Why isn’t my espresso producing crema?

Crema is the golden layer of foam that forms on top of a freshly pulled espresso shot. If your shots are producing little or no crema, it can usually be improved by adjusting a few brewing variables.

Check your grinder

Your grinder has the greatest impact on espresso extraction. Espresso requires a grinder that can produce a very fine and consistent grind. If the grounds are too coarse or uneven, the machine may not build enough pressure to create a balanced shot with crema.

Use fresh coffee beans

Crema forms from carbon dioxide released by the coffee during extraction. As beans age, they lose carbon dioxide and produce less crema.

For the best results, use beans that were roasted within the last three to four weeks. Beans that are much older may produce thin or spotty crema. Beans roasted within the last few days may also need additional time to degas before they perform consistently.

Adjust the grind size

If your shot pours quickly and looks thin or watery, the grind is likely too coarse. Adjust your grinder finer in small increments until the espresso flows more slowly and has a thicker, syrup-like consistency.

Only make one small adjustment at a time so you can accurately evaluate the results.

Check your dose and tamp

Make sure you’re using the recommended amount of coffee for your basket and tamping firmly and evenly.

An uneven tamp can cause channeling, which allows water to move too quickly through certain areas of the coffee puck. This can result in an uneven extraction and reduced crema.

Consider the roast and bean type

The amount of crema can also vary depending on the coffee you use:

• Light roasts typically produce less crema than medium or dark roasts.
• Coffee made with 100% Arabica beans generally produces less crema than blends containing Robusta.

This variation is normal and does not necessarily indicate a problem with your espresso machine or technique.

Still need help?

For additional troubleshooting, please contact our Customer Experience Team and include the following information:

• The grinder you’re using
• The coffee beans and roast date
• Your dose
• Your approximate shot time
• A description of how quickly the espresso flows

These details will help us provide more specific recommendations.