DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew Review

As a coffee aficionado, I’ve always been on the hunt for a coffee machine that could handle my ever-changing preferences—from a robust espresso to a refreshing cold brew. When I first heard about the De'Longhi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew, I was intrigued by its promise of versatility and convenience. After using it for several weeks, I can confidently say this machine has brought a level of sophistication and variety to my home brewing routine.

First Impressions and Setup

Setting up the Eletta Explore was remarkably straightforward, even for someone who isn’t particularly tech-savvy. The instructions were clear, and within 15 minutes, I had it ready to go. I was immediately drawn to the polished titanium finish—it’s not just an appliance; it’s a statement piece in my kitchen. The inclusion of two milk carafes for hot and cold beverages showed me that this machine was designed with thoughtfulness and attention to detail.

Customization and User Profiles

One of the first features I experimented with was the customization settings. The ability to tweak everything from coffee strength to milk froth density is a game-changer. I also appreciate that I could set up multiple user profiles. This feature has been particularly handy since I live in a household with different coffee preferences. For instance, I enjoy a bold double espresso in the morning, while my partner prefers a frothy cappuccino. With the user profiles, we can both get exactly what we want without needing to adjust the settings each time.

Exploring the Cold Brew Functionality

The cold brew feature is what initially caught my attention, and it didn’t disappoint. Traditional cold brew methods require patience—hours of steeping—but the Eletta Explore delivers a smooth, flavorful cold brew in just five minutes. I was skeptical at first, wondering if it could match the richness of traditional methods, but the taste won me over. It’s perfect for summer afternoons when I want something refreshing yet caffeinated. The machine also guides you on how many ice cubes to use, ensuring every cup is perfectly balanced.

The Quality of Hot Beverages

While the cold brew is impressive, the Eletta Explore truly shines with its hot beverages. My mornings have become a ritual of crafting velvety lattes and robust espressos. The LatteCrema System is perhaps my favorite feature—it consistently produces silky milk foam, ideal for lattes and macchiatos. I’ve even started experimenting with latte art, something I never thought I’d do at home.

The espresso shots themselves are exceptional. The crema is thick and golden, and the flavor is consistently rich. I’ve used everything from dark roast beans to lighter single-origin varieties, and the machine adjusts seamlessly to bring out the best in each.

Quiet Operation

Another aspect worth mentioning is how quiet the Eletta Explore is during operation. I’m often the first one awake in my house, and I’ve had to tiptoe around other machines in the past because of their loud grinding or brewing processes. This machine, however, is surprisingly gentle, making it easy to prepare my morning coffee without waking anyone up.

Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

Sustainability is something I consider when investing in new appliances, and I appreciate that the Eletta Explore includes energy-saving features. It automatically powers down after a period of inactivity, which not only saves electricity but also provides peace of mind. The machine is also designed to minimize waste, using precise measurements to ensure you only use what’s needed for each beverage.

Troubleshooting and Maintenance

No coffee machine is perfect, and the Eletta Explore is no exception. There have been moments where I’ve had to troubleshoot minor issues, such as adjusting the grind settings for optimal flow. However, the user manual and app offer detailed guidance, making it easy to resolve these hiccups.

Cleaning the machine is straightforward, thanks to the automatic cleaning cycles for the milk and coffee systems. The removable drip tray and brew group make manual cleaning a breeze, which I appreciate since it ensures the machine stays in top condition.

Who Is This Machine For?

I think the Eletta Explore is best suited for people who enjoy a variety of coffee styles and want the convenience of making them at home. If you’re someone who loves experimenting with different beans and drinks or if you have a household with diverse coffee preferences, this machine will likely be a great fit. However, it’s worth noting that the price point may not appeal to those who only drink basic black coffee or espresso.

My Favorite Use Cases

Personally, I’ve found the Eletta Explore to be a lifesaver for hosting. When friends come over, I can quickly whip up an iced latte or a flat white, and they’re always impressed by the quality. It’s also been a fantastic tool for mid-afternoon pick-me-ups. The quick cold brew feature has become my go-to during work breaks when I need something energizing yet smooth.

Final Thoughts on the De'Longhi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew

After weeks of use, the De'Longhi Eletta Explore has earned a permanent spot on my countertop. Its versatility and ease of use make it a standout among home coffee machines. While the price is on the higher end, the quality, variety, and convenience it offers justify the investment for me.

If you’re someone who appreciates a good cup of coffee—whether hot or cold—and wants to explore the world of specialty drinks at home, the Eletta Explore is a machine that delivers on its promises.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What types of beverages can the De'Longhi Eletta Explore make?
A: The De'Longhi Eletta Explore can prepare over 40 beverages, including espressos, cappuccinos, lattes, flat whites, cold brew, and iced coffee options. It caters to both hot and cold beverage preferences.

Q: How does the cold brew feature work?
A: The cold brew function uses a low-pressure extraction method at room temperature to create a smooth and flavorful cold brew in just five minutes, significantly faster than traditional methods.

Q: Is the machine easy to clean?
A: Yes, the Eletta Explore features automatic cleaning cycles for the coffee and milk systems. The milk carafes are dishwasher-safe, and the removable drip tray and brew group make manual cleaning simple.

Q: Can I customize the strength and temperature of my coffee?
A: Absolutely. The machine allows you to adjust coffee strength, temperature, and milk froth density to suit your preferences. You can also save these settings in user profiles for convenience.

Q: How loud is the machine during operation?
A: The Eletta Explore is relatively quiet compared to other espresso machines, making it suitable for early mornings or late nights without disturbing others.

Q: Does it work with pre-ground coffee or only whole beans?
A: The Eletta Explore supports both whole beans and pre-ground coffee, giving you flexibility in how you prepare your beverages.

Q: Is the machine energy-efficient?
A: Yes, it features an automatic power-down function after a period of inactivity, helping to save energy.

Q: Can the machine prepare milk alternatives like almond or oat milk?
A: Yes, the LatteCrema System works well with various milk alternatives, producing creamy froth suitable for lattes and cappuccinos.

Q: What’s included with the machine?
A: The package includes two milk carafes (for hot and cold milk), an ice cube tray, a travel mug, and cleaning accessories.

Q: Who is this machine best suited for?
A: The Eletta Explore is ideal for coffee enthusiasts who enjoy a variety of beverages and households with diverse coffee preferences. It’s also great for those who want high-quality cold brew and iced drinks quickly.