Cuisinart EM-15 Installation and operation manual

For your safety and continued enjoyment of this product, always read the instruction book carefully before using.
INSTRUCTION/RECIPE
BOOKLET
ESPRESSO DEFINED
™
Espresso Machine
EM-15

2
IMPORTANT
SAFEGUARDS
We at Cuisinart are very safety conscious.
We design and manufacture consumer products
with the safety of you, our valued customer,
foremost in mind. When using electrical
appliances, basic safety precautions should
always be taken, including the following:
1. CAREFULLY READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS
BEFORE OPERATING APPLIANCE, AND
SAVE THIS MANUAL FOR FUTURE
REFERENCE.
2. Unplug from outlet when not in use and
before cleaning. Allow to cool before
putting on or taking off parts, and
before cleaning the appliance.
3. To protect against fire, electric shock and
injury to persons, do not immerse the
appliance, cord or plug in water or any
other liquids.
4. This appliance is for household use only.
5. Do not operate the unit with the brewing
head open. Scalding may occur if the
brewing head is opened during brewing
cycle.
6. Do not use this appliance for anything
other than its intended use.
7. This appliance should not be used by or
near children or individuals with certain
disabilities.
8. Do not leave the appliance unattended
when in use.
9. Do not touch hot surfaces. Use handles
or knobs.
10. Always use the appliance on a dry,
level surface.
11. To disconnect, turn all controls off, then
remove plug from power outlet.
12. Do not place this appliance on or near a
hot gas or electric burner, or where it could
touch a heated oven.
13. Do not let the cord hang over the edge of
a table or counter or touch hot surfaces or
become knotted.
14. The use of accessory attachments
not recommended by Cuisinart may
cause a risk of injury to persons, fire or
electric shock.
15. Strictly follow cleaning and care
instructions.
16. Do not use outdoors.
17. Do not use in moving vehicles or boats.
18. Always switch the appliance off, and then
remove plug from the power outlet when
the appliance is not being used and before
cleaning.
19. An extension cord is not recommended.
However, if one is needed, the extension
cord should be a grounded type and its
electrical rating must be the same as or
higher wattage as the appliance. Regularly
inspect the supply cord, plug and actual
appliance for any damage. If found
damaged in any way, immediately cease
use of the appliance and call Cuisinart
Consumer Service at 1-800-726-0190.
20. For any maintenance other than cleaning,
call Cuisinart Consumer Service at 1-800-
726-0190.
21. Refer servicing to qualified personnel.
22. Do not operate any appliance with a
damaged cord or plug or after the
appliance malfunctions, or has been
dropped or damaged or dropped into
water. Return appliance to the nearest
authorized service facility for examination,
repair or adjustment.
23. Do not operate your appliance in an
appliance garage or under a wall cabinet.
When storing in an appliance garage,
always unplug the unit from the
electrical outlet. Not doing so could
create a risk of fire, especially if the
appliance touches the walls of the garage
or the door touches the unit as it closes.

3
SAVE THESE
INSTRUCTIONS
FOR HOUSEHOLD
USE ONLY
WARNING: RISK OF FIRE OR
ELECTRIC SHOCK
The lightning flash with
arrowhead symbol within an
equilateral triangle is intended to
alert the user to the presence of
uninsulated, dangerous voltage
within the product’s enclosure
that may be of sufficient
magnitude to constitute a risk of
fire or electric shock to persons.
The exclamation point within an
equilateral triangle is intended to
alert the user to the presence of
important operating and
maintenance (servicing)
instructions in the literature
accompanying the appliance.
SPECIAL SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Use only cold water in the water reservoir.
Do not use any other liquid.
2. Never use the machine without water in it.
NOTE: For safety reasons, it is recommended
you plug your Cuisinart appliance directly into
the power outlet. Use in conjunction with a
power strip or extension cord is not
recommended.
SPECIAL CORD SET
INSTRUCTIONS
A short power-supply cord is provided to
reduce the risks resulting from becoming
entangled in or tripping over a longer cord.
Longer extension cords are available and may
be used if care is exercised in their use.
If a long extension cord is used, the marked
electrical rating of the extension cord must be
at least as great as the electrical rating of the
appliance. The extension cord should be a
grounding-type, 3-wire cord, and the longer
cord should be arranged so that it will not drape
over the countertop or tabletop where it can be
pulled on by children or tripped over.
NOTICE
If you have a
die-cast metal unit, for
your protection it is
equipped with a
3-conductor cord set
that has a molded
3-prong, grounding-
type plug, and should
be used in
combination with a
properly connected
grounding-type outlet
as shown in Figure A.
If a grounding-type outlet is not available, an
adapter, as shown in Figure B, may be obtained
so that a 2-slot wall outlet can be used with a
3-prong plug. As shown in Figure C, the adapter
must be grounded by attaching its grounding
lug under the screw of the outlet cover plate.
NOTE: Do not remove the grounding prong.
CAUTION: Before using an adapter, it must
be determined that the outlet cover plate
screw is properly grounded. If in doubt,
consult a licensed electrician. Never use
an adapter unless you are sure it is
properly grounded.
NOTE: Use of an adapter is not permitted
in Canada.
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK)
NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE
REPAIR SHOULD BE DONE BY AUTHORIZED SERVICE PERSONNEL ONLY
WARNING
RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
Grounding
Prong
B. Adapter
Grounding Lug
C. Cover
Mounting
Screw
Cover of
Grounded
Outlet Box
A. Circuit Grounding
Conductor Connected
Properly

