Delicious coffee in the morning before work, what could be better? Now you can actually prepare a restaurant drink at home. You can easily prepare delicious cappuccino, lattes, hot chocolate and other drinks in the coffee machine. Your family and friends will love this aromatic coffee. But what to do if you don’t have a coffee machine and your budget doesn’t allow you to buy such a kitchen device? A cappuccino maker is the ideal solution in this situation if you are a coffee lover. Cappuccino maker: what is it? What types exist, their functional features - we’ll talk about this and more later.
The concept of a cappuccino maker
A milk frother is a portable device that creates milk foam.
It is used to make macchiato, cappuccino and latte. In addition, the device allows you to get other types of coffee with added milk.
Purpose
Milk foam was invented by engineers from Italy. They were the first to decide to whip milk into a sweet and airy mass, updating the familiar taste of natural coffee. As a result, the drink became popular all over the world.
Today, in every cafe you can order aromatic lattes, cappuccinos and other types of coffee with milk foam. For their preparation, portable foaming devices are used.
Principle of operation
The operating principle of the cappuccino maker is based on the design of a spray bottle that ensures mixing of steam with milk. There are both automatic and mechanical models. The first ones are distinguished by the presence of adjustment of the gap of the hole through which the dairy product passes. In addition, the device contains a tube that is lowered into the reservoir.
The operating principle of the cappuccino maker is based on mixing steam with milk.
Due to the pressure difference in the spray chambers, the milk is directed into the cappuccino maker and then combined with steam. In mechanical models, the foaming process is carried out in a separate container - a pitcher, and the foam is added to the cup of coffee drink manually.
The steam is generated in a special boiler or other heating element.
It then goes into a cappuccino machine under pressure and mixes with milk, resulting in foam.
Rating of models on the market
Choosing a coffee machine is quite a difficult task, because the household appliances market is saturated with all sorts of manufacturers who offer various types of devices for making coffee. To make the right choice, you should determine what functions and technical parameters should be present in a particular model. It is also advisable to familiarize yourself with the rating of the presented models, which is compiled based on customer reviews.
Machines with Panarello attachment (manual mode)
- Polaris PCM 1527E. It is a carob type coffee maker with a durable metal body. The control is electronic, you can make two servings of hot drink at once.
- De`Longhi ECAM 23.120. It is considered the best coffee machine option in its price range. Equipped with a built-in coffee grinder, adjustable amount of coffee, control the strength and select the temperature of the drink. There is a nuance that is present in almost all coffee machines of this type: when grinding beans, it makes a fairly loud sound, so it is unlikely that you will be able to drink milk coffee at night without waking up your household.
- Philips Saeco HD 8743, 8745. A compact and easy-to-use device that will fit perfectly into the interior of any kitchen. Pre-brewing will help preserve the aroma and richness of the coffee beans. You can prepare one large serving of your favorite drink or two small cups of cappuccino. Among models from competing manufacturers, it is considered the best in its price segment.
Automatic devices
- Bosch TAS 3202/3203/3204/3205 SUNY. A capsule machine that can be used to prepare a variety of coffees, including lattes and cappuccinos. Doesn't take up much space and is easy to manage. Additional functions include adjusting the temperature of the drink and the amount of finished coffee.
- Automatic cappuccino maker Saeco expert per Automatica (Saeko expert). A coffee machine designed to prepare several types of coffee, including latte and macchiato. Easy to use, with backlit display. Special containers for milk and chocolate are available. When choosing an automatic cappuccino maker, many people choose Saeco expert.
- Delonges Nespresso Latissima Touch. Special capsules are used to prepare coffee. A coffee maker with an automatic cappuccino maker features rapid heating after turning on the coffee machine. It is also equipped with a warning system when descaling is required. A significant disadvantage of this model is that Nespresso capsules are quite expensive, so not everyone can afford to enjoy their favorite drink every day.
On a note! Craftsmen suggest trying to make an automatic version of a cappuccino maker yourself. But it is unlikely that a home-made automatic cappuccino maker will replace professional equipment with which milk is whipped into a dense, delicate foam.
