Bread Makers Guide
Size
Bread machines come in various sizes to cater to different needs. If you have limited counter space or plan to store it away when not in use, a compact bread maker is a great option. A reliable choice in this category is the Zojirushi BB-HAC10 Home Bakery Mini Breadmaker, which has a slim design and measures just 11 x 8 x 12 inches. On the other hand, if you regularly bake bread for a larger family or enjoy hosting gatherings, a larger bread maker with a higher loaf capacity would be more suitable. For example, the Cuisinart CBK-200 2-Pound Convection Bread Maker provides a large capacity of up to 2 pounds, making it ideal for baking large, hearty loaves of bread.
Capacity
If you have a large family or simply enjoy baking for parties and gatherings, opting for a bread maker with a higher capacity is advisable. One remarkable option is the Zojirushi Home Bakery Virtuoso Plus Breadmaker. With its generous 2-pound capacity, it allows you to bake larger loaves, ensuring there will be plenty of freshly baked bread for everyone to enjoy. Another excellent alternative with a similar capacity is the Cuisinart Bread Maker CBK-200. Offering a 2-pound loaf size, it provides ample bread for your family or guests and comes equipped with various programmable menu options to create different bread styles and mixes.
Number of preset programs
These programs allow you to easily make different types of bread with specific settings for each. The more preset programs a bread maker has, the more versatile it is in terms of the variety of bread you can make. For example, the Hamilton Beach 2 lb Digital Bread Maker offers 12 different settings, including gluten-free, whole grain, and French bread, allowing you to experiment and create different types of bread easily. Another option is the ZOJIRUSHI Home Bakery Virtuoso Plus Breadmaker, which comes with an impressive 15 preset programs, including options for making homemade jam and cake. Having a wide range of preset programs provides flexibility in baking and ensures that your bread maker can handle different recipes and preferences.
Crust settings
Different people have different preferences when it comes to the crust of their bread, ranging from light and golden to dark and crispy. Some bread makers offer a variety of crust settings, allowing you to customize your bread to your liking. For example, the Cuisinart CBK-200 provides crust control options with different settings, including light, medium, and dark. Another option to consider is the Zojirushi BB-PAC20 that offers a variety of crust shades, such as regular, light, crispy, and firm. These bread makers are known for their ability to produce consistent and even browning of crusts, ensuring that you can achieve the perfect crust every time.
Timer function
This function allows you to set a specific time for the bread maker to start the baking process. This is especially useful if you want to wake up to the smell of freshly baked bread in the morning or have a loaf of bread ready for when you come home from work. Not all bread makers have this function, so if this is an important factor for you, ensure that the one you choose includes it. One example of a bread maker with a Timer function is the Cuisinart CBK-200. With a 12-hour delay start timer, it allows you to set the machine to start at a specific time. Another option is the Zojirushi BB-PAC20. This bread maker features a programmable timer that allows you to set a delay start of up to 13 hours.
Delay start
This functionality allows you to set the machine to start baking your bread at a later time, giving you the convenience of waking up to freshly baked bread or coming home to it after a long day at work. Two excellent options that offer Delay start are the Zojirushi BB-PAC20 Home Bakery Virtuoso Breadmaker and the Breville BBM800XL Custom Loaf Bread Maker. With a Delay start of up to 13 hours, the Zojirushi bread maker allows you to have complete control over when your bread is ready. Similarly, the feature-rich Breville bread maker offers a Delay start of up to 13 hours as well, along with customizable loaf sizes and crust settings for ultimate versatility. These bread makers are perfect for those who want the added convenience of a Delay start option to fit their busy schedules.
Keep warm function
This feature allows the bread maker to keep your freshly baked bread warm for a specified period of time, ensuring that it stays deliciously warm and ready to enjoy whenever you're ready. If this function appeals to you, there are a few notable bread makers on the market that offer this feature. One such option is the Zojirushi BB-CEC20 Home Bakery Supreme, which boasts a 13-hour programmable delay timer with an auto keep warm function, keeping your bread warm up to one hour after baking. Another impressive choice is the Cuisinart CBK-200 2-Lb Convection Bread Maker, which offers a 60-minute keep warm function, allowing you to enjoy your bread at your convenience.