4
CONTENTS
Important Safeguards ...................2
Unpacking Instructions ..................4
Features and Benefits ...................5
Preparing Your Espresso Machine .........6
Using Your Espresso Machine ............6
Programming..........................7
Cleaning and Maintenance ...............7
Troubleshooting........................8
Recipes .............................10
Warranty ............................16
UNPACKING
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Place the box on a large, sturdy, flat surface.
2. Remove the instruction book and any
other literature.
3. Remove the side inserts from the box
and take the espresso maker out directly
from the top.
4. After the espresso maker has been removed,
place the box and the side pulp-molded
inserts out of the way.
5. Remove all packing materials, tape, etc.
We suggest you save all packing materials
in the event that future shipping of the machine
is needed. Keep all plastic bags away
from children.

5
FEATURES AND BENEFITS
1. Water Reservoir Lid
2. Removable 24-ounce Water Reservoir
3. Brew Head Lever
Use the die-cast metal lever to open and
close the brew head.
4. Brew Head
Holds capsules. NOTE: Nespresso®
OriginalLine compatible system
5. Brew Spout
Strategically positioned for optimal results.
6. Used-Capsule Container
Holds approximately 12 capsules.
Also contains some residual liquid left
after brewing.
7. Power Switch
8. Espresso Cup/Drip Tray
Can be removed when taller mugs need
to be used.
9. Large Cup Tray
10. Single Espresso Button
11. Double Espresso Button
12. Menu Button
To navigate MENU options, brew temp, brew
volume, standby time.
13. Energy Save Mode (not shown)
Becomes idle after 30 minutes of nonuse.
14. Detachable Power Cord (not shown)
15. BPA Free (not shown)
All materials that come in contact with liquid
are BPA free.
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10 11

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PREPARING YOUR
ESPRESSO MACHINE
1. Place the espresso machine on a dry, stable
countertop or other flat, sturdy surface where
you will be using the machine.
2. IMPORTANT: For first-time use or if the
machine has not been used for some time,
it is important that it is rinsed as follows:
Remove the lid of the
water reservoir. Lift the
water reservoir off the
base and fill with bottled
or filtered water. Replace
the water reservoir on the
base, and cover with the
lid. Using the tracks as a guide, making sure
top is “latched” to unit, slide the water
reservoir back into position and push down
firmly to engage.
NOTE: The unit will not function unless the
water reservoir is properly in place.
3. Make sure the plug is inserted into the unit,
then insert the plug into a power outlet.
Flip the power switch to the ON “I” position.
The LCD will say CUISINART PRE-HEATING.
Once preheat is complete, the LCD will say
READY, PLEASE SELECT, indicating the
unit is ready to use (after approximately
70 seconds).
4. Make sure the drip tray is
in place.
5. Place a mug on the
drip tray.
6. Without inserting a
capsule, press ; the
LCD will say ESPRESSO BREWING.
Once complete, the LCD will say BEVERAGE
READY, ENJOY. The rinse cycle is
now complete.
7. If you desire, navigate through the MENU
and set your brew options. See programming
instructions and default settings on page 7.
8. The machine is now ready to use.
USING YOUR
ESPRESSO MACHINE
Always make sure you have water in
the reservoir, a capsule in the brew head,
and that the appropriate cup tray is
being used.
NOTE: This machine is compatible with
Nespresso®OriginalLine style capsules.
Pre-Programmed Single
or Double Espresso
1. Using the lever, open the brew head, insert an
espresso capsule, and close the brew head.
2. With an espresso cup on the cup tray, push
for a single espresso (1.4 ounces) or push
for a double espresso (3.2 ounces). The
LCD will say ESPRESSO BREWING or
DOUBLE ESPRESSO BREWING,
respectively.
NOTE: For optimal results, we recommend
using the double espresso button with a lungo
or more bold espresso capsule. Using this
setting with lighter or less bold varieties will
alter the taste.
CAUTION: Scalding may occur if the brewing
head is opened during brewing cycle.
3. Once brewing is complete, the LCD will say
BEVERAGE READY, ENJOY.

