DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew Review

My Personal Experience with the DeLonghi Eletta Explore

Using the DeLonghi Eletta Explore has transformed my coffee routine. From the moment I unboxed the machine, I was impressed by its sleek design and intuitive interface. I quickly learned to appreciate the variety of beverages it offered.

The cold brew feature, in particular, was a game-changer for me. Previously, I would spend hours steeping coffee grounds to achieve a cold brew, but this machine delivers it in just a few minutes. The result is a smooth, flavorful coffee that’s not too acidic, perfect for sipping on warm afternoons.

The LatteCrema system is another standout. I’ve tried other milk frothing systems before, but none have come close to the silky, rich froth that this machine consistently produces.

I’m able to make barista-quality cappuccinos and lattes every morning, and customizing my drinks has never been easier. 

Adjusting the strength, temperature, and milk frothiness is simple, which means I can tweak every cup exactly to my liking.

Even though the Eletta Explore is loaded with features, it’s incredibly user-friendly. After just a few uses, I was able to navigate through all the options with ease. The touch screen display is clear and responsive, making it simple to switch between drinks or adjust settings.

Design and Build Quality of the DeLonghi Eletta Explore

DeLonghi has a reputation for designing premium machines, and the Eletta Explore is no exception. The first thing you notice is its sleek, modern aesthetic. The stainless steel accents give it a high-end look, while the compact design ensures it doesn’t overwhelm your countertop. It’s clear that the machine is built to last, with a sturdy construction that can handle daily use.

Despite its advanced capabilities, the Eletta Explore is designed with simplicity in mind. The touch screen interface is user-friendly, even for those who may not be tech-savvy. The interface guides you through the entire brewing process, from selecting your coffee type to customizing the strength and temperature. The large buttons and clear display make it easy to brew your favorite drinks without fuss.

One of the most thoughtful design features is the removable brewing unit. This makes cleaning a breeze and ensures that the machine remains in top working condition. The drip tray and milk frother components are also easy to remove and clean, which is crucial for maintaining the machine over time.

Features of the DeLonghi Eletta Explore

The DeLonghi Eletta Explore is packed with features designed to cater to coffee lovers of all preferences. Here’s a breakdown of what this machine offers:

• Cold Brew Coffee: The cold brew function is one of the most unique and impressive aspects of the Eletta Explore. Unlike traditional methods that take hours, this machine brews a smooth, low-acid cold brew in just minutes. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys iced coffee but doesn’t have the time or patience for the steeping process.

• LatteCrema System: DeLonghi’s patented LatteCrema system ensures your milk-based drinks are always frothy and delicious. Whether you’re making a cappuccino, macchiato, or latte, the automatic frother produces silky, velvety foam with little effort.

• Customizable Drink Options: The machine offers a wide range of coffee drinks, from espresso and americano to cappuccino and cold brew. Each drink is fully customizable, allowing you to adjust the strength, temperature, and amount of froth to suit your preferences.

• Smart Connectivity: The Eletta Explore comes equipped with Bluetooth, allowing you to connect it to the DeLonghi app. Through the app, you can brew coffee remotely, monitor the machine’s status, and even receive notifications for cleaning and maintenance. This smart connectivity adds a level of convenience that elevates the entire coffee-making experience.

• Dual Coffee Bean Hoppers: This machine features two separate coffee bean hoppers, making it easy to switch between different types of beans. This is ideal for households with varying coffee preferences, or for those who want to keep both regular and decaf beans on hand.

• One-Touch Recipes: If you’re looking for convenience, the Eletta Explore has you covered with its one-touch recipes. Simply press a button, and the machine will brew your drink to perfection, whether it’s a flat white or a long black.

Performance of the DeLonghi Eletta Explore

In terms of performance, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore is a top-tier machine. It delivers high-quality coffee consistently and quickly. The cold brew function, in particular, impressed me with how fast and flavorful the coffee was. I was skeptical about the idea of a machine making cold brew in minutes, but it exceeded my expectations by producing a drink that was smooth, refreshing, and perfectly balanced.

