KitchenAid Semi Automatic Espresso Machine with Burr Grinder - Juniper

KitchenAid Semi Automatic - Juniper

The KitchenAid Semi-Automatic is the manual espresso machine in the KithenAid Espresso machines, and the ideal product for people who want to be hands-on like a barista, with manual milk texturing to deliver amazing specialty coffee at home. This is a great choice for people who do not wish to invest in a separate grinder and prefer to have a built-in grinder. Also for people who do not mind spending the time to be involved in the process of making their favourite drinks at home. 

These are the best features of this model:

• It is all in one. No need to purchase a grinder or a milk frother separately.
• It is Manual. If you are looking to have a hands-on experience with drawing your own shots and frothing your own milk, then this is a great machine.
• Fast Heating: It heats up and ready to make a drink in less than 50 seconds. 
• Smart Dosing: Smart Dosing Technology eases preparation by producing the ideal volume and consistency for 1 or 2 shots of espresso at the push of a button.
• Commercial Grade Portafilter: 58mm easy tamp portafilter is designed with recessed spouts to enable a flat base for easier, more stable tamping on a flat surface vs. a traditional residential espresso portafilter, resulting in consistent, optimal flavour and rich crema for your espresso.

Is this a good model for beginners?
Well, if you are a beginner who is willing to invest the time to learn how to make espresso using a traditional espresso machine and with the least amount of upfront investment, this would be the perfect model for you.

Is this machines easy to use and maintain?
Yes, these machines are designed for ease of use and maintenance. Maintaining it involves daily tasks such as emptying the drip tray, cleaning the portafilter and group head, and wiping down the steam wand. Weekly, you should deep clean the portafilter and filter baskets, clean the drip tray and water tank, and brush out the grinder. Monthly maintenance includes backflushing with cleaning tablets and descaling the machine. Using filtered water and following the machine’s maintenance prompts can help ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Does this model come with built-in grinders?
Yes. This model gets its own built in grinder with 15 grind settings.

How quickly can it brew an espresso?
This model can be ready to brew in just 50 seconds.

What drinks can you make with this model?

This is a versatile espresso machine capable of making a variety of coffee drinks. Here are some of the key drinks you can prepare with this model:

1. Espresso: The foundational drink, made by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee. The machine allows you to adjust the grind size, dose, and extraction time to perfect your shot.

2. Americano: Made by adding hot water to a shot of espresso. The Barista Express Impress has a dedicated hot water spout to make this process straightforward.

3. Latte: Consists of a shot of espresso and steamed milk, topped with a small amount of milk foam. The machine's steam wand helps create smooth, creamy milk for lattes.

4. Cappuccino: Similar to a latte but with more foam. It includes equal parts of espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam. The steam wand allows you to texture the milk to the desired consistency.

5. Flat White: An espresso with steamed milk and a thin layer of microfoam. This drink is similar to a latte but typically uses less milk and more microfoam.

6. Macchiato: An espresso "stained" with a small amount of steamed milk or foam. The steam wand can help you achieve the right amount of foam.

7. Mocha: A combination of espresso, steamed milk, and chocolate syrup, topped with whipped cream. This drink can be customized by adjusting the chocolate and milk ratios.

8. Long Black: Similar to an Americano but made by pouring a double shot of espresso over hot water. This results in a stronger coffee flavor.

Is the milk frothing feature automatic or manual on this model?
This model gets a manual frothing system, meaning you do need to practice a few times to get the perfect milk foam.

What is the warranty?
KitchenAid offers a two-year limited product warranty and excellent customer support. 

Things to Consider Before Buying This Model

This is a fantastic model in the KitcheAid lineup. 

Keep this in mind though:

• Always use fresh beans.
• Take your time to dial in the coffee.
• Willingness to Experiment: This goes for any semi automatic coffee machine but even with its automated features, the machine may require some experimentation to find the perfect settings for your taste. If you enjoy the process of fine-tuning your coffee, this machine will suit you well.