The DeLonghi Dedica EC685 is considered one of the most popular entry-level espresso machines for home use. No wonder: for as little as 150 euros, you get a sleek portafilter machine with short heat-up time and the promise of "genuine" espresso – and in fact, the Dedica series is one of the best-selling in this category. But can such a compact machine really deliver good espresso? In this comprehensive guide, we take a critically humorous look at the Dedica 685, give you tips for espresso quality (especially temperature!), show you worthwhile upgrades, remind you about cleaning & descaling, compare it with other Dedica models, and answer frequent troubleshooting questions. Have fun and let's dive into the world of Dedica!
Further articles and videos about the Delonghi Dedica from us:
- Cleaning the DeLonghi Dedica (all models)
- Descaling the Dedica
- Dedica playlist on YouTube with 7 videos!
- Test report on kaffeemacher.de
Temperature Tips for Delonghi Dedica EC685
When the Delonghi Dedica is used right out of the box, it tends to overshoot the target brewing temperature. To prevent this, we've developed a temperature surfing profile for you. The desired target temperature for an espresso machine is 93 degrees Celsius. We explain exactly how the profile works in our new video at minute 15:19 and below the temperature curve in the text.
First, we recommend setting the Delonghi Dedica temperature to the lowest setting. This is the right choice for most coffees. This setting only needs to be made once.
Temperature Setting
- Press the steam button for 10 seconds until all buttons blink twice.
- Press the left button once to activate temperature settings.
- Press the left button again to select the lowest temperature. This is what we use in the temperature example above.
Temperature Surfing with the Delonghi Dedica EC685
There are two ways you can use the machine. You can pull the first espresso "too" hot and make an espresso. To do this, use the espresso machine without much preparation and directly. The overshooting temperature rise compensates for the temperature loss that occurs from the cold portafilter. However, the espresso is less balanced and in many cases doesn't taste soft and pleasant. That's why we recommend the second method, which should always be preferred when pulling multiple espressos (since the portafilter is already hot then).
- To do this, first perform an empty pull. The portafilter is locked in, but no coffee is added. This brings it up to temperature.
- Unlock the portafilter and set it aside.
- Start pre-infusion twice. Press the left button briefly until water starts to flow. Then stop. Then repeat the same procedure. (Tip: Place the milk pitcher underneath so water doesn't drip onto the small drip tray.)
- Now grind the coffee and prepare the portafilter. You have one minute for this. Then lock it in and start the extraction.
In this way, we consistently achieved good temperature curves in the range of 92 to 94 degrees Celsius. This is excellent for espresso preparation.
Bottomless Portafilter for Delonghi Dedica EC 685 New to Our Store
We were repeatedly asked for a suitable portafilter for the Delonghi Dedica EC 685. Unfortunately, many poor versions were available from various manufacturers. That's why we looked for a good model and added it to our range.
We offer two portafilters equipped with single-wall baskets that are compatible with various Dedica models.
We recommend this portafilter for getting started. With it, you can pull two espressos directly or brew into a cup. Plus, it never splashes, which can sometimes happen with bottomless portafilters.
- Bottomless portafilter with wooden handle
This portafilter is especially suitable if you want to monitor whether the espresso is extracting cleanly and flowing from the portafilter. To make this work, the coffee must be distributed evenly in the basket.
Additional Accessories for the Delonghi Dedica
One of the most important tools for making better coffee with the Delonghi Dedica is a single-wall basket. The baskets supplied with the Dedica are so-called double-wall baskets or "pressurized baskets." They create artificial pressure in the portafilter by first letting the espresso flow through many small holes, then forcing all the liquid through a tiny hole. This constriction artificially creates crema, even if coffee is actually older or pre-ground. While the extraction looks nice, the coffee doesn't actually taste better. Our 2-cup portafilter developed for the Dedica series, as well as our bottomless portafilter, is also equipped with a professional single-wall basket.
A handy tool is the portafilter holder. You can attach this to your Dedica and hang a portafilter on it.
One of the best upgrades for your Dedica is our 51mm tamper. With it, you tamp evenly and comfortably, and it's also very elegant with its stylish wooden handle.
What's Your Experience with the Delonghi Dedica?
Help us in the comments to gather everything interesting about the Delonghi Dedica EC685.
Which upgrades were worthwhile?
Which coffees taste best to you with the Dedica?
We collect your experiences and consolidate them to supplement with our tips and tricks.
Thank you for your support!
Warmly,
Benjamin
Our Videos on the Delonghi Dedica EC685
Frequently Asked Questions About the Delonghi Dedica EC685
Which portafilter fits the Delonghi Dedica and doesn't require modification?
We now have a solution for you and have added such a portafilter to our range. It comes with the matching 17.5 gram basket. You can find the portafilter here (solange while supplies last).
Is modification of the steam wand necessary to make good foam?
No, absolutely not. The modification is only worthwhile if you want to get the most out of the machine. But with the existing steam wand, you can also make good latte art foam.
