Ninja Fresh Brew Coffee Maker, 12 Cup Glass Carafe, Stainless Steel, CE251
Introduction
For many people, coffee is more than just a beverage—it is a daily ritual that sets the tone for the day ahead. Whether it is the first cup in the morning or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, the quality and consistency of that brew can make a significant difference. Traditional drip coffee makers have been a staple in households for decades, but not all are created equal. Some struggle to maintain the optimal brewing temperature, resulting in coffee that tastes flat or bitter. Others lack the flexibility to accommodate different preferences, offering only a one-size-fits-all approach to brewing. The Ninja Fresh Brew Coffee Maker, model CE251, is designed to address these common frustrations. This article provides an educational overview of this 12-cup programmable coffee maker, exploring its features, design, and practical considerations for those thinking about adding it to their kitchen.
Product Overview
The Ninja CE251 is a 12-cup programmable drip coffee maker that combines customizable brewing strength with a large capacity and user-friendly design. It features a 60-ounce removable water reservoir, a 12-cup glass carafe, and a black and stainless steel finish that gives it a modern, contemporary look. The brewer is powered by an 1100-watt advanced boiler system designed to deliver hot, flavorful coffee that is never bitter.
The CE251 is positioned in the mid-range price bracket, offering a significant upgrade from basic coffee makers while remaining more affordable than premium, SCA-certified brewers. It has received recognition from reputable sources, including Wirecutter, which named it the best cheap coffee maker and noted that it “consistently brewed the best-tasting coffee among the machines we tested”. The brewer includes a range of features typically found in more expensive machines, such as two brew styles, a 24-hour programmable delay brew, an adjustable warming plate, and a small batch function.
Key Features
Two Brew Styles: Classic and Rich
One of the standout features of the Ninja CE251 is its ability to brew coffee in two distinct styles: Classic and Rich. The Classic setting is designed to produce a balanced, smooth cup of coffee that many people associate with traditional drip brewing. The Rich setting, on the other hand, uses a longer brewing cycle to extract more flavor from the coffee grounds, resulting in a bolder, more intense cup. This flexibility allows users to tailor their brew to their personal preference or to the type of coffee beans they are using. Those who prefer a lighter, more nuanced cup may gravitate toward the Classic setting, while those who enjoy a robust, full-bodied brew may prefer the Rich setting.
12-Cup Glass Carafe
The CE251 comes with a 12-cup glass carafe, which is large enough to brew a full day’s worth of coffee or to serve guests during gatherings. The carafe features a brew-through lid design, which means coffee flows directly into the carafe through the lid, helping to minimize heat loss during brewing. The carafe is designed to pour cleanly with no drips, though some users have noted that the spout pours to perfection. It is important to note that the carafe is specific to this model and is not compatible with other coffee makers.
Hotter Brewing Technology
The Ninja CE251 is equipped with an advanced boiler system that is designed to deliver a hotter cup of coffee. According to independent testing, the Ninja CE251 brews at a higher temperature than many competing models, which can contribute to better flavor extraction. The hotter brewing temperature is intended to ensure that the coffee grounds are properly saturated, allowing for more complete extraction of flavors and oils. This technology is one of the key factors that sets the CE251 apart from cheaper coffee makers that may struggle to maintain the optimal brewing temperature.
Small Batch Function
Brewing a small batch of coffee in a full-sized coffee maker can sometimes result in diluted or weak coffee. The Ninja CE251 addresses this issue with its Small Batch function, which is designed to ensure that coffee is never diluted when brewing 1-4 cups. This feature adjusts the brewing process to compensate for the smaller volume, helping to maintain the same flavor intensity as a full pot. This can be particularly useful for individuals who live alone or for households where coffee consumption varies from day to day.
24-Hour Programmable Delay Brew
For those who want to wake up to freshly brewed coffee, the CE251 includes a 24-hour programmable delay brew feature. This allows users to set the machine to start brewing up to a day in advance, ensuring that hot coffee is ready at a predetermined time. The programmable feature is straightforward to use, with intuitive controls on the front panel. This can be a convenient option for busy mornings when time is limited.
Adjustable Warming Plate
The CE251 features an adjustable warming plate that can keep coffee fresh and flavorful for up to four hours. The warming plate is adjustable, allowing users to select the temperature that best suits their preference. This is a notable improvement over many basic coffee makers that have a fixed warming plate temperature, which can sometimes scorch the coffee or leave it lukewarm. The adjustable feature gives users more control over how their coffee is kept warm.
Removable Water Reservoir
The 60-ounce removable water reservoir is designed for convenience. It can be carried to the sink for easy filling, eliminating the need to maneuver the entire coffee maker under the faucet. The reservoir is also easy to clean, which can help maintain the quality of the coffee over time. The reservoir is made from clear plastic, allowing users to see the water level at a glance.
