An apparatus for preparing a liquid includes a vessel including a top opening, the vessel able to hold a liquid; a shaft extending into the vessel; a basket coupled to the shaft, the basket having a cavity; and a motorized actuator assembly. The shaft is coupled to the motorized actuator assembly. The motorized actuator assembly vertically moves the shaft to move the basket. Moreover solid ingredients can be disposed in the basket to brew the beverage. The solid ingredient can include coffee.