Topsy Keurig Beer: Brewing Innovation Explained

Keurig and Anheuser-Busch have collaborated to create a cocktail-making pod machine called Drinkworks. The machine, which costs $299, uses single-pod servings to create cocktails, beer, and cider. The Drinkworks machine can brew beer using pods from Beck's, Bass, and Stella Artois Cidre. Topsy Turvy Brewery, on the other hand, is a craft brewery located in a historical church in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. They offer a range of unique craft beers named after inventions, historical places, and tourist attractions in Wisconsin.

Keurig's brewing technology

The Keurig brewing system uses single-serve coffee pods, known as K-Cups, which contain a pre-measured amount of coffee grounds, tea leaves, or hot chocolate mix. When inserted into the machine, the K-Cup is punctured by a needle at the top and bottom, allowing hot water to flow through the grounds and extract the flavour. This combination of pressure and heat enables Keurig to brew coffee quickly and efficiently, in a matter of seconds.

The machine heats the water to the optimal temperature for the beverage type, ensuring a perfect cup every time. The temperature range is between 195-205°F, which is crucial for extracting the optimal flavour and aroma from the grounds. Additionally, Keurig machines have a water filter that removes impurities and minerals, ensuring pure-tasting coffee with no off-flavours or odours.

The Keurig machine consists of a water reservoir, a heating element, and a K-Cup holder. The water reservoir is filled with fresh water, and the heating element heats the water to the perfect temperature for brewing. The K-Cup holder is where the K-Cup pod is inserted. Most Keurig machines also have a control panel that allows users to select the cup size and adjust the brew strength.

Keurig machine anatomy

Keurig is a company that has launched a cocktail-making pod machine in collaboration with Anheuser-Busch. The machine, called Drinkworks Home Bar by Keurig, takes single-pod servings and turns them into cocktails or beer. The machine costs $299, and each cocktail pod costs $3.99 or $15.99 for four. The pods have unique barcodes that the machine scans to determine the appropriate temperature and carbonation for the drink. The machine can brew drinks in three sizes: 3.9 ounces, 6.5 ounces, and 8.1 ounces.

Now, let's take a look at the anatomy of the Keurig machine:

The Keurig machine consists of several key components that work together to deliver a consistent brewing experience. Firstly, it has a water reservoir, usually located at the back of the machine, which needs to be filled with water before use. The water from the reservoir is heated to the appropriate temperature by a heating element, which is controlled by the machine's internal computer system. The heated water is then pumped through the machine with the help of a small water pump.

The pod holder, or K-Cup holder, is where the magic happens. It is designed to puncture the foil lid of the K-Cup and allow the flow of hot water through the ground coffee or beverage mix. The paper filter inside the K-Cup ensures that only the brewed liquid passes through, capturing the grounds or mix. Below the pod holder is the drip tray, which collects any excess liquid that may drip after brewing.

The final component is the dispensing spout, from which the beverage is dispensed into your cup or mug. Some Keurig machines also feature a touchscreen interface that allows users to select their desired drink size, temperature, or strength. Additionally, certain models may have Bluetooth connectivity, enabling them to pair with a companion app for added convenience.

Keurig K-Cups

The Keurig machine uses a combination of pressure and heat to brew beverages quickly and efficiently. When a K-Cup is inserted into the machine, a needle punctures the top and bottom of the cup. Hot water is then forced through the K-Cup, brewing the beverage, which is then dispensed into your cup. This process is called "pre-infusion," where the coffee grounds are pre-wetted to allow them to "bloom" and release their flavours and aromas, resulting in a more flavourful and aromatic cup of coffee.

The Keurig machine consists of a water reservoir, a heating element, and a K-Cup holder. The water reservoir is filled with fresh water, and the heating element heats the water to the optimal temperature for brewing, which is typically around 195-205°F. This temperature range is crucial for extracting the optimal flavour and aroma from the coffee grounds. Additionally, Keurig machines have a water filter that removes impurities and minerals from the water, ensuring that your beverage tastes pure.

The K-Cups themselves play a dual role. They serve as both packaging for the coffee, tea, or hot chocolate mix and as a brewing chamber and filter. Before sealing the K-Cups, oxygen is removed to help preserve the grounds, and the seal reduces the exposure to moisture and heat, maintaining the quality of the brewed coffee.

Keurig machine maintenance

Daily Maintenance

If you use your Keurig daily, it is best to wash all removable parts once a week. This includes the water reservoir, lid, drip tray, and K-cup holder. Hand wash these parts in warm, soapy water, then rinse and towel dry. Air-dry the water reservoir to prevent lint from collecting inside.

Wipe down the machine's exterior and drip tray with a damp sponge or cloth after each use, and always use fresh water for each brew.

Descaling

Descale your Keurig every three to six months to prevent calcium deposits and scale buildup. You can use Keurig's own descaling solution, or a mixture of white vinegar and water, or citric acid and water.

To descale, remove the water filter and fill the reservoir with the solution. Place a mug on the drip tray, then lift the brewer handle as if inserting a K-cup. Select the largest cup size and brew as usual into the mug. Repeat this process until the "ADD WATER" indicator is illuminated.

Let the machine rest for 30-45 minutes, then empty and wash the reservoir. Refill the reservoir with fresh water and perform 12 rinsing brews using the largest cup size to remove any traces of the solution. Finally, reinsert the water filter.