Bread loaf sizes
Bread loaf sizes typically range from 1 pound to 2.5 pounds. If you have a small household or prefer smaller portions, the Zojirushi BB-PAC20 Home Bakery Virtuoso Breadmaker is a great option as it can make a loaf size as small as 1 pound. On the other hand, if you have a larger family or enjoy making bigger batches, opt for the Hamilton Beach 29885 Artisan Dough and Bread Maker, which can produce 2 to 2.5-pound loaves. It's important to consider the quantity you wish to bake per batch as this will determine the appropriate bread maker for your needs.
Gluten-free mode
This mode is specifically designed to handle gluten-free doughs, providing the right consistency and texture. One example of a bread maker with a Gluten-free mode is the Cuisinart CBK-200. This bread maker offers 16 preprogrammed menu options, and one of them is Gluten-free. It has a special temperature and kneading cycle to ensure optimal results when making gluten-free bread. Another option is the Panasonic SD-YR2500. This bread maker features an easy-to-use control panel and includes a Gluten-free mode to produce delicious gluten-free bread. Both of these bread makers provide excellent options for those requiring gluten-free bread without the need for additional adjustments or hassle.
Dough cycle
This refers to the machine's ability to prepare dough for other baked goods such as pizza crusts or cinnamon rolls. A good dough cycle should provide efficient kneading and rising time to achieve the perfect consistency and texture. An excellent example of a bread maker with a reliable dough cycle is the Cuisinart CBK-200. It offers a 12-dough cycle, allowing you to produce a wide variety of dough-based recipes with ease. Another great option is the Zojirushi BB-PAC20. It features a versatile dough cycle along with multiple menu settings that are designed to accommodate various types of doughs, ensuring that you can create scrumptious treats every time.
Jam mode
This feature allows you to easily create delicious jams right in the bread maker, saving you time and effort in the kitchen. One great option is the Zojirushi BB-PAC20 Home Bakery Virtuoso Plus Bread Maker, which not only has a convenient Jam mode but also offers multiple jam presets for added versatility. This bread maker also features a user-friendly LCD control panel and a large viewing window for monitoring your jam's progress. Another recommended choice is the Breville BBM800XL Custom Loaf Bread Maker, which includes a dedicated Jam function with a wide range of options. This bread maker boasts impressive specifications such as a smart LCD screen, automatic fruit and nut dispenser, and adjustable loaf sizes. Overall, opting for a bread maker with a Jam mode like the Zojirushi Virtuoso Plus or the Breville Custom Loaf will provide you with the ability to make delightful homemade jams with ease.
Cake mode
This feature allows you to easily bake delicious and moist cakes right in your bread maker. The Zojirushi BB-CEC20 Home Bakery Supreme Bread Maker is a great option that offers a Cake mode. This bread maker has a generous 2-pound capacity and a variety of cake settings, including a quick cake option for those times when you're short on time. Another option to consider is the Panasonic SD-YD250 Automatic Bread Maker, which also includes a Cake mode. This bread maker has an impressive 13-hour delay timer and offers different settings that allow you to bake different cake sizes and styles, including pound cakes and sponge cakes. Both the Zojirushi BB-CEC20 and Panasonic SD-YD250 are top-rated bread makers with excellent reviews from customers. So if you're a cake lover, make sure to choose a bread maker that includes a Cake mode for all your baking needs.
Rapid bake option
This feature allows you to significantly reduce the baking time, allowing you to enjoy fresh homemade bread in a short amount of time. If you're looking for a bread maker with this option, consider the Zojirushi BB-PAC20 Home Baker Virtuoso Plus Breadmaker. This top-quality bread maker offers a rapid bake option, reducing the baking time to around 2 hours. Another excellent option is the Panasonic SD-ZX2522KXC Bread Maker with 37 Programs. This bread maker also has a rapid bake mode that cuts down the baking time by nearly half, so you can enjoy your bread faster.