Mid-Brew Pause
The mid-brew pause feature allows users to pour a cup of coffee before the brewing cycle is complete. This can be useful for those who are in a hurry and do not want to wait for the full pot to finish brewing. When the carafe is removed, the flow of coffee from the brew basket stops, preventing drips onto the warming plate. Once the carafe is replaced, the brewing cycle resumes.
Permanent Filter and Included Accessories
The CE251 includes a permanent filter, which eliminates the need for paper filters. This can be a cost-saving and environmentally friendly feature for regular coffee drinkers. The brewer also comes with a Ninja Integrated Scoop for measuring coffee grounds. The permanent filter is easy to clean and reusable, reducing waste over time.
Materials and Design
The Ninja CE251 is constructed primarily from plastic, with stainless steel accents that give it a sleek, contemporary vibe. The black and stainless steel finish is designed to complement a variety of kitchen styles, from modern to traditional. The exterior is smooth and easy to wipe clean, which helps maintain its appearance over time.
The water reservoir is made from clear plastic and is removable for easy filling and cleaning. The 12-cup glass carafe features a brew-through lid and is designed to pour cleanly with no spills. The carafe is not insulated, so the warming plate is the primary mechanism for keeping coffee hot after brewing.
The control panel is intuitive and easy to use, with clearly labeled buttons for the various functions. The display shows the time and programming status, making it straightforward to set the delay brew feature. The overall design is compact, with dimensions of approximately 14 inches in height, 10 inches in width, and 8 inches in depth. This compact footprint makes it suitable for kitchens with limited counter space.
Performance
The Ninja CE251 is designed to deliver consistent, flavorful coffee across a range of brewing conditions. Independent testing has shown that the CE251 consistently brewed the best-tasting coffee among the machines tested, whether using pre-ground or freshly ground beans. This is attributed in part to the hotter brewing technology, which helps extract more flavor from the coffee grounds.
The brew time for a full 12-cup pot is approximately 10 to 12 minutes. While this is not the fastest brew time on the market, it is within the typical range for programmable drip coffee makers. The Small Batch function adjusts the brewing process for 1-4 cups, helping to maintain flavor intensity even when brewing smaller quantities.
One consideration is that the CE251 requires an initial priming process before first use. Ninja recommends running two full 12-cup cycles with just water to prime and clean the machine. This process can take over 20 minutes, which may require some patience when first unboxing the machine.
The adjustable warming plate can keep coffee hot for up to four hours. However, some users have noted that the coffee may lose some of its freshness over extended periods on the warming plate, which is typical for glass carafe brewers that do not have thermal insulation.
Common Uses
Everyday Morning Coffee
The Ninja CE251 is designed for daily use, with programmable features that make it easy to wake up to freshly brewed coffee. The 12-cup capacity is sufficient for households with multiple coffee drinkers, and the two brew styles allow each person to choose their preferred strength. The removable water reservoir simplifies the morning routine, as it can be filled at the sink without moving the entire machine.
Entertaining and Gatherings
The 12-cup glass carafe is large enough to serve guests during gatherings or family meals. The adjustable warming plate can keep coffee hot for up to four hours, which can be useful during extended social events. The mid-brew pause feature allows hosts to pour a cup for a guest without waiting for the full pot to finish brewing.
Small Batch Brewing
For individuals who do not need a full pot of coffee, the Small Batch function ensures that brewing 1-4 cups does not result in diluted or weak coffee. This feature makes the CE251 suitable for households with varying coffee consumption patterns, where some days may require a full pot and others only a few cups.
Programmable Brewing
The 24-hour delay brew feature allows users to set the machine to start brewing at a specific time. This can be useful for those who want coffee ready when they wake up or when they return home from work. The programming is straightforward, with intuitive controls on the front panel.
Advantages
Customizable Brew Strength
The two brew styles—Classic and Rich—provide flexibility for different preferences. The Rich setting offers a bolder, more intense cup for those who enjoy stronger coffee, while the Classic setting provides a balanced, smooth brew. This customization is a notable advantage over basic coffee makers that offer only one brewing profile.
Hotter Brewing Temperature
The advanced boiler system is designed to deliver a hotter cup of coffee, which can contribute to better flavor extraction. Independent testing has confirmed that the CE251 brews at a higher temperature than many competing models. This can be a significant advantage for those who value the full flavor potential of their coffee beans.
Removable Water Reservoir
The 60-ounce removable water reservoir is a practical feature that simplifies filling and cleaning. Users can carry the reservoir to the sink, eliminating the need to maneuver the entire coffee maker under the faucet. This is particularly useful in kitchens with limited space around the sink.
