8 Best Cappuccino Machines: Bring A Dash Of Italy To Your Home

Needless to say that cappuccino is another espresso-based drink invented by Italians. It is a perfect blend of espresso, steamed milk, and milk froth. However, for you to make it at home, you need to find the best espresso and cappuccino maker.

To ensure that you don’t have to sift through thousands of google search results, we gathered all the need-to-know information about the 8 top-rated models on the market. We covered everything from size and design to more advanced features and functions of each model. So, let us get started!

The Rundown

What Is A Cappuccino Maker?

It is essentially an espresso machine. The only thing it needs to have to classify as “for cappuccino” is an additional steaming/frothing wand for the milk.

How Is It Different From A Basic Espresso Machine?

Although most espresso machines nowadays do come with a milk frother, a basic model does not need to have one. This is the only difference between the two.

What Is The Best Espresso Cappuccino Maker To Use?

Yes, once you decide to buy a machine to make cappuccinos, you will come across:

• semi-automatic espresso machines
• super-automatic espresso machine

You can also find manual espresso machines that provide great performance. However, since they do not come with a milk steamer/frother (meaning you will need to purchase a separate one) they did not make the cut.

Semi-Automatic Models
These are the most popular machines for those who know their way around brewing espresso shots and the steaming/frothing method. You are in control of all the brewing parameters, and by extension, the results. For that reason, these machines are not the best choice for beginners. However, someone can master their brewing skills.

It comes with a steaming wand and you get to control its movement, position, and most importantly, adjust how much steam is released during the steaming process. This means that you can choose how smooth or thick you like the milk foam to be.

Super Automatic Machines
Finally, super-automatic machines are the best choice for beginners that want to try out different specialized recipes but do not know how to adjust the parameters accordingly. They come with pre-programmed settings for every option. To brew the desired beverage, you simply need to activate the designated program with a touch of a finger/push of a button.

They come with an automatic milk system that steams and froths milk, and dispenses it straight into your cup. You do not have control over its performance, it depends on the preprogrammed recipe for the desired beverage.

Brands & Manufacturers

Although there are versatile brands and manufacturers you will come across, the top-rated ones are:

• Breville
• DeLonghi
• Mr. Coffee
• Gaggia

They are closely followed by Philips, Saeco, Jura, EspressoWorks, etc.

Is It Worth To Buy An Espresso And Cappuccino Maker?

This is really up to you, but there are many benefits to having such a machine at home:

• you can have a delicious cup of cappuccino anytime you want
• there is no need to go out looking for a good coffee shop
• you get to experiment with different types of coffee until you find your perfect flavor
• how much steam is released into the milk during the steaming process is totally up to you
• you get to add the amount of froth you like to your cup
• you can spice up your cappuccino the way you like

Downsides of these machines are:

• you need to keep the steaming wand clean at all times as it might clog up or get infested with bacteria if you don’t
• you also might have some trouble mastering the steaming process (in that case a super-automatic brewer is the way to go)

Who Are These Brewers Made For?

Both beginners and professional baristas can prosper from them. Since they come in versatile types, you can be sure you will find a model that fits your needs and likings no matter your skill level.

How Do You Pick One?

Since there is such a versatility of machines available for you to buy, there are some things you should keep in mind when deciding which one you want to buy:

Machine’s Size

First things first, you want a machine that fits perfectly atop your kitchen countertop surfaces. So, if you lack the space, choose a somewhat smaller model, such as a 9.5 x 8 x 14.2-inch one. On the other hand, if you have plenty of space, you will be good with a larger model too, such as a 20.1 x 20 x 12.3-inch one.

Consider Your Skill Level

We covered the different types of machines you can find so you need to consider your skill level. If you are experienced, a machine that allows you to adjust its performance to your needs is the best option for you. However, if you are a newbie, you want something you can start at a push of a button.

Think About The Speed

You need a machine that can heat up quickly and provide you with an espresso shot in less than a minute. By choosing a model with a powerful heating system you will be able to do just that.

Extraction Pressure

A 7 to 9 bar pressure is considered to be good for basic home models. However, if you want the ability to make a barista-style brew, choose one that uses a 15 to 20 bar extraction pressure.

Frothing/Steaming Performance

Machines with a manual wand allow you to steam milk and create the thick froth you need to top the cappuccino. The ones with an automatic frother combine air and milk at a high speed and only create froth.

