DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew Review

As a coffee enthusiast who needs a morning espresso as much as I need air, I’m always on the hunt for coffee machines that can elevate my daily coffee experience. So, when I got my hands on the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew, I couldn’t wait to put it to the test. It’s not every day you come across a machine that promises espresso, cold brew, and so much more in one sleek, high-end package.

I’ve tried many coffee machines in the past, and most have always fallen short in some aspect. Whether it was the lack of customization, poor milk frothing, or inconsistency in coffee quality, I was never fully satisfied. That’s why I was particularly excited to see what the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew had to offer. With its reputation for versatility and efficiency, I was eager to see how it would stack up in my daily coffee routine.

Let’s dive into my experience with this impressive machine and find out whether it truly lives up to its hype.

First Impressions of the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew

When the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew arrived, the first thing that struck me was its sophisticated and modern design. It looked like it belonged in a professional coffee bar, yet it fit perfectly in my kitchen. The stainless-steel exterior, combined with the clean touchscreen interface, instantly gave me confidence that this machine was built for serious coffee lovers.

Unboxing it, I noticed it came with several accessories, including a milk carafe, a coffee pot for larger brews, and even a separate container for cold brew functions. It was clear that DeLonghi wasn’t cutting corners when it came to versatility and convenience.

Setting Up the DeLonghi Eletta Explore

I’ll be honest: I was a little intimidated at first. The DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew has so many features that I thought it might take me ages to figure out how to use it. Thankfully, I couldn’t have been more wrong. The setup process was seamless, and the user manual was clear and easy to follow.

After filling the water tank and the bean hopper, I powered up the machine and immediately noticed how intuitive the interface was. The machine walks you through every step, from selecting your preferred coffee strength to setting up your milk frother. Within minutes, I was ready to brew my first espresso.

Making the Perfect Espresso with the DeLonghi Eletta Explore

As an espresso lover, I set my expectations high when testing this feature. The DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew did not disappoint. I selected the espresso option on the touchscreen, adjusted the strength to my preference, and watched the magic happen.

The machine uses a built-in grinder to deliver freshly ground coffee beans, ensuring maximum flavor. Within seconds, my cup was filled with a beautifully aromatic and rich espresso topped with a smooth layer of crema. The flavor was bold, well-balanced, and downright delicious. I could immediately taste the freshness and quality of the brew, something you just don’t get with pre-ground coffee.

The espresso feature quickly became a favorite for my busy mornings when I needed a quick, strong shot of caffeine.

Cold Brew Magic at the Touch of a Button

One of the standout features of the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew is, of course, its cold brew function. I’ve always loved cold brew coffee for its smooth and mellow flavor, but I never liked how long it takes to make using traditional methods. Some cold brews take 12-24 hours to steep!

With this machine, that’s no longer an issue. The cold brew function works in just under five minutes. I couldn’t believe it at first, so I had to see it for myself.

I poured cold water into the designated container, selected the cold brew setting, and watched as the machine worked its magic. The result was a perfectly smooth, low-acid cold brew that was refreshing and flavorful. It was the perfect afternoon pick-me-up, and the fact that it was ready in minutes blew my mind.

Exploring Milk-Based Coffee Drinks

The DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew doesn’t stop at espresso and cold brew. If you’re a fan of cappuccinos, lattes, or macchiatos, this machine will quickly become your new best friend.

The included milk carafe made it so easy to whip up a creamy and frothy cappuccino. I simply filled the carafe with milk, selected the cappuccino option, and let the machine take over. It frothed the milk perfectly and added it seamlessly to my espresso, creating a coffee shop-quality drink in seconds.

I was particularly impressed with the temperature and consistency of the milk froth. It wasn’t overly foamy or scalding hot – just the perfect creamy texture you expect from a barista-made cappuccino.

Cleaning and Maintenance

One thing that surprised me about the DeLonghi Eletta Explore is how straightforward the cleaning process is. The removable brew unit is easy to rinse, and the machine runs a rinse cycle automatically after each use. I especially liked the detachable milk carafe—it’s easy to clean and can be stored in the fridge between uses.

That said, like any espresso machine, it does require regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. The descaling process is automated and takes around 20 minutes, and the touchscreen provides clear instructions when it’s time for cleaning. It’s still a commitment, but far less hassle compared to some other espresso machines I've used in the past.

Is the DeLonghi Eletta Explore the Best Choice for You?

While the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew offers a lot of convenience, it may not be for everyone. If you prefer your cold brew with deep, intense flavors and have the patience to make it the traditional way, you might find the cold brew setting lacking in comparison. However, for someone like me, who loves the option to quickly prepare a variety of beverages—hot or cold—with minimal effort, it’s a great fit.

I could easily see this machine working well for busy households where different family members have different preferences, or for someone who likes entertaining and offering guests a wide variety of drink options. The Bean Adapt Technology is also a standout feature for those who like experimenting with different types of beans without needing to manually adjust multiple settings.

Comparing to the DeLonghi PrimaDonna Elite

When comparing the Eletta Explore to the DeLonghi PrimaDonna Elite, I noticed that both machines share several features, but the PrimaDonna Elite offers a more extensive range of specialty drinks and user profiles. However, the Eletta Explore is much more focused on providing a good balance between hot and cold beverages, which makes it unique in its category.