Needle Cleaning

The needles used to puncture the K-cup lids are located at the top and bottom of the pod holder. Coffee grounds can sometimes cling to these needles, so it's important to keep them clean. Use a sponge or cloth to wipe away any excess grounds, or carefully unfold a paper clip and use it to clear away debris from the exit tube and entrance needle.

Water Filter Replacement

Water filters help remove chlorine, calcium, and other impurities from your water, improving the taste of your beverage. Replace the water filter cartridge every two to three months. Soak a new cartridge in water for five minutes, then rinse it under running water for 60 seconds. Wash the filter holder in warm soapy water, then insert the cartridge and snap the holder back together. Finally, lock the holder into the reservoir.

Rinse Pods

Keurig Rinse Pods are used to descale the machine and remove residue buildup from the pod holder. Simply place a large mug on the drip tray, insert a Rinse Pod, and brew on the eight-ounce setting. Discard the brewed rinse solution, then do another eight-ounce water brew to rinse.

Keurig machine troubleshooting

Keurig machines are a popular option for domestic brewers, offering a wide range of drink options, ease of use, and excellent results. However, they sometimes experience problems that need troubleshooting. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you with Keurig machine troubleshooting.

Common Keurig Problems and Solutions

Keurig is Not Turning On/Won't Turn On

• Check if the machine is plugged in correctly.
• Ensure the power outlet is working by checking other appliances.
• Verify that the power button is pushed in correctly. For Keurig Plus or Keurig 2.0 Series, tap the power icon on the lower right of the LCD.

Keurig Won't Brew

• Check the attachment and alignment of all parts, including the cup holder, water tank, K-Cup, lid, and handle.
• Ensure the needle is not clogged; clean it with a paper clip if necessary.
• Clean the filter at the base of the water reservoir if it is clogged.
• Remove air bubbles in the water lines by unplugging the machine and gently tapping it.
• Descale your Keurig to remove scale build-up.

Keurig Turns On/Off on Its Own

• Disable the "Energy Saver" or "Auto On/Off" feature if it is turning off after a certain time or brewing unexpectedly.
• Ensure the magnetic contacts in the water reservoir are in contact with those on the machine.

Keurig Shows "Add Water," But the Tank is Full

• Refill and reposition the water reservoir correctly.
• Clean the reservoir and filter with warm water and washing-up liquid.
• Reset the machine if the above steps don't work.

Coffee Grounds in the Cup

• Clean the exit needle and run a small-cup water-only brew to remove excess coffee grounds.
• Descale your Keurig if necessary.
• If using a reusable filter, ensure you use a coarse drip and fill only to the bottom of the brown band.

Keurig Leaks from the Bottom

• Replace the o-ring at the bottom of the water reservoir if it is damaged.
• Do not overfill the water reservoir beyond the max water line.
• Check for leaks from the cold water reservoir by removing it and observing if water is sitting underneath.
• Empty the internal hot water tank by following the steps outlined in the user's guide.

Keurig Leaks Water While Heating

• Ensure the water reservoir is not overfilled and is filled only to the max line.
• Clean the coffee maker following the instructions.
• Tighten or replace the upper gasket if it is loose or broken, respectively.
• Remove any debris or grounds from the puncture needle.

Keurig Dispenses Too Much Coffee

• Clean the puncture needle with a paper clip.
• Try the "Keurig burp" by unplugging the machine, removing the water tank, turning it upside down, and slapping the base several times to dislodge debris.
• Wash all parts, run a descaling cycle, and then run water-only brew cycles.

Keurig Only Brews Half a Cup

• Clean the entrance and exit needles, then run water-only brew cycles.
• Descale your Keurig to remove any build-up in the water line.
• Perform a deep clean if necessary.

Keurig is Not Heating

• Clean and descale your Keurig to remove any coffee grounds or calcium build-up.
• Check the water pump and consider ordering a replacement if necessary.

Keurig Lights Blinking (Flashing)

• For the Keurig Classic, hold down the "auto-off," "small cup," and "large cup" buttons simultaneously.
• If only specific lights are flashing, ensure the cold water reservoir is positioned correctly and run a water-only brew to check for the correct volume of water dispensed.
• If using a water filter, change the charcoal filter and place it back in the brewer.
• Perform additional water-only brews if the previous brew dispensed an incorrect volume of water.

All the Keurig's Lights are On

• Unplug the machine, press and hold the power button with the lid open, then plug it back in.
• Press the cup size buttons from small to large several times, close the lid, and repeat the sequence.

Add Water Indicator Not Flashing

• Ensure the machine has power and raise the handle to release any water from the reservoir.
• Turn off the machine, place a mug on the drip tray, and hold the "Brew" button until all the water is in the mug.

Keurig is Stuck in Preheating Mode

• Switch off the Keurig, unplug it, then plug it back in and turn it on.
• If the issue persists, there may be a loose wire inside the machine near the lid, which may require repair.

Keurig Coffee Tastes Bad or Burnt

• Regularly clean and descale your Keurig to remove coffee and scale build-up. Use the official descaling solution or thoroughly rinse if using vinegar.
• Use filtered water instead of tap water.
• For a brand new Keurig, run a few brewing cycles without a coffee pod to remove the plastic taste.
• Try using reusable K-Cups with fresh grounds or high-quality K-Cup brands.

General Troubleshooting Tips

• Consult the Keurig community's forums, guides, and customer support for additional advice and solutions.
• Perform regular cleaning and maintenance to avoid most issues.
• Reset your Keurig by turning it off, unplugging it, reattaching the water reservoir, and turning it back on.

Frequently asked questions