Pods Or Grounds

Most machines are made only for use with ground coffee. However, you can find models that work with K Cups. They are more convenient as you do not have to do much but can still get an amazing brew in only a few seconds.

Maintenance Level

You must take care of your espresso maker but also its steaming wand. This is because the milk often gets inside the wand and if you do not clean it properly it will fill up with bacteria and even clog up.

Accessories To Look For

Some machines come with a coffee bean grinder that allows you to brew the freshest espresso shot possible with every use. Since they all come equipped with a steamer, most models come equipped with a milk pitcher too. Other accessories you can look for are a tamper, a coffee scoop that measures the perfect amount of coffee grounds for a single shot, etc.

8 Best Cappuccino Machines

The first machine provides a semi-automatic performance and works great for professional brewers. The last one is a super-automatic machine and is the best fit for beginners that don’t know their way around brewing espresso.

Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine

This is an amazing brewer for experienced brewers. It provides a semi-automatic performance and features a simple control panel that allows you to easily make the desired adjustments. It also has a small pressure gauge that allows you to observe the pressure as it builds during the brewing process.

It also comes equipped with a conical burr coffee bean grinder. Thanks to this feature you can freshly grind beans right before you start the brewing process. It also offers a dose control grinding system to ensure that you get the perfect amount of grounds per espresso shot.

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DeLonghi 15 Bar Espresso Machine

Even though it offers the least features of all the listed moels, this brewer is the simplest to use. It uses a high 15 bar extraction pressure to ensure that you can capture all the delicious flavors from your coffee grounds.

The great thing about this model is that it provides you with the option of a twin brewing cycle. This means that you get to make two separate servings at once. Also, you can make a double espresso shot and enjoy a somewhat stronger cappuccino.

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Mr. Coffee Espresso Maker

As opposed to the previously reviewed models, this machine for cappuccino comes with an automatic frothing system that automatically dispenses froth straight into your cup. Its carafe is completely removable from the machine and you can store it inside a refrigerator if you have any milk leftover.

It is worth knowing that it also offers a convenient self-cleaning system. It is specially designed to ensure that the machine remains clean between every use and that your coffee always has the freshest taste possible. You can activate it with a simple push of a button.

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EspressoWorks Espresso Maker

With its user-friendly design, this brewer is very easy to use. Its control panel features a single control knob you can switch between the brewing and steaming process and light indicators that let you know when the machine is on and when it is ready for use.

This machine comes equipped with all the accessories you need to get started. Apart from the machine, this includes a high-quality portafilter with 2 different basket options (a single and a double shot one), a tamper that doubles as a coffee measuring scoop, a stainless steel milk pitcher, a 120 V plug-in coffee bean grinder, and 2 additional espresso cups.

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Gaggia Classic Pro Espresso Machine

This is another model that comes in a convenient, compact size. It features stainless steel construction, simple, rocker-switch, plastic controls, and light indicators. It also offers a steam control knob that is located on the side of the machine above the steamer.

You can use this model both for home and professional use. It comes equipped with a commercial-grade three-way solenoid valve, a 58mm chrome-plated brass portability and brew group, and a commercial-grade steamer that provides you with a wide range of motion.

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Philips Fully Automatic Espresso Machine

The best thing about this machine is that it comes with a top-mounted coffee bean grinder that allows you to try out different bean flavors. It also features an additional bypass doser that allows you to brew espresso using pre-ground de-caff coffee.

Its control panel comes with 6 different pre-programmed brewing settings on one side. The other side, however, allows you to make desired adjustments when it comes to its brewing temperature, strength, and size. It also features small light indicators that inform you when it is time to clean or descale the machine.

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Saeco PicoBaristo Espresso Machine

This is another brewer that provides pre-programmed brewing settings. Another convenient feature it provides is the aroma strength selector. It allows you to choose just how mild or strong you want your espresso brew to be.

Both its coffee bean grinder and the water reservoir are accessed from the top of the machine. Additionally, its reservoir is removable to ensure that you can easily clean it and refill it when needed. Once you do, place it safely back in its position and the machine will be ready for the next use.

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JURA S8 Automatic Coffee Machine

Since it is a super-automatic machine for cappuccino, this machine allows you to choose between 15 different brewing recipes with a simple touch of a button. Its touch screen control panel comes in full color and is somewhat larger to ensure that you can easily make desired adjustments.

Although its milk system is completely automatic, you can also use it as a hot water dispenser. This feature comes in very handy as it allows you to make a quick americano, tea, or even a cup of hot chocolate.

