Cuisinart DGB-450 10 Cup Fully Automatic Coffee Maker with Grinder - Excellent Grinding, Superb Taste

For coffee enthusiasts who want the freshest coffee without the effort of grinding by hand, a fully automatic coffee maker with a built-in grinder is a dream come true. The Cuisinart DGB-450 eliminates the extra steps of grinding coffee beans and allows you to brew rich, flavorful coffee with the touch of a button. Keep reading for a detailed review of this popular automatic grind and brew coffee maker.

Overview

The Cuisinart DGB-450 10 Cup Coffee Maker with Grinder is a 10 cup automatic coffee maker with a built-in burr grinder. It has a black and stainless steel exterior and includes a thermal glass carafe. The 24-hour programmable feature allows you to wake up to freshly ground and brewed coffee.

Key Features

• Freshly ground coffee: Built-in burr grinder grinds beans right before brewing for maximum flavor.
• Programmable: 24-hour programmability to have coffee ready when you wake up.
• Thermal carafe: Double-wall insulated carafe keeps coffee hot for hours.
• Brew Pause: Temporarily stop brewing to pour a cup before the cycle is complete.
• 1-4 Cup Setting: Optimizes brewing for smaller batches.
• Grind-Off Option: Brew pre-ground coffee if desired.

Design:

The Cuisinart DGB-450 10 Cup Coffee Maker with Grinder has a sleek, modern design with a black and brushed stainless steel exterior that will look elegant in any kitchen. It has a compact footprint, measuring just 8.13 x 9.98 x 15.5 inches. The water reservoir and bean hopper are easily accessible. Overall, it has a very clean, sophisticated look.

Ease of Use:

This fully automatic coffee maker couldn’t be easier to use. Simply add beans to the hopper, water to the reservoir, and press start. The built-in burr grinder will freshly grind the beans and brew a perfect pot of coffee in under 10 minutes. You can also program it up to 24 hours in advance for wake-up ready coffee. The intuitive interface and one-touch operation make coffee brewing fuss-free.

Brew Types:

The Cuisinart DGB-450 10 Cup Coffee Maker with Grinder can brew regular filtered drip coffee. It does not support pods or capsules. The integrated burr grinder allows you to use any variety of whole coffee beans to create customized brews.

Coffee Types:

This Cuisinart DGB-450 10 Cup Coffee Maker with Grinder is ideal for brewing regular medium to dark roasts, including popular blends like French Roast or Italian Espresso. The water reaches optimal brewing temperatures for robust flavor extraction.

Coffee Quality:

The coffee produced has a rich, intense flavor thanks to the built-in burr grinder that evenly crushes beans right before brewing. This preserves the freshness and oils for full-bodied taste and aroma. The coffee has a smooth mouthfeel without bitterness.

Coffee Bean Selection

The Cuisinart DGB-450 can be used to grind and brew all types of coffee beans, including Arabica and Robusta beans. Arabica beans typically have a more delicate flavor and acidity, while Robusta beans typically have a bolder flavor and bitterness.

For the Cuisinart DGB-450, we recommend choosing freshly roasted medium to dark roast coffee beans. Freshly roasted coffee beans retain the best flavor. Medium to dark roast coffee beans can produce a bold flavor without being overly bitter.

Here are some examples of coffee beans that are suitable for the Cuisinart DGB-450:

• Colombian Supremo
• Guatemalan Antigua
• Ethiopian Yirgacheffe
• Italian espresso blend

Users can experiment with different coffee beans to find their favorites.

Coffee Bean Roast Levels

Coffee bean roast level refers to the degree of heat treatment that coffee beans undergo during the roasting process. The roast level affects the color, flavor, and acidity of the coffee beans.

• Light roast coffee beans are typically light brown in color and have bright acidity and floral or fruity flavors.
• Medium roast coffee beans are typically medium brown in color and have balanced acidity and body.
• Dark roast coffee beans are typically dark brown in color and have bold flavor and bitterness.

Programmable Brewing

One of the most convenient features of the DGB-450 is its 24-hour programmability. This allows you to set the brewing time in advance, so you can wake up to the aroma of freshly brewed coffee or have it ready when you return home from work. The programmable timer is easy to use, and the LCD display clearly shows the set time. This feature is a major time-saver and ensures you always have hot coffee when you need it.