Small Batch Function
The Small Batch function ensures that brewing 1-4 cups does not result in diluted or weak coffee. This feature makes the CE251 suitable for households with varying coffee consumption patterns, where some days may require a full pot and others only a few cups.
Adjustable Warming Plate
The adjustable warming plate allows users to select the temperature that best suits their preference. This is a notable improvement over many basic coffee makers that have a fixed warming plate temperature. The adjustable feature gives users more control over how their coffee is kept warm.
Mid-Brew Pause
The mid-brew pause feature allows users to pour a cup of coffee before the brewing cycle is complete. This can be useful for those who are in a hurry and do not want to wait for the full pot to finish brewing.
Recognized Quality
The CE251 has received recognition from reputable sources, including Wirecutter, which named it the best cheap coffee maker and noted that it “consistently brewed the best-tasting coffee among the machines we tested”. This external validation can provide confidence for potential buyers.
Things to Consider
Plastic Construction
The CE251 is constructed primarily from plastic, with stainless steel accents. While this contributes to the lightweight design and affordable price point, some users may prefer a more substantial build quality with more metal components. The plastic construction may also be more susceptible to scratches or wear over time.
Glass Carafe
The CE251 comes with a glass carafe rather than a thermal carafe. While glass carafes are generally more affordable and allow users to see the coffee level, they do not insulate as well as thermal carafes. The warming plate is the primary mechanism for keeping coffee hot, which can affect the flavor over extended periods. Some users may prefer a thermal carafe for better heat retention without a warming plate.
No Thermal Carafe Option
The CE251 does not offer a thermal carafe option. For those who prefer to keep coffee hot without a warming plate, this may be a limitation. Thermal carafes can keep coffee hot for several hours without the risk of scorching that can occur with warming plates.
No Pod Compatibility
The CE251 is designed exclusively for ground coffee and does not offer K-Cup pod compatibility. For households where some members prefer single-serve pods and others prefer full pots, this may be a limitation. The Ninja DualBrew Pro offers pod compatibility but comes at a higher price point.
Cleaning Considerations
Some users have noted that the CE251 can be more difficult to clean because of the tube that goes down from the lid of the carafe and the inner rim inside the carafe. The cleaning cycle can also take a long time. Regular maintenance, including descaling, is recommended to keep the machine functioning properly.
Initial Priming Required
Before the first use, Ninja requires users to run two full 12-cup cycles with just water to prime and clean the machine. This process can take over 20 minutes, which may be a small test of patience when first unboxing the machine. This is a one-time requirement, but it is worth noting for those who expect to use the machine immediately upon unboxing.
Carafe Compatibility
The 12-cup glass carafe is designed specifically for Ninja coffee maker models CE251, CE201, CE201C, CE200, and CE200C. It will not fit any other coffee maker, which may be a consideration if the carafe needs to be replaced. Replacement carafes are available but are model-specific.
Comparison With Similar Product Categories
Ninja CE251 vs. Basic Drip Coffee Makers
Basic drip coffee makers typically offer simple on/off operation with limited customization. They may struggle to maintain the optimal brewing temperature, resulting in coffee that tastes flat or bitter. The Ninja CE251 offers significant upgrades over basic models, including two brew styles, a hotter brewing temperature, a removable water reservoir, a small batch function, and an adjustable warming plate. These features allow for greater control over the brewing process and can result in better-tasting coffee.
Ninja CE251 vs. Premium SCA-Certified Brewers
SCA-certified brewers are designed to meet specific standards for brewing temperature and consistency. They often feature thermal carafes, more precise temperature control, and higher-quality materials. However, they can cost several hundred dollars. The Ninja CE251 offers many of the same features—such as customizable brew strength, programmable delay brew, and a removable water reservoir—at a significantly lower price point. While it may not meet the exacting standards of SCA-certified brewers, it represents a good value for those who want quality coffee without the premium price tag.
Ninja CE251 vs. Ninja 14-Cup XL Pro (DCM201)
The Ninja 14-Cup XL Pro offers a larger 14-cup capacity and a “Freshness Timer” that lets users know how long the coffee has been sitting on the warming plate. However, it trades the convenience of the removable water reservoir for an integrated design. The CE251 is more compact and features the removable reservoir, making it more convenient for everyday use. The choice between the two depends on whether larger capacity or the removable reservoir is the higher priority.
Ninja CE251 vs. Ninja DualBrew Pro
The Ninja DualBrew Pro is the most versatile option, adding iced coffee and K-Cup pod compatibility to the features found in the CE251. It can brew both full carafes and single servings from pods, making it a better choice for households with diverse coffee preferences. However, it comes at a higher price point. The CE251 is the better choice for those who primarily want a reliable, high-performing programmable drip coffee maker and do not need pod compatibility.
