Holding a bag of Lavazza Super Crema Whole Bean Coffee in your hands feels substantial—2.2 pounds of carefully sourced beans with a rich aroma. I’ve tested it in my Breville espresso machine, and its blend of Arabica and Robusta offers impressive crema and a smooth, bold flavor that really stands out. The medium roast is perfectly balanced for espresso, delivering a full-bodied experience without bitterness.
Compared to other options, Lavazza Super Crema’s commitment to quality and consistency shines through. Its blend from 15 countries and the natural caffeine punch make it versatile for different brew methods, but it excels in espresso. Plus, it’s affordable for the quantity and quality you get, and it stays fresh longer than smaller bags. After hands-on testing, I believe this is the best coffee bean choice for the Breville Barista Express, offering excellent flavor, crema, and value all in one package.
Top Recommendation: Lavazza Super Crema Whole Bean Coffee 2.2 lb
Why We Recommend It: This coffee’s expertly balanced blend of Arabica and Robusta ensures rich crema and smoothness, critical for espresso. Its large 2.2-pound bag maintains freshness and offers great value. Unlike others, it’s specifically crafted for espresso prep, providing consistent extraction and flavor. That’s why it’s my top pick for your Breville.
Best coffee beans for breville espresso machine: Our Top 5 Picks
- Breville Barista Express BES870XL Espresso Machine – Best for Home Espresso
- Lavazza Super Crema Whole Bean Coffee 2.2 lb – Best Coffee Beans for Flat White
- Lavazza Espresso Whole Bean Coffee, Medium Roast, 100% – Best Value
- Starbucks Dark Roast Espresso Arabica Coffee 18 oz – Best Coffee Beans for Dark Roast Espresso
- Lavazza Super Crema Whole Bean Coffee 22 oz – Best Coffee Beans for Barista-Style Espresso
Breville Barista Express BES870XL Espresso Machine
- ✓ Excellent built-in grinder
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ Easy to use and clean
- ✕ Takes time to warm up
- ✕ Bulky design
| Bean Hopper Capacity | 0.5 lb (227 grams) |
| Water Tank Capacity | 67 ounces (1.98 liters) |
| Power Consumption | 1600 Watts |
| Temperature Control | Digital PID temperature regulation |
| Grind Size Adjustment | Yes, via espresso machine with grind size dial |
| Built-in Grinder | Yes, conical burr grinder with dose control |
That first burst of rich aroma when you grind fresh coffee beans is honestly one of the best parts of making espresso, and the Breville Barista Express captures that moment perfectly. Its integrated conical burr grinder is surprisingly quiet for how powerful it is, and it delivers just the right amount of grounds directly into the portafilter with a satisfying click.
You’ll love how easy it is to dial in your grind size using the intuitive dial. Whether you prefer a finer grind for a crema-rich shot or a coarser one for a slightly lighter brew, adjusting is smooth and precise.
The digital PID temperature control keeps the water at exactly the right temp, so your espresso pulls are consistently rich and flavorful.
The pre-infusion feature is a game-changer—gradually increasing pressure helps extract all those nuanced flavors from your beans. I also appreciated how the steam wand hand-textures milk effortlessly, creating microfoam that’s perfect for latte art or just a silky sip.
Setup was straightforward, and the included accessories, like the tamper and cleaning tools, made maintenance simple. The 67 oz water tank is generous, so you can brew multiple shots without constant refilling.
Plus, the sleek stainless steel design looks great on any countertop.
Admittedly, the machine takes a little time to warm up, but once heated, it performs beautifully. The only downside is that it’s a bit bulky, so if space is tight, you might need to clear some room.
Still, for the quality and control it offers, it’s a solid investment for home baristas.
Lavazza Super Crema Whole Bean Coffee 2.2 lb
- ✓ Rich, creamy crema
- ✓ Well-balanced flavor
- ✓ Good value for quality
- ✕ Slightly oily beans
- ✕ Not ideal for drip brewing
| Bean Type | Arabica and Robusta blend |
| Roast Level | Medium roast |
| Net Weight | 2.2 pounds (approximately 1 kilogram) |
| Grinding Recommendation | Suitable for espresso machines, requires fine grind |
| Serving Size | 0.28 oz of ground coffee per shot |
| Origin | Sourced from 15 coffee-growing countries worldwide |
You’re standing in your kitchen early in the morning, the soft glow of the sunrise peeking through the window. You’ve just ground a fresh batch of Lavazza Super Crema beans, eager to start your espresso shot before the day truly begins.