Crust color control
This feature gives you the ability to choose the desired color of the bread crust, allowing you to customize your baking experience. Many bread makers offer a variety of crust color options, such as light, medium, and dark crusts. For instance, the Zojirushi BB-CEC20 Home Bakery Supreme 2-Pound-Loaf Breadmaker comes with a crust control function that lets you select a light or regular crust color. Another option is the Hamilton Beach 29885 Artisan and Gluten-Free Bread Maker, which offers a crust control setting for light, medium, or dark crusts. By having the ability to adjust the crust color, you will be able to create bread that meets your preferences, whether you prefer a lightly golden crust or a rich, dark brown crust.
Viewing window
This is especially useful for those who like to see the crust color or want to monitor the rise of the dough. An example of a bread maker that includes a viewing window is the Zojirushi Home Bakery Virtuoso Plus Breadmaker. With a large rectangular viewing window, you can easily keep an eye on your bread without needing to open the lid and disrupt the baking process. Another option is the Cuisinart CBK-200 Convection Bread Maker, which also features a viewing window that lets you observe your bread as it bakes to ensure it reaches the perfect golden brown color.
Non-stick coating
A non-stick coating prevents the dough from sticking, ensuring easy removal from the machine and effortless cleaning. One example of a bread maker with a reliable non-stick coating is the Hamilton Beach 2 lb Digital Bread Maker. It features a non-stick bread pan that allows for easy removal of the bread without leaving any residue behind. Another option is the Cuisinart CBK-100 2 LB Bread Maker, which also comes with a non-stick coating that ensures the bread slides out effortlessly. Additionally, some bread makers come with a ceramic non-stick coating, such as the Zojirushi BB-HAC10 Mini Breadmaker. Ceramic coatings provide excellent heat distribution and are more durable than standard non-stick coatings.
Bread pan material
The material of the bread pan can greatly impact the quality of the bread. One popular material is stainless steel, known for its durability and even heat distribution. The Hamilton Beach 2 lb Digital Bread Maker is an example of a bread maker with a stainless steel bread pan. Another option is ceramic bread pans, which can provide a more even heat distribution and tend to create a softer crust. The Zojirushi Home Bakery Virtuoso Plus Bread Maker is a great example of a bread maker with a ceramic bread pan. Aluminum bread pans are also common and heat up rapidly, resulting in a quicker bake time. The Cuisinart CBK-110 Compact Automatic Bread Maker is an example of a bread maker with an aluminum bread pan. Each type of bread pan material has its advantages, so consider your preferences and desired bread outcomes when making a choice.
Kneading paddle material
The kneading paddle is the crucial component that mixes and kneads the dough, so it is essential to choose the right material to ensure it performs optimally and is durable. Stainless steel paddles are a popular option due to their durability and non-stick properties. They are resistant to corrosion and can withstand high temperature, ensuring your bread maker's longevity. A good example of a bread maker that features a stainless steel kneading paddle is the Cuisinart CBK-200 Convection Bread Maker, which comes with a removable, non-stick kneading paddle making it easy to clean. Another option is ceramic paddles, which are known for their even heat distribution. A bread maker that offers a ceramic kneading paddle is the Breville BBM800XL Custom Loaf Bread Maker. Ceramic paddles provide gentle yet effective kneading, resulting in soft, fluffy bread.
Programmable settings
This allows you to customize the baking process according to your preferences. Look for machines that offer a range of settings such as multiple loaf sizes, crust shades, and delay timers. One such bread maker that offers programmable settings is the Zojirushi BB-PAC20 Home Bakery Virtuoso Plus Breadmaker. With its custom settings, you can choose from three different bread textures, select the ideal crust shade, and even program a 13-hour delay timer for fresh bread when you wake up. Another option to consider is the Hamilton Beach 29888 Artisan and Gluten-Free Bread Maker. It offers customizable settings for creating artisan-style bread and can accommodate gluten-free recipes.