The PrimaDonna Elite also features a dual boiler system, which is something I missed with the Eletta Explore. With dual boilers, you can steam milk and brew espresso simultaneously, which saves time if you are making multiple drinks. That said, for me, the cold brew and cold froth options made up for this, as they added a whole new dimension to what I could do with the machine.

Customizing Your Coffee Experience

What sets the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew apart is its level of customization. Whether you like your coffee strong, weak, hot, or cold, this machine has you covered.

The touchscreen interface allows you to adjust the strength, temperature, and volume of every coffee drink you make. You can even save your preferences, so you don’t have to tinker with the settings every time. For someone like me who’s particular about my coffee, this feature was a game-changer.

Another standout feature was the ability to use pre-ground coffee as well. This is perfect for days when I want to experiment with different blends without emptying the bean hopper.

Advanced Features for Coffee Enthusiasts

Beyond the basics, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew has some impressive advanced features. For instance, the machine’s dual heating system allows you to prepare coffee and froth milk simultaneously, cutting down on preparation time.

The grinder is adjustable, so you can experiment with grind sizes to suit different coffee beans or preferences. I tried a finer grind for my espresso and a coarser one for the cold brew, and the results were consistently excellent.

The machine also has a hot water dispenser, which came in handy when I wanted to enjoy a cup of tea in the evening. This added versatility made it clear that DeLonghi designed this machine to cater to a variety of coffee and non-coffee needs.

Cleaning and Maintenance: A Breeze

If there’s one thing I dread about coffee machines, it’s the cleanup process. Thankfully, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew makes this task incredibly easy. The machine has an automatic cleaning cycle that runs after each use, ensuring the milk and coffee systems stay fresh.

The drip tray and water tank are easy to remove and clean, and the milk carafe can even be stored in the refrigerator between uses. It’s clear that DeLonghi designed this machine with convenience in mind.

Is the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew Worth It?

After spending weeks with the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew, I can confidently say it’s worth every penny for coffee lovers who value quality, convenience, and variety.

The espresso is rich and flavorful, the cold brew is unbelievably quick and smooth, and the milk frothing capabilities rival that of a professional barista. Plus, the intuitive touchscreen interface and customizable features make it accessible to both beginners and seasoned coffee enthusiasts.

It’s not the cheapest machine on the market, but if you’re serious about coffee, it’s an investment that pays off in the long run.

Final Thoughts

The DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew has completely transformed my coffee routine. From the perfect morning espresso to a refreshing afternoon cold brew, this machine does it all – and it does it well.

Its sleek design, user-friendly interface, and outstanding performance make it a standout in the world of home coffee machines. If you’re looking for a machine that can deliver exceptional coffee drinks with minimal effort, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew is absolutely worth considering.

For anyone who loves great coffee but doesn’t want to compromise on quality or versatility, this machine is a dream come true. Trust me – your mornings will never be the same.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long does the DeLonghi Eletta Explore take to make cold brew coffee?
A: The cold brew function on the DeLonghi Eletta Explore works remarkably fast, taking just under five minutes to prepare smooth and flavorful cold brew coffee. This is a significant time saver compared to traditional cold brew methods, which often take 12-24 hours.

Q: Is the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine difficult to set up and use?
A: Not at all! The machine has a user-friendly touchscreen interface that guides you through the setup process step by step. Even with its advanced features, it is intuitive and straightforward to use, making it suitable for beginners and coffee enthusiasts alike.

Q: Can I customize the strength and temperature of my coffee?
A: Yes, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore allows for extensive customization. You can adjust the strength, temperature, and volume of your coffee to suit your personal preferences. It even lets you save your favorite settings for future use.

Q: Does the machine froth milk well for cappuccinos and lattes?
A: Absolutely. The included milk carafe froths milk perfectly, creating a creamy and consistent texture ideal for cappuccinos, lattes, and other milk-based drinks. The froth is smooth and well-balanced, just like what you’d expect from a professional barista.

Q: Can I use pre-ground coffee with the DeLonghi Eletta Explore?
A: Yes, the machine has a dedicated setting that allows you to use pre-ground coffee. This is particularly useful if you want to try different coffee blends or decaffeinated options without emptying the bean hopper.

Q: How easy is it to clean and maintain the DeLonghi Eletta Explore?
A: Cleaning is very easy, thanks to the machine’s automatic cleaning cycles. The milk system is self-cleaning after each use, and the water tank, drip tray, and milk carafe are all removable for quick washing. The machine is designed to minimize maintenance efforts.

Q: Does the DeLonghi Eletta Explore make tea or other hot beverages?
A: Yes, the machine includes a hot water dispenser, which can be used for tea, instant soups, or other hot beverages. This adds to its versatility beyond just coffee preparation.

Q: Is the grinder adjustable?
A: Yes, the built-in grinder is adjustable, allowing you to change the grind size to suit different types of coffee beans and brewing preferences, such as finer grinds for espresso or coarser grinds for cold brew.

Q: How much counter space does the DeLonghi Eletta Explore require?
A: While the machine is feature-packed, it has a relatively compact and sleek design that fits well on most kitchen countertops. Its vertical layout maximizes functionality without taking up unnecessary space.

Q: Is the DeLonghi Eletta Explore worth the price?
A: While it is a premium investment, the machine’s versatility, build quality, and ability to prepare espresso, cold brew, and milk-based drinks justify its price for serious coffee lovers who value convenience and quality.