Key Takeaway:
- Master using your De’Longhi espresso machine with clear, step-by-step guidance on preparation, brewing, frothing, cleaning, and troubleshooting for consistently delicious results.
How to use DeLonghi espresso machine can transform your home coffee ritual into a barista-level experience, even if you’ve felt overwhelmed by the range of brewing methods and inconsistent results.
Real coffeenatics dream of owning their very own coffee maker. And yes, we are not simply talking about your regular coffee makers. Some would rather have a Moka pot, while others choose a French Press or a Pour Over. What if you love the convenience of espresso machines and want to make the perfect cup of espresso without having to go to a cafe? Then, you need an easy solution to your coffee-making woes.
Finding the best coffee machine for your needs takes a lot of work. Many factors are worth considering, including their price, features, ease of use, and cleaning. But when it comes to espresso machines, one brand stands out: De’Longhi.
Why De’Longhi Espresso Machines?
- Bring the classic style of espresso makers with a modern twist. Their Italian style gives a good balance between convenience and quality.
- Give reliable results. These espresso makers are easy to use and come with various settings to customize your coffee.
- Make both cappuccinos and lattes.
- Offer semi-automatic models that allow you to control pressure, temperature, and other aspects of your brew.
Expert Insight: According to the Specialty Coffee Association, an extraction time between 25–30 seconds yields optimal flavor and crema development.
Kinds of De’Longhi Espresso Machines
1. Manual. This espresso machine is perfect for those who love to customize their coffee. It comes equipped with a portafilter. This means you can adjust the amount of grinds and the pressure for extraction.
2. Automatic. This espresso maker offers more convenience and control. This allows you to choose your preferred intensity level, temperature, and other factors. It also comes with a built-in milk frother, which is great for making cappuccinos and lattes.
3. All-in-one. This is the best choice for busy people who want their espresso and cappuccino with minimal effort. This machine has built-in features like a burr grinder, milk frother, and an automated system that precisely controls the temperature and brewing time.
Selecting the Right Grind & Dose
- Grind Size: Aim for a fine, sand-like grind. Too coarse and the espresso will taste weak; too fine and it may clog.
- Dose: Start with 18–20 g of coffee for a double shot. Adjust ±1 g based on taste.
How To Use a Manual De’Longhi Espresso Machine
This espresso machine gives you that full coffee-making experience thanks to its manual brewing system.
- Scoop a level of coffee grounds with the provided spoon and pat off any excess from the rim. If you fail to do so, small particles can get lodged inside, causing issues in the future.
- Spread the coffee grounds inside the filter evenly with your finger. Then, take a tamper and push it down, applying uniform yet gentle pressure. Applying too much power will obstruct water from streaming through and tainting the flavor of your brew.
- Attach the filter holder and twist the handle from left to right. You’ll know you managed to look the filter holder if the handle is at the front of your machine.
- Start brewing by pushing the espresso button or knob.
Pro Tip: Look for a slow, steady stream of espresso that resembles warm honey.
Most De’Longhi Manual espresso machines have a manual steam wand. To make use of this, place the tip of the wand just below the surface at a slight angle. This will make a vortex, allowing you to create bubbles. Create a velvety microfoam by moving your milk jug up and down while steaming.
Issue: Espresso tastes bitter.
Solution: Try a slightly coarser grind and reduce the extraction time by 2–3 seconds.
Cleaning manual espresso machines is easy. Remove the filter holder and rinse it with warm, soapy water. To descale your machine, fill the tank with a descaling solution and run it through.
How To Use an Automatic De’Longhi Espresso Machine
Some automatic espresso machines from De’Longhi come with a grinder. Many models also have a bypass doser designed for pre-ground coffee if you prefer. If your machine has an integrated grinder, you must determine the size and amount of coffee beans you’d like to grind.
- When you have ground coffee, choose your brew settings.
- Click the button to start making espresso. You only need to wait a few minutes for the machine to finish its process.
- Use the automatic milk frother to craft cappuccinos, macchiatos, and lattes. Place a cup beneath the frother and choose your desired frothing. Move the frother wand up and down to create a creamy texture.
Pro Tip: Purge the steam wand before and after each use to avoid milk buildup.
Cleaning an automatic espresso machine is crucial to ensure durability and best espresso taste. Remember to rinse all the grounds and milk residue from the filter holder, portafilter, and carafe.
Some automatic machines also have a descaling program. All you need to do is fill up the water tank with a descaler solution and let the machine do its thing. It usually takes 30 minutes to complete the descaling process.
How To Use a De’Longhi All-in-One Espresso Machine
De’Longhi’s all-in-one espresso machines are the pinnacle of convenience and control. You can have freshly ground espresso or a delicious cappuccino with just one machine in no time!
To make espresso,
- Add coffee grounds to the filter.
- Pour water into the tank, close the filter holder door, and select your desired strength.
- Press the button. Have your freshly-brewed coffee in a few minutes.
For a simple drip of coffee,
- Use a measuring spoon to add coffee grounds to your machine’s filter.
- Pour water into the tank until it reaches the MAX line, making sure not to overfill.
- Close the filter holder door, ensure your carafe is in the right position.
- Turn on the machine and wait for your cup of coffee.
- Many all-in-one models feature programmable profiles—save your favorite shot settings for one-touch brewing.
You only need to hold the jug and choose your preferred frothing option when frothing milk. You can make a bubbly foam for a cappuccino or a velvety microfoam for a latte.
To clean your machine, just handwash removable parts. Add the solution to the water tank to descale your device and complete one full cycle.
Common Issues & Solutions
| Problem | Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Weak, watery espresso | Grind too coarse or dose too low | Fine-tune to a finer grind and increase dose by 1 g |
| Crema is thin or nonexistent | Extraction too fast | Ensure proper tamping pressure and check water temp (90 °C) |
| Milk is not frothing properly | Steam wand position or milk too cold | Steam fresh, cold milk; position wand just below surface |
Final Thoughts: How to Use DeLonghi Espresso Machine
De’Longhi espresso machines are a great way to quickly make delicious coffee. Whether you use one of the manual, automatic, or all-in-one models, there’s something for everyone’s preferences. Next time you’re craving an espresso in the comfort of your home, be sure to check out it out. Enjoy the perfect cup of coffee!
