Does Breville Barista Express Make Coffee? Answered

ByMeghan Splawn

Introduction

If you have been shopping for an espresso machine, you have likely come across the Breville Barista Express. One of the most common questions potential buyers ask is: Does Breville Barista Express Make Coffee? The short answer is yes, but the full answer requires a closer look at what this machine actually does, how it works, and what kinds of coffee drinks it can produce.

Many people confuse espresso machines with drip coffee makers because both appliances produce a hot, caffeinated beverage. However, they use entirely different brewing methods. A drip machine passes hot water through coarsely ground coffee and a paper filter, while an espresso machine forces hot water through finely ground, tightly packed coffee under pressure. The Breville Barista Express belongs to the latter category, which means it specializes in espresso and espresso-based drinks rather than a large pot of drip coffee.

This guide explains exactly what the Breville Barista Express can make, how to use it, and what to expect if you decide to bring one home. Whether you are a beginner wondering if it can replace your daily coffee maker or an experienced home barista looking for a reliable machine, you will find practical, step-by-step answers below.

Table of Contents

What Is the Breville Barista Express?

The Breville Barista Express, commonly identified by its model number BES870, is a semi-automatic espresso machine designed for home kitchens. Its defining characteristic is the integration of a conical burr grinder directly into the machine’s frame. This means you can pour whole roasted coffee beans into the hopper on top, grind them, and brew espresso without owning a separate grinder or countertop appliance.

Breville positioned this model as an accessible entry point for people who want to make cafe-quality coffee at home. It offers manual control over variables such as grind size, dose, and tamping pressure, while automating other elements such as water temperature and pump pressure. This hybrid approach makes it suitable for beginners who are still learning and for more experienced users who want to fine-tune their shots.

Physically, the machine has a stainless steel finish and a relatively compact footprint compared to commercial equipment. It includes a portafilter, filter baskets, a tamper, a cleaning kit, and a milk frothing pitcher in most retail bundles. The water tank is removable for easy refilling, and the drip tray collects excess water and coffee drips during brewing.

Because it is marketed as an espresso machine, some shoppers wonder if it is limited to strong, concentrated shots. In reality, espresso is simply a method of making coffee, and the drinks derived from it make up a large portion of the coffee menu in most cafes. Understanding this distinction is the key to answering whether the Barista Express makes coffee.

Does Breville Barista Express Make Coffee?

The direct answer to the question Does Breville Barista Express Make Coffee? is yes, with one important clarification. The machine is engineered to brew espresso, and espresso is coffee. It is not a different beverage category; it is a brewing style that uses pressure, heat, and finely ground beans to produce a concentrated shot topped with crema.

If your definition of coffee includes espresso, Americano, cappuccino, latte, flat white, and macchiato, then this machine absolutely makes coffee. Each of these drinks begins with an espresso shot pulled by the Barista Express. From there, you can add hot water, steamed milk, or milk foam to create a finished beverage that suits your taste.

If, however, you are looking for a machine that brews a six- or eight-cup pot of drip coffee with the push of a button, the Barista Express is not that appliance. It produces one or two shots at a time. You can approximate drip coffee by making an Americano, which combines espresso with hot water from the machine’s spout. The result is similar in volume and strength to drip coffee, though the flavor profile remains espresso-based and typically richer and more full-bodied.

In practical terms, owning a Breville Barista Express means you can make fresh coffee every morning, provided you are willing to learn the basics of grinding, tamping, and extracting espresso. It is not a fully automatic push-button drip machine, but it is a genuine coffee maker capable of producing cafe-style drinks at home.

How the Breville Barista Express Works

Understanding how the machine works helps clarify what it can and cannot make. The process begins with whole coffee beans placed in the hopper on top. The integrated conical burr grinder grinds the beans directly into the portafilter, which is the handled basket that holds the coffee grounds during brewing.

After grinding, you distribute the grounds evenly and tamp them down to create a level, compressed puck. You then lock the portafilter into the group head and start the extraction. The machine’s pump heats water to the optimal temperature and forces it through the coffee at approximately nine bars of pressure. The extracted espresso flows through the spouts into your cup below.

For milk-based drinks, the steam wand on the right side of the machine heats and froths milk in a separate pitcher. You can then pour the steamed milk into your espresso shot to create cappuccinos, lattes, or flat whites. The machine also includes a hot water outlet, which you can use to top off an espresso shot and make an Americano.

Integrated Grinder and Dosing

The built-in grinder offers multiple grind settings, allowing you to adjust the fineness of the coffee grounds based on the roast and your taste preference. The dose control lets you choose how much ground coffee goes into the portafilter. Consistency in grinding and dosing is essential for balanced espresso, so these features directly affect the quality of the coffee you make.