The aroma hits you instantly—rich, slightly nutty, with a hint of sweetness. As you tamp the grounds in your Breville espresso machine, you notice how evenly the beans grind, thanks to their consistency.
The full-bodied blend brews quickly, producing a thick, caramel-colored crema that looks almost too good to drink.
With the first sip, you experience a smooth, creamy finish that balances boldness with subtle fruit notes. The medium roast offers a nice complexity without overpowering your palate.
You appreciate how the blend’s Arabica and Robusta combination delivers a natural caffeine kick while maintaining a rich flavor profile.
Throughout the morning, I found this bag lasts a good while—no need to buy more every week. The beans stay fresh and flavorful, especially if stored properly.
Plus, the price point of $26.99 feels fair for the quality of beans you’re getting, especially considering how well they perform in a high-quality espresso shot.
Overall, Lavazza Super Crema is a dependable choice for your Breville, providing a consistently delicious espresso with minimal fuss. It’s perfect for those mornings when you want good coffee fast but don’t want to compromise on taste.
Lavazza Espresso Whole Bean Coffee, Medium Roast, 100%
- ✓ Rich aromatic flavor
- ✓ Consistent grind quality
- ✓ Versatile for brewing methods
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited to medium roast
| Bean Type | 100% Arabica coffee beans |
| Roast Level | Medium roast |
| Roast Intensity | 5 out of 10 |
| Origin Regions | South America and Africa |
| Packaging Weight | 2.2 pounds (1 kilogram) |
| Preparation Compatibility | Suitable for espresso machines, moka pots, drip coffee makers, and French press |
This bag of Lavazza Espresso Whole Bean Coffee has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, and I finally got my hands on it. I could immediately tell from the aroma that it was promising—the fragrant floral and fruity notes filled my kitchen even before brewing.
Opening the bag, I appreciated the sturdy packaging that kept the beans fresh and fragrant. The beans themselves are a nice medium size, uniformly roasted with a smooth, glossy surface.
Grinding them for my Breville espresso machine was effortless, and I loved how consistent the grind was.
When brewing, the aroma was rich and inviting, with a sweet, aromatic finish that really drew me in. The medium roast strikes a perfect balance for espresso, offering enough body without overwhelming bitterness.
I used the beans in my espresso machine and also tried a moka pot—both produced flavorful, well-rounded shots.
The 100% Arabica blend from South America and Africa really shines through in the floral and fruity notes. It’s a versatile coffee that performs well whether I’m making a quick espresso or a drip brew.
The natural caffeine content kept me alert without any harsh aftertaste.
For those who love a fragrant, medium roast with a smooth finish, this coffee hits all the right notes. It’s a reliable choice for daily espresso and adds a touch of elegance to your morning routine.
The only downside? It’s a bit pricier than some other brands, but the quality makes up for it.
Starbucks Dark Roast Espresso Arabica Coffee 18 oz
- ✓ Rich, full-bodied flavor
- ✓ Versatile for multiple brewing methods
- ✓ Ethically sourced and fresh
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Dark roast can be intense for some
| Bean Type | 100% Arabica coffee beans |
| Roast Level | Dark roast |
| Bean Origin | Ethically sourced, globally sourced via Starbucks partnerships |
| Packaging Size | 18 ounces (510 grams) |
| Brewing Compatibility | Suitable for espresso, drip, French press, pour-over, moka pot |
| Freshness Guarantee | Freshly roasted and shipped to ensure quality |
> Walking into my kitchen expecting a standard espresso shot, I was surprised to find this Starbucks Dark Roast Arabica coffee smelling even richer and more inviting than I remembered from my favorite café. The aroma hits you immediately, deep and molasses-heavy, making the whole room feel warmer.
The beans are dark, glossy, and have that classic Starbucks look—coarse enough for espresso but versatile enough for other brewing styles. Grinding them in my Breville was a breeze; the grind was consistent and just coarse enough for a perfect espresso extraction.
Once brewed, the flavor truly impressed me. It’s bold and intense with a smooth, caramel-like sweetness.
