The search for the perfect freshly brewed cup of Joe is prompting many coffee lovers to check out automatic grind and brew coffee makers.
These trendy small appliances are increasingly being found in cucinas and kitchens around the globe. While based on commercial grind and brew machines, they have a smaller footprint and some top-of-the-line models routinely win coveted design awards.
But, on the most basic level, these bean to cup machines (as the British refer to them) are a combination of coffee maker and integrated grinder. Of course, there are other high-end models that feature milk frothers, touchscreen displays, atomic clocks and automatic cleaning systems.
But the big selling point is variety -- a wide variety of coffee based beverages on demand, at the touch of a button. Like the standard automatic coffeemaker, a grind and brewer can deliver the basic steaming hot cup of black coffee. But that's just the beginning for these appliances. Depending on the model, they can create espressos, lattes, cappuccinos or cremas. Not to mention hot chocolate, and even tea.
Of course, all the bells and whistles add to the price tag. For higher end models, you can expect to pay four figures. Entry level models, however, generally start around $100 with deep discounts frequently available online. Take time to educate yourself about grind and brew machines before making a purchase. Many people have found mid-level machines to meet all their specific coffee brewing needs while being easier on the pocketbook.
To get an idea of what's possible with these machines, check out companies such as Jura, Capresso, Bodum, Gaggia, Bosch, Siemens and Saeco. Their products range from manual to semi-automatic to fully automatic.
While grind and brew coffee makers may not be for everyone, they are enabling a growing number of coffee fans to experience a wider variety of freshly brewed beverages at home, on demand.
