While all of the bread makers I tested can produce decent bread, they come in a variety of shapes and sizes with a range of additional features and price points. If size or price are limiting factors for you, the decision becomes very easy when you consider just a few compact models that are under $100. If not, it will probably be a question of which additional features are most important, depending on the types of bread you expect to make the most. As you begin the process of choosing a bread machine, you’ll find that they vary widely in shape, size, and price. There are several factors that contribute to these differences in bread machine options, and you’ll want to consider which features are most important to your baking needs.
You too can have daily fresh bread for around 25 cents per loaf.
Bread machine size
First, automatic bread makers come in different sizes. This applies not only to the physical space of the toaster (which can be considerable), but also to the size of bread it can bake. Common bread maker sizes include 1 and 2 kilo loaf models – if you’re baking bread just for yourself, a smaller bread maker may work well, while larger families may need larger loaves to last everyone satisfied with the comforting carb.
Hamilton Beach is compact, budget friendly and has proven to be one of the best breads of the bunch.
Bread machine mold
You will also want to consider the shape of the inner bread pan of the unit as this will determine the shape of the bread. Many bread machines have square trays that produce square loaves, but you can also find bread machine models that make horizontal loaves that are closer to what you would buy at the store.
Types of bread she makes
Some are better equipped to produce a thicker, more consistent crust, some have built-in settings for gluten-free breads, while others let you pre-set mix-ins like fruit or nuts, which will add them at the right moment along the way. Want to make different types of bread? Bakeries can only make certain types of bread depending on the bread flour and settings, so if you want to make wheat, whole wheat, French bread, white bread, sourdough bread or other varieties, you’ll need a machine that has the right settings for your bread machine recipe. If you want gluten-free bread, then you should choose a gluten-free bread machine. Some fancier bread machines even have breadless settings, such as those for cake.
Zojirushi was my favorite bread maker I used, but its high price keeps it out of the top spot.
Bread machine functions and settings
Most bread machines produce standard 1.5- or 2-pound loaves and come pre-programmed with a variety of settings, including those for white, wheat, and quick bread, among other common types of bread, as well as settings for dough and jam. All have a choice of light, medium or dark crust and also include a delay start function, meaning you can assemble the ingredients in the morning and come home after work to the warm and cozy aroma of freshly baked bread. (Toss a soup or chili mix in a slow cooker while you cook, and your evening self will be very pleased with your morning self.) Alternatively, you can set it up overnight and wake up to freshly baked bread.
