Best Espresso Beans for Breville

Best Espresso Beans for Breville Coffee Machines

Have you been wondering what are the best espresso beans for breville espresso machines? 

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If you're on the hunt for the best espresso beans to use with your Breville coffee machine, you’ve come to the right place. With so many options out there, it can be tough to figure out which beans will give you that perfect shot of espresso.

Whether you prefer bold flavors or something a bit smoother, there’s a bean blend that can match your taste. Here’s a list of some standout espresso beans that work wonderfully with Breville machines, ensuring you get the most out of your brewing experience.

Best Espresso Beans for Breville Coffee Post Overview

  • Look for blends specifically crafted for espresso to enhance flavor and extraction.
  • Medium roast beans often provide a balanced taste ideal for espresso shots.
  • Freshness matters; always opt for freshly roasted beans for the best flavor.
  • Consider the flavor notes you enjoy, like chocolate, nutty, or fruity profiles.
  • Experiment with different brands to find your personal favorite.

1. Coffeeness Espresso Blend

Okay, so first up is the Coffeeness Espresso Blend. After years of reviewing espresso machines, they decided to make their own blend. It's pretty cool to see a company put their experience into a product like that.

This blend uses ethically sourced beans, which is always a plus in my book. They roast it in small batches in Brooklyn, aiming for freshness. The tasting notes are chocolate and hazelnut, which sounds amazing for an espresso. Plus, it's supposed to be easy on the stomach, which is great if you're like me and sometimes get a little sensitive to coffee. It's a highly rated coffee blend that is worth checking out.

I've been using this blend for a few weeks now, and I have to say, it's become my go-to for my morning espresso. The chocolate and hazelnut notes are definitely there, and it's smooth enough that I can drink it straight without any issues. It's also been really consistent, which is a big deal for me. I hate when you get a bag of beans and the quality is all over the place.

Here's a quick rundown:

  • Roast Level: Medium
  • Origin: Mogiana region of Brazil
  • Tasting Notes: Chocolate, hazelnut

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2. Herkimer Coffee Espresso Blend

Herkimer Coffee might not be the loudest name in Seattle's coffee scene, but they've been quietly crushing it since 2003. They focus on building real relationships with coffee farmers, from El Salvador all the way to Yemen. This dedication shines through in their single origin offerings and, of course, their espresso blend.

This blend is a mix of beans from the Americas and East Africa. It's got a medium roast, making it versatile for different espresso drinks. I'm talking straight shots or something with steamed milk. During my testing, I got notes of pie crust, dark chocolate, citrus, and even some red fruit. It's complex, full-bodied, and sweet – a real winner.

Honestly, the espresso macchiato I made with this blend was one of the best I've ever had. That's saying something, considering how much coffee I drink!

Here's a quick rundown:

  • Medium roast
  • Sourced from Central and South America, and Africa
  • Tasting notes: Citrus, chocolate, graham cracker

3. Lavazza Super Crema

I had to put Lavazza Super Crema on this list for a couple of reasons. First, I know how many people love Italian-style espresso blends. Second, this coffee is a great deal at around $17 for a 2.2-pound bag. You know I try to avoid those big brands you see everywhere. But, if you have to grab coffee at the supermarket, Lavazza Super Crema is worth a look.

It's a classic Italian blend, with some Robusta beans in there. It's not roasted super dark, though. The espresso shots I pulled were full-bodied and had a smokey flavor, with lots of crema thanks to the Robusta.

I was also surprised by how complex it was. I really liked the long, sweet finish with hazelnut notes. If you're into Italian coffee, you'll probably love this blend. It's a solid choice for a Breville machine.

4. Verve Coffee Roasters Swara AB

Verve Coffee Roasters has been getting a lot of buzz lately, especially after being named Roaster of the Year back in 2024. It's not hard to see why – they're super focused on quality and doing things the right way when it comes to being sustainable.

They still have that small-business vibe, even though they've got a bunch of cafes in California and even one in Japan. I'd been hearing about Verve Coffee Roasters Swara AB Single Origin Espresso for a while, so I had to try it. It's a light roast made with awesome Kenyan coffees from a single mill near Nairobi.