Main types and their characteristics
There are several types of milk frothers available on the market. They differ in internal structure and principle of operation. You can choose primitive devices and models with a more complex configuration.
Hand beaters
The manual system consists of a metal or plastic tube with a hole to release steam. After boiling, the liquid from the reservoir is sent to the nozzle. Then the milk is brought to a state of foam, and the intensity of foaming is regulated by a person. This option is not suitable for beginner baristas, but professionals often choose it to create unusual drinks.
Hand beaters are powered by mechanical force or batteries.
Automatic (steam)
The devices allow you to get high-quality foam by pressing the appropriate button, after which the device will independently make coffee with milk without moving the cup.
Automatic models are produced with a discharge hose, similar to semi-automatic machines. They are distinguished by their high cost and ease of use.
Semi-automatic
Semi-automatic products are a lightweight nozzle on a steam wand, to which a flexible hose is attached for immersion in a container of milk. Coffee preparation is carried out in 2 stages. Initially, foam is formed, and then the drink. Depending on the type of final product, the algorithm of actions may differ. In addition, there are semi-automatic machines that prepare coffee and foam in parallel.
Semi-automatic cappuccino makers - a lightweight nozzle on a steam wand.
Mechanical
Such devices froth milk due to mechanical action. Vigorous movements of the whisk can create a foam. In most cases, the equipment does not have a separate reservoir. Milk is poured into a cup, after which foam is made from it.
The popularity of manual models is due to the following advantages:
- Ease of maintenance.
- Ease of obtaining foam.
- Possibility of adding any amount of milk.
Presses
This category includes small metal pitchers similar to a French press. The presence of a double mesh helps to quickly whip up the foam, but requires some skills. Milk can be heated on the stove, provided that the press is made of metal. Hot product is poured into products with a plastic body.
Presses are small metal jugs.
Kinds
Currently, all cappuccino makers are divided into three main types:
- Mechanical . It looks like an additional device that you buy yourself for a coffee machine. In appearance, this device resembles an ordinary kitchen mixer. It does its work using batteries and a metal whisk made in the shape of a spring. You lower the attachment into the milk sachet and beat at high speed.
- Automatic . The main device of an automatic cappuccino maker is a tube-shaped nozzle, which you insert into the desired container of milk yourself. Under high pressure, the milk passes through a straw and mixes with steam, after which it turns into foam with a thick consistency.
- Manual . Here the milk is whipped due to the action of steam: steam under high pressure is released through a special tube into the bowl with the contents, which is why it is whipped into a foam of strong consistency. Devices of this type almost always have an additional separate container.
Criteria for choosing cappuccino makers
When choosing a milk frothing device, you need to consider:
- Price. The category of the cheapest models includes hand-held products (mixers). They perform their functions efficiently, but require physical human participation.
- Presence of heating function. If you like hot coffee, you need to buy models with built-in spirals for heating milk.
- Ease of maintenance. In this regard, manual cappuccino makers are superior to other types. Caring for them comes down to rinsing the metal nozzle.
- Availability of additional functions. Modern automatic models are equipped with displays and buttons for changing operating settings.
Manual cappuccino maker: principle of design and operation
Coffee machines with a manual cappuccino maker do not have the ability to program recipes. I wanted to make a latte macchiato - first you need to froth the milk, then prepare a cup of espresso.
This means that a manual cappuccino maker gives room for creativity. The density of the foam and the temperature of the milk are adjusted manually, allowing you to get the perfect cup.
When choosing a coffee maker with a manual cappuccino maker, the volume of the water container is important. A container with a volume of 1.5-2 liters will allow you to prepare several drinks in a row. Water from the container is supplied both for preparing espresso and into the hot steam wand.
Mechanical cappuccino maker with whisk attachment
The device will not require large investments. This simple device is similar to a hand blender, but smaller. At the end of the device there is a whisk with springs that whips the milk. The handle has a built-in motor that drives the whisk.
Advantages of a mechanical cappuccino maker:
- the price is a couple of hundred rubles;
- lightness - convenient to take on the road;
- small dimensions - will not take up extra space in the kitchen.