Power consumption
This refers to the amount of energy the bread maker uses while operating. Generally, a bread maker with lower power consumption is more energy efficient and can help save on electricity bills. For example, the Zojirushi BB-CEC20 Home Bakery Supreme 2-Pound-Loaf Breadmaker has a power consumption of 700 watts, making it a great choice for those who want to reduce their energy usage without sacrificing the quality of their homemade bread. Another option with lower power consumption is the Cuisinart CBK-200 2-Pound Convection Automatic Breadmaker, which uses 680 watts of power. Typically, bread makers fall into two power consumption groups: those with higher power consumption (800-1000 watts) and those with lower power consumption (500-700 watts).
Noise level
A noisy bread maker can disrupt the ambiance of your kitchen and even annoy your family members or neighbors. Luckily, there are various bread makers on the market that excel in producing minimal noise. For example, the Zojirushi BB-PAC20 Virtuoso Bread Maker is an excellent option known for its ultra-quiet operation. With its noise level reaching just 65 decibels during operation, this bread maker allows you to enjoy a peaceful environment while baking fresh loaves of bread. Another product worth considering is the Hamilton Beach 29885 Artisan and Gluten-Free Bread Maker, which features low-noise technology that keeps the noise level to a minimum, ensuring a serene baking experience.
Easy to clean
Look for models that have removable and nonstick baking pans, as these make clean-up a breeze. The Zojirushi BB-PAC20 Home Bakery Virtuoso Plus Breadmaker is a great option, with its easy-to-clean 2-pound rectangular bread pan that has a nonstick coating. The Cuisinart CBK-200 Convection Bread Maker also has a removable bread pan and paddle, ensuring effortless clean-up. Another excellent choice is the Hamilton Beach 29881 2-Pound Bread Maker, which features a dishwasher-safe bread pan and paddle, making it even easier to maintain cleanliness.
Other products on the market that prioritize easy cleaning include the Panasonic SD-YD250 Automatic Bread Maker and the Oster Expressbake Bread Maker. Both models come with a nonstick bread pan and paddle, which are simple to clean after each use. The Breville BBM800XL Custom Loaf Bread Maker is also worth considering, as it offers a nonstick collapsible paddle, making it easier to remove and clean. With these various options, you can select a bread maker that not only produces delicious bread but also simplifies your clean-up routine.
Long-lasting durability
Look for models that are built with high-quality materials and have a solid construction to ensure they can withstand the test of time. One notable example is the Zojirushi Home Bakery Virtuoso Plus Breadmaker. It features a durable stainless steel exterior and a sturdy double kneading blade that can handle large quantities of dough with ease. Another reliable choice is the Cuisinart CBK-200 Convection Bread Maker, which is designed with a sturdy brushed stainless steel housing and a removable nonstick baking pan for easy cleaning. Both of these bread makers boast excellent long-lasting durability and are made to endure heavy-duty use.
In the mid-range segment of bread makers, the Breville Custom Loaf Bread Maker is a standout model with its die-cast aluminum housing, designed to resist wear and tear over time. Additionally, it offers adjustable settings for loaf sizes and crust colors, catering to different bread preferences while guaranteeing long-lasting durability. For budget-conscious individuals, the Hamilton Beach 29882 HomeBaker Breadmaker provides a durable build with a sturdy plastic housing that ensures it can handle countless bread-baking sessions. As longevity is a desired characteristic in a bread maker, investing in these exceptional models will provide you with a kitchen appliance that will reliably serve you for years to come.
Customizable settings
Customizable settings allow you to have complete control over your baking preferences, allowing you to make bread exactly the way you like it. A great example of a bread maker with customizable settings is the Cuisinart CBK-200 bread maker. This bread maker offers 3 crust color options (light, medium, and dark) and 3 loaf sizes (1lb, 1.5lb, and 2lb), giving you the flexibility to make bread that fits your preferences and needs. Another option is the Zojirushi BB-PAC20 bread maker, which comes with 10 pre-programmed settings, including the ability to customize the knead, rise, and bake timings. These customizable settings allow you to make the perfect loaf of bread every time.
Automatic dispensers for nuts/fruits
These dispensers can add an additional level of flavor and texture to your homemade bread by automatically adding nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to the dough at a specific time during the baking process. This eliminates the need for manual intervention and ensures that the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the bread.