I was a little worried about using Kenyan coffee for espresso because it can be pretty bright and fruity. But honestly, I was really happy with how it turned out. If you like espresso that's delicate and fruity, you'll love this. It totally lives up to the tropical fruit and honey promise, and it's not sour at all. The acidity is there, but it's not too much.

Honestly, I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this coffee. It's not something I'd usually go for, but it's definitely a great option if you're looking for something a little different. Plus, it's always cool to support a company that cares about where their coffee comes from.

5. Stumptown Hair Bender

Stumptown Coffee Roasters, hailing from Portland, Oregon, has become a well-known name in the coffee world. Hair Bender is their original espresso blend, created by Duane Sorensen back in the late 90s. It's a mix of coffees from Latin America, Indonesia, and Africa. What's cool is how consistent it is. It tastes the same now as it always has!

It's a balanced and complex blend, great for both straight espresso and lattes. I like the citrusy flavor, which goes well with the dried fruit and chocolate, ending with a sweet finish. By the way, the coffee's name comes from a beauty parlor that used to be in Stumptown's first cafe. If you're looking for excellent quality coffee beans, this is a solid choice.

Hair Bender is designed to balance brightness with body and sweetness. Stumptown aims to feature coffees from all three major growing regions: Latin America, Africa, and Indonesia.

6. Onyx Coffee Lab Monarch

Onyx Coffee Lab, hailing from Arkansas, has become a significant player in the specialty coffee world. They're dedicated to sustainability, sourcing top-notch coffee from farmers they know and trust. Plus, they've even got a solar-powered roastery! I think that's pretty cool.

I decided to try their Monarch blend, and I have to say, their website is packed with information. The transparency is impressive. The Monarch blend is crafted to be enjoyed with milk.

Straight up as an espresso shot, it was okay, but nothing special. But, when I made a latte? That's where it shined. The creamy milk really brought out the caramel sweetness. It's easily one of the best espresso beans for milk drinks I've tried. If you're looking for a reliable option for your Breville and love milk-based drinks, this is a solid choice. Customers rave about the taste and aroma.

Here's a quick rundown:

  • Roast Level: Medium-dark
  • Origin: Colombia, Ethiopia
  • Tasting Notes: Dark chocolate, caramel, molasses
Onyx Coffee Lab's commitment to sustainable practices and transparent sourcing is commendable. Their Monarch blend is a testament to their dedication to quality, especially when paired with milk for a delightful latte experience.

7. Intelligentsia Black Cat Espresso

Intelligentsia has been around for a while, and they're known for being a big deal in the third wave coffee movement. Even though a big company owns them now, they still care about making good coffee and working with farmers they trust.

Black Cat Classic has been Intelligentsia’s flagship espresso blend since the roastery opened in 1995. It's supposed to be a modern take on Italian espresso, with chocolate and molasses flavors. I think it's a solid choice, especially if you like your espresso with milk. It's not super strong on its own, but it really shines in a latte or cappuccino. The low acidity and chocolate notes make it a winner for milk-based drinks.

I've found that this espresso blend really shines as the base for milk drinks. Thanks to its low acidity and chocolate notes, I definitely recommend Black Cat for latte and cappuccino.

8. Blue Bottle Espresso

Blue Bottle Coffee is a big name, especially if you're into the whole third wave coffee scene. Even though Nestlé owns most of it now, they still seem to care about quality and treating coffee farmers right. So, that's a plus.

Blue Bottle Espresso is a darker roast compared to some of the other beans on this list. Some people just like that smoky, chocolatey flavor more than something fruity, and this one definitely delivers. It's a blend of organic beans from Latin America and Africa, and it's pretty oily, so you might not get all those subtle flavors. But honestly, I was surprised by how much I liked the espresso I made with it.

I was able to pull some really rich, satisfying shots with a good amount of crema. The smokiness was there, but it had a nice, sweet finish too. It's good with milk, and I bet it would even make a decent drip coffee or French press.

