Espresso Machines

Whereas espresso is composed of water and coffee, cappuccino on the other hand is a blend of approximately one third frothed or steamed milk, and espresso. Cappuccino is prepared using an espresso maker to brew the shot of espresso and then to steam or froth the milk. This coffee beverage, like espresso has its origins in Italy.

Two of the most important essentials when preparing cappuccino is have the proper temperature; this in turn will help create just the right consistency of the froth. All of which is achieved by infusing tiny microscopic bubbles of air into the milk through the use of steam.

Most all espresso machines have the capability to produce cappuccino as well. Both cappuccino and espresso require a minimum pump pressure of 9 bars of pressure. Consistent pressure is essential to producing quality cappuccino and espresso. The machines pressure is produced by its pump. Cappuccino / espresso machines have one or two boilers with a heating element or a thermo-block heating element, which the water passes through while being delivered to the pump. In addition some cappuccino maker/machines have a dedicated milk frothing device or attachment. If the machine has one of its boilers dedicated to the frothing of milk it is also accompanied by a frothing wand, which allows for brewing an espresso or a cappuccino all with the same machine.

As a rule machines that house a boiler, are more expensive and will require a longer heat up time. In addition they usually require a little more maintenance than a thermo-block machine.

Cappuccino machines boilers are usually made of marine brass or stainless steel. With independent thermostats and boilers for brewing the espresso and steaming or frothing the milk the brew time required is only a few minuets.

With their self priming pump one can usually prepare a single shot or a double shot of espresso within a matter of minuets. The espresso makers’ reservoir which is usually removable for ease of filling generally has a capacity from 30 t0 90 ounces.

Choosing one of numerous quality espresso/cappuccino machines is not a difficult as it may seem as there are a vaiety of excellent machines from which to choose.