ESPRESSO MAKING TIPS

WARMING YOUR CUP OR GLASS

A warm cup will help maintain the espresso optimal temperature.

Preheat your cup by holding down the one cup button and running hot water into the cups from the group head without the portafilter inserted and place the cups on the warming tray.

WARMING THE PORTAFILTER

A cold portafilter can drop the extraction temperature enough to significantly affect the quality of your espresso. Always ensure the portafilter is preheated by running hot water through it before preparing the espresso.

NOTE: Always wipe the filter and portafilter dry before preparing the espresso as moisture can encourage ‘drilling’

-this is when water bypasses the ground espresso coffee during extraction.

USING PRE-GROUND ESPRESSO

If using a pre-ground espresso, ensure an espresso grind suitable for espresso/ cappuccino machines is purchased.

THE RIGHT MEASUREMENT

It is important to use the correct filter for the amount of espresso. A single espresso is made with 1⁄3 ounce or 8g of ground espresso. A level measure of the coffee scoop is the correct amount of coffee for a single espresso and 2 level measures for a double espresso.

TAMPING CORRECTLY

Level the desired amount of ground espresso by gently tapping the side of the filter holder before pressing down firmly with the tamper. When packing for a double espresso it is important only to tamp after the second measure. Tamping between measures will create a layer in the ground espresso that can impede full extraction.

NOTE: Make sure to wipe off any excess ground espresso from the rim of the filter to ensure a proper seal is achieved under the group head.

PURGE THE GROUP HEAD

Before inserting the portafilter, run some water through the group head. It will ensure that your machine has a last minute ‘clean through’ and stabilizes the temperature prior to extracting.

BREWING YOUR ESPRESSO

The most common mistake in brewing is to over extract from your ground espresso. This results in a bitter beverage with visibly bleached crema. Crema is the caramel colored layer that floats on top of the espresso following extraction.

NOTE: The taste of your espresso will, of course, depend on personal preference and on many other factors such as the type of coffee bean used, the coarseness or fineness of the grind and the tamping pressure. We recommend experimenting by varying these factors to achieve the espresso taste of your preference.

NOTE: Always properly clean your machine after each use.

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Breville BES860XL manual Warming Your CUP or Glass, Warming the Portafilter, Using PRE-GROUND Espresso, Right Measurement
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BES860XL specifications

The Breville BES860XL is a standout machine in the world of home espresso makers, designed for those who are serious about brewing high-quality coffee. With its sleek stainless steel exterior and compact design, it not only looks good on the countertop but also offers an assortment of features that appeal to coffee enthusiasts.

At the heart of the BES860XL is its conical burr grinder, which is integral to producing the freshest coffee possible. The built-in grinder allows users to grind coffee beans just before brewing, ensuring maximum flavor and aroma in every cup. The grind size can be adjusted easily, enabling the creation of various espresso styles, from fine for a robust shot to coarser grind settings for a lighter brew. This level of customization is crucial for achieving the perfect espresso extraction.

The machine showcases an innovative 15-bar pump system, essential for brewing espresso with rich, full-bodied flavor. The pressure pump ensures that water is distributed evenly through the coffee ground, allowing for optimal extraction of oils and flavors. This is complemented by the thermocoil heating system that provides precise temperature control, essential for brewing the perfect cup. The water temperature can significantly impact the quality of espresso, and Breville’s technology allows for consistent results.

Another prominent feature is the adjustable steam wand, which enables users to create perfectly frothed milk for lattes and cappuccinos. The steam wand is designed to provide maximum control over milk texture and temperature, making it easier for users to hone their barista skills. The machine also comes equipped with a hot water spout, which is convenient for making Americanos or other hot beverages.

Ease of use and maintenance is a critical aspect of the BES860XL. The removable drip tray and large water reservoir simplify cleaning, while the cleaning cycle assists in maintaining the quality of the machine. Its intuitive interface features a simple control panel that makes operation straightforward, even for beginners.

In summary, the Breville BES860XL is a versatile and feature-rich espresso machine suited for home baristas. With its conical burr grinder, powerful pump system, high-quality heating technology, and adjustable steam wand, it delivers a blend of professional-grade coffee experiences with the convenience of home brewing. This machine is an excellent choice for anyone looking to elevate their coffee game.
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