Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

I was never a regular coffee drinker (a half a cup now and then when I need a pick me up), however, once I tried a Starbucks' latte I was hooked. I tried lattes from other coffee shops and they weren't as good. Since I didn't have money to fritter away on a daily latte habit I did some research on the Internet to find out how to make a Starbucks' knockoff. After I found out all the stuff I would need and the time it would take to prepare, I decided to see if they sold latte machines. I came across Mr. Coffee's machine and after reading the great reviews I promptly purchased one. This is definitely the way to go; it is as easy as using a regular coffee machine, < 5 minutes to brew. It is also an attractive appliance that looks nice on my counter. It appears to be durable and easy to clean (doesn't bother me that I can't put in a dishwasher). I've been using it for three weeks now with no problems. To ensure that I came as close as possible to replicating the taste of a Starbucks latte, I was sure to purchase quality ingredients and appliances. I used espresso beans from Costco that are roasted by Starbucks, Torani brand syrups, 2% milk, and raw sugar (my preference). Through my Internet research I found out that coffee grinders with burr blades grind consistently even granules, and that the beans should be ground just prior to brewing. I also bought an airtight non-transparent container to store the beans. Here's how I made my lattes (IMO, tastes as good, if not better, than Starbucks): Measurements for 8 oz. latte (can only make two cups at one time): 4 oz. milk, 4 oz. water, 3 tbs. finely ground beans, 2 tbs. syrup (my preference is one tbs. each hazelnut and vanilla), and 2 tsp. sugar. Instructions (see manual for parts' list and assembly instructions): 1. Grind beans on espresso (extra fine) setting, place granules in filter, place filter in plastic basket, and then place basket in top part of machine. 2. Pour water in top part of machine (area to right of basket). 3. In glass carafe, add milk, syrup, and sugar. Attach lid with frothing wand to carafe. 4. Flick selector switch to café latte, and then press down on the on/off switch. 5. When the process is complete, the machine shuts off. Flip on/off switch up to remove carafe. 6. Pour liquid into cup and spoon foam on top. Sit back and enjoy the fruits of your labor. I've also made hot chocolate with this appliance using the heat and froth function, however, the milk does not foam up as much as it does when making lattes. To make a decadent hot chocolate, I recommend using Ghirardelli Premium Hot Cocoa with milk. Once you try it, you won't to go back to watery cocoa; I never have. A latte when you wake up and hot chocolate before bed, life is sweet. Enjoy!