The BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Digital Coffee Maker (CM1160B) is an affordable machine built for ease of use and dependable performance. Costing roughly $40, it includes features usually seen in premium models, making it a favorite among coffee lovers looking for quality without hassle.
Equipped with a 12-cup Duralife™ glass carafe marked for accurate measurement and an ergonomic handle, this coffee maker makes pouring simple. The QuickTouch™ controls enable 24-hour programmable brewing, so coffee is ready whenever you want. Additional features include the Sneak-A-Cup™ system, which allows pouring during brewing without spills, and a 2-hour auto-off function for safety.
Although the BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Digital Coffee Maker provides reliable performance, some users report that the coffee can taste a bit bitter, particularly with pre-ground beans. Nonetheless, for anyone looking for a simple, no-nonsense brewing experience, this model represents great value.
Specification
Here are the detailed specifications for the BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Digital Coffee Maker (Model CM1160B):
General Specifications
- Model Number: CM1160B
- Type: Programmable drip coffee maker
- Dimensions: 8.25″ (D) x 12.25″ (W) x 11″ (H)
- Weight: Approximately 4.5 lbs (2.04 kg)
- Color: Black
- Material: Durable plastic body with stainless steel trim
- Voltage: 120V
- Wattage: 975W
- Control Type: Soft-touch button interface
- Warranty: 2-year limited
Brewing Features
- Brew Capacity: Up to 12 cups (approximately 60 oz or 1.8 liters)
- Carafe: 12-cup Duralife™ glass pot with measurement indicators and comfortable handle
- Brew Basket: Detachable, dishwasher-safe brew basket; fits standard basket-style paper filters
- Water Reservoir: Easy-to-read front water indicator for accurate measurement
- Brew Start Timer: 24-hour programmable brewing function
- Sneak-A-Cup™ Feature: Briefly stops brewing so you can pour a cup during the cycle
- Keep Warm Plate: Nonstick hot plate maintains optimal coffee temperature
- Auto Shutoff: Automatic shutoff after 2 hours to prevent hazards
Additional Information
- Safety Features: cETLus safety listing
- Cleaning: The carafe and brew basket can be placed on the top rack of a dishwasher, though hand washing is advised for longer life.
- Descaling: Regular descaling with a vinegar-and-water mix is advised to keep the coffee maker performing optimally.
- Included Accessories: Instruction manual
This coffee maker is ideal for those who want a simple, dependable brewing experience with key features at a budget-friendly cost.
Key features
Here are the key features of the BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Digital Coffee Maker (Model CM1160B):
- QuickTouch™ Programming: Quickly set the 24-hour auto brew function so you can enjoy freshly brewed coffee each morning.
- Sneak-A-Cup™ Technology: Enables mid-brew pouring without spills by briefly pausing the coffee flow.
- Digital Controls with Rubberized Feel: Oversized soft-touch buttons give complete control over the coffee maker, while the clear display shows the clock, brew schedule, and settings.
- 2-Hour Auto Shutoff: To ensure safety and convenience, the coffee maker powers off automatically after two hours of idle time.
- Removable Brew Basket: The removable, dishwasher-safe brew basket works with standard basket-style paper filters, simplifying cleanup.
- Duralife™ Glass Carafe: The durable 12-cup carafe features measurement lines for precise filling and a user-friendly handle for effortless pouring.
- Water-Level Indicator: The clear water window allows accurate filling, avoiding spills or insufficient water.
- Cord Storage: Helps maintain a clutter-free countertop by neatly storing extra cord.
These combined features make the BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Digital Coffee Maker an accessible and reliable choice for those seeking both convenience and great coffee
How to use the BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Digital Coffee Maker
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use the BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Digital Coffee Maker (CM1160B) effectively:
1. Prepare the Coffee Maker
- Set the coffee maker on a level, secure surface close to an electrical outlet.
- Lift the top lid and make sure the removable brew basket and carafe are correctly positioned.
- Ensure the water reservoir is empty and free of residue.
2. Add Water
- Add water to the reservoir, using the front water window to ensure accurate measurement.
- Always use fresh, cold water for superior taste. Measurement lines indicate up to 12 cups.
3. Add Coffee Grounds
- Insert a basket-type paper filter or the removable brew basket into the brew basket slot.
- Fill the basket with your preferred amount of coffee, generally 1–2 tablespoons per cup.
4. Set Brew Options
- Connect the coffee maker to power and operate the QuickTouch™ digital controls to choose:
- Brewing duration (manual or 24-hour programmable auto brew)
- Brew strength (if desired)
- To use the auto-brew feature, press the program button and select your preferred start time.
5. Start Brewing
- Tap on the brew button to begin.
Serve coffee using the ergonomic Duralife™ glass carafe. - With Sneak-A-Cup™, you can safely serve a cup while brewing is in progress.
- After brewing finishes, the warming plate keeps coffee hot for up to 2 hours before turning off automatically.
6. Serve and Clean
- Pour coffee from the ergonomic Duralife™ glass carafe.
- After brewing, remove the carafe and brew basket for cleaning, and wipe the machine’s exterior with a moist cloth.
- Regularly descale with a vinegar-and-water mixture to keep the coffee maker working efficiently.
