I have yet to be able to pull a consistently good espresso with good crema. What can I do differently? This is a new machine.
340132
You want to make sure that you have a fine grind and 30 pounds of pressure when you tamp. I have to say I returned this machine and got a Breville Barista Express and the difference in the taste of the espresso is HUGE.
340133
make sure the grind texture is appropriate, if the grind is too soft I have a more difficult time getting the flavor I want. Also when you pack it down don't pack the grind (coffee, espresso) to tight. I will stamp it 2 or 3 times at most. I most of the time get a thick layer of the crema. I had work in a café for 3 1/2 years and that is how I learned, obviously, to make cappuccino's.
340134
I've had pretty consistent results since I started grinding the beans myself. Before I had the grinder, I would have a nice crema to start with but not as much by the end of the bag. I also found a local roaster and that helped a lot. Seems like their beans have an oil sheen, not matte like Starbucks.Good luck.
340135
Have you watched the video that comes with the espresso machine? That shows you exactly how to make a good espresso. It took me a few tries to get it right too.
340136
I've had pretty consistent results since I started grinding the beans myself. Before I had the grinder, I would have a nice crema to start with but not as much by the end of the bag. I also found a local roaster and that helped a lot. Seems like their beans have an oil sheen, not matte like Starbucks. Good luck.
1081976
Your grind was probably too coarse. Try increasing it finer. Mine is set between espresso setting (maximum finest) and drip coffee grind. I too sometime wish it can be stronger, but Keurig+Ekobrew is more convenient than other method of brewing.
554859
contact mfg..or replace it with a Moka Pot..there made in Italy..1 too 12 pot size's..or a Vigano 1 cup espresso...I my self went with the Moka Pot..Not sure if amazon has them for sale...Noting I buy a lot from amazon....Amazon is my first choice for on-line shopping..But a friend said the Moka Pot is on e-bay..
776393
I tried a few things, and one of them seems to have fixed the problem, but I'm not exactly sure which. One thing was to let it keep heating up for another ten or so minutes even after the OK light came on. Another was to let off some steam while it was in the espresso drip mode. Another was to use the steamer first and then switch to espresso setting. As I say, I have no idea which one of them did the trick, but now the espresso pump works immediately after the OK light goes on. Good luck!
1821933
You should be using a thermometer to steam the milk. My bet is that you need to take the milk to a higher temperature to get the hot espresso you are seeking.
841072
I use medium setting but it is really the coffee that makes the difference. Perhaps try lighter coffee not espresso. I use mainly Black Cat from Intelligenzia or Illy Mokka that is for this method of making coffee.
236837
These machines don't work the same as an americano coffee machine. You just need to make sure there is always water inside, it doesn't really matter how much.It all depends on how strong you want your coffee. It's not about the amount of Water but the amount of coffee and how long you want your espresso. The machine is very good quality/price, then is all about how good a "Barista" are you... http://www.rd.com/slideshows/13-things-baristas-wont-tell-you/#slideshow=slide3
352276
Dunno if you're still monitoring this, but if four cups will do it for you in the mornings this may be your machine. Experiment with different roasts to get the flavor you like. I've found going to a darker roast gives me the strength I like even less than a full carafe. It'll brew those four cups faster than the Keurig does one with no noise.
1358996
Greetings Stephanie,First, we love the De Longhi. Returned the first two espresso machines that I purchased, but this one is a keeper. We use it every day.Perhaps mixing some white vinegar with water and run it through the machine will clean it out.
1088455
I would contact saeco for the best answer. But it does make the best coffee I have ever made.... Just like in Italy !
1446823
This machine is VERY temperamental on the grind. I found that Bustello (the black pack, gourmet) it one of the only grinds that works well. Additionally, I unscrewed and pulled out the little nossle under the basket designed to make the crema, it just makes foam, yuck. So, with the noise out, and with Bustello gourmet in, use a slight tamp. For me, I prefer to pull a ristretto using this combo for the best tasting shot. If you pull it too long, it goes bitter.
233478
Probably need espresso grind - best if fresh roasted -also, with practice best with bottomless portafiltet
1530331
I have a delonghi machine and its hard to tell how well it works as I cant see the inside of the Machine- But I do it when the machine tells me to and its been making great coffee. Sorry this isnt much help
329838
Call the customer service first. They will walk you through every step necessary. If all their steps still don't work, they have an excellent repair and replacement policy. This machine makes great espresso.
1118374
Looks like others found your answer. I have found buying espresso grind and paking the duck gives a pretty good cream layer...the more compressed the coffee, the more crema.
1628309
hello from Java Exotic Imports! This low cost espresso machine does a pretty good job. Check you water bin and make sure it is FULLY seated. There is a valve below the bin and the bin must go into that valve. We have noticed on occasions where the bin does not make full contact. Try dropping the water bin hard into the valve to be sure it is seated properly. If you can hear the pump running, it sounds like a seating or priming issue. Try priming again to be sure there is no air in the lines. Hope this helps!
10944
You want expresso grind to be powder like and feel smooth between your fingers. If your beans are freshly roasted you can try one step less fine because the beans have a little more moisture in them. Really fresh ground beans should brew with some "crema" brown foam on top. That amount of crema is a clue to freshness. Different beans with different roast times also can change the "best" grind setting. Experiment, LOL