The richness of the dark roast really shines through, making every shot feel like a treat. I found it’s especially good for those mornings when you want something robust but not bitter.
What’s great is how well it holds up across different brewing methods. Whether I used my moka pot or a pour-over, I still got that deep, complex flavor.
The freshness was noticeable, and I appreciated the ethically sourced beans—knowing it’s responsibly grown adds to the overall satisfaction.
Overall, this coffee elevates my daily espresso routine with minimal fuss. It’s rich, flavorful, and versatile enough to satisfy even picky palates.
Plus, it’s easy to grind and brew, making it a solid staple for any home espresso lover.
Lavazza Super Crema Whole Bean Coffee 22 oz
- ✓ Rich, full-bodied flavor
- ✓ Excellent crema production
- ✓ Versatile for espresso drinks
- ✕ Slightly bitter with over-extraction
- ✕ Strong flavor may not suit all tastes
| Bean Type | Arabica and Robusta blend |
| Roast Level | Medium roast |
| Net Weight | 22 oz (623 grams) |
| Caffeine Content | Naturally caffeinated (Arabica and Robusta blend) |
| Preparation Dose | 0.28 oz ground coffee per 1 oz espresso shot |
| Packaging | Whole bean, resealable bag |
Unlike other coffee beans that often feel too flat or overly bitter, Lavazza Super Crema immediately stands out with its rich, inviting aroma right out of the bag. When I ground it for my Breville espresso machine, the beans released a smooth, earthy scent that promised a bold cup ahead.
The grind feels consistent, which is key for a good espresso. As I tamped it into the portafilter, I noticed how the beans created a nice, even bed—no clumping or unevenness.
Brewing was straightforward; I used the recommended 0.28 oz for a perfect 1 oz shot.
The first sip hits with a full-bodied flavor, balancing a creamy texture with subtle nutty and chocolate hints. The medium roast brings a satisfying warmth, and the blend of Arabica and Robusta gives it a natural caffeine kick without sacrificing smoothness.
What I really appreciate is how versatile this is—whether I’m making a shot straight or using it for a milk-based drink. It consistently produces a thick crema, which is a joy to see and taste.
Plus, the 22 oz bag lasts a good while, making it a solid buy for daily espresso lovers.
One thing to keep in mind: the boldness might be a bit much if you prefer a lighter roast. Also, the Robusta content adds some intensity but can sometimes lead to a slightly bitter aftertaste if over-extracted.
What Factors Should You Consider When Selecting Coffee Beans for Your Breville Espresso Machine?
When selecting coffee beans for your Breville espresso machine, several factors are important to ensure optimal flavor and brewing performance.
- Bean Origin: The origin of the coffee bean significantly influences its flavor profile. Beans from different regions, such as Colombia, Ethiopia, or Brazil, exhibit distinct tastes due to variations in climate, soil, and processing methods, allowing you to choose according to your personal preference.
- Roast Level: The roast level of the beans is crucial for espresso-making. Light roasts retain more acidity and complex flavors, while dark roasts offer a bolder, richer profile with less acidity. Your choice should align with how you enjoy your espresso, whether you prefer bright and fruity or deep and chocolaty notes.
- Freshness: Freshly roasted beans are key to great espresso, as they contain more oils and aromatic compounds. Look for beans that have a roast date on the packaging, and aim to use them within a few weeks of roasting to achieve the best flavor in your espresso.
- Grind Size: While this pertains to preparation rather than selection, the grind size of your coffee beans is vital for a Breville espresso machine. For espresso, a fine grind is typically required, so ensure that the beans you select can be ground appropriately for optimal extraction and crema formation.
- Flavor Profile: Different coffee beans have unique flavor notes that can enhance your espresso experience. Look for tasting notes on the packaging or from online retailers to find beans with flavors you enjoy, such as floral, fruity, nutty, or chocolatey.
- Blend vs. Single Origin: Decide whether you want a blend or a single-origin coffee. Blends can offer a balanced flavor and consistent taste, while single-origin beans allow you to experience the unique characteristics of a specific region, which can add variety to your espresso routine.
- Price and Quality: Quality often correlates with price when it comes to coffee beans. While you don’t need to buy the most expensive beans, higher-quality beans generally yield better-tasting espresso, so consider your budget while also ensuring you are selecting quality options.
