Single-Serve Coffee Makers

It's the latest trend: brewing one cup of coffee at a time. If you like traditional taste and aroma, but want it fast with very little clean-up, a single serve coffee maker may be perfect for you. In fact, many people buy a single-serve machine to supplement their drip machine, using it when they're running short on time. Since these devices can brew coffee using both a drip or espresso method, make sure you select one that produces the coffee you like to drink. In addition, many single-serve machines utilize prepackaged "pods," sold in an extensive array of coffee varieties and flavors, which make the process simple: insert pod, close lid, push start. The pods make it easy to change up your morning routine with a cup of tea, hot chocolate, or even hot cider, plus compatible and reusable pod-style filters are also available if you prefer to regulate the coffee levels.

There are a wide variety of features available in the many single cup brewers, including steam nozzles, integrated grinders, brew strength controls and auto-shut-off, just to name a few, so you'll want to choose the coffee maker that best fits your lifestyle. Give some thought to reservoir size since, even though you'll be brewing one cup at a time, you may want a larger reservoir so you can make several beverages in quick succession for the family or a crowd (tip: use a water purifier to help fill everyone’s mugs with the best tasting coffee possible).  Size of the machine is also a consideration--not only from the standpoint of how much space it will take up in the kitchen, but also how much it brews at once. Some single serve coffee makers even let you choose the size of your beverage. Strength of the brew and temperature selections are also a consideration since they inform the time required to saturate the grounds, which is what creates the flavor. The National Coffee Association recommends hot water temperatures between 195°–205°F.

Finally, you'll want to consider the coffee you'll be using itself, and its availability. Make sure you can easily purchase what you need. It's a good idea to check to see what other varieties are compatible with your choice of brewer. K-Cups are the most common coffee pods, and are often available in large variety packs so you're not relegated to the same coffee every day. Additionally, with some machines, you can create your own pod with a re-usable filter device, so you can use your own coffee grinder to control the texture and strength of the grounds. Finally, consider convenient coffee pod storage options that will keep the caffeine supply close at hand, plus other accessories that may be suitable, like filter replacement options and carafes.