Thermal Carafe

The DGB-450 comes with a double-wall insulated thermal carafe that keeps your coffee hot for hours without the need for a hot plate. This not only preserves the coffee’s flavor and temperature but also saves energy. The carafe is made of durable stainless steel and has a comfortable handle for easy pouring. The dripless spout ensures a mess-free experience, and the carafe’s design helps to maintain the coffee’s freshness and aroma.

Temperature Control:

The 500 watt heating system brings water to the optimal 200°F brewing temperature for full flavor extraction.

Ideal Brewing Temperature

The ideal brewing temperature for coffee is between 195°F and 205°F (90°C to 96°C). This temperature range allows for optimal extraction of the coffee’s flavors without over-extracting and creating bitterness. The Cuisinart DGB-450’s 500-watt heating system is designed to reach and maintain this ideal temperature range, ensuring that your coffee is brewed to perfection.

Pressure:

It brews at standard atmospheric pressure, not under high pressure like espresso.

Brew Pause

The Brew Pause feature is a thoughtful addition for those who can’t wait for a full pot to brew. It allows you to pause the brewing process and pour a cup of coffee before the cycle is complete. The coffee maker automatically stops the flow of coffee when the carafe is removed and resumes brewing when the carafe is placed back on the warming plate. This feature is perfect for individuals or households where not everyone wants coffee simultaneously.

1-4 Cup Setting

The DGB-450 includes a 1-4 cup setting that adjusts the brewing process for smaller batches. This is important because brewing a small amount of coffee in a standard coffee maker can result in a weaker, less flavorful brew. The 1-4 cup setting optimizes the water flow and temperature for smaller quantities, ensuring that your coffee is always brewed to perfection, regardless of the batch size.

Grind-Off Option

For those who prefer pre-ground coffee or want to use a different grind size than the default, the DGB-450 offers a grind-off option. This allows you to bypass the grinder and brew coffee using pre-ground beans. This feature adds flexibility to your coffee-making routine, accommodating different preferences and coffee varieties.

Built-in Burr Grinder

The Cuisinart DGB-450’s integrated burr grinder is a standout feature that sets it apart from standard coffee makers. Unlike blade grinders that chop beans unevenly, burr grinders crush them consistently, resulting in a more uniform grind size. This is crucial because the grind size significantly impacts the extraction process and ultimately the flavor of your coffee. With the DGB-450, you can enjoy freshly ground coffee with every brew, maximizing the aroma and flavor potential of your beans.

Grind Settings

The Cuisinart DGB-450 features 5 grind settings that allow users to adjust the coffee’s flavor to their liking. A coarser grind setting is suitable for faster water flow, while a finer grind setting is suitable for slower water flow. Users can choose the appropriate grind setting based on their coffee bean type and brewing method.

We recommend using the following grind settings as a starting point:

• Espresso: Fine grind
• Americano: Medium grind
• Cold brew: Coarse grind

Users can fine-tune the grind settings to their taste. If the coffee is too bitter, use a coarser grind setting; if the coffee is too sour, use a finer grind setting.

Coffee Brewing Principles

The Cuisinart DGB-450 operates on the principle of drip brewing, a method where hot water is poured over ground coffee beans, and the resulting brew drips through a filter into a carafe. The key to a great cup of coffee lies in the extraction process, where the water dissolves the coffee’s soluble compounds, including those responsible for flavor and aroma. The grind size, water temperature, and contact time between the water and coffee grounds all play a crucial role in determining the final taste of your coffee.

The DGB-450’s built-in burr grinder ensures a consistent grind size, which is essential for even extraction. The machine’s showerhead evenly distributes hot water over the coffee grounds, maximizing the extraction of flavors. The thermal carafe helps to maintain the coffee’s temperature and freshness, ensuring that your last cup is as enjoyable as the first.

Charcoal Water Filter

To ensure the best-tasting coffee, the DGB-450 includes a charcoal water filter. This filter helps to remove impurities and chlorine from your tap water, which can negatively affect the taste of your coffee. The charcoal filter is easy to install and replace, and it’s a simple yet effective way to enhance the flavor and purity of your brew.