The machine’s heating system is also incredibly efficient. The Eletta Explore heats up in under a minute, which means you can make your espresso or cappuccino without having to wait. Each espresso shot comes out with a rich crema, and the temperature is always spot on. Even when I’m making multiple drinks in a row, the machine doesn’t lose any of its efficiency or consistency.

Cleaning and Maintenance of the DeLonghi Eletta Explore

Maintaining the DeLonghi Eletta Explore is remarkably easy. The machine has automatic cleaning cycles for the milk frother, which is a huge time saver. It also gives descaling alerts, ensuring that the machine stays in optimal working condition. The brewing unit is fully removable, allowing for thorough cleaning. I found that the drip tray and milk frother components are equally easy to disassemble and clean, which is essential for anyone using the machine daily.

The built-in water filter also reduces the need for frequent descaling, ensuring that the machine’s internal components are kept clean for longer. If you regularly maintain the machine by following its cleaning alerts, it will serve you well for years to come.

Cleaning and Maintenance of the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew

Speaking of cleaning, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew is designed with ease of maintenance in mind. The removable parts, such as the water tank, drip tray, and milk frother, are easy to access and clean. The machine also has a built-in descaling function, which helps to keep it running smoothly over time.

I particularly appreciate the machine’s self-cleaning cycle, which activates automatically after each use. This feature helps to prevent the buildup of coffee residue, keeping the machine fresh and ready for the next brew.

Who Should Buy the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew?

The DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew is ideal for coffee enthusiasts who want a versatile machine that can handle a variety of beverages. If you enjoy both hot espresso and cold brew, this machine provides the best of both worlds. Its customization features make it suitable for households with multiple coffee drinkers who have different preferences, as each user can adjust their drink to their liking.

Additionally, if you’re someone who values convenience, the user-friendly interface and automatic cleaning functions make this machine an attractive option. Yes, it’s an investment, but for those who drink coffee daily or entertain guests frequently, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore offers both functionality and style.

Conclusion

The DeLonghi Eletta Explore is truly a one-of-a-kind espresso machine. With its innovative cold brew feature, reliable performance, and user-friendly design, it’s a top contender for anyone looking to bring café-quality coffee into their home. Its LatteCrema system consistently delivers barista-style milk foam, and its smart app connectivity adds a modern twist to the traditional coffee experience. Though it comes with a higher price tag, the range of premium features makes it a worthy investment for serious coffee enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions about the DeLonghi Eletta Explore

• How long does it take to brew cold brew coffee with the DeLonghi Eletta Explore?
  The machine can brew cold brew coffee in just minutes, unlike traditional methods that take several hours.

• Can I adjust the strength and temperature of my coffee on the Eletta Explore?
  Yes, you can easily customize the strength, temperature, and milk froth level using the touch screen interface.

• Is the DeLonghi Eletta Explore suitable for making iced coffee?
  Absolutely! You can make iced versions of various drinks, such as iced lattes and iced cappuccinos, or use the cold brew option for a refreshing beverage.

• How often does the machine need to be cleaned?
  The Eletta Explore has automatic cleaning cycles for the milk frother and provides descaling alerts. Regular cleaning of removable components is recommended for optimal performance.

• Can I brew multiple drinks in a row without waiting?
  Yes, the machine heats up quickly and can brew multiple drinks consecutively without losing consistency.

• Does the DeLonghi Eletta Explore come with dual bean hoppers?
  Yes, it features two bean hoppers, allowing you to store and switch between different coffee beans without mixing them.

• Is the DeLonghi Eletta Explore compatible with the DeLonghi app?
  Yes, the machine has Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to control it remotely via the DeLonghi app.

• Does the machine work well with alternative milk types like almond or oat milk?
  Yes, the LatteCrema system can froth both dairy and non-dairy milk types, including almond and oat milk.

• What’s the capacity of the water tank and bean hopper?
  The machine has a 1.8-liter water tank and a large bean hopper, making it suitable for households or small gatherings.

• Can the machine make tea or hot chocolate?
  While focused on coffee, it can dispense hot water for tea, and the milk frother can be used to make frothy milk for hot chocolate.