Here's a quick rundown:

  • Roast Level: Medium-dark
  • Origin: Latin America, Central Africa
  • Tasting Notes: Chocolate, nougat, brown sugar

9. Presta Coffee Roasters 120 PSI

Presta Coffee Roasters, based in Tucson, Arizona, has been around since 2014. They're one of my favorite roasters. They roast daily in small batches and run a couple of cool cafés. If I'm looking for a unique single origin coffee, Presta is often my go-to. They always have a changing selection, with beans processed in interesting ways.

For this guide, I chose Presta Coffee Roasters 120 PSI. It's their signature espresso blend, and what they serve in their cafés. It's a mix of washed and natural process coffee beans, with a medium roast. I think this espresso blend is good for both straight shots and milk drinks. Getting it just right can be a bit tricky.

I had to play around with grind size, dose, and extraction time during testing, but it was worth it. I ended up with delicate, complex espresso, with a medium body and syrupy feel. I also tasted milk chocolate and stone fruit notes. The name "120 PSI" refers to 9 bars, which is the ideal pressure for espresso extraction.

By the way, if you haven't figured it out yet, the name "120 PSI" refers to 9 bars – the ideal pressure for extracting espresso. Pretty cool, eh?

10. Cuvée Coffee Stella Cometa

Cuvée Coffee, hailing from Austin, Texas, has been building relationships with coffee producers since the late 90s, making them one of the early adopters of direct trade practices. This approach not only benefits the farmers but also helps Cuvée maintain a consistent level of quality in their beans.

Cuvée's Stella Cometa is their signature espresso blend. The name, which translates to "Guiding Light" in Italian, hints at its inspiration from traditional Old World blends. It's crafted entirely from 100% Arabica beans and features a medium roast profile.

I found Stella Cometa to be a bit underwhelming as a straight shot of espresso. However, it really shines when paired with milk in drinks like cappuccinos. The roasty, slightly medicinal notes complement the caramelized sugars in milk beautifully. So, if you're a latte lover, this one might be a winner.

I've been experimenting with different espresso beans lately, and it's amazing how much the taste changes depending on the roast and blend. Stella Cometa is a good reminder that some beans are just meant to be enjoyed with milk, bringing out flavors you wouldn't notice otherwise.

Cuvée Coffee Stella Cometa — Best 100% Arabica Coffee Beans for Espresso

  • Roast Level: Medium
  • Origin: Central and South America
  • Tasting Notes: Caramel, molasses

11. Devoción Toro

If you're after something a bit different, Brooklyn-based Devoción might be your jam. They're all about sustainability and getting you the freshest coffee possible. Forget just roast dates; Devoción sources directly from Colombia, flying beans to New York just days after harvest. Seriously, you're talking about coffee roasted less than two weeks after it was picked. That's pretty wild.

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I grabbed a bag of Devoción Toro, one of their most popular blends. It's a medium roast, leaning towards the darker side, and after some fiddling, I pulled some amazing espresso. The mouthfeel was super viscous, and I loved the acidity, backed by a full, juicy body. I picked up notes of dark fruit, molasses, and almond, with a finish that just wouldn't quit. I'm officially a fan.

Honestly, the freshness factor alone makes this one worth trying. It's like the difference between grabbing a tomato from your garden versus one that's been sitting in the grocery store for a week. You can just taste the difference.

Here's what makes it stand out:

  • Unbelievably fresh beans
  • Directly sourced from Colombia
  • Unique flavor profile

12. Peet's Coffee Espresso Forte

Peet's Coffee Espresso Forte is a solid choice if you're looking for something reliable and bold. It's not going to blow your mind with exotic flavors, but it delivers a consistent, strong espresso experience. This blend is designed to cut through milk, making it a good option for lattes and cappuccinos.

I've found that it's a pretty forgiving bean to work with, even if you're not a seasoned barista. It's a good everyday option if you want something that's easy to dial in and consistently produces a decent shot.

Here's what you can expect:

  • A dark, rich flavor profile.
  • Good crema production.
  • Works well in milk-based drinks.

If you're seeking a straightforward, no-fuss espresso, Peet's Espresso Forte is worth considering. For those seeking a boost, Peet's Coffee Ultra Concentrate Instant might also be of interest.

