Epica Automatic Electric Milk Frother and Heater Carafe

CUSTOMER REVIEW



The Epica Milk Frother and Heater carafe has a classic modern design in polished stainless steel with a handle that recalls mid-century coffee pots. It quickly produces a consistent microfoam, either hot or cold, for an authentic cup of cappuccino or a special mug of hot cocoa. To make a single serving of whipped cream, use the cold froth setting and cream instead of milk and add a pinch of sugar and a few drops of vanilla.



The insulated jug lifts easily off the electric base and it has a heavy-duty non-stick interior with fill lines for frothed (125 cc) or heated-only milk (250 cc). The lid is transparent with a silicone gasket that fits tightly but removes easily. The power cord is also heavy-duty and about 27 in. long. The heating mechanism is ETL-certified for safety.



There are two attachments, a whisk for foam and a stirrer for evenly heating milk without producing foam. Press the top soft-touch button that lights up with red heat waves for stirring or frothing hot milk or press the bottom one that lights up with a blue snowflake to froth without heating the milk. The blue LED indicator shows that it is in action: there is a soft whirring and then the LED flashes when it’s ready.



The milk protein provides the structure for the foam. Skim milk makes the finest foam but whole milk has a creamier taste and mouthfeel. I usually buy 2% low-fat milk and it strikes a good balance. It is also possible to use non-dairy milk, but the foam will vary in consistency.



TIPS: To get all the foam out of the carafe while preserving the non-stick finish, either swish a little coffee around the jug or else use a silicone mini-spatula or feeding spoon. When making several batches of heated milk, clean the jug with a soapy sponge or dishrag between uses to avoid building up a film of cooked milk.



Epica provided a sample for testing and impartial review. I like this automatic frother better than manual or electric stick frothers because it heats the milk to the correct temperature, produces an excellent foam, and is so easy and fun to use.