Because the grinder is built into the machine, there is no need to transfer grounds from a separate grinder to the portafilter. This reduces mess and helps preserve freshness, since the coffee is ground immediately before brewing. However, it also means the grinder and the espresso mechanism share the same countertop space, so regular cleaning of the grinder chute is important to prevent old grounds from affecting flavor.

Extraction and Pressure

The Breville Barista Express uses a 15-bar Italian pump, though the actual brewing pressure at the group head is typically around nine bars. Pre-infusion gently wets the coffee grounds before full pressure is applied, which helps reduce channeling and promotes even extraction. PID temperature control keeps the water temperature stable, which is critical for brewing coffee that tastes neither sour nor burnt.

Thermoblock heating technology allows the machine to heat water relatively quickly compared to traditional boiler systems. This means you do not have to wait as long between turning the machine on and pulling your first shot. The combination of stable temperature and adequate pressure is what allows the Barista Express to produce espresso with a rich body and a layer of golden crema.

Steam Wand and Milk Texturing

The steam wand is a manual tool that requires some practice but offers significant control. By introducing steam into cold milk, you can heat it and create microfoam, which is the velvety texture used in lattes and flat whites. For cappuccinos, you can introduce more air to create thicker foam. The wand’s position in the milk pitcher and the duration of steaming determine the final result.

Key Coffee-Making Features

Several features make the Breville Barista Express capable of producing real coffee rather than just hot water and grounds. The combination of these elements determines the flavor, texture, and consistency of your drinks.

  • Integrated conical burr grinder: Grinds whole beans directly into the portafilter for maximum freshness and convenience.
  • Adjustable grind size: Lets you fine-tune extraction for different beans, roast levels, and personal taste preferences.
  • PID temperature control: Maintains stable water temperature for consistent coffee flavor from shot to shot.
  • Pre-infusion function: Soaks the coffee grounds before full pressure is applied, helping to reduce channeling and promote even extraction.
  • 15-bar pump: Provides the pressure needed to brew authentic espresso with a rich crema.
  • Steam wand: Froths and heats milk for cappuccinos, lattes, flat whites, and other milk-based coffee drinks.
  • Hot water dispenser: Enables Americanos and tea by adding hot water to espresso or directly into a cup.
  • Dual-wall and single-wall filter baskets: Dual-wall baskets are more forgiving for beginners, while single-wall baskets offer more control for advanced users.
  • Removable water tank: Makes refilling and cleaning easy, and allows you to use filtered water for better taste.
  • Cup warming tray: Keeps cups warm on top of the machine, which helps maintain espresso temperature after brewing.

Together, these features give the user enough control to make coffee that rivals what you would find in a specialty cafe, while the automated elements reduce the margin of error for new users.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Coffee

Making coffee with the Breville Barista Express involves a short routine that becomes faster with practice. Below is a clear process for pulling a shot and turning it into a finished drink.

  1. Fill the bean hopper with fresh whole coffee beans. Adjust the grind size dial to a setting appropriate for espresso, usually somewhere in the middle of the range to start.
  2. Turn the machine on and allow it to heat up. The indicator lights will show when the machine is ready, which typically takes a few minutes.
  3. Place the portafilter under the grinder outlet and grind the coffee directly into the basket. Use the dose control dial to select the amount of grounds, aiming for about 18 to 20 grams for a double shot.
  4. Remove the portafilter and distribute the grounds evenly with your finger or a distribution tool. Use a tamper to press the coffee down firmly and level, applying even pressure.
  5. Wipe the rim of the portafilter to remove loose grounds, then lock it into the group head. Place a pre-warmed cup underneath the spouts.
  6. Start the extraction. Aim for a shot that runs for about 25 to 30 seconds and produces roughly one to two ounces of espresso with a golden-brown crema on top.
  7. If you want a milk-based drink, pour cold milk into a stainless steel pitcher. Use the steam wand to heat and texture the milk until it reaches approximately 150 degrees Fahrenheit and has a smooth, glossy texture.
  8. Pour the steamed milk into the espresso for a latte or cappuccino, holding back the foam with a spoon if desired. Alternatively, use the hot water spout to fill the rest of the cup and make an Americano.
  9. Remove the portafilter and knock out the used coffee puck into a knock box or trash bin. Rinse the portafilter and basket under warm water.
  10. Wipe the steam wand immediately with a damp cloth and purge a small amount of steam to clear any milk residue from the tip.
  11. Empty the drip tray if it is full, and wipe the machine’s exterior with a soft cloth.

Each step matters. Skipping the tamp or using stale beans will result in weak or uneven coffee. Taking a few seconds to distribute and tamp properly can make the difference between a sour shot and a balanced cup. Over time, you will develop a rhythm and be able to make coffee in just a few minutes.

Types of Coffee You Can Make

Because the Breville Barista Express brews espresso and steams milk, it can serve as the base for many popular coffee drinks. You are not limited to straight espresso unless that is all you prefer.