Disadvantages of the device:
- does not heat milk;
- must be held in hands during the process;
- unreliability - there are models that break after the first turn on.
A manual cappuccino maker with a whisk will help out when you have a coffee maker without a frother.
A more modern version of a manual frother is an electric jug with a built-in whisk, “aerochino”.
Aerochino is easy to use: milk is poured into the container, the lid is pressed against the jug, one press of a button and the steamed hot milk is ready. Suitable for making cocoa.
The disadvantage of the device is its high price.
Cappuccino maker with pannarello nozzle
The coffee machine with manual cappuccino maker is equipped with a Panarello nozzle. This foamer is a thin tube with holes at the end for steam to escape.
This device works like a spray gun. The milk is enriched with oxygen and turns into airy foam.
Rating of the best models
The list of the best cappuccino makers includes models of semi-automatic, automatic and manual types. They have earned positive reviews from owners and have been tested in various tests.
Kitfort KT-710
The device is suitable for frothing milk at home. You can use it to make hot chocolate, cocoa or thick viscous sauces. As standard, there is a massive aluminum bowl for preparing several servings of drinks. By default, there are 3 operating modes:
- Cold foaming.
- Hot foaming.
- Mixing and heating.
Kitfort KT-710 is a device for quickly preparing milk foam.
Kitfort KT-709
The small stationary frother has primitive controls and a minimalist design. Its metal or plastic body is painted white and resembles a small jug with a comfortable handle.
The device comes with 2 attachments:
- For foaming.
- For heating.
The tank volume is 300 ml, but you can fill no more than 150 ml of liquid.
The device is placed on a reliable platform, has a light indication and an automatic shutdown option.
First Austria FA-5293
The compact and inexpensive cappuccino maker of the First Austria FA-5293 series features a convenient plastic case with rubberized inserts for holding in the hand. The durable whisk ensures efficient frothing for all drinks.
First Austria FA-5293 is a compact and inexpensive cappuccino maker.
You can buy the device in burgundy or black body color. The power source uses 2 AA batteries. A power of 250 W is enough to effectively froth milk.
Oursson MF2005/DC
Easy to use and inexpensive, the Oursson MF2005/DC cappuccino maker has a power of 450 W and a reservoir capacity of 200 ml. The foaming process takes no more than 30 seconds, and the presence of a special indicator simplifies operation. The non-stick coating prevents the risk of milk boiling over or burning.
Melitta Cremio
Melitta Cremio can make creamy foam from heated or cold milk in 1 minute. The modern accessory quickly froths the drink, allowing you to get up to 4 servings in 1 cycle of operation.
The model has 2 modes:
- Foaming with heating.
- Foaming cold milk.
Melitta Cremio quickly froths the drink.
Using the color display you can determine the current temperature. An efficient heating element and sealed housing ensure even heating.
Caso Crema Latte & Cacao
The model features a transparent lid that allows you to monitor the milk frothing process. Using the device, you can easily prepare cocoa or hot chocolate. The increased degree of safety is due to the presence of a metal handle, which is protected from heat even under intense loads. The tank volume is 0.25 l.
Galaxy GL0790
This cappuccino maker will help you prepare sweet milk foam, homemade sauce, omelet, etc. The whisk is made of stainless steel, which is the key to its long service life. The device runs on 2 AA batteries, which are purchased separately.
Galaxy GL0790 will help you prepare sweet milk foam.
Caso Fomini Crema
The Caso Fomini Crema foamer can prepare cold and hot foam automatically. Double bottom and non-stick coating reduces the risk of dairy products burning or foreign odors.
By default, there are 3 operating modes:
- Simple heating.
- Whipping cold foam.
- Preparing warm foam.
Clatronic MS 3326
The small mixer from Clatronic comes with a spacious 0.45 liter bowl and has a high power of 600 W. The user can choose between 3 foaming modes. There are buttons with bright blue indication in front. This makes it easier to use the accessory when there is insufficient lighting.
Clatronic MS 3326 – mixer-foamer.
Clatronic MS 3654
The miniature accessory has an insulating coating, so it does not heat up under intense loads. The stainless steel bowl has increased capacity and is protected from corrosive processes.