13. Illy Classico Espresso

Okay, so Illy Classico Espresso. I remember the first time I tried it. I was at a Williams Sonoma, and they were using it in their Breville machine. I took a sip and was like, "Whoa, what is this?" It was so smooth and rich. Turns out, it was Illy. You can even find it at regular grocery stores, which is pretty cool.

Illy is known for producing excellent crema when used in a good espresso machine. The beans come vacuum-sealed, which is great because it keeps them fresh. They're also sustainably sourced, which is a nice bonus. The flavor notes are usually chocolate and molasses, giving it that classic Italian espresso vibe. If you're looking for a reliable and consistent espresso, Illy Whole Bean Espresso Coffee is a solid choice.

I've found that Illy is a good option when you want something that's easy to find and consistently good. It might not be the most adventurous choice, but it's a dependable one, especially if you're just starting out with espresso at home.

Here's a quick rundown:

  • Bag size: Usually around 12 ounces.
  • Origin: Often from Brazil.
  • Tasting notes: Chocolate and molasses are common.

14. Death Wish Coffee

Death Wish Coffee is not for the faint of heart. If you're looking for a serious caffeine kick, this might be your brew. It's known for being one of the strongest coffees around, so approach with caution!

This coffee features a blend of premium Arabica and Robusta beans, delivering a dark, oily look and a strong caffeine kick. If you need a jolt to start your day, Death Wish Coffee could be the answer.

Here's what you can expect:

  • Intense Flavor: A bold, dark roast with notes of chocolate and black cherry.
  • High Caffeine: Be prepared for a significant energy boost.
  • Not for Everyone: If you prefer a milder taste, this might be too overpowering.

15. Kicking Horse Coffee Kick Ass

Kicking Horse Coffee Kick Ass beans in a wooden bowl.

Okay, let's talk about Kicking Horse Coffee's Kick Ass blend. I remember the first time I tried it; the name alone made me curious. It's definitely not your average, run-of-the-mill coffee. This one's for those mornings when you need a serious jumpstart.

It's a dark roast, so expect a bold flavor. I've noticed notes of chocolate malt, molasses, and even a hint of licorice. It's got an earthy finish that lingers, which I personally enjoy. If you're into lighter, fruitier coffees, this might not be your cup of tea (or coffee, I guess). But if you like something with a bit of a punch, give it a shot. It might just become your new go-to.

I've found that it works really well in my Breville. It produces a nice, thick crema, and the flavor really shines through. Just be careful not to over-extract it, as it can get a little bitter if you do. Experiment with your grind size and extraction time to find the sweet spot.

Here's a few reasons why I think it's worth checking out:

  • It's organic and fair trade, which is always a plus.
  • The flavor profile is unique and interesting.
  • It's widely available, so you shouldn't have trouble finding it.

I'd say, if you're looking for a bold blend to kickstart your day, Kicking Horse Coffee Kick Ass is definitely worth a try.

16. Counter Culture Coffee Big Trouble

Counter Culture Coffee's Big Trouble blend is designed to be both balanced and sweet. It's crafted to work well as both an espresso and a drip coffee, though it's often their go-to recommendation for espresso. If you prefer something a bit more vibrant, they also have a blend called Hologram.

Counter Culture Coffee updated their blends in 2014 to better align with their seasonal coffee sourcing practices. Big Trouble aims for a profile that's balanced, sweet, and full-bodied.

Here's a quick rundown:

  • Bag size: 12 ounces
  • Coffee origin: Columbia, Ethiopia
  • Roaster’s tasting notes: Caramel, nutty, full body

This espresso is known for its rich, sweet, and velvety profile, featuring subtle hints of light cocoa and caramel. You can find it at various retailers, including Amazon and Walmart.

17. Rook Coffee Espresso

Rook Coffee Espresso is a solid choice if you're looking for something reliable and bold. It's known for its intense flavor profile, which is great for those who like their espresso to really pack a punch. I've found it works well in my Breville, producing a rich crema and a strong, lingering taste.

It's not the most nuanced coffee out there, but it's consistent, and sometimes that's exactly what you need. If you're after something that cuts through milk nicely in a latte or cappuccino, this could be a good option. Plus, it's pretty easy to find, which is always a bonus.