7
PROGRAMMING YOUR
ESPRESSO DEFINED™
ESPRESSO MACHINE
1. Select MENU button to program your
preferred settings:
A. ESPRESSO VOLUME: Select to adjust
your espresso volume from 18–45ml.
Default: 40ml
NOTE: Larger coffee volume may alter your
espresso’s taste. We recommend using a
bolder capsule to compensate for the
additional water.
B. DOUBLE ESPRESSO VOLUME: Select to
adjust your espresso volume from 70–100ml.
Default: 90ml
NOTE: Larger coffee volume may alter your
espresso’s taste. We recommend using a
lungo or bolder capsule to compensate for
the additional water.
C. BREW TEMPERATURE: Raise or lower the
brew temperature from 195˚F – 205˚F in
1-degree increments. Default: 200˚F
D. STANDBY TIME:
Select the amount of time
your unit will remain on before going into
standby mode, from 15 minutes to 4 hours.
Standby options: 15 min., 30 min., 1 hr., 1.5 hr.,
2 hr., 2.5 hr., 3 hr., 4 hr, 5 hr. Default: 30 min.
E. FACTORY SETTINGS: Select OK to restore
unit to default settings.
Default Settings:
Espresso: 40ml
Double Espresso: 90ml
Brew Temperature: 200˚F
Standby Time: 30 minutes
F. SERIAL NUMBER: Displays serial number
of your machine.
STANDBY/ENERGY-
SAVING MODE
Following the set Standby/Energy-Saving Mode
time, if there is an additional 30 minutes of
nonuse, the espresso machine will turn off.
Open and close the brew head, or switch unit
off and on again to start preheat mode.
CLEANING AND
MAINTENANCE
Cleaning Used-Capsule Container
Container holds approximately
12 capsules and some residual
liquid after brewing. Dispose of
used capsules, replace bin and
continue to use as desired. Be
sure to empty the container of
any used capsules when
prompted. Wash the container
with warm, soapy water.
Cleaning External Parts
We recommend regular cleaning of the
espresso maker’s external components.
Cleaning the Housing
Never immerse the machine in water or other
liquids. The housing may be cleaned with a
soapy, damp, nonabrasive cloth.
Cleaning the Drip Tray
To remove the drip tray, simply lift it up off the
unit, keeping it level at all times in order to
prevent spills. Clean the drip tray with a soapy,
damp, nonabrasive cloth. Do not clean drip tray
with cleansers, steel wool pads or other
abrasive materials.
Cleaning the Water Reservoir
Wash water reservoir with warm, soapy water.
It is normal over time for discoloration, spotting
or staining to appear in the water reservoir. This
will vary depending on the mineral content of
the bottled or filtered water used, but will not
affect the operation of the machine. However,
be sure to clean the water reservoir regularly to
minimize buildup.
Descale
Mineral content in water varies from place to
place. Depending on the mineral content of
the water in your area, calcium deposits or
scale may build up in your machine.
Though scale is nontoxic, it can hinder
performance. Descaling will help maintain
the heating element and other parts that
come into contact with water.
For optimal
performance, descale your machine once a
month. It is possible with heavy use and/or hard
water for calcium to build up faster, making it
necessary to descale more often.