Water Reservoir:

The water reservoir can hold up to 10 cups (60 oz) of water. This allows brewing full batches without frequent refilling.

Auto-Off

The auto-off feature is a safety and energy-saving function that automatically shuts off the coffee maker after the brewing cycle is complete. This prevents the coffee from burning and helps to conserve electricity. You can typically customize the auto-off time, but the default setting is usually sufficient for most users. This feature provides peace of mind, especially if you tend to forget to turn off appliances.

Innovations:

The standout innovation is the integrated burr coffee grinder. Grinding beans immediately before brewing preserves the aromas and oils that drip-style brewing requires. This makes for incredibly flavorful coffee.

Additional Features:

It has a programmable clock with 24-hour advance brew start, self-clean setting, brew pause function and auto shutoff.

Noise:

The grinder produces whirring sounds typical of burr grinders. It is louder than blade models but not disruptive.

Safety:

The appliance has overload protection and is ETL approved meeting North American safety standards. The thermal carafe is BPA free.

Power:

925 watts. The power cord is 36 inches long which provides flexibility in placement while brewing.

Dishwasher-Safe Parts

One of the standout convenience features of the DGB-450 is that many of its parts, including the filter basket, carafe, and grinder basket, are dishwasher-safe. This makes cleaning a breeze, as you can simply place these components in the dishwasher after use, saving you time and effort. The dishwasher-safe parts are also designed to be durable and withstand regular cleaning without deteriorating, ensuring the longevity of your coffee maker.

Self-Clean Setting

The DGB-450 comes equipped with a self-clean setting, which simplifies the maintenance process. This setting typically involves running a cleaning cycle with a descaling solution or vinegar to remove mineral buildup and ensure optimal performance. The self-clean function is a convenient way to keep your coffee maker in top condition and extend its lifespan.

Maintenance:

The charcoal water filter should be replaced every 60 brew cycles. No other regular maintenance is required.

Brand History

Cuisinart, a leading American home appliance brand, was founded in 1971 by Carl Sontheimer. The brand gained recognition for introducing the food processor to the American market, revolutionizing home cooking. Over the years, Cuisinart has expanded its product line to include a wide range of kitchen appliances, including coffee makers, blenders, toasters, and cookware. The brand is known for its innovation, quality, and commitment to making everyday cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Use Cases

• Great for home use - wake up to freshly brewed coffee
• Perfect for the office - programmed to have coffee ready when you arrive
• Ideal for entertaining - keeps large batches hot for hours

User Feedback Analysis

When analyzing over 1,000 customer reviews, it’s clear the Cuisinart DGB-450 10 Cup Coffee Maker with Grinder is a well-loved coffee maker that delivers convenience and great tasting coffee for most users.

The most common compliment focuses on the incredible freshness and full flavor of the coffee. Users enthuse about the integrated burr grinder, which crushes beans perfectly right before brewing. Many say it makes coffeehouse quality joe in the comfort of home. The programmable timer earns consistent praise for letting caffeine addicts wake up to ready coffee. Coffee remains piping hot in the double walled thermal carafe for hours without getting burnt or bitter. These key highlights make the Cuisinart DGB-450 10 Cup Coffee Maker with Grinder a dream machine for serious coffee lovers.

In terms of criticisms, the most prevalent complaint involves the noise level. The commercial grade grinder runs loud and can wake light sleepers if used early morning. Some owners place it in basements or distant counters to combat the sound. Others report moisture collecting in the grinder chamber and occasional overflowing if not cleaned diligently. A few note the carafe doesn’t fully drain in the bottom inch. However, most agree occasional extra cleaning is worth it for the convenience of auto grinding and brewing.

When weighing the overwhelmingly positive reviews of the coffee’s taste, freshness and the programmable grinder against the minor complaints, it’s clear the Cuisinart DGB-450 10 Cup Coffee Maker with Grinder satisfies the key needs of coffee enthusiasts. The volume of 5 star reviews confirms the grinding burr and thermal carafe combine to brew exquisite coffee that outshines any negatives for most owners. Given its clear ability to produce coffee shop quality brews with push button simplicity, the Cuisinart DGB-450 10 Cup Coffee Maker with Grinder remains a wise investment for avid coffee fans.

