To use a Breville espresso machine like the Barista Express, follow these main steps:
- Setup and Warm-up:
- Fill the water tank with fresh, preferably filtered water.
- Ensure the coffee bean hopper is locked in place.
- Turn on the machine and let it warm up completely, including the portafilter and basket attached to the group head.
- Grinding and Dosing Coffee:
- Use fresh coffee beans, pouring them into the built-in grinder.
- Adjust the grind size on the grinder dial (start around medium grind setting like 4-5).
- Grind the right amount of coffee (around 18-19 grams for a double shot).
- Tamp the ground coffee evenly with moderate pressure.
- Pulling the Espresso Shot:
- Lock the portafilter into the group head firmly.
- Select either a single or double shot button, or use manual mode by holding the 2-cup button for the desired extraction time.
- The ideal extraction time is about 30-35 seconds.
- Steaming Milk (if making milk-based drinks):
- Fill a milk jug with cold milk up to the max line.
- Use the steam wand to froth the milk by positioning the wand near the surface to introduce air and create microfoam.
- Heat the milk until around finger-warm temperature (~60-65°C), then turn off and purge the steam wand.
- Serving and Cleaning:
- Pour espresso or steamed milk as desired.
- Clean the steam wand immediately after use.
- Regularly flush the machine with water and descale as needed.
This guide covers the basics to start making espresso and milk drinks at home with the Breville Barista Express. Further refinement of grind size, dose, tamp pressure, and milk frothing technique will improve results over time. Video tutorials offer good visual aid for beginners learning the process.
