Black + Decker 12 Cup Mill and Brew Coffee Maker Review

Finding the perfect coffee maker can be a challenging task, but the Black + Decker 12 Cup Mill and Brew Coffee Maker (CM500B) stands out with its unique features and affordable price. This detailed review covers the unboxing, setup, and overall performance of this versatile coffee maker.

Unboxing and Initial Impressions

Purchasing a coffee maker used from Amazon can be a great way to save money. The Black + Decker Cup Mill and Brew Coffee Maker (CM500B), bought for $45, arrived re-boxed with minor imperfections. Despite not having the original packaging, the unit was in good shape. Typically, used coffee makers from Amazon come with instructions, even if there are slight cosmetic flaws. These flaws are usually insignificant and do not affect the coffee maker’s functionality.

Upon opening the box, the coffee maker’s build quality was immediately noticeable. It has a mix of plastic and metal components, giving it a robust yet lightweight feel. The unit is slightly larger than some other models, with a prominent water reservoir and a glass carafe. The overall design is practical, featuring a hinged lid and a warming plate to keep coffee hot.

Features and Setup

One of the standout features of the Black + Decker Cup Mill and Brew Coffee Maker (CM500B) is its integrated grinder and brew basket. Unlike other models that use separate chambers for grinding and brewing, this coffee maker combines both functions in one basket. This design simplifies the process and reduces the need for paper filters.

The initial setup is straightforward. First, all removable parts need to be washed with soap and water. This includes the brew basket, carafe, and grinder components. After washing, it’s essential to run two pots of water through the machine without any coffee. This step ensures that any manufacturing residues are flushed out, making the coffee maker ready for use.

Using the Coffee Maker

After the initial cleaning, it’s time to brew the first pot of coffee. The Black + Decker Cup Mill and Brew Coffee Maker (CM500B) offers a user-friendly interface with a backlit display and intuitive buttons. Setting the clock is simple—hold the hour button until the correct time is displayed. The display does not stay backlit permanently, which can be a minor inconvenience, but it remains readable.

To brew coffee, add the desired amount of water to the reservoir. The water level indicator is clear and easy to read. Next, add coffee beans to the grinder. The machine can grind and brew up to 12 cups of coffee, with grind settings adjustable for 4, 6, 8, 10, or 12 cups. The grind size and brew strength are customizable, allowing for a personalized coffee experience.

Once the beans are added and the settings adjusted, the brewing process begins. The grinder operates first, followed by the brewing cycle. The coffee maker has a unique feature called “pause brewing,” which allows you to remove the carafe mid-brew to pour a cup of coffee without making a mess.

Performance and Coffee Quality

The performance of the Black + Decker Cup Mill and Brew Coffee Maker (CM500B) is impressive. The grinder does an excellent job of producing uniform coffee grounds, which significantly impacts the flavor of the brewed coffee. The brewing process is efficient, with hot water distributed evenly over the coffee grounds.

During the brewing cycle, the backlit display stays illuminated, providing a clear view of the brewing status. Once the brewing is complete, the display switches to a timer mode, indicating how long the coffee has been sitting. This feature helps you gauge the freshness of your coffee.

One notable aspect of this coffee maker is the reusable filter. Unlike traditional coffee makers that use paper filters, the CM500B’s filter allows more oils and fine particles to pass through, enhancing the coffee’s flavor. However, this also means that a small amount of sediment may settle at the bottom of your cup, which is a characteristic of this type of filter.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning the Black + Decker Cup Mill and Brew Coffee Maker (CM500B) requires some effort but is manageable. The grinder and brew basket are easily removable and can be cleaned with a brush. It’s essential to clean these components regularly to maintain optimal performance and prevent coffee residue buildup.

The carafe and lid can be washed by hand or in the top rack of a dishwasher. However, due to the carafe’s size, hand washing is often more practical. The coffee maker does not have an automatic descaling feature, so descaling must be done manually. Regular descaling is crucial to prevent mineral buildup and ensure the longevity of the machine.

Programming and Customization

One of the convenient features of the Black + Decker Cup Mill and Brew Coffee Maker (CM500B) is its programmability. You can set the coffee maker to start brewing at a specific time, ensuring you wake up to a fresh pot of coffee. To program the coffee maker, press the program button once to set the desired start time. The display will flash, allowing you to adjust the time accordingly.