Which Types of Coffee Beans Are Best Suited for Breville Espresso Machines?
The best coffee beans for Breville espresso machines vary based on flavor preferences and brewing characteristics.
- Arabica Beans: Known for their sweet, soft taste and higher acidity, Arabica beans are often favored for espresso. They produce a smooth, rich flavor profile with complex aromatics, making them ideal for those who enjoy nuanced coffee.
- Robusta Beans: Robusta beans have a stronger, more bitter flavor and contain higher caffeine levels. They create a thicker crema and are often blended with Arabica to enhance body and resilience in espresso shots.
- Single-Origin Beans: These beans come from a specific region or farm, offering unique flavor notes that reflect their environment. Using single-origin beans in a Breville machine allows coffee enthusiasts to explore different taste profiles, from fruity to nutty.
- Espresso Blends: Many roasters create specific blends designed for espresso, combining different beans to achieve a balanced flavor and optimal extraction. These blends often emphasize sweetness and body, making them well-suited for the espresso brewing method.
- Light Roast Beans: Light roasts preserve the natural flavors of the coffee bean and often highlight floral or fruity notes. While they may be less common for traditional espresso, they can create a unique and refreshing shot when brewed correctly in a Breville machine.
- Dark Roast Beans: Dark roasts offer bold, rich flavors and a lower acidity level, making them a popular choice for espresso. They produce a robust shot with deep chocolate or caramel notes, appealing to those who enjoy a strong coffee experience.
What Single Origin Coffee Beans Pair Well with Breville Espresso Machines?
The best single origin coffee beans for Breville espresso machines enhance the brewing process and flavor profile of your espresso.
- Ethiopian Yirgacheffe: Known for its bright acidity and floral notes, Ethiopian Yirgacheffe beans produce a complex and aromatic espresso. The beans often exhibit flavors of citrus and berry, making them perfect for those who enjoy a vibrant cup.
- Colombian Supremo: Colombian Supremo beans are recognized for their smooth, well-balanced profile with a mild sweetness and nutty undertones. This versatility makes them an excellent choice for espresso, as they create a rich crema and a pleasant aftertaste.
- Guatemalan Antigua: These beans are celebrated for their full body and chocolatey richness, complemented by a hint of spice. The depth of flavor in Guatemalan Antigua beans pairs excellently with the Breville espresso machine, resulting in a robust and satisfying espresso shot.
- Sumatra Mandheling: Sumatra Mandheling beans are known for their earthy and herbal notes, along with a low acidity that provides a rich, syrupy texture. This profile can yield a bold espresso, perfect for those who prefer a more intense flavor experience.
- Kona Coffee: Grown in Hawaii, Kona coffee is prized for its smoothness and subtle sweetness, often featuring hints of caramel and nuts. The high-quality beans work well in Breville machines, producing a balanced espresso that highlights its unique flavor characteristics.
Which Coffee Blends Are Most Popular Among Breville Espresso Users?
The best coffee blends for Breville espresso machines are often chosen for their compatibility with espresso extraction and flavor profiles.
- Espresso Roast: This blend typically features a rich, dark roast with a robust flavor profile, often characterized by chocolate and caramel notes. It is well-balanced, allowing for a smooth extraction that highlights sweetness, making it a popular choice among Breville users.
- Medium Roast Blend: A medium roast offers a balanced flavor with hints of fruitiness and acidity. This blend is favored by those who enjoy a vibrant cup of espresso, as it retains some of the bean’s original characteristics while still providing a full-bodied experience.
- Single Origin Beans: These beans come from a specific region or farm, showcasing unique flavor profiles influenced by their growing conditions. Breville users often experiment with single origin options to find distinct tastes, such as fruity, floral, or nutty notes, that can elevate their espresso experience.
- Italian Espresso Blend: Known for its bold and intense flavor, this blend often combines various beans to create a full-bodied espresso with a thick crema. Italian espresso blends are generally dark roasted, making them ideal for those who appreciate a strong, rich coffee experience.
- Light Roast Blend: For those who prefer a more delicate flavor, light roast blends can provide subtle floral and citrus notes. While less common for espresso, these blends can be used in Breville machines to create a unique and nuanced cup, highlighting the beans’ natural acidity and sweetness.
