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Pulling Better Shots: Espresso
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items If you're like me and went from a Keurig or regular coffee machine into the world of espresso, it was a bit intimidating researching all of the different machines, grinders, accessories, and tips and tricks to just get started. This is my guide and r...
Sections
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Machine and Upgrades
Shot Accessories
Mix-ins, Flavors, Accesories
Machine and Upgrades
This is my exact home espresso setup and all of the things I use to get the most out of my machine.
The Breville Bambino (and Bambino Plus) is a great entry level machine that won't break the bank, and the one I went with to start my espresso journey.
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine
The Baratza Encore ESP is a great electric grinder that will get you the grind consistency you need to pull consistent shots.
Baratza Encore ESP Coffee Grinder
I know what you're thinking…"I just bought a machine that has a portafilter why do I need another one?" I too cringed at the thought of buying even more equipment at the start, but a bottomless portafilter has really shined a light on my technique an...
54mm Bottomless Portafilter
Shot Accessories
These are the accessory tools that have made a big difference in my shot consistency. I have these listed in the order that I use them when making a shot.
A scale is an essential tool, both to weigh your beans and to weigh your shot. This one is small and compact and will fit under your grinder and your portafilter. It has a timer as well for dialing in your shot consistency.
Maestri House Mini Coffee Scale w/ Timer USB-C
A small spray bottle will help to reduce the static when grinding your beans. A couple spritz of water onto your whole beans before grinding prevents clumping and retention in your grinder and ensures the amount you put in is closer to the amont that...
Coffee Spray Bottle
A WDT is essential to ensure you don't get clumps that can cause channeling in your shot. This one is low cost, compact, and easy to use.
WDT Espresso Distribution Tools
I use this after using my WDT to get a good distribution prior to tamping. This thing is HEAVY for it's size and feel really well made.
MHW-3BOMBER Espresso Distributor 53.35mm
This spring tamper helps you get a more consistent and even pressure on your grounds. I like that it has the spring and audible feedback when you've hit the right pressure so there's no guessing involved. The black and wood finish is a nice touch as ...
MHW-3BOMBER 53.35mm Espresso Coffee Tamper
This puck screen helps reduce channeling and gives a more even water flow into your portafilter. It also keeps the grounds from directly contacting your brewing head to keep it cleaner. The screen is easy to clean and this one is 54mm to match with t...
MHW-3BOMBER 54mm Ultra Thin Espresso Puck
This is just a nice simple tamping mat I use to keep things tidy on the kitchen counter.
Normcore Espresso Tamping Station Mat
Mix-ins, Flavors, Accesories
Here are my favorite additions and things I add and use to spice up my drinks.
This Smore's flavor syrup is suar free and has been my go-to flavor. It's not a strong Smore's taste as much as it just adds a nice caramel-like intensity to the coffee. It's also sugar free!
Torani Sugar Free Coffee Syrup, S’Mores Flavoring
I like to add a TBSP of brown sugar to my protein lattes in the morning.
Wholesome Fair Trade Organic Dark Brown Sugar
A tiiiiny dash of cinnamon sugar on the top of your Latte or Cappuccino is a great way to add a hint of different flavor.
McCormick Cinnamon Sugar
I really like this frother because it packs a lot of power for how small it is. You can use it to make small batches of whipped cream, whipped coffee, do caramel/chocolate glass decoration. I even use this to whip eggs whites and mix protein shakes.
YUSWKO Black Handheld Milk Frother Wand