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On a recent trip to the store I picked up an espresso maker. I was originally looking for a typical all-the-bells-and-whistles type, but found the small and simple design of the Bialetti Moka Express intriguing. There is no plug and no fancy switches or gadgets. It's simple, small and affordable; exactly what I need as a busy parent.

The Moka Express is a wonderful little pot with a cute "Little Man" (or, L'Omino) decorating the top of the pot. It's so easy to use; fill the bottom with water, add ground coffee to the permanent filter, screw on the top of the pot and set over a heat source. Once the pot makes the classic "espresso" sound and the top pot is full, it's done.

What if you don't care for straight espresso? Problem, solved! I devised an easy recipe for a mocha cappuccino without a machine to steam and froth the milk. If you have a blender, you're set.

Make the espresso according to the directions given with the pot. Heat 2 cups of milk until hot but not boiling. Add 3 to 4 ounces of dark chocolate to your blender and pour in one cup of the milk. Lid the blender and cover the top with a folded towel since most blenders will leak a bit with a hot liquid. Blend until the chocolate is melted. Add the other cup of milk and blend until frothy.

Pour espresso 1/3 of the way into a large coffee cup and top with the chocolate milk. I was able to get three medium cups of cappuccino this way and it was every bit as good as the ones I made with more expensive machines.