8
Indications that it is time to descale
• Longer brewing times
• Excessive steaming
• Lower coffee temperature
• Brews less than a full cup
Descaling Your Machine
The LCD will read DESCALE when it is time
for you to clean.
1. Place a 20 oz. cup or container on the
cup tray.
2. Fill the water tank with 8 oz. of water
and 8 oz. of vinegar.
NOTE: You can also use a commercial
descaling solution.
3.
Press double espresso to run solution
through unit. Continue to initiate brew cycle
until the water reservoir is empty.
4. Fill the water tank with bottled or filtered
water (no vinegar) and repeat, through step 3
twice to clean the unit.
MAINTENANCE: Any other servicing should be
performed by an authorized service
representative.
TROUBLESHOOTING
Problem: Machine does not have power.
Solution:
• Make sure the cord is securely plugged into
the unit and outlet.
• Reset your home’s circuit breaker.
• Confirm the power has been turned on and
the controls and LCD are illuminated.
Problem: Machine will not brew.
Solution:
• Turn off and unplug the machine for 30
seconds or more. When you plug the
machine back in, be sure to turn the power
back on.
• Make sure there is water in the reservoir.
• Make sure the reservoir is properly installed.
• Make sure brew head is completely closed.
Problem: Chlorine or mineral taste in coffee.
Solution:
• Consider using bottled or filtered water.
Problem: Doesn’t brew a full cup.
Solution:
• Turn off and unplug the machine for 30
seconds or more. When you plug the
machine back in, be sure to turn the power
back on.
• Decalcify the machine (refer to page 8).
Problem: The used capsule will not fall into
the capsule container.
Solution:
• Check to see if the capsule container is full.
Empty the capsule container and then try
again. (You may need to manually remove the
used capsule from the brew head.)
Problem: I want to reset the espresso/
coffee programming.
Solution:
• See page 7 for instructions.
Problem: Machine turned off.
Solution:
• The machine’s Energy Save mode puts
unit to sleep after 30 minutes of nonuse.
Simply lift the brew head lever up to “wake
up” your unit.
Problem: Espresso/coffee is too hot, or not
hot enough.
Solution:
• See page 7 for setting your brew
temperature.
Problem: Coffee is not hot enough.
Solution:
• Heat your cup prior to use by filling with hot
tap water. Let it rest for 10 seconds and then
empty prior to making coffee.

9
Problem: The indicator light will illuminate,
but espresso does not flow.
Solution:
• The espresso dispensing brew spout is
clogged. The loaded espresso capsule can
be damaged. Wait for a short period of time
before opening the lever and then try with a
new capsule.
Problem: Produced little or no crema.
Solution:
• Coffee has natural occurring oils which may
clog the espresso nozzle. To clean, regularly
run a brew cycle with water only.
Problem: The water does not flow through
the espresso dispensing nozzle.
Solution:
• Espresso has natural occurring oils which
may clog the espresso nozzle. To clean,
regularly run a brew cycle with water only.
Problem: The brew button starts flashing for
a long time. When is the espresso machine
ready for use?
Solution:
• The espresso machine takes approximately
70 seconds to heat up.

10
RECIPES
Steaming/Frothing Instructions ...................10
Espresso Macchiato ....................................10
Espresso Breve............................................10
Soy Latte......................................................11
Flavored Latte ..............................................11
Mochaccino .................................................11
Caffè Mocha ................................................11
Iced Cappuccino..........................................12
Frozen Latte .................................................12
Espresso Shake ...........................................12
Espresso Martini ..........................................12
Caffè Coretto................................................13
Granita..........................................................13
Affogato........................................................13
Espresso Gelato...........................................13
Tiramisù........................................................14
Ham Steak with Red-Eye Gravy..................15
Espresso-Marinated Flank Steak ............15
Steaming/Frothing Instructions
When steaming milk at home for delicious
coffee-based drinks, always start with fresh,
cold milk and steam only what you are going
to use right away. For best results, we prefer
using non-fat or skim milk, which produces
light, voluminous foam, but feel free to
experiment. Keep in mind that the
consistency of the foam will vary depending
on what type of milk is used. It is always best
to froth your milk right before serving.
To Steam and Froth Milk at Home:
Fill a small to medium saucepan, no more
than halfway, with cold milk and place over
medium heat. Heat the milk until steam
begins rising off the surface, but no bubbles
have formed. Remove the pan from the heat
and using a frother or immersion blender on
low speed, process milk until the desired
amount of froth is produced. If you do not
own a frother or an immersion blender, you
can whip the milk by hand with a wire whisk,
but be ready to put some effort into it! Pour
the milk into your espresso or coffee, using a
spoon to hold back the foam. Scoop foam on
top and serve.
Alternately, if using a microwave, pour milk
into microwave-safe mug or container and
heat until steam begins to rise off the milk’s
surface (be careful milk does not boil over).
Carefully remove from microwave and froth
milk as previously described.
Espresso Macchiato
A simple spot of foam makes this drink
a classic.
Makes 1 serving
1 espresso capsule
1 tablespoon frothed milk
1. Place an espresso cup on the espresso
cup tray. Using the lever, open the
brew head, insert the capsule and close
the brew head. Press to brew a
single espresso.
2. Using a spoon, place one tablespoon of
the frothed milk on top of the espresso.
3. Serve immediately.
Espresso Breve
American version of a latte – substituting
half & half for milk.
Makes 1 serving
¾ cup steamed half & half
1 espresso capsule
1. Place a mug on the cup tray.
2. Using the lever, open the brew head,
insert the capsule and close the brew
head. Press button once to brew a
single espresso.
3. Pour the half & half into the espresso
and serve immediately.