Espresso and Ristretto

A standard espresso shot is the foundation of the machine. You can also pull a ristretto, which is a shorter, more concentrated shot made with less water. Both are authentic coffee drinks enjoyed on their own, often served in small cups and consumed quickly.

Americano

An Americano is made by adding hot water to a shot of espresso. This creates a drink closer in volume and strength to drip coffee, making it a good option if you want a larger cup of coffee in the morning. The flavor is smoother than straight espresso but retains the characteristic richness of pressure-brewed coffee.

Cappuccino and Latte

Using the steam wand, you can create microfoam for cappuccinos and lattes. A cappuccino has equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam, resulting in a strong coffee flavor with a light, airy texture. A latte contains more steamed milk and a thinner layer of foam, producing a creamier, milder drink that is popular with flavored syrups.

Flat White and Macchiato

A flat white uses a double shot of espresso with velvety steamed milk, offering a stronger coffee presence than a latte with a smooth mouthfeel. A macchiato is an espresso shot marked with a small amount of milk foam, ideal for those who want mostly espresso with just a touch of milk.

Mocha and Flavored Coffee Drinks

Although the machine does not have a built-in chocolate dispenser, you can easily make a mocha by adding chocolate syrup or cocoa powder to an espresso shot before adding steamed milk. You can also add vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut syrup to lattes and cappuccinos for customized coffee beverages.

Breville Barista Express vs. Other Machines

To understand where the Breville Barista Express fits in the coffee market, it helps to compare it with other common types of coffee makers. The table below highlights key differences between the Barista Express, a newer Breville model, and a popular pod-based system.

Feature Breville Barista Express Breville Barista Pro Nespresso Vertuo
Machine type Semi-automatic espresso Semi-automatic espresso Pod-based espresso and coffee
Built-in grinder Yes, conical burr Yes, conical burr No
Brewing method Espresso extraction Espresso extraction Centrifusion pod brewing
Milk steaming Manual steam wand Manual steam wand Aeroccino sold separately
Drink variety Espresso, Americano, latte, cappuccino Espresso, Americano, latte, cappuccino Espresso, coffee, alto
Heat-up time Approximately 30 seconds to one minute Approximately three seconds Approximately 15 to 20 seconds
Learning curve Moderate Moderate Low
Best for Home baristas who want control and value Users who want faster heating and a digital display Convenience and speed with minimal cleanup

As the table shows, the Barista Express offers more control and versatility than a pod machine, but it requires more hands-on effort. Compared to the Barista Pro, it is slightly slower to heat up and has a less advanced interface, though it remains highly capable for making coffee. The pod system wins on convenience, but it cannot match the freshness of grinding whole beans immediately before brewing.

Tips and Best Practices

Getting great coffee from the Breville Barista Express is easier when you follow a few proven habits. These tips will help you avoid frustration and improve the taste of every cup.

  • Use fresh whole beans: Coffee tastes best within two to four weeks of its roast date. Pre-ground coffee loses aroma quickly and does not perform well in this machine.
  • Dial in your grind: If the shot runs too fast, grind finer. If it runs too slow or tastes bitter, grind coarser. Small adjustments make a big difference.
  • Weigh your dose: Using a scale to measure 18 to 20 grams of coffee for a double shot improves consistency more than relying on the dose dial alone.
  • Purge the steam wand: Before and after steaming milk, release a burst of steam to keep the wand clean and prevent milk residue from hardening inside.
  • Warm your cups: Rinse your cups with hot water before brewing. Cold cups can lower the temperature of your espresso and affect flavor.
  • Use filtered water: Filtered water reduces scale buildup and improves the taste of your coffee, especially if you live in an area with hard water.
  • Practice your milk technique: Start with cold milk and stop steaming when the pitcher feels hot to the touch but not scalding. This creates smooth microfoam rather than large bubbles.
  • Clean the grinder chute: Occasionally run a cleaning brush through the grinder chute to remove old grounds that could turn stale and affect future shots.
  • Experiment with ratios: Try different coffee-to-water ratios to find the strength you prefer. A common starting point is 18 grams of coffee to 36 grams of espresso.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

New users often run into a few predictable issues when making coffee with this machine. Knowing what to look for can save you time and wasted beans.

Weak or Watery Espresso

This usually means the grind is too coarse or the dose is too low. Fix it by grinding finer and increasing the amount of coffee in the portafilter. Make sure you are tamping firmly and evenly so the water does not find a path of least resistance through the puck.

Bitter or Burnt Taste

Over-extraction often causes bitterness. This can happen if the grind is too fine, the shot runs too long, or the water temperature is too high. Try a coarser grind and aim for a 25- to 30-second extraction. You can also reduce the dose slightly if the basket is overfilled.