For those who want to venture into experimenting with different combinations of nuts and fruits, the Breville BBM800XL Custom Loaf Bread Maker is a great option. Its built-in automatic fruit and nut dispenser releases the components evenly into the dough. Additionally, this bread maker has a wide range of customization options, such as loaf size selection, crust color control, and various baking programs.
Alternatively, the Panasonic SD-YD250 Automatic Bread Maker offers a unique nut and raisin dispenser that allows you to add up to 1/2 cup of options like raisins, walnuts, or cranberries to your bread. With its powerful 550-watt motor and various bake modes, this bread maker is an excellent choice for achieving consistent results every time you bake with added nuts or fruits.
The automatic dispensers for nuts/fruits are a noteworthy feature to consider when purchasing a bread maker, providing a hassle-free way to enhance your bread's taste and nutritional value.
Easy to store
For those with limited kitchen space, a compact and lightweight bread maker is ideal. The Hamilton Beach 29882 is a great option as it weighs only 12.8 pounds and has a size that is perfect for small countertops or cabinets. Additionally, this bread maker features a nested pan that allows for vertical storage, saving even more space.
Another excellent choice is the Zojirushi BB-PAC20. While slightly heavier at 22 pounds, it makes up for it with its advanced features and easy storage. The bread maker comes with a sturdy handle, making it effortless to move and store when not in use. Furthermore, it has a slim design that takes up minimal space on a countertop or in a cabinet. These compact bread makers enable users to enjoy freshly baked bread without the hassle of bulky equipment.
Sensor technology
This technology ensures that the bread machine consistently produces perfectly baked bread every time. Some notable bread makers that incorporate this technology include the Zojirushi Virtuoso Plus Breadmaker and the Breville Custom Loaf Bread Maker.
The Zojirushi Virtuoso Plus Breadmaker features a dual kneading blade and a built-in temperature sensor for precise heating and monitoring of the bread dough. This sensor adjusts the rise time and baking time accordingly, resulting in evenly baked bread with a golden crust. It also has a large LCD display for easy programming and a wide variety of pre-set settings for different bread types.
Similarly, the Breville Custom Loaf Bread Maker utilizes an automatic fruit and nut dispenser and a smart LCD screen. It employs a built-in temperature sensor for consistent baking and provides an automatic preheating phase to ensure that the dough is at the ideal temperature for baking. With its customizable loaf size and crust color settings, as well as its unique collapsible kneading paddle to minimize holes in the bread, the Breville Custom Loaf Bread Maker is an exceptional option for homestyle bread making.
Recipe book included
Having a recipe book can be incredibly helpful, especially for those who are new to baking homemade bread. A good recipe book will provide a variety of recipes, including basic breads, specialty breads, and even gluten-free options. It should also include detailed instructions for each recipe, as well as tips and tricks to help achieve the best results.
One example of a bread maker that includes a recipe book is the Zojirushi BB-HAC10 Home Bakery Mini Breadmaker. This compact bread maker comes with an instruction manual that includes a variety of recipes, along with step-by-step instructions to guide users through the bread-making process. Another option is the Cuisinart CBK-200 Convection Bread Maker. This bread maker also features a recipe book with a wide range of recipes, from basic white bread to more intricate options like cinnamon raisin bread and whole wheat bread. It also includes a gluten-free setting and recipe for those with dietary restrictions.
Energy-efficient
Look for models that are designed to consume less power, such as the Zojirushi BB-PDC20 Home Bakery Virtuoso Plus Breadmaker. This bread maker uses only 700 watts of power during operation, ensuring energy-efficient baking without sacrificing performance. Another great option is the Cuisinart CBK-100P1 Bread Maker, which is certified as an Energy Star product, meaning it meets strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy. This bread maker not only performs exceptionally but also reduces energy consumption.
Other notable energy-efficient bread makers include the Hamilton Beach 29885 Bread Maker with low power consumption and programmable features for customizable baking options. Additionally, the Panasonic SD-YD250 Bread Maker offers multiple loaf size options, rapid baking cycles, and an energy-saving mode to minimize power usage. By choosing an energy-efficient bread maker, you can enjoy freshly baked bread while minimizing your ecological footprint and ensuring cost-effectiveness in the long run.
