Unpacking the Breville Barista Express

The first thing that struck me when I received the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL was the build quality. The brushed stainless steel design exudes a sense of durability and elegance, ensuring that it will fit seamlessly into any kitchen décor. The machine feels solid and robust, giving me confidence that it’s built to last.

Inside the box, I found everything I needed to get started:

• a portafilter,
• a tamper,
• a stainless steel milk jug,
• single and double wall filters,
• a cleaning kit, and
• a water filter.

The inclusion of these accessories was a pleasant surprise, as I didn’t have to purchase anything additional to begin my espresso journey.

Learning the Ropes: Easy-to-Follow Instructions

While the Breville Barista Express offers a lot of advanced features, I was pleased to find that the instruction manual was clear and easy to follow. It provided step-by-step guidance on setting up the machine, dialling in the grind size, and pulling the perfect shot of espresso. As a beginner, I appreciated the straightforward explanations and helpful diagrams.

One feature that stood out to me was the pressure gauge on the front of the machine. It visually indicates whether the pressure during extraction is too low, too high, or just right. This visual aid was invaluable as I learned how to dial in the perfect espresso shot.

Grinding Fresh Beans for Superior Flavour

One of the standout features of the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine, in brushed stainless steel (BES870XL) is its integrated conical burr grinder. This feature allows you to grind fresh coffee beans directly into the portafilter, ensuring that you’re using the freshest coffee possible. I found that this had a significant impact on the flavour of my espresso shots—there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly ground coffee in the morning.

The grinder also offers a wide range of grind settings, allowing you to adjust the coarseness to suit your preferences. As I experimented with different grind sizes, I was able to fine-tune the flavour and crema of my espresso shots. It was a fun and rewarding experience to see how small adjustments could affect the final result.

Steaming Milk Like a Pro

In addition to pulling espresso shots, the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine, in brushed stainless steel (BES870XL) comes equipped with a steam wand for frothing milk. This feature is perfect for those who enjoy lattes, cappuccinos, or flat whites. I had never used a steam wand before, but the learning curve was surprisingly gentle.

The steam wand is powerful and adjustable, allowing you to create silky micro foam for latte art. I had a blast practicing my latte art skills and was amazed at how quickly I improved with a bit of practice. The steam wand also has a swivel function, making it easy to position and use.

Customization and Control

One of the reasons I fell in love with the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine, in brushed stainless steel (BES870XL) is the level of customization and control it offers. You can adjust the grind size, grind amount, shot volume, and temperature to create your ideal cup of coffee. This flexibility means that as you become more experienced, you can continue to refine your espresso-making skills.

I also appreciated the programmable settings, which allowed me to save my preferred shot volume and temperature. This feature was a time-saver, as I could quickly pull my favorite espresso shot without having to adjust the settings each time.

Maintenance and Cleaning Made Simple

Maintaining an espresso machine can be daunting, but the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine, in brushed stainless steel (BES870XL) makes it relatively easy. The machine has a “Clean Me” light that alerts you when it’s time to run a cleaning cycle, and the included cleaning kit has all the tools you need to keep the machine in top condition.

I found the cleaning process straightforward, thanks to the detailed instructions in the manual. The removable drip tray and water tank also make it easy to clean and refill as needed. Overall, I was impressed with the thoughtfulness that went into designing a machine that’s both functional and easy to maintain.   

Final Thoughts: A Must-Have for Coffee Lovers

In conclusion, the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine, in brushed stainless steel (BES870XL) is a fantastic addition to any home kitchen. It offers a premium espresso experience without the premium price tag of high-end commercial machines. The combination of a built-in grinder, customizable settings, and a powerful steam wand makes it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced baristas.

Since I started using the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine, in brushed stainless steel (BES870XL), my mornings have become a delightful ritual of grinding fresh beans, pulling espresso shots, and creating frothy lattes. If you’re looking for a way to elevate your coffee game at home, I highly recommend giving this machine a try. You won’t be disappointed!