Keurig K-Cafe Review

The coffee machines manufactured by Keurig have become an integral part in the kitchen of most coffee lovers. The manufacturer deeply understands the pulse of caffeine fans around the globe and tries to meet their changing demands. All coffee machines launched by this brand incorporate such key features as innovation, automation, and customization.

The effort of the company has always been successful. The same is true for a new member of the Keurig family – the K-Café single serve coffee maker. In this Keurig K-Café review, MilkFrotherTop is going to unravel all the outstanding functionalities of this coffee machine. Thanks to its exceptional characteristics, the device will leave no one indifferent even if you are not a daily coffee consumer. Velvety cappuccino or iced latte? It is up to your preference.

Design and Key Features

The K-Café has a solid construction which is in line with other quality household appliances by Keurig, and it is styled like other coffee makers of this brand. The machine features an elegant design in a matte black plastic finish with silver accents.

The unit is wider than similar standard appliances, and this may be a potential downside if you have limited space on your countertop. The reason is that the K-Café integrates both a milk frother and a sizable water container. This additional functionality is certainly worth a larger footprint.

The water reservoir is rather massive and holds 60 oz. of liquid. This is enough to make six regular cups of coffee. If you use the machine for 2 oz. shots, the water tank will last a week without refilling. Keurig added a convenient handle which makes refilling the water easier. The container has an indicator for the water level that helps you understand when it requires refilling. This eliminates the need of guesswork.

As the device includes a milk frother, this unlocks countless possibilities. You can create any milk-based beverage or make tea.

In the production of coffee machines, Keurig continues using minimalism and easy-to-understand interfaces. Large arrays of buttons and complex displays are gone. The K-Café has an intuitive main control panel on the top of the machine and a simpler interface for the milk frother. Most people prefer using physical buttons which seem to extend the lifespan of the appliance.

There are several light indicators which make using the K-Café very easy. The “Auto off” indicator illuminates by default which means that the machine will switch off automatically after two hours of inactivity.

The “Descale” indicator will light up when a user performs descaling of the unit. When the procedure is finished, the light will turn off.

The “Add water” indicator illuminates when the water reservoir needs refilling. The machine detects that the amount of liquid is not enough to make a drink and gives a signal. This helps prevent the device from running empty which can be harmful for its inner components. The light turns off when you add water to the tank.

The control buttons also sit on the top panel. They allow the brewing of four coffee sizes – 6, 8, 10, or 12 oz. coffee. This is a useful function for all family members where each person may prefer a different amount of the pick-me-up drink. The “Shot” button is for lattes – 2 oz.

The milk frother features a stainless steel jar with a lid and a handle. It offers three frothing modes – for making latte, cappuccino, and cold frothings. This coffee and cappuccino maker uses any milk type, including coconut and almond milk.

The coffee maker includes a 30’’ power cord which is long enough to reach a power outlet anywhere in the kitchen.

This model has a removable catch tray which allows you to accommodate larger cups and travel mugs that are 7.2’’ tall. When the tray is in place, there is a 6’’ clearance between a plate and a dispensing spout. When you remove the tray, this allows for the accommodation of taller mugs. The detachable tray is very helpful for fast cleanup.

Keurig has also released the K-Café Special Edition which has a premium nickel colored housing and features metal details. This model is a little more expensive than the traditional K-Café.

Included Accessories

The machine comes with free samples of coffee pods and a unit guide. The manufacturer provides a year warranty for the device.

Advantages & Disadvantages

The K-Café has its own pros and cons, but there are some peculiar features that make this machine special. Here are the key points that users like in this model and some functions that they would like to change or upgrade.

How to Use Keurig® K-Café™ ☕?

The brewing process with the K-Café is very simple. Turn the machine on, insert a K-cup pod, and choose the preferred setting on the panel.

The milk frother has its own control panel. Professional baristas recommend using the device according to the following stages: froth milk first, then brew coffee, and then add the foamed milk to the coffee shot.