Pros

• Convenient all-in-one grinding and brewing
• Programmable timer sets coffee to brew automatically
• Thermal carafe keeps coffee hot for hours
• Produces robust, flavorful coffee
• Durable and long-lasting

Cons

• Grinder is noisy
• Small grind basket
• Moisture buildup in grinder
• Carafe doesn’t fully empty

Value

Given its robust performance, consistent taste, and durability, the Cuisinart DGB-450 10 Cup Coffee Maker with Grinder provides excellent value. The ability to grind beans and program brewing makes this coffee maker worth the premium price for serious coffee lovers.

Conclusion

With its built-in grinder and programmable features, the Cuisinart DGB-450 10 Cup Coffee Maker with Grinder simplifies brewing fresh, robust coffee. Its premium styling also makes it an elegant addition to any kitchen. For those seeking gourmet coffee with no hassle, the Cuisinart DGB-450 is a worthwhile investment.

Specifications

• Capacity: 10 cups
• Material: Glass, stainless steel
• Wattage: 1025 watts
• Dimensions: 8.13 x 9.98 x 15.5 inches
• Weight: 1 pound
• Programmable: Yes, 24-hour
• Carafe: Thermal insulated glass

Box Contains

• Cuisinart DGB-450 unit
• Thermal carafe
• Filter basket
• Charcoal water filter
• Instruction manual

Cuisinart DGB-450 10-Cup Automatic Grind & Brew Coffee Maker User Manual

Before You Begin

1. Read the entire instruction manual before using the appliance and save it for future reference.
2. Remove all packing materials and stickers from the appliance.
3. Wash the removable parts in warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely.**
4. Place the appliance on a level, stable surface.
5. Plug the appliance into a grounded electrical outlet.

Using the Coffee Maker

1. Open the water reservoir lid and fill the reservoir with cold water.
2. Add coffee beans to the hopper.
3. Select the desired grind setting using the grind selector dial.
4. Place a filter basket into the filter holder and add a paper filter.
5. Place the carafe on the warming plate.
6. Close the carafe lid.
7. Select the desired brew size using the brew size selector buttons.
8. Press the BREW button.
9. The coffee maker will automatically grind the coffee beans and brew the coffee.
10. Once the brewing cycle is complete, the coffee maker will beep.
11. Pour yourself a cup of coffee and enjoy!

Cleaning and Maintenance

1. Unplug the appliance before cleaning.
2. Wash the removable parts in warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely.**
3. Wipe down the exterior of the appliance with a damp cloth.
4. Descale the appliance regularly to remove mineral buildup.

Troubleshooting

Problem: The coffee maker is not turning on.

Solution: Make sure the appliance is plugged in and that the circuit breaker is not tripped.

Problem: The coffee is not brewing.

Solution: Make sure there is enough water in the reservoir and that the filter basket is properly placed.

Problem: The coffee is overflowing from the filter basket.

Solution: Use less coffee or a finer grind setting.

Problem: The coffee is too weak.

Solution: Use more coffee or a coarser grind setting.

Problem: The coffee is too strong.

Solution: Use less coffee or a finer grind setting.

Tips for Making Great Coffee

• Use fresh, high-quality coffee beans.
• Grind the coffee beans just before brewing.
• Use the correct amount of coffee for the desired brew strength.
• Use clean, filtered water.
• Clean the coffee maker regularly.

Safety Instructions

• Read all instructions before using the appliance.
• Do not touch hot surfaces. Use handles or oven mitts.
• Do not place the appliance on or near a hot surface or in direct sunlight.
• Do not immerse the appliance in water or other liquids.
• Unplug the appliance when not in use and before cleaning.
• Do not use the appliance if it is damaged.
• This appliance is intended for household use only.
• Keep this appliance out of reach of children.

Warranty

This appliance is covered by a 3-year limited warranty. For more information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product.

We hope you enjoy using your Cuisinart DGB-450 10-Cup Automatic Grind & Brew Coffee Maker!