonghi Eletta Explore accessible for beginners. The machine’s one-touch operation and pre-programmed drink options mean you don’t have to be a coffee expert to create great-tasting coffee at home. Additionally, for those who like to experiment, the customization features provide the flexibility to learn and fine-tune your coffee-making skills over time.

Q: How does the DeLonghi Eletta Explore compare to other espresso machines in its price range?

A: The DeLonghi Eletta Explore stands out for its versatility. Unlike many other machines in its price range, it offers both hot espresso drinks and cold brew, making it a unique all-in-one solution. The level of drink customization and the LatteCrema milk system further differentiate it from competitors. Compared to machines like the Philips 3200 or the Jura E8, the cold brew feature and user-friendly interface give the Eletta Explore an edge, especially for coffee lovers who appreciate variety in their drinks.

Q: What types of coffee drinks can the DeLonghi Eletta Explore prepare?

A: The DeLonghi Eletta Explore can prepare a wide range of drinks, including espresso, cappuccino, latte, macchiato, flat white, and cold brew. The customization options also allow you to tailor each drink to your preference, from adjusting the coffee strength to choosing the perfect milk froth density.

Q: How long does it take to brew cold brew coffee with the Eletta Explore?

A: Unlike traditional cold brew methods, which can take anywhere from 12 to 24 hours, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore can brew cold brew coffee in just a few minutes. This makes it an ideal choice for those who enjoy cold brew but don't want to deal with the long preparation time.

Q: Is the DeLonghi Eletta Explore noisy during operation?

A: Like most bean-to-cup espresso machines, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore does produce some noise, particularly during the grinding process. However, the noise level is comparable to other similar machines and is not overly disruptive. The brewing and frothing processes are relatively quiet, making it comfortable to use even in the early morning.