Refilling the water tank is also very simple due to the large opening.

This model gets a high score thanks to its user-friendliness.

K-Cup Pods

When you switch the machine on, it will take about three minutes to heat the water. If you prefer regular coffee, insert a K-Cup pod and choose a cup size (6 or 8 oz., or other capacity). Then press the K-button in the middle of the circle to brew. If you like stronger beverages, push the “Strong” button before pressing the button for brewing. The machine takes 30 seconds to dispense a 6 oz. cup.

If you choose the “Shot” button, the device takes 40 seconds to complete the brewing. It will deliver 2 oz. of coffee.

This machine uses any type of K-cup pods so you can use kinds from other types of Keurig coffee machines. Unfortunately, in the K-Café model, you cannot adjust the temperature of your drink.

Milk Frother

The coffee machine includes a built-in milk frother which is a great feature because you don’t have to buy a separate unit for frothing. Using fresh milk is always a better alternative than powdered milk capsules. Usually, it takes 2-3 minutes to make a quality foam.

In addition, you can froth any milk you like – including organic or non-dairy (almond/coconut/soy). The best froth is achieved with skimmed cold milk. Cow’s milk gives richer foam than dairy-free milk. Experiment with various milk types to find the best result.

The milk pitcher is aesthetically pleasing. It is silver and features a black handle. The handle is rather long and prevents the user’s hands from burning. The pitcher features a spout for convenient pouring. The jar has markings that show the milk volume required for making a certain beverage.

After you pour milk into the jug, replace the lid. This helps get more froth in the milk. Be careful and don’t touch the metal part of the jar during frothing.

The frother makes both hot and cold froth for various drinks. Using the settings “Latte” and “Capp,” you will get hot froth. You can also add your favorite creamer or syrup to the milk.

For making cold beverages, select the “Cold” frothing mode. Foaming cold milk is a shorter process and takes less than three minutes. Pour milk in the pitcher and put it in its nest. When the foaming starts, you will hear a signal beep. When the foaming is over, you will hear two signal beeps.

The use is very simple because the unit has no electronics in it. Working with this frother is like having a café in your kitchen – you can create any milky beverage.

Have you always dreamt about morning coffee in bed? But there you have no special appliance that can make it? Here is the list of top coffee machines with milk frother where you can pick the one you like the most.

How to Clean K-Café™ Coffee Maker?

The cleanup procedures are also very easy. Careful maintenance and regular cleaning will help keep the machine in a good condition. Before the cleaning procedure, be sure that you have unplugged the device.

Daily Using

Brewer Surface

If the housing of the unit has any stains, wipe the brewer surface with a damp cloth. Use a soft soapy solution, if necessary. Don’t apply any abrasive or chemical components that may scratch the finish or cause discoloration. Don’t immerse the device in water.

Usually, using shorter cups causes some splatter. A quick wipe with a soft cloth clears up the mess.

Water Reservoir

Even if you don’t use hard water, the water container will require periodic cleaning. Remove it and empty the reservoir. It is dishwasher-safe and can be used on the top rack of a dishwashing machine. As the water tank is large and features a large opening, it can easily be hand-washed. Don’t use abrasive cleaners that may damage the plastic. Give it a good rinse so that the remaining soap doesn’t get into your coffee. Attach it back onto the machine.

Drip Tray

The catch tray is also detachable and can be washed under a faucet. It holds 8 oz. of liquid, but don’t let it overflow. Pull it out and clean it with soap and warm water. The tray may form a dark film on the bottom that can be removed with a sponge. The tray is also dishwasher-safe.

Milk Frother

The milk pitcher should be cleaned immediately after use, otherwise, the milk will dry, and it will be super difficult to get rid of it.

The cleanup will likely take you only one minute. Check that the jug is cool before cleanup. Remove it from the base and wash it under running water. Hand-wash the frothing whisk and use a brush, if necessary. The frothing jug is also dishwasher-safe on the top rack.

