Favorite Coffee Obsessions

Dive into the world of freshly brewed coffee with FDL's junior editor, Michael Collins, as he shares his favorite ways to make and enjoy a perfectly brewed cup at home. Just be careful; the coffee and his tips are still piping hot!

Specialist Spotlight

Meet Michael Collins

Hello, my name is Michael, and I am on the editing team at Food Drink Life. There's nothing I

enjoy more than the smell and taste of a fresh batch of coffee, and I am constantly looking for new ways to improve my home brewing skills. I actually prefer home-brewing more than store-bought. Check out my favorite tools below and take your coffee experience to new levels!

My Favorite Things

Whether you're a seasoned barista or just starting your coffee journey, you are sure to find something that will make your coffee richer and your days brighter. Let's get brewing!

Coffee makers

Every great coffee starts with the same thing: an equally fantastic coffee maker.

1. MuellerLiving 34 Oz French Press: Using a French press is my go-to. It's affordable and eco-friendly, thanks to its reusable metal filter. I have full

control over the strength of my coffee, which can vary depending on how my day is going. Its large size also makes it perfect for anyone like me who drinks multiple cups a day. Keep your coffee game consistently flavorful with the power of the French press.

2. Iced Coffee: Something about a cold and sweet coffee just tastes so much better. Luckily, all that’s needed to make bistro-level iced coffees in the warmth of your home is a French press. If you are also an iced coffee lover, here are some easy tips and tricks to get the most flavourful chilled brew.

3. Jogo Portable Coffee Maker Straw: Lisa MarcAurele, a prominent FDL writer, is raving about her Jogo portable coffee straw. When I asked what makes it so special, she said, "It's a portable straw with a fine metal filter built-in at the bottom to stop even the smallest of coffee grinds from getting through. Just pop

in some coarse grounds to your cup, add hot water, stir with the straw and voila! It's easy to clean and comes with its own cleaning brush and a travel pouch."

4. CasaBrews Espresso Machine: Creamy lattes, bold cappuccinos and smooth macchiatos are all at my fingertips thanks to my espresso machine. Just be careful: If you make one for your friends, they are sure to ask you for another every time they visit! You won't regret adding this espresso machine to your coffee arsenal.

"To me, the smell of freshly made coffee is one of the greatest inventions."

— Hugh Jackman

Coffee accessories

These surprisingly affordable accessories are perfect additions if you still feel like your coffee is missing something.

1. PowerLix Handheld Milk Frother: Frothing up milk in seconds for the creamiest lattes has never been easier! No more settling for watery foam – this machine whips

up thick, velvety clouds. Ditch the drive-thru and become your own barista boss with the milk frother that can be taken anywhere.

2. CasaBrews Coffee Tamper: Love making espresso at home? Then using a tamper is a must to create a consistent flow of water through your machine. It makes the difference between an average and a bold cup of coffee. If you are thinking of adding an espresso machine to your home, a coffee tamper is a must.

3. Mueller Electric Coffee Grinder: With this grinder, I can achieve the perfect coarseness of coffee grounds for my morning cup. This is the first step to getting the most fresh coffee possible out of my French press. A coffee grinder is the perfect addition to any coffee lover's tool kit.

4. Finding the right coffee: It’s important to note that your coffee-making tools are only as good as how you utilize them. Tools are great, but it all starts with the right beans. If you don’t know where to start, FDL’s got you covered with this list of our favorite coffee beans. If you would prefer to skip the grinding, then this list of the best pre-ground coffee brands might be more to your liking.