Removable bread pan
Having a removable pan makes it much easier to clean and maintain the bread maker. It allows you to easily remove the bread from the pan without damaging the loaf, making for a more enjoyable baking experience. Moreover, removable bread pans are often dishwasher-safe, giving you the convenience of hassle-free cleanup.
There are several bread makers on the market that feature a removable bread pan. One example is the Hamilton Beach 2 lb Digital Bread Maker which comes with a non-stick pan that can be removed effortlessly. Another option is the Cuisinart CBK-200 Convection Bread Maker which also features a removable pan, ensuring the ease of use and cleaning. Additionally, the Zojirushi BB-PAC20 Home Bakery Virtuoso Plus Breadmaker offers a removable dual-blade bread pan, allowing you to bake traditional rectangular-shaped loaves effortlessly. With these options, you can easily find a bread maker with a removable bread pan that suits your needs and preferences.
Safety features
Look for bread makers that include features such as automatic shut-off functionality, which turns off the machine after a certain period of inactivity, preventing any potential accidents. Consider models with heat-resistant exteriors, like the Panasonic SD-YD250, which is designed with a cool-touch exterior to prevent burns while handling or moving the machine. Another important safety feature to look for is a non-slip base, such as the Zojirushi BB-PAC20, that ensures stability and prevents the bread maker from tipping or sliding during operation. Additionally, models like the Cuisinart CBK-200 come with a power failure backup, allowing the machine to resume its cycle in case of a power outage.
Some bread makers on the market can be divided into two main segments based on their safety features. The first segment includes entry-level options that are more budget-friendly and simple to use, like the Hamilton Beach 2 lb Digital Bread Maker and the Oster Bread Maker. These models offer basic safety features such as automatic shut-off and non-slip bases. The second segment comprises higher-end bread makers that offer more advanced safety features, such as cool-touch exteriors and power failure backup. Examples of bread makers in this segment are the Zojirushi BB-CEC20, Breville BBM800XL, and Cuisinart CBK-200.
Aesthetics/design options
Some bread makers come in sleek stainless steel finishes, such as the Cuisinart CBK-200 Bread Maker, which adds a modern touch to any countertop. If you prefer a more vintage look, the Zojirushi BB-PAC20 Home Bakery Virtuoso Breadmaker features a classic brushed stainless steel exterior with wooden accents. Another option worth considering is the Hamilton Beach 29881 2-Pound Bread Maker, which boasts a compact and contemporary design, perfect for small kitchens. These different design options cater to various aesthetics and ensure that you find the bread maker that complements your kitchen's overall look.
Price
Luckily, the market offers a variety of options to suit every pocket. In the economical range, the Hamilton Beach 2 lb Digital Bread Maker is a popular choice, priced at around $70. With a sturdy build, this bread maker comes with 12 settings, allowing you to bake a variety of bread and dough types effortlessly. On the mid-range market, the Zojirushi BB-CEC20 Home Bakery Supreme offers great value for its price of approximately $290. It stands out with its versatility and customizable features, including a large LCD display, pre-programmed menu options, and three different crust shades to choose from. For those who are willing to invest more in a top-of-the-line bread maker, the Breville BBM800XL Custom Loaf Bread Maker is a fantastic choice worth about $400. With automatic fruit and nut dispenser, collapsible kneading paddle, and a unique bread customization function, its quality and performance make it well worth the higher price point.
Variety of brands
Each brand has its own strengths and weaknesses, catering to different preferences and requirements. One popular brand is Breville, known for its high-quality craftsmanship and durability. Their bread makers come equipped with features such as customizable crust settings and multiple loaf sizes, providing versatility for users to find the perfect bread consistency. Another well-regarded brand is Zojirushi, which offers bread makers with advanced technology, including an automatic fruit and nut dispenser and multiple menu options for baking different types of bread. The Panasonic brand is also worth considering, with their bread makers boasting powerful motors for kneading dough and even heat distribution for consistent baking results. Exploring different brands allows consumers to find the one that best suits their needs and preferences.