DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew Review

As a long-time coffee enthusiast, I've tried my fair share of espresso machines. But when I stumbled upon the De'Longhi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew, it immediately piqued my interest. The idea of a single machine that could handle both my morning hot latte and an afternoon cold brew sounded like a dream. After using it for several weeks, here’s my honest, first-hand experience with this versatile coffee maker.

What Stands Out: The Cold Brew Feature

The cold brew functionality was the main reason I decided to give the Eletta Explore a try. Traditional cold brew takes hours to prepare, but this machine promises a delicious cold brew in under three minutes. I was skeptical, but after trying it, I was genuinely impressed. The flavor was smooth and not overly bitter, just as a cold brew should be.

This feature is a lifesaver for busy days when I want a refreshing coffee fix without waiting for hours or buying it from a café. It’s also perfect for hosting friends who enjoy iced coffee, as the process is quick and convenient.  

Brewing an Espresso: The Heart of the Machine

While the cold brew feature shines, let’s not forget the roots of this machine—it’s an espresso maker at heart. The espresso shots it pulls are excellent. I experimented with different beans and grind sizes, and the Eletta Explore consistently delivered a balanced, flavorful shot every time.

What I particularly liked was how easy it was to tweak the strength, temperature, and even the crema level. Whether I wanted a bold shot to kickstart my day or a milder one for an afternoon pick-me-up, this machine had me covered.

Frothing Milk: Hot and Cold Perfection

Milk frothing can be a dealbreaker for many coffee enthusiasts, but the Eletta Explore does an outstanding job. The LatteCrema Hot System creates perfectly velvety foam for cappuccinos, macchiatos, or lattes. It’s creamy, consistent, and rivals what you’d get from a professional barista.

On the cold side, the LatteCrema Cool System was a game changer. I hadn’t realized how much I needed cold foam in my life until I used this feature. Whether I’m whipping up an iced cappuccino or adding a frothy touch to my cold brew, it’s quick and easy to use. The machine even includes a second milk carafe designed specifically for cold frothing, making the transition seamless.  

Everyday Use: How It Fits into My Routine

Using the Eletta Explore daily has been a joy. The touchscreen interface is intuitive, so navigating its menu of over 50 beverages feels effortless. I’ve saved my favorite recipes under my user profile, which means my go-to drinks are just a tap away.

In the mornings, I usually start with a cappuccino or flat white. By the time lunch rolls around, I’m ready for a refreshing iced latte. If I’m feeling adventurous, the machine lets me customize drinks to try something new. The process is streamlined, and cleanup doesn’t feel like a chore, thanks to the automated cleaning cycles.

Exploring Advanced Features

I love that the Eletta Explore integrates with the De’Longhi Coffee Link app. It lets me control the machine remotely, which has been surprisingly useful. Imagine brewing your morning coffee while you’re still in bed or tweaking your drink settings while sitting at your desk. It’s a small detail, but it makes a big difference in convenience.

Another standout feature is the dual boiler system, which allows the machine to brew coffee and froth milk simultaneously. This is especially handy when making multiple drinks for guests or when I’m in a hurry.  

Practical Considerations: Maintenance and Space

The Eletta Explore is relatively low-maintenance, which is a huge plus for someone like me who doesn’t want to spend hours cleaning. The milk carafes are easy to rinse, and the machine guides you through descaling when needed. The removable drip tray and brew group make deeper cleaning a breeze.

That said, the machine is a bit bulky. If you have a small kitchen, you might need to rearrange your countertop to accommodate it. However, I think the size is justified given its capabilities.

Perfect for Entertaining

If you’re someone who entertains often, the Eletta Explore will make you a hit with your guests. I’ve hosted brunches where everyone raved about their customized drinks. The machine’s ability to quickly switch between beverages—like making a hot latte for one person and an iced coffee for another—has been a lifesaver.

Is It Worth the Price?

