Buying guide
Bread Makers: Are They Worth It?
Add the ingredients, press a button and wake up to fresh bread. Loaf sizes, programmes and the limits of a bread machine.
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A bread maker mixes, kneads, proves and bakes a loaf in one machine. For anyone who wants fresh bread daily without the effort, it is one of the most useful appliances.
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What to check
| Feature | Why |
|---|---|
| Loaf sizes | Many make 1 lb, 1.5 lb and 2 lb loaves |
| Delay timer | Wake up to fresh bread |
| Programmes | Wholemeal, gluten-free, dough-only and jam are useful |
| Fruit and nut dispenser | Adds them at the right moment |
| Non-stick pan | Easy release and cleaning |
Limits
- Loaves are a tall, square shape with a hole where the paddle sits.
- The dough-only setting lets you shape rolls or loaves yourself and bake them in the oven.
- Soda breads like wheaten bread need no kneading at all, so they are just as quick by hand.
If you knead by hand, a stand mixer with a dough hook is the alternative.
Frequently asked questions
Is a bread maker worth it?
If you eat a lot of bread and like it fresh, yes: it makes a loaf with almost no effort, and the delay timer means fresh bread in the morning.
Why does bread-maker bread have a hole in the bottom?
The kneading paddle stays in the pan during baking. Some machines have a folding paddle to reduce the hole.
Can I make dough for rolls in a bread maker?
Yes. Use the dough-only setting, then shape and bake in the oven.
How we choose
BeneRecipes compares tools using manufacturer specifications and retailer listings. We have not tested these products ourselves and don't publish star ratings. We explain which type suits which cook and why.
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