Bunn Coffee Makers in Coffee Shop(56)

What are some features to look for in a home coffee maker?

Choose a coffee maker that makes brewing coffee easy, and is customized to your individual tastes. Features that you may want to look for include programmable features that let you select the strength of your cup of coffee, a timer that starts the coffee maker at a set time, and a hot plate to keep coffee warm as you go back for a second cup. Consider the size of the carafe and brew basket based on your preferences and needs. Some makers use filters, so you would have to buy replacements regularly, while some come with a plastic or stainless-steel mesh reusable filter. Make sure the carafe holds enough coffee for the daily amount you like to make.

Can you make espresso in a coffee maker?

You can use ground espresso in a coffee maker, but it will just make bold coffee. To make true espresso, you must use an espresso machine. Coffee makers pull hot water through ground coffee beans. Espresso machines use heat and pressure to extract espresso from ground espresso beans, which is an entirely different process.

What's the difference between using ground coffee and whole bean coffee when making coffee at home?

Some people prefer the taste of freshly ground coffee beans over pre-ground beans. The result is typically more flavorful when you use fresh beans ground just before brewing. If you want to use freshly ground coffee, you’ll need a coffee bean grinder at home. Some coffee makers also come with built-in grinders. If you’re using an automatic drip coffee maker, make sure you don’t under- or over-grind the beans. Look for a medium coarse grind.