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How To Make A Cappuccino?

Even though all these machines are fairly easy to use, if you do not know your way around, you still might have some trouble making a perfect cup of cappuccino. So here are step-by-step instructions we hope will help:

1. Heat your cappuccino cups to ensure that the cappuccino does not cool down the minute you pour it in. You can do this either by placing your cup on a cup warming tray (if the machine has one) or you can heat it by adding hot water to it.
2. Lock the filter basket into the portafilter and add freshly ground coffee into it
3. Level the grounds and tamp them down using a slight pressure
4. Place the portafilter into its place and place your heated cup beneath it
5. Pull the espresso shot
6. Now, fill up a milk pitcher with cold milk
7. Place the steaming wand into the milk and start the steaming process
8. Once you are done, tap the pitcher down so the steamed milk gets its silky smooth texture
9. Add the steamed milk to your espresso shot and finally, top it with thick milk froth

For a visual demonstration, check out the video below:

Are You Supposed To Stir Cappuccino?

This is something that depends on your personal preferences. If you do stir it, all the layers will emulsify, and your cappuccino will have a blended texture and flavor. If you do not, you get to enjoy each layer and its flavor on its own.

What Cup Size Do I Need For Cappuccino?

The perfect cappuccino cup size offers around 5 to 5.5oz (150-160 ml) of capacity. It provides you with enough room to make a perfect cappuccino brew.

Can You Use The Same Machine To Make Both Cappuccino And Coffee?

No, espresso-based machines can not brew regular, drip coffee. This is simply because the process of making these coffees is fundamentally different. Drip coffee machines rely on gravity to let the water run through the coffee grounds whereas espresso brewers use a pumping system that pushes the water through the coffee grounds. The only way you can enjoy both brewing types is by choosing a dual-purpose model that can make both drip coffee and brew espresso (such as the one in the picture below).

Can You Use Pods?

Some machines are compatible for use with pods and K Cups. They are the best option for those who want to avoid the trouble of brewing espresso but still provide you with the option of choosing from a variety of flavors.

What If You Do Not Have A Machine?

Only an espresso machine will provide you with proper results. However, if you do not have one, there are some tips and tricks you can use to make a cappuccino:

• brew strong coffee using a Moka pot or any other stovetop brewer
• measure out a single espresso shot into a cup
• use a frother to froth milk until it becomes light and foamy
• add 1/3 of the frothed milk to the 1/3 espresso shot
• continue frothing the leftover milk until you get a thick froth
• add 1/3 of froth atop the milk

Is Cappuccino Stronger Than…

Cappuccino is only one of the espresso-based beverages you can brew. Below, you can find the information on how it is different from:

• drip coffee – Cappuccino, as an espresso-based beverage, is much stronger than drip coffee. It has much more caffeine in it and a more intense flavor.
• espresso – Now, cappuccino is made using an espresso shot, so, it does not have any more caffeine. However, this is true only if you make cappuccino using a single espresso shot. If you double the amount, you will get a much stronger and more caffeinated brew.
• macchiato – Cappuccino is made with an equal ratio of espresso, steamed milk, and milk froth. A Macchiato, on the other hand, is made by adding only a dash of steamed milk into the espresso shot.
• latte – Lattes are made with a somewhat higher milk volume than cappuccinos, for that reason cappuccino has a bit stronger flavor (again, if you brew it originally using only a single espresso shot).

In the video below, you can check out many different beverages (and find recipes) that use espresso as their base:

Italian Culture – How Do Italians Drink Cappuccino?

Italy is well known for its coffee culture and its specific ways of enjoying different brews. Italians drink cappuccinos before or during their breakfast and never after a meal or in the afternoon hours.

Do They Put Sugar In It?

Italians emphasize flavor above all else, so generally, there is no need to add sugar to a cappuccino. However, many Italians traditionally add a bit of sugar straight into the espresso shot.

Cappuccino: Health Benefits & Side Effects

It is proven that a cup of a cappuccino per day (up to 180 ml) provides many health benefits including:

• it keeps the bad cholesterol from oxidizing
• prevents versatile heart problems
• it lowers the chances of a stroke by up to 20%
• can keep your blood sugar under control (if you drink it without adding sugar to it)
• even helps the indigestion

As is the case with everything, if you drink too much cappuccino (4 cups a day or more), you can experience some side effects including:

• insomnia
• nervousness and restlessness
• upset stomach
• nausea and vomiting
• increased breathing and heart rate
• weight gaining