When the equipment operates, the metal does not emit harmful chemical compounds.
Clatronic BM 3472
The Clatronic BM 3472 bar cappuccino maker has high power and can prepare drinks of any complexity. The user has 2 speeds available to obtain different results. The bowl is made of stainless steel and secured with 2 holders. Rubber feet are installed at the bottom to prevent vibrations when foaming large volumes of milk.
Clatronic BM 3472 has high power.
Philips CA6500/63
The compact frother CA6500/63 allows you to quickly prepare milk foam. The device uses a removable glass with a volume of 120 ml, which is enough to get 2 full servings of glace, cappuccino or latte.
The device starts with 1 key. The light indication helps you monitor the cooking process.
DeLonghi EMFI.BZ
The body of the cappuccino maker is made of stainless steel. Due to the magnetic drive, the foaming process is carried out almost silently. The bowl holds 140 ml of milk. Using the accessory, you can prepare not only cappuccino or latte, but also mulled wine and cocoa.
DeLonghi EMFI.BZ - automatic foamer.
VES H-200
The powerful VES H-200 frother whips milk to a thick foam and has a certified controller. The transparent lid simplifies the cooking process. The package includes nozzles for mixing and foaming.
Hongxin
The accessory weighs only 52 g and runs on 2 AA batteries. The design uses stainless steel and plastic. Control is carried out by 1 button to turn on and off. It is quite convenient to care for the product. To do this, you need to regularly wipe it with a damp cloth.
Hongxin is a milk frother.
Gastrorag
Gastrorag is a stylish and small foam whipper made in a steel body. The volume of the bowl for heating is 240 ml, and for foaming - 120 ml. Device power - 500 W.
WMF Lono 0413170711
WMF Lono 0413170711 has a stainless steel case. A small electronic panel with the ability to change the heating temperature is used for control. The 500 ml bowl allows you to prepare 2 cups of cocoa or milk froth for 4 cappuccinos.
WMF Lono 0413170711 has a stainless steel case.
Excellent Houseware
The model is used for quickly preparing foam to be added to espresso, latte or cappuccino. The plastic body is quite durable, and the metal rod can withstand intense loads. The accessory is suitable for everyday use.
Bialetti Tuttocrema (00AGR394)
The cappuccino maker has a stylish body made of aluminum. This allows you to install it on any stove, with the exception of induction. The bowl can hold up to 166 ml of milk, which corresponds to ⅓ of its volume. The remaining part is reserved for storing foam. The cooking process takes 10-15 seconds. The device is easy to clean using a dishwasher or a damp cloth.
Bialetti Tuttocrema (00AGR394) has a stylish body.
Severin SM 9494
The main bowl has a volume of 200 ml. The power indicator is 450 W. Using a mixer, you can beat and heat milk. There is no noise during operation.
Nespresso Aeroccino 4
Aeroccino 4 is a progressive foamer with user-friendly controls and 3 operating modes. Using the device, you can prepare various drinks with added milk. LED indication on the control panel makes it easy to select the optimal mode.
Nespresso Aeroccino 4 is a frother with easy controls.
Frabosk 178.73
The budget cappuccino maker is made of stainless steel and has a simple design. The process of preparing thick milk foam takes no more than 15 seconds. Particular effectiveness is noted when processing fatty products.
The frother has a volume of 0.3 ml, but only a third is filled with milk.
Gemlux GL-FM-87
The foamer is available in a metal housing made of stainless steel. It is equipped with a blue light that turns on when foaming. Thanks to its small size, the accessory can be placed in any convenient place.
Gemlux GL-FM-87 is available in a metal case.
Caso Crema Latte&Cacao
The Caso Crema Latte&Cacao frother can be used to produce hot and cold foam. The Choco option allows you to make cocoa from crushed chocolate.
Energy En-298
Mixer Energy En-298 belongs to the budget class. It comes in a pink plastic case and is equipped with a stainless steel whisk. The accessory has only 1 speed, but can foam both cold and hot products.
Energy En-298 is a budget mixer.
