A method for operating an automatic beverage dispenser, such as a coffee machine provided with a control panel by using a mobile device with a communication unit. A communication link is automatically established between the beverage dispenser and the mobile device. A data set representing a user personalized recipe is transmitted from the mobile device to the coffee machine which temporarily stores the dataset. The personalized recipe is displayed as a selection option on the control panel of the beverage dispenser. Preparation of the beverage is triggered by selecting the desired personalized recipe in response to which a personalized beverage is dispensed by the beverage dispenser.