Drip Coffee Makers vs. Single-Serve Brewers
Drip coffee makers like the Ninja CE251 are designed to brew full carafes of coffee, making them more suitable for households with multiple coffee drinkers or for those who prefer to brew larger batches. Single-serve brewers offer convenience and speed, with each cup brewed individually from pods. The CE251 offers the advantage of a larger capacity and the ability to customize brew strength, while single-serve brewers may be more convenient for individuals who only want one cup at a time.
Maintenance and Care
Regular Cleaning
The removable parts of the CE251, including the water reservoir and carafe, should be washed regularly with warm, soapy water. The permanent filter should be rinsed after each use and cleaned periodically to remove coffee oil buildup. The brew basket and carafe lid should also be cleaned regularly to prevent residue accumulation. The exterior of the brewer can be wiped with a soft, damp cloth.
Descaling
Mineral deposits can build up inside the brewer over time, potentially affecting performance and the taste of the coffee. Ninja recommends descaling the brewer periodically, depending on water hardness. The CE251 includes a cleaning cycle that can be activated by following the manufacturer’s instructions. The descaling process typically involves running a descaling solution through the brewer, followed by several rinse cycles with fresh water.
Carafe Care
The 12-cup glass carafe should be handled with care to avoid breakage. It is dishwasher safe, though hand washing with warm, soapy water is recommended to preserve the clarity of the glass. The brew-through lid should be cleaned regularly to prevent coffee residue buildup.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If the brewer will not brew, checking the water reservoir to ensure it is properly seated and contains water is a recommended first step. A clogged brew basket or permanent filter may also prevent proper brewing. If the coffee is not hot enough, checking the warming plate setting and ensuring the machine is not placed in a drafty area may help. If the machine has no power, checking the power cord and outlet is recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
What brew sizes does the Ninja CE251 offer?
The Ninja CE251 can brew 1 to 12 cups of coffee. The Small Batch function is designed for brewing 1-4 cups, ensuring that the coffee is not diluted.
What is the difference between Classic and Rich brew styles?
The Classic setting produces a balanced, smooth cup of coffee, while the Rich setting uses a longer brewing cycle to extract more flavor for a bolder, more intense cup.
Is the water reservoir removable?
Yes, the 60-ounce water reservoir is removable for easy filling and cleaning.
Does the CE251 have a programmable delay brew?
Yes, the CE251 includes a 24-hour programmable delay brew feature, allowing users to set the machine to start brewing up to a day in advance.
Can I use my own ground coffee?
Yes, the CE251 is designed for use with ground coffee and includes a permanent filter. It does not use K-Cup pods.
Is the carafe dishwasher safe?
The 12-cup glass carafe is dishwasher safe, though hand washing is recommended to preserve the clarity of the glass.
How long does it take to brew a full pot?
The brew time for a full 12-cup pot is approximately 10 to 12 minutes.
Does the CE251 have an adjustable warming plate?
Yes, the warming plate is adjustable, allowing users to select the temperature that best suits their preference. It can keep coffee fresh and flavorful for up to four hours.
Does the CE251 have a mid-brew pause feature?
Yes, the mid-brew pause feature allows users to pour a cup of coffee before the brewing cycle is complete.
What accessories are included?
The CE251 includes a 12-cup glass carafe, a removable water reservoir, a permanent filter, and a Ninja Integrated Scoop.
What is the wattage of the CE251?
The CE251 operates at 1100 watts.
Is the CE251 compatible with K-Cup pods?
No, the CE251 is designed exclusively for ground coffee and does not offer K-Cup pod compatibility.
Final Thoughts
The Ninja Fresh Brew Coffee Maker, model CE251, offers a compelling combination of features, performance, and value. Its two brew styles provide flexibility for different preferences, while the hotter brewing technology is designed to extract more flavor from the coffee grounds. The removable water reservoir, adjustable warming plate, and 24-hour programmable delay brew add convenience for daily use. The Small Batch function ensures that brewing 1-4 cups does not result in diluted coffee, making it suitable for households with varying coffee consumption patterns.
The CE251 has received recognition from reputable sources, including Wirecutter, which named it the best cheap coffee maker and noted that it “consistently brewed the best-tasting coffee among the machines we tested”. Its mid-range price point offers a significant upgrade from basic coffee makers while remaining more affordable than premium models.
Potential considerations include the plastic construction, the glass carafe rather than a thermal option, and the lack of pod compatibility. The initial priming process and the need for regular descaling are also worth noting. For those seeking a reliable, programmable drip coffee maker that delivers flavorful results, the Ninja CE251 presents a practical option worth considering.