Melitta Cremio II
The Cremio II milk frother is available in white and black casings. Among the auxiliary options, protection against operation with an open lid stands out. Therefore, to start the system you need to latch the top part.
Nespresso Smart Barista
The accessory is suitable for preparing coffee, milk and other drinks with the addition of foam. The model uses induction heating to heat the milk evenly. The user has 13 programs at his disposal.
Nespresso Smart Barista is suitable for preparing coffee drinks.
Kitfort KT-709
Our TOP cappuccino maker Kitfort KT-709 continues. It has 3 operating modes: cold or hot milk frothing, as well as heating drinks. The device is easy to operate, which is carried out by pressing one button, and after the formation of foam, it automatically stops working. The volume of its bowl is 450 milliliters. This is enough to create milk foam for a couple of cups or heat milk, cocoa, or hot chocolate for one large mug. Buyers like this cappuccino maker for its ease of use. Its ergonomic handle allows you to comfortably hold the device in your hand. And the lid with a rubber seal fits tightly to the body, preventing the prepared foam from spilling. It is also worth noting that the inner surface of the cappuccino maker bowl has a non-stick coating, so you don’t have to worry that the milk in it will burn. And, in addition to the standard nozzle for frothing milk, this device comes with an nozzle for stirring various drinks. Overall, this is an excellent multifunctional cappuccino maker.
- Power: 450 W.
- Volume: 450 ml.
- 3 operating modes.
- 2 nozzles.
- Dimensions: 165x115x183 mm.
- Weight: 0.7 kg.
Foamer operating instructions
Using an automatic cappuccino maker is quite simple:
- Loosen the nut on the device, and after fixing the steam tube, tighten it back.
- Place the accessory over a container of liquid and get rid of any remaining water.
- Close the regulator and connect the cappuccino maker with the milk container using a silicone tube.
- Place a cup under the device and turn on the steam. Using a special pin, adjust the degree of film density.
Recommendations for making cappuccino and the secrets of perfect foam
You can get good froth for cappuccino using any frother or coffee machine with a steam function. Regardless of the device, you should follow a few tips:
- Use exclusively chilled dairy products with a fat content of 3.5%.
- Choose quality coffee.
- Before starting cooking, thoroughly rinse the equipment.
Which cappuccino maker should you choose?
The choice of model depends on individual needs. If you rarely drink coffee or prefer espresso, you can purchase mechanical coffee equipment for exceptional cases. In the case when all family members are fans of milk coffee, it makes sense to purchase a more expensive model of coffee machine with a built-in automatic milk frother.
Often the consumer is faced with the question of which device to choose: a manual cappuccino maker or an automatic one?
Which mechanical cappuccino maker is better: automatic or manual?
Automatic milk frothing occurs in multifunctional coffee machines and carob coffee makers. The automatic system does not require any additional manipulations. You just need to pour in milk, water, and coffee beans. After this, all that remains is to place the cups for the drink and select the appropriate mode on the control panel. The coffee machine itself will prepare an aromatic drink with surprisingly delicate foam.
A machine with a manual cappuccino maker requires certain actions to prepare coffee: you need to monitor the milk level and constantly hold the cup in a certain position. If you incorrectly calculate the amount of milk, foam may spill out of the container and burn your hand.
Those who have been using a manual cappuccino maker for a long time claim that the experience of making foam from milk comes quickly. But if you are a connoisseur of comfort and do not want to participate in the process of making coffee, it is better to choose an automatic model. Many manufacturers produce coffee machines with the function of selecting the density and amount of foam from dairy products.
Rules for choosing milk
To make cappuccino, you need to use natural, pasteurized or whole milk. It must contain at least 3% protein.
You need to use natural milk.
Foaming milk with a low fat concentration is problematic because the result is a dry consistency. If the whole product is used, the foam becomes creamy and suitable for lattes.