No Crema on the Shot

Crema depends on fresh beans and proper pressure. Stale coffee will not produce much crema. Use beans roasted within the last few weeks and check that the portafilter is locked securely into the group head. Also ensure the machine has reached full temperature before brewing.

Milk Not Frothing Properly

If the milk is not texturing, the steam wand tip may be too deep or too shallow in the pitcher. Position the tip just below the surface of the milk to introduce air, then lower it slightly to create a whirlpool. Always purge the wand before steaming to clear condensed water.

Sour or Under-Extracted Shot

Sourness usually means the shot ran too quickly or the water was not hot enough. Grind finer, increase the dose slightly, and ensure the machine has fully heated before brewing. You can also try a higher dose to slow the flow rate.

Leaking Around the Portafilter

If water or espresso leaks around the edges of the portafilter during extraction, the basket may be overfilled or the rim may have grounds stuck to it. Wipe the rim clean before locking the portafilter in, and make sure you are not tamping too much coffee into the basket.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Regular maintenance keeps your Breville Barista Express making great coffee for years. Coffee oils and mineral buildup can affect flavor and machine performance if ignored.

After every use, knock out the coffee puck and rinse the portafilter and basket. Wipe the steam wand immediately after steaming milk. Empty the drip tray and water tank as needed, and descale the machine every few months depending on your water hardness. Breville provides cleaning tablets and a cleaning disc for backflushing the group head, which removes old coffee residue and keeps extraction consistent.

For a more structured routine, follow this general schedule:

  • Daily: Rinse the portafilter and basket, wipe the steam wand, empty the drip tray, and wipe the exterior.
  • Weekly: Clean the steam wand tip thoroughly, wash the milk pitcher, and brush the grinder chute if you notice buildup.
  • Monthly: Backflush the group head with a cleaning tablet and disc if you use the machine daily. Check the water filter and replace it if needed.
  • Every Two to Three Months: Descale the machine to remove mineral deposits, especially if you use unfiltered tap water.

Store the machine in a dry place and avoid leaving water in the tank for extended periods if you will not be using it for several days. A well-maintained machine not only makes better coffee but also lasts longer and requires fewer repairs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Breville Barista Express Make Coffee or Just Espresso?

It makes espresso, which is a type of coffee. From that espresso base, you can make Americanos, cappuccinos, lattes, flat whites, and other coffee drinks. It does not brew a traditional drip coffee pot, but it absolutely produces real coffee beverages.

Can I Use Pre-Ground Coffee?

Yes, the machine has a dosing funnel and accepts pre-ground coffee, but whole beans ground just before brewing will taste significantly better. If you use pre-ground coffee, make sure it is fine enough for espresso rather than drip coffee.

Does the Steam Wand Make Good Milk Foam?

The manual steam wand is capable of producing excellent microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos. It takes some practice to master the technique, but most users can create cafe-quality milk texture after a few attempts.

How Often Should I Descale the Machine?

Descaling frequency depends on your water hardness and how often you use the machine. In areas with hard water, descaling every two to three months is common. With filtered water and light use, you may only need to descale twice a year.

Is the Breville Barista Express Good for Beginners?

Yes, it is widely considered one of the best entry-level machines for people who want to learn espresso. The built-in grinder and dual-wall filter baskets make it forgiving, while the manual controls allow you to improve your skills over time.

Is It Difficult to Clean?

No, routine cleaning is straightforward. Daily tasks include rinsing the portafilter, wiping the steam wand, and emptying the drip tray. Periodic backflushing and descaling require a bit more time but are not difficult.

How Long Does the Machine Last?

With proper care and regular descaling, the Breville Barista Express can last many years. Longevity depends on usage frequency, water quality, and how consistently you perform maintenance.

Can It Make a Large Cup of Coffee?

It can make an Americano by adding hot water to an espresso shot, which results in a larger cup similar to drip coffee. However, it does not brew a full carafe or multiple large cups at once like a drip coffee maker.

Does It Come With a Warranty?

Breville typically offers a limited warranty on the Barista Express, often covering parts and labor for one year from the date of purchase. Warranty terms can vary by retailer and region, so it is worth checking the documentation included with your machine.

Conclusion

So, does Breville Barista Express Make Coffee? The answer is yes. It makes espresso, which is real coffee, and it can transform that espresso into Americanos, cappuccinos, lattes, and other popular drinks. It is not a drip coffee maker, but it is a complete coffee system for anyone who wants fresh, cafe-style beverages at home.

The integrated grinder, precise temperature control, and steam wand give you the tools needed to make high-quality coffee without buying separate equipment. There is a short learning curve, especially with grinding and tamping, but the machine is forgiving enough for beginners and capable enough for experienced home baristas.

If your goal is to stop buying coffee from a cafe and start making it yourself, the Breville Barista Express is a practical choice. Learn the basics, keep the machine clean, and use fresh beans, and you will be able to enjoy excellent coffee every morning.

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