The Cuisinart SS-GB1 Coffee Center Grind and Brew Plus is a versatile coffee maker that promises to deliver a fresh and flavorful cup every time. With a built-in coffee grinder, 12-cup glass carafe, and single-serve brewer compatible with K-Cup pods, this machine aims to cater to all your coffee needs.
Priced at $229.95, this coffee maker has garnered a rating of 4.0 out of 5 from over 1,279 reviews. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s dive into the details to find out.
I have been using the Cuisinart SS-GB1 Coffee Center for a few weeks now, and overall, it has been a convenient addition to my kitchen. The grind and brew feature ensures that my coffee is always fresh, and the single-serve option is perfect for those busy mornings when I need a quick cup.
However, I did encounter a few issues. The grinder is quite loud, and the water reservoirs are challenging to fill, especially for someone of my height. Despite these minor inconveniences, the machine performs well and produces a great cup of coffee.
Built-in Coffee Grinder
The Cuisinart SS-GB1 Coffee Center comes with a built-in coffee grinder that allows you to grind whole beans right before brewing. This feature ensures you get the freshest and most flavorful coffee possible. The grinder supports a grind-off feature, which means you can also use pre-ground coffee if you prefer. Users have noted that while the grinder is efficient, it tends to be louder than most grinders on the market. However, the noise is a small trade-off for the quality of coffee it produces.
Single-Serve Brewer Compatibility
This coffee maker is versatile, offering three serving sizes—8 ounces, 10 ounces, and 12 ounces—compatible with any brand of single cup pod, including Keurig K-Cup pods. The single-serve feature also includes a 40oz removable water reservoir and an adjustable drip tray to accommodate travel mugs. Some users have reported issues with the pod brewer being poorly calibrated, resulting in watery coffee. Despite this, the single-serve brewer remains a convenient feature for those who need a quick coffee fix.
12-Cup Glass Carafe
The 12-cup glass carafe included with the Cuisinart SS-GB1 is designed for easy and comfortable use. It features a drip-free pour spout, a knuckle guard for added protection, and an ergonomic comfort grip handle. The carafe’s lid and handle are made of stainless steel and black materials to match the rest of the machine. Some users have found the carafe difficult to clean due to a lip where the plastic top meets the glass, which catches water during washing.
Superior Functionality
The Cuisinart SS-GB1 boasts superior functionality with features like easy-to-clean parts and a water filter that is simple to change. The machine grinds beans effectively to produce a great cup of coffee. However, some users have pointed out that the stainless steel front is not fingerprint resistant, making it prone to smudges. The grinder, while efficient, is also noted to be loud, which may be a minor inconvenience for some.
Convenience and Versatility
This coffee maker is praised for its convenience and versatility. It has a water window on the carafe side, making it easier to monitor water levels. Users appreciate the ability to brew a single cup when needed, in addition to making a full pot. However, the machine’s tall design can be a drawback for those with limited counter space, as it may not fit under upper cabinets. Despite its size, the machine’s functionality and ease of use make it a popular choice.
Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning the Cuisinart SS-GB1 is straightforward, though some parts may require more attention. The grinder chamber is loud but easy to clean, taking only about 30 seconds. The machine also allows for the use of either paper filters or a gold filter, offering flexibility in maintenance. Users have noted that the carafe’s lip can make it difficult to rinse thoroughly, as water tends to get trapped and flow back into the pot.
Grind and Brew Performance
The grind and brew performance of the Cuisinart SS-GB1 is generally well-received. The machine grinds whole beans just before brewing, ensuring optimal freshness and flavor. Some users prefer the grind-off feature for pre-ground coffee. However, the machine’s instructions recommend using 1 TBSP of coffee per cup, which is half the amount typically suggested. This can lead to weaker coffee if not adjusted according to personal taste preferences.
Water Reservoir Design
The design of the water reservoirs has received mixed reviews. The carafe side includes a water window for easy monitoring, but the single-serve side lacks this feature. Additionally, some users have found the reservoirs difficult to fill, especially if they are not tall enough to see the narrow opening. Using a step stool or funnel can help, but it adds an extra step to the process. Despite these challenges, the removable water reservoir on the single-serve side is a convenient feature.
Temperature and Brewing Quality
The Cuisinart SS-GB1 brews very hot coffee, which some users appreciate while others find it too hot. The machine’s brewing quality is generally praised, especially when using the Bold setting that slows down the drip for better extraction. However, the pod side lacks a Bold option, which can result in weaker coffee. Users have also noted that overfilling the water reservoir can cause water to leak from the back of the machine, so it’s important to follow the instructions carefully.
Overall User Experience
Overall, the user experience with the Cuisinart SS-GB1 is positive, with many praising its versatility and ability to produce fresh, flavorful coffee. While the grinder is loud and some design elements could be improved, the machine’s ease of use and cleaning make it a worthwhile investment. Some users have had issues with the machine’s calibration and water reservoir design, but these are generally outweighed by its performance and convenience. The Cuisinart SS-GB1 is a solid choice for those looking for a multi-functional coffee maker.
Pros:
- Versatile with single-serve and full pot options
- Built-in grinder for fresh coffee
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Tall design may not fit under cabinets
- Grinder is loud
- No water window on K-cup side
Conclusion
The Cuisinart SS-GB1 Coffee Center offers a blend of functionality and convenience, making it a solid choice for coffee enthusiasts. Its versatility in brewing options and the freshness brought by the built-in grinder are its standout features.
While it has some drawbacks, such as the noise level of the grinder and the difficulty in filling water reservoirs, these are relatively minor compared to the overall performance. If you are looking for a reliable and versatile coffee maker, the Cuisinart SS-GB1 is worth considering.
Questions & Answers:
Question: Can you use pre-ground coffee with this machine?
Answer: Yes, the machine supports a grind-off feature for using pre-ground coffee.
Question: Is the water reservoir removable?
Answer: Only the single-serve side has a removable water reservoir.
Question: Does it work with Keurig K-Cup pods?
Answer: Yes, it is compatible with any brand of single cup pod including Keurig K-Cup pods.