Comparison table of the presented models
Below you will find tables of previously described models, which are popular among latte and cappuccino lovers.
| Model | Control | Volume | Auto power off | Dishwasher | Weight |
| Nespresso Aeroccino 4 | Push-button | 250 ml | Eat | Allowed | 1 kg |
| Melitta Cremio II | 1.2 kg | ||||
| Caso Crema Latte & Cacao | Not said | No | 1.3 kg | ||
| Kitfort KT-709 | 200 ml | Eat | Allowed | 0,9 |
| Model | Construction type | Material | Number of batteries |
| Energy En-298 | Submersible | Metal, plastic | two |
| Hongxin | Metal, silicone | ||
| Clatronic Clatronic Red MS 3089 | Stainless steel, plastic | ||
| Excellent Houseware | Metal and plastic |
Alternative whipping methods
If you don’t have cappuccino makers or milk frothers at hand, you can use proven alternative methods. They allow you to get high-quality foam in a few seconds and without much effort.
Fork
First you need to heat the milk, and then pour it a third into a wide container with high walls. Tilt it and start whipping with quick rotations of the fork. After 30-40 seconds, the product will acquire the required consistency and will be ready for use.
You can beat the foam with a regular fork.
whisk
The heated milk should be poured into a glass. Next, you should lower the whisk into the container, hold its handle between your palms and beat vigorously for 30 seconds.
Jar
The method involves performing the following actions:
- A third of the jar is filled with cold milk and closed with a lid.
- Shake the container for 30 seconds. The volume of the product will increase 2 times.
- Remove the lid and transfer the jar to the microwave. After 45 seconds of heating, the foam will settle and acquire the required density.
French press
Using such a device allows you to obtain voluminous and dense foam. The filter ensures uniform distribution of milk with air saturation. The specifics of whipping are as follows:
- Heat the milk and pour it into the French press.
- Move the piston up and down with intense movements for 30-40 seconds.
- Lower the piston to the bottom.
- Rotate the French press to thoroughly mix the foam and milk.
To prevent large bubbles from appearing, lightly tap the bottom of the French press on the table surface.
Helpful tips for making cappuccino
At home, you can prepare a delicious drink with milk using almost any coffee machine equipped with a steam function. You can also use mechanical milk frothers even if you don't have a coffee maker or coffee machine at home. But there are basic rules that will help you prepare the perfect drink:
- Preference should be given to milk with a high protein content (at least 3.5%).
- Chilled milk is used.
- Cappuccino will turn out even tastier if you choose natural milk.
- Coffee must be of high quality.
- All coffee making equipment must be thoroughly washed.
It is quite possible to make surprisingly smooth milk coffee at home, even if you are not a professional barista. It is enough to purchase a special device that will help whip the milk into a soft, airy foam. There is a wide range of cappuccino makers on sale; it is also possible to make an automatic homemade cappuccino maker. All you have to do is make the right choice.
Reviews of coffee machines with cappuccino maker
Gaggia Gran Style
Compact coffee maker in a laconic black design. A manual cappuccino maker with a Pannarello nozzle, the ability to prepare two servings of espresso, use pods or ground coffee powder of your choice are the advantages of the device. The machine does not make noise: morning coffee will not wake up the household.
The only negative noticed by users is the low-mounted cappuccino maker. It is better to place the machine on a stand or adapt to the device.
Polaris PCM 1527E
The device is in the lower price segment. You will be pleased with its bronze-black design, compactness and conveniently located steam supply tube. It makes black coffee for two people, but you have to make cappuccino by whisking and pouring in the milk yourself.
Don't expect miracles from the machine: the device may seem noisy and slow.
Mechanism selection
Several aspects are important when choosing a coffee machine:
- How many cups of coffee are planned per day?
- How quickly should the drink be ready?
- Is there a need to do latte art on your drink?
A coffee maker with an automatic frother is suitable for the office. Pros:
- the drink is ready in one minute;
- no need to control the process;
- stable result.
To prepare a cappuccino or latte at home, the initial data and needs are determined.
There is a coffee machine, but no frother - an Aerochino or a hand whisk.
You need a coffee machine that will do everything itself - a full automatic machine.
If you want to be a full-fledged participant in the process and control the temperature of the milk, the height of the foam, the volume of espresso and the dose of beans, a semi-automatic carob coffee maker with a Pannarello attachment will do.