The coffee maker can be programmed for regular or bold brew strength. The bold setting takes longer to brew, extracting more flavor from the coffee grounds. This feature is perfect for those who prefer a stronger cup of coffee.

Additionally, the coffee maker has an auto-off feature that can be set from 30 minutes to 2 hours. This function ensures that the coffee maker turns off automatically after a set period, enhancing safety and energy efficiency.

Final Thoughts

The Black + Decker 12 Cup Mill and Brew Coffee Maker (CM500B) offers excellent value for its price. Its integrated grinder and brew basket simplify the coffee-making process, while the programmable features add convenience. The coffee maker’s performance is impressive, producing flavorful coffee with minimal effort.

While it may require more cleaning and maintenance compared to simpler models, the benefits outweigh these minor inconveniences. The reusable filter enhances the coffee’s flavor, and the programmable options ensure you have a fresh pot ready whenever you need it.

For those looking for an affordable, versatile coffee maker that can grind and brew coffee in one step, the Black + Decker Cup Mill and Brew Coffee Maker (CM500B) is a great choice. Its combination of features, performance, and price makes it a standout option in the market. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or someone who simply enjoys a good cup of coffee, this coffee maker is worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for the Black + Decker 12 Cup Mill and Brew Coffee Maker (CM500B)

Does the Black + Decker CM500B come with a warranty?

• Yes, the Black + Decker CM500B comes with a manufacturer’s warranty. Check the product manual or the Black + Decker website for specific details.

Can I use pre-ground coffee with this machine?

• Yes, you can use pre-ground coffee by turning off the grinder function. Simply add the pre-ground coffee to the brew basket and proceed as usual.

How do I clean the grinder and brew basket?

• The grinder and brew basket are removable and can be cleaned with a brush or rinsed under running water. Regular cleaning helps maintain optimal performance.

Is the carafe dishwasher safe?

• The carafe and lid are top-rack dishwasher safe, but due to the carafe’s size, hand washing is often more practical to avoid damage.

How often should I descale the coffee maker?

• It’s recommended to descale the coffee maker every 1-3 months, depending on your water hardness and usage. Use a descaling solution or a mixture of vinegar and water.

Can the coffee maker be programmed to brew at a specific time?

• Yes, the CM500B has a programmable feature that allows you to set the coffee maker to start brewing at a specific time, ensuring you have fresh coffee ready when you wake up.

Does the machine have an automatic shut-off feature?

• Yes, the coffee maker has an auto-off feature that can be set to turn off between 30 minutes and 2 hours after brewing, enhancing safety and energy efficiency.

Will this coffee maker fit under a standard kitchen cabinet?

• The coffee maker is relatively tall, measuring almost 21 inches with the lid raised, and may not fit under all kitchen cabinets. Check your cabinet height before purchasing.

What type of filter does the coffee maker use?

• The CM500B uses a reusable filter built into the grinder and brew basket. It does not use paper filters, which allows more oils and fine particles to enhance the coffee’s flavor.

Is there a way to avoid sediment in my coffee?

• Since the machine uses a reusable filter, a small amount of sediment is normal. To minimize sediment, ensure the filter is properly cleaned after each use.

How long is the power cord?

• The power cord is 2 feet long, which should be sufficient for most kitchen setups. However, make sure your power outlet is within reach of the coffee maker’s location.

Does the backlit display stay on permanently?

• No, the backlit display does not stay illuminated permanently. It turns off after a short period to save energy but remains easy to read.

How many cups of coffee can I brew at once?

• The coffee maker can brew up to 12 cups of coffee in one cycle. The grind settings can be adjusted for 4, 6, 8, 10, or 12 cups based on your preference.

Is it necessary to pre-wash the coffee maker before first use?

• Yes, it is recommended to wash all removable parts with soap and water and run two pots of water through the machine without coffee before the first use to remove any manufacturing residues.

Can I adjust the brew strength?

• Yes, the coffee maker has options for regular and bold brew strengths. The bold setting takes longer to brew, extracting more flavor from the coffee grounds.