Tips and recipes suitable for the BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Digital Coffee Maker
Here’s a list of tips and coffee recipes tailored for the BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Digital Coffee Maker (CM1160B):
Tips for Best Brewing
- Use Fresh, Cold Water – For the best flavor, always use filtered or cold tap water. Avoid distilled water, which may result in a bland taste.
- Measure Coffee Grounds Accurately – Typically, use 1–2 tablespoons of coffee for every 6 oz of water, adjusting according to preference.
- Clean Regularly – Clean the carafe and brew basket after every use, and perform monthly descaling with a vinegar-water mixture to avoid mineral deposits.
- Use the Sneak-A-Cup™ Feature Wisely – Serving coffee during the brew may shorten brewing time slightly, so do so only when needed.
- Keep Hot Plate Usage Minimal – Keeping coffee on the hot plate too long may result in a burnt taste. If not served right away, transfer it to a thermal carafe.
- Program Auto-Brew – Set the 24-hour timer so you can wake up to a hot, freshly brewed pot of coffee each day.
Simple Coffee Recipes
- Classic Black Coffee
- Make coffee to your desired strength with 1–2 tablespoons per cup, and serve it hot.
- Iced Coffee
- Make extra-strong coffee by filling the full 12-cup carafe.
- Allow the coffee to cool a bit, serve over ice, and add milk or sweetener to taste.
- Vanilla Latte
- Brew a full pot of coffee.
- Warm milk (or plant-based milk) in a separate cup and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla syrup per serving.
- Add coffee to the milk mixture and mix well.
- Mocha Coffee
- Brew coffee as usual.
- Stir 1 tbsp cocoa powder and 1–2 tsp sugar into hot coffee until fully dissolved, then add frothed milk on top if you like.
- Cinnamon-Spiced Coffee
- Mix ½ teaspoon of cinnamon into the coffee grounds prior to brewing.
- Brew as usual and savor a rich, aromatic cup.
Cleaning guide
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean the BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Digital Coffee Maker (CM1160B) to keep it working efficiently and ensure your coffee tastes fresh:
Daily Cleaning
- Turn Off and Unplug – Always ensure the coffee maker is powered off and disconnected from the outlet before cleaning.
- Remove Carafe and Brew Basket – Remove the Duralife™ glass carafe and the removable brew basket.
- Wash Removable Parts – Wash the carafe and brew basket in warm, soapy water, or place them on the dishwasher’s top rack. Rinse well.
- Wipe Exterior – Wipe the exterior of the coffee maker with a damp cloth. Never immerse the main unit in water.
Weekly or Monthly Cleaning (Descaling)
- Prepare Vinegar Solution – Combine equal amounts of white vinegar and water to fill the reservoir.
- Run Brew Cycle – Run a brew cycle without coffee grounds, letting the vinegar solution pass through the coffee maker.
- Pause Mid-Cycle – Optionally, allow the solution to remain in the carafe for 15–20 minutes to help break down mineral buildup.
- Rinse Cycle – Once the vinegar cycle is complete, run 2–3 cycles with plain water to remove vinegar residue and odor.
Additional Tips
- Avoid Abrasive Cleaners – Avoid bleach, strong chemicals, or abrasive pads, as they may harm the carafe or brew basket.
- Clean Water Window – Clean the water-level window to ensure clear and precise readings.
- Check for Build-Up – Periodic descaling prevents blockages, maintains optimal coffee taste, and increases the appliance’s lifespan.
What to avoid when using the BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Digital Coffee Maker
Here’s a clear guide on what to avoid when using the BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Digital Coffee Maker (CM1160B) to ensure safety, prevent damage, and keep your coffee tasting great:
1. Avoid Overfilling
- Avoid filling the water reservoir above the max line, as this may lead to spills or overflow while brewing.
- Likewise, using excessive coffee grounds may cause blockages or produce bitter-tasting coffee
2. Avoid Using Damaged Parts or Cords
- Do not operate the coffee maker if the power cord is worn or damaged, or if the carafe or brew basket has cracks.
- Always change broken or worn parts immediately to prevent electric shock or harm.
3. Avoid Submerging the Main Unit
- Never immerse the coffee maker’s base or digital controls in water.
- Only detachable components, such as the carafe and brew basket, can be safely washed.
4. Avoid Extreme Heat or Open Flames
- Do not position the coffee maker near heat-producing appliances, since high temperatures can deform or harm plastic components.
5. Avoid Leaving Coffee on the Hot Plate Too Long
- Although the warming plate preserves heat, letting coffee sit for extended periods may result in a burnt or bitter flavor.
- For extended warmth, transfer your coffee to an insulated carafe.
6. Avoid Using Harsh Chemicals
- Avoid using bleach, harsh scrubbing pads, or strong cleaning agents on the carafe or brew basket.
- Rely on mild detergent or a vinegar solution when descaling.
7. Avoid Brewing Without Water
- Always ensure the reservoir contains water before starting a brew cycle, or the heating element may be damaged.
By following these steps, your BLACK+DECKER coffee maker remains safe, well-maintained, and fully functional, delivering great-tasting coffee every time.
In conclusion, the BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Digital Coffee Maker (CM1160B) is a reliable, user-friendly, and affordable appliance. Its programmable features, Sneak-A-Cup™ function, and keep-hot plate offer convenience, while the removable carafe and washable brew basket simplify cleaning. Overall, it delivers consistent, everyday coffee with ease, making it an excellent choice for a practical and hassle-free brewing experience.
Write a Comment