Let’s address the elephant in the room: the price tag. The Eletta Explore is undoubtedly an investment, but when I think about the money I’ve saved by skipping trips to the coffee shop, it feels more like a smart decision. Plus, the variety and quality it offers are hard to match. You’re essentially bringing the café experience home, and for me, that’s been worth every penny.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind

While the Eletta Explore has been fantastic overall, it’s not perfect. For one, the machine can be a bit noisy during operation, especially when grinding beans. It’s not a dealbreaker, but something to be aware of if you prefer a quieter coffee experience.

Additionally, while the cold brew feature is excellent, it’s still not the same as a slow-steeped cold brew. The flavor is comparable, but purists might notice a slight difference.

Who Is This Machine Best For?

After weeks of use, I think the Eletta Explore is best suited for:

1. Coffee Enthusiasts: If you love experimenting with different drinks and flavors, this machine offers endless possibilities.
2. Families or Shared Spaces: With multiple user profiles, it’s ideal for households with varying coffee preferences.
3. Entertainers: Its ability to handle hot and cold beverages quickly makes it perfect for hosting.
4. Busy Professionals: The quick brewing options and app integration are great for people with packed schedules.

Conclusion on the DeLonghi Eletta Explore

After using the De’Longhi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew for weeks, I can confidently say it’s one of the most versatile coffee makers I’ve tried. Its ability to brew both hot and cold beverages, customize drinks to suit individual preferences, and deliver consistent quality has made it a staple in my kitchen.

While it’s a significant investment and does require some counter space, the convenience and café-quality results make it a worthwhile addition for coffee lovers. If you’re someone who values variety and wants to elevate your home coffee game, the Eletta Explore might just be the machine for you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can the De’Longhi Eletta Explore make both hot and cold coffee drinks?

A: Yes, the Eletta Explore is designed to brew over 50 hot and cold beverages. It features a Cold Extraction Technology for cold brew coffee and the LatteCrema Cool System for cold milk froth, making it perfect for iced lattes, cold brews, and more.

Q2: How long does it take to brew a cold brew coffee with the Eletta Explore?

A: The machine uses Cold Extraction Technology to brew cold coffee in under three minutes, compared to the hours it typically takes with traditional cold brewing methods.

Q3: Is the machine easy to use for beginners?

A: Absolutely. The Eletta Explore features a 3.5-inch color touchscreen with an intuitive menu. It also provides step-by-step setup and maintenance guidance, making it user-friendly even for beginners.

Q4: Does the Eletta Explore support different coffee preferences for multiple users?

A: Yes, the machine allows up to four user profiles. Each profile can save personalized settings for strength, temperature, and drink size, so everyone in your household can have their coffee just the way they like it.

Q5: Can I use pre-ground coffee with this machine, or does it require whole beans?

A: You can use both. The machine has a built-in grinder with 13 settings for whole beans, but it also features a bypass doser for pre-ground coffee, giving you flexibility in your coffee choice.

Q6: Is the Eletta Explore compatible with non-dairy milk alternatives?

A: Yes, it works well with non-dairy milk options such as almond, soy, oat, and coconut milk. The LatteCrema systems create frothy milk even with plant-based alternatives, although results may vary depending on the brand and type.

Q7: How often does the machine need cleaning?

A: The Eletta Explore features automatic cleaning cycles for the milk systems and prompts you when descaling is needed. The drip tray and brew group are removable for easy cleaning. Regular maintenance depends on usage but is relatively low effort due to the machine’s automated features.

Q8: Does it take up a lot of counter space?

A: The Eletta Explore is a bit larger than some other machines due to its dual functionality and accessories. If counter space is limited, you may need to rearrange to accommodate it, but its performance justifies the size.

Q9: Is the De’Longhi Coffee Link app necessary to use the machine?

A: No, the app is optional. While it enhances functionality by allowing remote operation and additional customization, the machine is fully operational without it via the touchscreen interface.

Q10: How does the cold brew compare to traditional slow-steeped cold brew?

A: The cold brew from the Eletta Explore is smooth and flavorful, thanks to its advanced cold extraction process. While traditionalists might notice slight differences compared to slow-steeped versions, the convenience and quality are excellent.