I appreciate that Rook is a local roaster for me, so I know I'm getting something relatively fresh. It's become a staple in my rotation for when I want something straightforward and dependable.

18. Ditta Artigianale Espresso

Ditta Artigianale Espresso comes from Italy, and it's got a reputation for being pretty good. You'll probably notice chocolate and molasses flavors. It's a solid choice if you're into that classic Italian espresso taste. I think it's a good option for your Breville machine.

I've found that the roast level really affects how well these beans work in my Breville. If you're not getting the results you want, try adjusting your grind size a bit. It can make a big difference.

Here's a quick rundown:

  • Bag size: 12 ounces
  • Origin: Brazil
  • Tasting notes: Chocolate, molasses

19. Stumptown Holler Mountain

Stumptown is a big name in coffee, and Holler Mountain is one of their popular blends. I've always been curious about it, so I decided to give it a try. It's known for being a versatile coffee, good for both espresso and drip. Stumptown Coffee Roasters focuses on long-lasting relationships and sustainability.

I found it to be a solid choice, especially if you're looking for something that's easy to brew and consistently good. It might not be the most exciting coffee out there, but it's a reliable option for everyday use. It's a good all-rounder.

Here's what I noticed:

  • The flavor is balanced, with a mix of chocolate and fruit notes.
  • It's not too acidic, which is a plus for me.
  • It works well in my Breville machine, producing a decent crema.

I think this Mountain Organic coffee is a good choice for people who want a dependable coffee without any fuss. It's not going to blow your mind, but it's a solid, enjoyable cup.

20. La Colombe Corsica

La Colombe's Corsica is a dark roast that's been around for a while, and it's a popular choice for those who like a bold, chocolatey flavor in their espresso. It's designed to be strong and intense, which makes it a good pick if you want something that will really wake you up in the morning.

I've found that Corsica works pretty well in a Breville machine, especially if you're making milk-based drinks like lattes or cappuccinos. The strong flavor cuts through the milk nicely, so you don't end up with something too weak or watery.

Here's what you can expect:

  • Dark, rich flavor
  • Chocolate and caramel notes
  • Good for milk drinks
If you're someone who prefers a lighter, more nuanced espresso, this might not be the best choice for you. But if you like a classic, bold flavor, La Colombe Corsica is definitely worth a try.

21. Verve Coffee Roasters Streetlevel

Verve Coffee Roasters has been making waves, even earning the title of Roaster of the Year back in 2024. It's not hard to see why; they're all about top-notch quality and keeping things sustainable. They still feel like a small business, even with cafes in California and Japan.

Streetlevel is a medium-dark roast, and it's a blend of beans from South and Central America, plus Indonesia. Expect tasting notes of hazelnut and brown sugar. I think it's a solid choice if you're looking for something reliable and easy to enjoy. It's a good all-arounder that won't disappoint.

I've found that this blend works well for both espresso and drip coffee. It's got enough body to stand up to milk in a latte, but it's also smooth enough to drink black. If you're looking for a versatile coffee that you can use for different brewing methods, this is a good option.

22. Colectivo Coffee Espresso

Close-up of Colectivo Coffee Espresso beans on a table.

Colectivo Coffee Espresso is a solid choice if you're looking for something reliable and easy to find. It's not going to blow your mind with exotic flavors, but it consistently delivers a decent cup. I've found it to be a good option when I just want a no-fuss espresso without having to think too much about dialing it in.

It's a good all-arounder, especially if you're new to making espresso at home and want something forgiving while you learn. The flavor profile is pretty balanced, making it versatile for different types of drinks.

Here's a quick rundown:

  • Roast Level: Usually a medium roast, which is a safe bet for espresso.
  • Flavor Notes: Expect something classic like chocolate, nuts, and maybe a hint of fruit.
  • Availability: Widely available, so you can usually find it at your local grocery store or online.

I've used it in my Breville machine without any major issues. It grinds well, tamps nicely, and produces a respectable crema. If you're looking for a pour-over coffee maker to pair with it, that's a great idea too!

23. Heart Coffee Roasters Heart Roasted Espresso

Okay, so Heart Coffee Roasters' Heart Roasted Espresso is a big deal in the coffee world. I've heard so many people rave about it, and I finally got around to trying it myself. It's definitely one of those beans that lives up to the hype.

