Making the Perfect Cappuccino With My New Espresso Maker from Walmart

I’m so happy to partner with Walmart on this post because you all have GOT to see this espresso maker I just got. If you love a strong cup of coffee but not a lot of fuss, this slim espresso maker from the Drew Barrymore line is perfect for you too. It comes in several colors. Mine is Porcini Taupe! I also love that it’s slim – perfect for small spaces or countertops!

I’ll admit – I’ve been intimidated by espresso machines in the past, so I’ve used automatic machines. The problem is that Mike and I like a STRONG cup of coffee, and the automatic machines out there just don’t deliver strong as easily. I also wanted to step up my coffee bar game when we entertain. I love having an espresso after lunch, enjoy Americanos, and love a good cappuccino!

Ordering on Walmart was quick and easy. My espresso machine arrived in just two days right to my doorstep. I even picked up a few decor pieces for the Airbnb while I was at it. This hurricane glass, battery operated candle, and basket tray are the perfect classic touches for my coffee table or chest of drawers. Check out some of these classic pieces I found:

Making the Perfect Cup of Cappuccino

OK let’s get to it! Here’s how I made the perfect cappuccino. You can skip the last few steps if you’d just like to make straight espresso!

The first few steps are for your first time using the machine

Step 1 – Unbox your machine. Be sure to pull the red plug from the bottom of the water reservoir. I then washed all the parts with some hot soapy water.

Step 2 – Place the empty double shot filter into the portafilter (that’s the espresso basket with a handle). Lock it into place by moving it to the right.

Step 3 – Place a mug under the spout. Select the double shot button to run water through the machine to pre-heat it and purge the brew head.

Step 4 – Place your mug or mugs on top of the machine to warm.

Step 5 – Remove the portafilter from the machine by swiveling it to the left. Scoop your choice of espresso into the filter basket. If you want a double shot of espresso, use the larger basket. Single shot, use the half basket.

Step 6 – Tamp the espresso down into the basket using the tamper tool. Make sure your grounds are not loose in the basket.

Step 7 – Lock the portafilter back into place on the machine by sliding it to the right. (That’s the basket on a handle thing that holds the grounds).

Step 8 – Place your espresso mugs under the spout again and press either the single or double shot button, depending on the filter basket you chose. Sit back and watch the magic pour into your mugs! After about a minute, it’s time to enjoy your espresso!

Optional Steps for a Cappuccino

Step 9 – I steamed some almond milk to turn mine into a cappuccino! The machine includes a milk frother on the side. I filled another larger glass mug with almond milk creamer, about 2 ounces full. Place it under the spout. Press the Steam button on the front of your machine. The icon will flash and switch to solid once it’s pre-heated.

Step 10 – Turn the knob on the side of the machine to Steam. Some water might come out of the spout, so have your glass there. Once water stops and steam starts coming out, turn the knob back to Stand By.

Step 11 – Steam the milk. Place the tip of the steam wand into the milk, about 1/3 from the edge of the glass. Make sure the wand is consistently submerged to avoid splashing. Keep on frothing until you have the amount of foam you like!

Now the next step might not be barista-standard, but I poured my shot of espresso INTO the frothed milk glass and then back into my shot of espresso. It blended it nicely, while still maintaining the foamy head. Delicious!!