Review of the Krups Allegro Espresso, Cappuccino and Latte Maker

Nearly every home in America has a coffee maker or at the very last, a jar of instant coffee. But for traditional cafe coffee such as cappuccino or espresso, you either need to go to your local cafe or coffee shop, or invest in an all-purpose gourmet coffee maker. The Krups Allegro Espresso, Cappuccino and Latte Maker is an affordable solution for the everyday home.

While some cappuccino and espresso machines can easily surpass the $100 price mark, sometimes reaching into multiple hundreds and even thousands, for an average price of $50.00, you too can be sipping tasty cappuccinos and espressos.

Since purchasing the machine myself about one year ago, I’ve enjoyed the Krups Allegro Espresso, Cappuccino and Latte Maker on relaxing weekend mornings when regular coffee just doesn’t seem to fit the mood, sipping a large hot latte, especially when the weather is cold and damp.

In the evening, an after dinner cappuccino or espresso is a perfect accompaniment, and when guests or family are over, it is with great pleasure that my wife and I are able to present them with an authentic cappuccino or espresso in place of regular coffee.

The Krups Allegro Espresso, Cappuccino and Latte Maker itself is very easy to operate. Easily making four cups of either espresso or cappuccino, or a pot of coffee suitable for lattes, the machine also comes equipped with a conveniently located steam nozzle for frothing milk. The Krups Allegro Espresso, Cappuccino and Latte Maker is compact and stylish, making it a handy space saver that can easily be stored on a shelf when not in use, or perched upon the counter as a welcome addition to your kitchen decor.

To use the Krups Allegro Espresso, Cappuccino and Latte Maker, you simply fill the included cup with the proper amount of coffee grinds (a handy guide provides you with detailed instructions on how to prepare your desired coffee) and pour in the appropriate amount of water. After the machine has brewed your coffee, you simply turn the dial to the steam function to steam and froth your milk, if desired.

For the price, the Krups Allegro Espresso, Cappuccino and Latte Maker is an excellent investment for any one who loves a good cup of coffee. Of course, because it is relatively inexpensive when compared to high-end machines, there are a few allowances that must be made. For example, there is a large amount of pressure built up during the sealed lid during use, which must be relieved afterwards by carefully unscrewing the cap. I’ve found it useful to keep the steam function on to allow most of the pressure to be relieved through the nozzle first.

And the guide sometimes tells you to prepare the frothed milk first, but this can sometimes be a hindrance, as the frothiness will dissipate while the coffee is brewing. Also, turning the steam function on initially results in a quick stream of hot water shooting from the nozzle tip before the introduction of steam. To remedy this, I prefer to brew the coffee first and then froth the milk in the cups, then pour the coffee in. I have managed to achieve wonderful results with this method.

Of course, the Krups Allegro Espresso, Cappuccino and Latte Maker is only half of the equation. The other half is the brand and quality of coffee you choose. I myself have tried quite a few blends and I haven’t decided on a favorite, but believe it or not, Dunkin’ Donuts Coffee does quite nicely for lattes and cappuccinos, but I prefer a gourmet blend for espressos.