The pitcher doesn’t have a non-stick coating and requires less scrubbing. If the milk is not easy to remove, soak the pitcher in warm water with a mild detergent. Using abrasive cleaners can damage the surface.

Read this detailed article on how to clean milk frothers. It includes step-by-step instructions of a careful cleanup of manual, handheld, and automatic frothers.

Other Elements

If you want a deeper cleanup of the machine, for example, a pod holder, consult the manual that comes with the K-Café.

Regular Service

Descaling

The brewer should be descaled every 3-6 months. This depends on how often you use the machine and on the water quality. If you use hard water, it can form scale and calcium deposits easier. If left unattended, it may hinder the machine’s performance and damage its inner components. Regular descaling will help maintain the heating elements and other parts that are exposed to water. Using hard water requires more frequent descaling.

For best results, the company offers a special descaling solution. Its formula successfully removes the milk deposits and doesn’t leave an aftertaste or odor which are usually left when you do this procedure with vinegar or similar substances.

The procedure takes about 45 minutes and requires fresh water, a large cup, and access to a sink. Remove all the water from the water container and pour the whole bottle of descaling solution into the water tank. Switch the device on and start the brewing process by choosing the largest brew size. Repeat it until the button “Add water” illuminates. Let the device stand for half an hour. Then, fill the water reservoir with fresh water and rinse the brewer at the largest brew size setting. Do at least a dozen rinsing brews.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you have some problems with the K-Café, here are the most typical issues that may occur with the machine as well as their solutions. If you have other problems that are not covered by the user guide or if the solutions provided don’t help, contact customer service.

Problem	Solution
The light on the frother base is pulsing.	Maybe you are trying to brew and froth at the same time. The machine will start frothing when the brewing process is finished.
All the indicators on the frother base are flashing.	Check if there is milk in the pitcher. Make sure that the pitcher is properly positioned. Check if the frothing whisk is placed correctly.
The machine doesn’t brew.	Check if there is enough water in the water tank. Don’t fill it beyond the maximum fill line. Make sure that the water container is properly positioned. Check if the handle of the pod holder is pushed down.
The machine brews a partial cup.	The exit nozzle is clogged. Clean it according to the user manual. The brewer needs descaling. Check if the water reservoir is in place, and if there is enough water in it.
The machine doesn’t have power or shuts off.	Make sure that the ON button has been turned on. Plug the unit into its own outlet so that the electric circuit is not overloaded with other devices. The energy-saving mode switches the unit off 2 hours after the last brew. Refer to the user manual to enable/disable this function.

Address the Keurig support center if you need any replacement parts. Keurig provides a year warranty under normal use of all its coffee machines.

Where to Buy ? Keurig® K-Café™?

The Keurig K-Café can be purchased from the Keurig official website. This machine can also be found in large stores that sell household appliances.

The quicker and cheaper way of buying this coffee maker is via Internet shops. This can be done anytime and anyplace with just a few clicks. The unit is available for sale on such big online stores like Amazon, Costco, Walmart, Bed Bath and Beyond, Williams Sonoma, Best Buy, eBay, and many others. These retailers guarantee a similar warranty period. In addition, they provide various discount programs and bonuses for regular customers.

Price Range

The K-Café has a higher price tag in comparison with other Keurig coffee makers. This is justified because the machine does a good job and incorporates a number of features that other machines lack. It features a massive water tank and includes a built-in milk frother. It allows users to brew various coffee beverages – either milk-containing drinks or iced coffee.

Check Price on Amazon

Its price is less than $200, while some capsule coffee makers have the same cost and don’t include a milk frother. If you are not fond of milk-based coffee, opt for cheaper Keurig versions without a frothing device.

