Table of Contents
Introduction to Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine
In the realm of coffee aficionados, the quest for the perfect cup of espresso is akin to an art form. It’s not just about a caffeine fix; it’s about capturing the essence of flavor, aroma, and texture in every sip. Enter the Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, a compact yet powerful device that promises to elevate your espresso experience to new heights. In this comprehensive review, we delve into the features, performance, and overall impression of this innovative espresso machine. Price-$499.95
Model-BES500BSS
Design and Build Quality
The first thing that strikes you about the Breville Bambino Plus is its sleek and minimalist design. With its brushed stainless steel finish and compact footprint, it exudes elegance and modernity. Despite its compact size, the machine feels solid and well-engineered, reflecting Breville’s commitment to craftsmanship.
Features of Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine
One of the standout features of the Bambino Plus is its automatic milk-frothing system. Unlike traditional espresso machines that require manual intervention for steaming milk, the Bambino Plus simplifies the process with its innovative steam wand. With the press of a button, the machine automatically froths milk to the perfect texture, ensuring consistently silky microfoam for your lattes and cappuccinos.
Another notable feature is the pre-infusion function, which gradually increases water pressure to gently expand the coffee grounds before extraction. This results in a more even extraction and a smoother, more balanced flavor profile in your espresso shots. Combined with the 54mm portafilter and low-pressure pre-infusion, the Bambino Plus allows you to achieve professional-quality espresso with minimal effort.
Performance of Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine
When it comes to performance, the Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine delivers in spades. Thanks to its powerful 1600-watt ThermoJet heating system, the machine reaches optimal brewing temperature in just 3 seconds, ensuring minimal wait time between shots. The PID temperature control maintains precise water temperature throughout the brewing process, guaranteeing consistently delicious espresso every time.
The espresso extraction is where the Bambino Plus truly shines. With its 19-gram dose capacity and 9-bar extraction pressure, it produces rich, full-bodied espresso with a thick golden crema that’s the hallmark of a perfect shot. Whether you prefer a single or double shot, the machine delivers consistent results with excellent flavor and aroma.
Ease of Use to Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine
Despite its advanced features, the Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine is remarkably user-friendly. The intuitive control panel and dedicated buttons make it easy to customize your espresso preferences with just a few simple steps. The automatic steam wand takes the guesswork out of frothing milk, allowing even beginners to create cafe-quality beverages with ease.
Cleaning and maintenance are also a breeze with the Bambino Plus. The removable drip tray and water tank make it easy to access and clean the machine’s components, while the automatic purge function ensures hassle-free cleaning of the steam wand after each use. With proper care and maintenance, the Bambino Plus will provide years of reliable performance.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Compact and sleek design
- Automatic milk frothing system
- Pre-infusion function for enhanced flavor
- Fast heating and precise temperature control
- User-friendly interface and easy cleaning
Cons:
- Limited capacity for water and milk
- No built-in grinder
- Relatively high price point compared to other home espresso machines
FAQs – Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine
1. How do I clean the Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine?
- Cleaning the Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine is simple. Regularly clean the portafilter, filter basket, drip tray, steam wand, and water tank. Use the cleaning tools provided and follow the instructions in the user manual.
2. Can I use pre-ground coffee with the Breville Bambino Plus?
- Yes, you can use pre-ground coffee with the Bambino Plus. However, for the best results, freshly ground coffee beans are recommended to ensure optimal flavor and aroma.
3. How do I froth milk with the steam wand?
- To froth milk, fill a pitcher with cold milk and insert the steam wand into the milk. Turn the steam wand on by rotating the steam dial. Position the wand so it draws in air and creates a whirlpool motion. Heat the milk to your desired temperature and texture.
4. Can I adjust the temperature and volume of espresso shots?
- Yes, the Breville Bambino Plus allows you to adjust both the temperature and volume of espresso shots. You can customize these settings according to your preferences using the control panel.
5. What is the capacity of the water tank?
- The Breville Bambino Plus has a water tank with a capacity of 64 ounces (1.9 liters), allowing for multiple espresso shots without frequent refills.
6. Is the Breville Bambino Plus suitable for beginners?
- Yes, the Bambino Plus is designed to be user-friendly, making it suitable for beginners. It features automatic settings and intuitive controls, guiding users through the espresso-making process.
7. How long does it take to brew an espresso shot with the Bambino Plus?
- The brewing time for an espresso shot with the Bambino Plus varies depending on factors such as the grind size and dose of coffee but typically ranges from 25 to 30 seconds.
8. Can I use the Breville Bambino Plus to make other coffee beverages?
- While the Bambino Plus is primarily an espresso machine, you can use it to make a variety of coffee beverages such as lattes, cappuccinos, and Americanos by frothing milk and adjusting the espresso shot volume accordingly.
9. Does the Bambino Plus come with a warranty?
- Yes, the Breville Bambino Plus comes with a limited one-year warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Be sure to register your machine with Breville to activate the warranty.
10. How often should I describe the Breville Bambino Plus?
- It is recommended to descale the Bambino Plus every 2-3 months, depending on the hardness of your water and frequency of use.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine is a game-changer for home baristas looking to elevate their espresso game. With its innovative features, superior performance, and user-friendly design, it sets a new standard for compact espresso machines. Whether you’re a seasoned coffee enthusiast or a novice looking to hone your barista skills, the Bambino Plus delivers exceptional results with every shot. Invest in the Breville Bambino Plus, and unleash your inner barista today.