Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Breville Espresso Machine

Choosing Your Breville Espresso Machine

Breville makes several popular home espresso machine models ranging from semi-automatic to super automatic. When choosing your Breville espresso machine, consider your skill level and how involved you want to be in the espresso-making process.

Entry-Level Semi-Automatic Models

The Breville Bambino and Bambino Plus are affordable, compact semi-automatic machines perfect for beginners. These have automatic milk steaming so you can easily make lattes and cappuccinos.

High-Performance Semi-Automatic Models

Step up to the Breville Barista Express or Breville Infuser for semi-automatic machines with precise control over pressure, temperature, and shot volume to pull quality cafe-style shots. These allow you to finely tune each shot.

Super Automatic Models

The Breville Oracle and Oracle Touch take care of the entire espresso-making process with the touch of a button. They automatically grind, dose, tamp, brew, steam milk, and clean up after themselves.

How to Use a Breville Barista Express

The Barista Express is one of Breville's most popular home espresso machines. Here is a step-by-step guide to using it to prepare great-tasting espresso-based drinks.

Fill Water Tank

Make sure the water tank on the back of the machine is filled with cool, filtered water up to the MAX level. This supplies the water to heat up and brew with.

Turn On Machine

Press the Power button to turn on the machine and allow it to preheat for 5-10 minutes until the light indicates it's ready for use.

Adjust Grinder

With the portafilter locked into the grinding cradle, use the Grind Amount knob to set your desired grind size anywhere from fine to coarse. Experiment to find your preferred setting.

Dispense Grounds

Press and hold the Grind button for a few seconds until enough fresh grounds fill the portafilter for a single or double shot.

Distribute and Tamp

Use the included tools to distribute the grounds evenly and tamp down firmly to prepare for optimal extraction.

Lock and Extract

Lock the portafilter into the group head and press the 1-Cup or 2-Cup button to start extracting your shot. After extraction, knock out the puck.

Steam Milk

With the steam wand submerged in cold milk, turn the dial to steam and raise the pitcher to incorporate silky foam until the milk is hot and frothy.

Craft Drink

Pour steamed milk into your espresso and enjoy your freshly made cappuccino, latte, macchiato or other speciality drink!

Care & Cleaning Tips

Properly maintaining your Breville espresso machine will keep it operating at peak performance for years.

Backflush Regularly

Use the included cleaning tools to backflush the group head to prevent mineral buildup inside that can affect quality.

Clean Steam Wand

Wipe the steam wand after each use with a damp cloth to prevent dried milk from accumulating and blocking steam flow.

Descale when Needed

When the machine indicates descaling is needed, run Breville's descaling solution through to remove mineral deposits from the internal components.

Replace Water Filter

Swap out the water filter every 2 months or 60 uses to keep water fresh and purified for better tasting drinks.

Clean Exterior

Wipe down the external surfaces as needed with a soft, damp cloth to maintain the machine's pristine appearance.

FAQs

How do I dial in the right grind size?

Start with the grind setting around the middle and pull a shot. Adjust the grind coarser if the shot pours too quickly or finer if it's too slow. Tweak until you get your preferred 25-30 second extraction.

Why is my shot tasting bitter or sour?

Bitter or sour/acidic shots are typically caused by under or over extraction. Adjust your grind size, dose amount, and tamp pressure to optimize flavor balance for a nice sweet spot.

What milk should I use to steam?

Whole milk is ideal for nicely textured foam and microfoam. Non-fat and low-fat milk won't foam up as well. Always use cold milk from the fridge, not warm.

How do I maintain my machine?

Backflush regularly with cleaner tablets, wipe the steam wand after each use, descale when needed, replace the water filter, and wipe down exterior surfaces.