Cuisinart DC-1200 Brew Central

The Cuisinart DC 1200 coffee maker has long since been one of the most popular drip coffee makers available. There are a number of reasons for this popularity, but the main reasons are the ability to program the machine, the drip-proof carafe, and the great-tasting coffee it makes.

The Cuisinart DC1200 is a drip coffee maker, which means that it lacks some of the features of single cup coffee makers and Italian espresso makers. However, if you have your heart set on a traditional drip coffee maker, then this is one of the best machines available in that range. (On the other hand, if you'd like a single cup coffee maker, you might be interested in the Keurig B60... alternatively, if you're looking for a French press, then you'll enjoy my article on the best french press coffee maker.)

But, back to the Cuisinart DC1200.

First of all, what makes it so special that it deserves mention before any other coffee maker? Well, the main things that stand out would be the fact that it makes 12 cups - the carafe is not too large or not too small, but as Goldilocks would so, "just right". Next, the coffee it brews tastes great - which is a lot more than can be said of many of the older drip coffee makers that were used in the past, which created a murky, dark liquid instead of coffee. Most importantly, the carafe has a unique design which means it doesn't drip when you pour out the coffee and it's not easy to "accidentally" remove the lid - important features for someone like me who as an "accident prone" spouse! This drip-proof feature eliminates the need for constant clean-up and counter-wiping that some of us with messy household members have gotten used to!

 The programmable feature of this machine is exceptional. For many of us who like to have a mug of coffee first thing in the morning, this makes life a lot easier since you can set the time so that your coffee is ready at the right time. The machine lets out a series of audible beeps when the coffee is done, so you don't need to keep looking at the machine to check if your coffee is done or not. Obviously this is great in the morning when you're running around and getting ready.

The Brew Central comes with a warming plate, which is a nice feature if you like to make your coffee and then drink it over a period of time. There are different heat settings on the warming platter, so you can control the temperature as well.

Finally, you can always make fewer cups of coffee at one go by simply selecting a brew cycle of 1-4 cups of coffee instead of using the full capacity.

Overall, the Cuisinart DC1200 makes great coffee and is easy to use.