Cuisinart ESPRESSO BAR EM160E Series Manual

The Cuisinart ESPRESSO BAR EM160E Series is a versatile 15-bar pump espresso machine designed for home use. It features a professional-grade frothing wand for cappuccinos and lattes, a removable water reservoir, a warming plate to keep cups hot, and a convenient drip tray. The machine includes a single and double shot filter basket, a tamper, and a measuring scoop. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 15-bar Italian pump, Professional frothing wand, Removable 1.2L water reservoir, Cup warming plate, Drip tray with water level indicator, Single and double shot filter baskets, Tamper, Measuring scoop.

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect all components. Place on a clean, stable, and heat-resistant surface.

1. Remove all packaging materials and stickers from the machine.
2. Fill the removable water reservoir with fresh, cold water and reinsert it firmly.
3. Plug the power cord into a standard 120V AC outlet.
4. Turn the machine ON using the power button. The indicator light will illuminate.
5. Allow the machine to heat up for approximately 5-10 minutes until the ready light is steady.

WARNING! Ensure the machine is placed away from the edge of countertops and out of reach of children. Do not operate with an empty water reservoir.

Specifications

• Model: EM160E Series
• Pump Pressure: 15 bars
• Water Tank Capacity: 1.2 Liters (removable)
• Power: 120V AC, 60Hz, 1350W
• Cord Length: Approximately 2 feet
• Dimensions (HxWxD): 11" x 8.5" x 12.5"
• Weight: 9.5 lbs
• Included Accessories: Single & Double Shot Filter Baskets, Tamper, Measuring Scoop, Instruction Booklet
• Warranty: Limited 3-year warranty

Controls and Functions

Front Panel: POWER Button/Indicator, BREW Button, STEAM Button, Control Knob.

Operation: The POWER button turns the machine on for heating. The BREW button activates the pump to pull an espresso shot. The STEAM button switches the boiler to steam mode for the frothing wand. The Control Knob turns the steam/hot water flow on and off and regulates its intensity.

Indicator Lights: Power Light (steady when on), Ready Light (flashes during heat-up, steady when at optimal brewing temperature).

Brewing Espresso

1. Ensure the machine is heated and the ready light is steady.
2. Grind fresh espresso beans to a fine consistency. Use the measuring scoop to dose the correct amount (approx. 7g for single, 14g for double).
3. Insert the desired filter basket into the portafilter. Add ground coffee and tamp firmly and evenly with the provided tamper.
4. Lock the portafilter securely into the group head.
5. Place a pre-warmed cup under the portafilter.
6. Press the BREW button. Brewing will begin; stop the shot manually by pressing the button again after 25-30 seconds for a standard double shot, or according to taste.
7. After brewing, carefully remove the portafilter and knock out the used coffee puck.

Tip: Always purge the group head by running a short burst of water (without the portafilter) before and after brewing to clean and stabilize temperature.

Frothing Milk

For cappuccinos and lattes:

1. Fill a small metal pitcher about 1/3 full with cold milk (whole milk froths best).
2. Ensure the machine is hot. Press the STEAM button. Wait for the steam ready indicator.
3. Open the Control Knob slightly to purge any condensed water from the wand until you see a steady jet of dry steam.
4. Submerge the tip of the frothing wand just below the surface of the milk and open the knob fully.
5. Keep the wand tip near the surface to introduce air and create foam (a slight tearing sound). Once the milk expands and becomes slightly warm to the touch, submerge the wand deeper to heat and texture the milk without adding more air. Heat to 150°F (65°C).
6. Close the Control Knob. Remove the pitcher. Wipe the wand immediately with a damp cloth and purge it briefly to clear any milk residue.
7. Pour the frothed milk over your espresso.

Cleaning & Maintenance

Daily: Wipe the housing with a soft, damp cloth. Empty and rinse the drip tray and water reservoir. Clean the steam wand immediately after each use.

Weekly: Remove and clean the portafilter and filter baskets with warm water. Do not use abrasive cleaners. Backflush the group head by inserting a blind filter (if available) and running the brew cycle for 5 seconds with a small amount of espresso machine cleaner.

CAUTION! Always unplug the machine and allow it to cool completely before cleaning. Never immerse the main unit, cord, or plug in water.

Descaling

Mineral buildup from hard water can affect performance. Descale every 2-3 months or as needed.

1. Fill the water reservoir with a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water, or a commercial descaling solution.
2. Place a large container under the group head and steam wand.
3. Turn the machine on. Run the brew function until half the solution is dispensed. Turn the machine off and let it sit for 15 minutes.
4. Turn the machine back on and run the brew function to dispense the remaining solution.
5. Rinse the water reservoir thoroughly and refill with clean water. Run several cycles of clean water through both the brew system and the steam wand to flush out any descaling residue.

Regulatory Information

This appliance complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference. This product is for household use only. Copyright © Cuisinart. For support, visit www.cuisinart.com or contact customer service at 1-800-726-0190.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Unplug the machine for 5 minutes, then plug back in.

Service: For repairs not covered in troubleshooting, contact Cuisinart Customer Service: 1-800-726-0190 or www.cuisinart.com.