I've been experimenting with different grind sizes and ratios on my Breville, and it's been a fun journey. The consistency of the roast is something I really appreciate; it makes dialing in much easier. I'm not a pro barista or anything, but I can usually pull a decent shot, and these beans make me feel like I know what I'm doing.

Here's what I've noticed:

  • The aroma is incredible. Seriously, it fills the whole kitchen when you grind it.
  • The taste is complex but balanced. I get notes of chocolate, fruit, and a hint of nuttiness.
  • It works well in milk-based drinks too. Lattes and cappuccinos are smooth and rich.
Honestly, if you're looking for a reliable and delicious espresso bean for your Breville, you should give Heart Roasted Espresso a try. It might be a bit pricier than some other options, but the quality is worth it, in my opinion. Plus, supporting a roaster that clearly cares about their craft is always a good feeling. 

Of course, nothing beats fresh and delicious tasting coffee.

24. Blue Bottle Three Africas

Blue Bottle's Three Africas blend is a pretty interesting mix. It's designed to highlight the unique flavors from, you guessed it, three different African regions. I've found it to be a solid choice if you're looking for something a little different than your typical espresso. It's not the most intense, but it's got a nice, balanced profile that works well in a Breville machine.

I've noticed that this blend really shines when you dial it in just right. It can be a bit finicky, but once you get the grind size and tamping pressure down, it produces a really smooth and flavorful shot.

I've found a few things that make this coffee stand out:

  • It's got a bright acidity that can really wake you up in the morning.
  • The aroma is fantastic, with hints of citrus and floral notes.
  • It's a good option if you like a lighter-bodied espresso.

I think the key to enjoying this blend is to experiment with your brewing parameters. Don't be afraid to adjust the grind size and extraction time until you find what works best for you. It's worth the effort to unlock the full potential of this organic coffee.

25. Bird Rock Coffee Roasters Espresso and more

Bird Rock Coffee Roasters is a name that often pops up when discussing top-tier coffee, and for good reason. Based in San Diego, they've built a reputation for sourcing and roasting some seriously impressive beans. What sets them apart is their dedication to direct trade and sustainable practices, ensuring that farmers are fairly compensated and the environment is respected.

I remember the first time I tried their espresso; it was a revelation. The complexity and depth of flavor were unlike anything I'd experienced before. It's the kind of coffee that makes you appreciate the art and science behind a good cup.

They don't just offer one espresso blend; they have a range, each with its unique characteristics. Whether you're after something bright and fruity or rich and chocolatey, Bird Rock likely has something to suit your palate.

Here's why Bird Rock Coffee Roasters stands out:

  • Commitment to direct trade
  • Sustainable practices
  • Wide range of espresso options

Wrapping It Up

So, there you have it! Picking the right espresso beans for your Breville machine doesn’t have to be a headache. Whether you lean towards a rich, dark roast or something a bit lighter, there’s a perfect bean out there for you.

Remember, freshness is key, and trying out different blends can be a fun adventure. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what suits your taste buds best. In the end, it’s all about enjoying that perfect cup of espresso at home. Happy brewing!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are espresso beans?

Espresso beans are simply coffee beans that are used to make espresso. You can use any type of coffee bean, but some are better suited for espresso than others.

How do I choose the best espresso beans?

When picking espresso beans, look for blends that are rich and full-bodied. Also, consider the roast level; medium roasts are often great for espresso.

What is the difference between coffee beans and espresso beans?

There’s no real difference in the beans themselves. Espresso is made by brewing coffee under pressure, which gives it a different flavor and strength.

Are dark roast beans better for espresso?

Not necessarily. While many people think dark roasts are best for espresso, medium roasts can also produce delicious shots with more complex flavors.

How important is freshness in espresso beans?

Freshness is very important! The best flavor comes from coffee beans that have been roasted recently, so try to buy them as fresh as possible.

Can I use espresso beans for regular coffee?

Yes, you can use espresso beans for regular coffee. Just remember that the brewing method will change the taste, so it might not be the same as your usual coffee.

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