Other Key Details You Need to Know

There are a couple of features that should be mentioned as extra bonuses for the K-Café. The machine features a Smart Start function which means that the unit heats water and brews in one process. When users select a cup size, they don’t wait for the machine to heat water.

In addition, the device is compatible with the Keurig reservoir water filters. They are not included in the coffee machine and should be purchased separately.

Comparison Table

This comparison list shows the key technical parameters of several similar coffee machines. With all the necessary information in one table, it will be easy to understand the differences in these models and make the right choice.

	Keurig K-Café	Keurig K-Latte	Keurig K-Elite	Nespresso VertuoLine	Ninja Coffee Bar (CF091)
Review
Material	Plastic	Plastic	Plastic	Plastic	Plastic, thermally insulated glass
Dimensions	12.5” x 15.3” x 11.7”	12.5” x 8.5” x 13.2”	13.1” x 9.9” x 12.7”	8.32" x 11.91’’ x 11.93"	11.3’’ x 9.2’’ x 15’’
Cup Capacity	6, 8, 10, 12 oz. “Shot” button for 2 oz.	6, 8, 10 oz.	4, 6, 8, 10, 12 oz.	1.35, 2.7, 5, 8, 14 oz.	9.5 oz. (cup), 11.5 oz. (XL), 14 oz. (travel mug), 18 oz. (XL multi-serve), half carafe, full carafe.
Water Tank Size	60 oz.	36 oz.	75 oz.	40 oz.	50 oz.
Wattage	1500 Watt	1500 Watt	1500 Watt	1350 Watt	1450 Watt
Voltage	120 Volts	120 Volts	120 Volts	120 Volts	120 Volts
Coffee Capsules	Compatible with all K-Cup pods	Compatible with all K-Cup pods	Compatible with all K-Cup pods	Not compatible with original Nespresso pods	Uses only ground coffee
Color	Dark charcoal	Black	Brushed silver, brushed slate, brushed gold	Chrome, black, red, titanium, matte black	Black with silver accents
Warranty	1 year	1 year	1 year	1 year	1 year
Features	Uses any K-cup pods; Includes a built-in milk frother; Can make hot and cold drinks; Easy-to-use buttons; Brews multiple cup sizes; Large water tank; Has dishwasher-safe parts; Energy-efficient; Accommodates tall mugs.	Serves different cup sizes; Integrated milk frother; Uses any K-cup pods; User-friendly; Removable water container; Energy-efficient.	Brews various cup sizes; Makes hot and cold drinks; Programmable settings; Built-in clock; Temperature control; Auto off mode; Large water reservoir; Sleek design; High altitude setting.	Automatic shut off; Fast heating time; Descaling alert; Cable length 33.5’’; Brews multiple coffee types; Accommodates different cup sizes; Big glass carafe; System of capsule recognition.	Uses no pods; Makes multiple types of coffee and tea; Brews different cup sizes; Makes cold and hot beverages; Smart basket recognition system; Built-in milk frother; Large carafe; Automatic shut off; Intelligent Warming Plate; Function of delayed brewing.
	Check Here	Check Here	Check Here	Check Here	Check Here

There might be not as full information as in the comparison of two almost similar devices. Indeed, Keurig K15 Vs K55 coffee makers review will reveal all the secrets of how the ideal drink should look like.

Final Thoughts

The K-Café is an ideal option to get espresso-style beverages in the comfort of your home. This unit is a little expensive as compared to other machines of the same category, but it features a larger water tank and is coupled with a milk frother. This is a significant addition for its price tag.

Some connoisseurs may doubt its true coffee taste because the machine is not able to blast 15 bars of hot water through your favorite coffee roast. However, this device makes decent drinks with little cleanup and hassle and allows you to avoid huge espresso chains in coffee shops.

References

• Official Keurig® K-Café™ Single Serve Coffee, Latte and Cappuccino Maker – https://www.keurig.com/
• NEW Keurig® K-Cafe™ Maker – https://www.youtube.com/