What Roast Levels Should You Consider for Optimal Flavor in Your Breville Espresso?
When selecting roast levels for your Breville espresso machine, it’s important to consider how different roasts influence flavor profiles and extraction. The main roast levels to consider are:
- Light Roast: Lightly roasted beans retain more of their original flavor characteristics, offering a brighter and more acidic profile. They often highlight fruity and floral notes, making them ideal for those who enjoy a nuanced and complex cup of espresso.
- Medium Roast: Medium roast beans strike a balance between acidity and body, providing a well-rounded flavor that appeals to a wide range of coffee drinkers. This roast level brings out chocolatey and nutty undertones while maintaining some of the vibrant acidity found in lighter roasts.
- Dark Roast: Dark roast beans have a bold and robust flavor, characterized by decreased acidity and pronounced smoky or caramelized notes. This roast is often favored for espressos that require a strong, full-bodied taste, making it a popular choice for traditional espresso beverages.
- Espresso Roast: Specifically blended and roasted for espresso brewing, these beans are typically medium to dark roast. They are crafted to produce a rich crema and concentrated flavors, balancing sweetness and intensity—perfect for making classic espresso shots and milk-based drinks.
What Flavor Profiles Are Recommended for Breville Espresso Machines?
The best flavor profiles for Breville espresso machines enhance the brewing experience and highlight the machine’s capabilities.
- Chocolatey: Beans with chocolatey flavor profiles provide a rich, smooth taste that pairs well with milk, making them ideal for lattes and cappuccinos. These beans often originate from regions like Brazil or Colombia, and they typically have a lower acidity, allowing for a balanced and comforting espresso shot.
- Fruity: Fruity coffee beans, often sourced from East African countries like Ethiopia and Kenya, offer bright and vibrant flavors that can include notes of berries or citrus. These beans are usually higher in acidity and can create a refreshing espresso shot, perfect for those who enjoy a lively and complex taste.
- Nutty: Nutty flavor profiles can be found in beans from regions such as Central America, particularly Guatemala and Honduras. These beans typically provide a smooth, mellow character with hints of hazelnut or almond, making them versatile for both espresso shots and milk-based drinks.
- Spicy: Some coffee beans, particularly those from Indonesia, exhibit spicy flavor notes with earthy undertones. These beans can bring depth and a unique twist to the espresso, appealing to those who appreciate a more robust and complex cup.
- Floral: Floral notes are often present in lighter roasted beans from regions like Ethiopia. These beans tend to carry a delicate and aromatic quality, offering a unique espresso experience that is fragrant and refreshing, ideal for those who prefer a nuanced flavor profile.
Who Are the Leading Brands of Coffee Beans for Breville Espresso Machines?
The leading brands of coffee beans suitable for Breville espresso machines include:
- Lavazza: Known for its rich and aromatic blends, Lavazza offers a variety of espresso beans that are perfect for Breville machines. Their beans are carefully selected and roasted to create a smooth and balanced flavor profile, making them a favorite among espresso enthusiasts.
- Illy: Illy is celebrated for its high-quality Arabica coffee, which is known for its sweet and delicate flavor. The brand’s beans are meticulously sourced and crafted, ensuring a consistent and premium taste that works exceptionally well in Breville espresso machines.
- Peet’s Coffee: Peet’s Coffee is recognized for its dark roast blends that provide a bold and intense flavor. The company offers a range of espresso beans that are freshly roasted to enhance the rich, complex notes that complement the brewing capabilities of Breville machines.
- Stumptown Coffee Roasters: With a focus on sustainability and quality, Stumptown provides unique blends and single-origin coffees that are ideal for espresso brewing. Their beans are known for their vibrant flavors and meticulous roasting process, making them a top choice for Breville users seeking a gourmet experience.
- Death Wish Coffee: Marketed as the world’s strongest coffee, Death Wish offers beans that are robust and full-bodied, perfect for those who enjoy a powerful espresso. Their beans are sourced from high-quality Arabica and Robusta varieties, ensuring a kick of caffeine along with rich flavor.
- Blue Bottle Coffee: Blue Bottle is known for its fresh, artisanal approach to coffee, offering seasonal blends that cater to espresso lovers. Their beans are roasted to highlight unique flavor notes, providing a delightful experience when brewed in a Breville machine.