Best Bread Machines for Home Bakers in 2024
Bread is a staple food in many households, and there’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked bread filling your home. However, making bread from scratch can be time-consuming and labor-intensive. That’s where a bread machine comes in. A bread machine automates the process of making bread, from kneading to rising to baking, making it a convenient and time-saving tool for home bakers.
When shopping for a bread machine, there are a few critical things to consider. The first is the capacity of the machine. Bread machines come in different sizes, and you’ll want to choose one that can accommodate the amount of bread you plan to make. The second is the type of bread you want to make. Some bread machines are designed specifically for certain types of bread, such as gluten-free or artisanal loaves. Finally, you’ll want to consider the features of the machine, such as programmable settings and a delay start timer, that can make baking bread even more convenient.
We spent countless hours researching and testing ten bread machines to identify the ones that make baking bread at home easy and enjoyable. In the following sections, we’ll share our top picks and what makes them stand out.
Best Bread Machines
We understand that baking bread at home can be a time-consuming and laborious task, but with the right bread machine, it can be a breeze. After thorough research and testing, we have compiled a list of the best bread machines on the market. These machines are not only convenient but also produce delicious and freshly baked bread, just the way you like it. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, our list has something for everyone. So, without further ado, let’s dive into our top picks for the best bread machines.
1) Amazon Basics 2 Pound Non-Stick Bread Making Machine, White
If you are looking for a budget-friendly bread machine that can deliver fresh bread within 90 minutes, then Amazon Basics 2 Pound Non-Stick Bread Making Machine is a great option to consider.
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We’ve been using this bread machine for several months now, and we’re quite satisfied with its performance. The machine is easy to use, and the bread comes out perfect every time. We particularly like the ExpressBake setting, which allows us to bake bread quickly when we’re in a rush.
One thing to note is that the machine is quite loud when kneading the dough, so it’s not the best option if you live in a small apartment and don’t want to disturb your neighbors. Additionally, the non-stick coating on the bread pan wears off after a few months of use, so you’ll have to replace the pan or use parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Overall, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly bread machine that can deliver fresh bread quickly and easily, then the Amazon Basics 2 Pound Non-Stick Bread Making Machine is a great option to consider.
2) Cuisinart Bread Maker Machine
If you’re looking for a compact and versatile bread maker, the Cuisinart Bread Maker Machine is a great option to consider.
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We’ve been using this bread maker for several months now and have been impressed with its performance. The preprogrammed menu options include everything from gluten-free and artisan breads to jams and sauces, making it easy to create a variety of baked goods. The compact vertical design is perfect for smaller kitchens, and the stainless steel exterior looks sleek and modern.
The 3 crust shade options allow for customization depending on personal preference, and the bread maker can bake up to a 2-pound loaf, making it suitable for families. The viewing window and interior light make it easy to monitor the baking process, ensuring that the bread comes out perfectly every time.
One downside is that the machine can be noisy during the kneading process, which may be disruptive for some. Additionally, the bread pan can be difficult to remove and clean, which can be frustrating. Finally, the 13-hour delay start timer may not be long enough for some schedules, so keep that in mind when planning your baking.
Overall, we highly recommend the Cuisinart Bread Maker Machine for anyone looking for a compact and versatile bread maker that produces delicious results.
3) Zojirushi BB-PDC20BA Home Bakery Virtuoso Plus Breadmaker
If you’re looking for a bread machine that can handle a variety of healthy course settings and bake a loaf of bread in just a couple of hours, the Zojirushi BB-PDC20BA Home Bakery Virtuoso Plus Breadmaker might be the perfect fit for you.
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We recently had the opportunity to use the Zojirushi BB-PDC20BA Home Bakery Virtuoso Plus Breadmaker, and we were impressed with its performance. The various healthy course settings allowed us to create delicious bread with ease, and the double kneading blades ensured that the dough was thoroughly kneaded for superior results. We also appreciated the large, easy-to-read LCD display and the convenient key code on the lid that simplified course selection.
One thing to keep in mind is that the 700-watt electrical rating may be a bit low for users who want to bake bread on a regular basis. Additionally, the hand wash only product care instructions may be a bit of a hassle for some users who prefer to use a dishwasher. Finally, the stainless steel and black color scheme may not match all kitchen decor.
Overall, we would recommend the Zojirushi BB-PDC20BA Home Bakery Virtuoso Plus Breadmaker to anyone looking for a high-quality bread machine that can handle a variety of healthy course settings and bake a loaf of bread in just a couple of hours.
4) KITCHENARM 29-in-1 SMART Bread Machine
If you’re looking for a versatile bread machine that’s easy to use and produces high-quality bread, the KITCHENARM 29-in-1 SMART Bread Machine is definitely worth considering.
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We were impressed with the quality and variety of breads that the KITCHENARM 29-in-1 SMART Bread Machine produced. The machine was easy to use, and we appreciated the 1-press bread making feature that saved our settings for the next use. The machine also supports both high-gluten bread flour and less gluten all-purpose flour, which is a great feature for those with dietary restrictions. However, we did find that the bread pan was a bit difficult to clean, as it is not dishwasher safe. Additionally, the machine is quite large and may take up a lot of counter space in smaller kitchens. Overall, we would recommend the KITCHENARM 29-in-1 SMART Bread Machine to anyone looking for a versatile and high-quality bread machine.
5) KBS Pro Stainless Steel Bread Machine
If you’re looking for a versatile bread machine that offers a range of programs and features, the KBS Pro Stainless Steel Bread Machine is an excellent choice.
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Overall, we think the KBS Pro Stainless Steel Bread Machine is an excellent choice for anyone who wants a versatile and high-quality bread machine. It’s easy to use, and the range of programs and features make it suitable for a variety of different bread types and recipes. The ceramic pan is a great feature, and the machine’s ability to automatically release ingredients at the right time is a real time-saver. If you’re in the market for a bread machine, we highly recommend the KBS Pro Stainless Steel Bread Machine.
6) Kitchen in the box Bread Maker Machine
If you’re looking for a versatile bread machine that can make a variety of bread and non-bread items, the Kitchen in the box Bread Maker Machine might be a good choice for you.
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Overall, we think the Kitchen in the box Bread Maker Machine is a good option if you’re looking for a versatile bread machine that can make a variety of items. The machine has a large capacity and a range of automatic programs, making it easy to use. However, it is relatively heavy and can be noisy, so keep that in mind when making your decision.
7) Hamilton Beach Premium Dough & Bread Maker Machine
If you’re looking for an easy and convenient way to make homemade bread, the Hamilton Beach Premium Dough & Bread Maker Machine is a great option.
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We recently had the opportunity to try out the Hamilton Beach Premium Dough & Bread Maker Machine, and we were impressed with how easy it was to use. Simply add your ingredients, select your cycle, and press start. The machine takes care of the rest, including integrating any mix-ins you want to add at the perfect time.
We appreciated the variety of settings available, including options for gluten-free bread and artisan dough. The customizable size and shade options were also a nice touch, allowing us to make bread that was just the way we like it.
One potential downside to the machine is that the control knob can be a bit finicky to use. Some users have reported issues with the nut dispenser not working correctly as well. Additionally, the display can be difficult to read in certain lighting conditions.
Overall, we think the Hamilton Beach Premium Dough & Bread Maker Machine is a great option for anyone looking to make homemade bread with minimal effort.
8) KBS 17-in-1 Bread Maker
If you’re looking for a versatile bread machine that can handle a variety of recipes, the KBS 17-in-1 Bread Maker might be the one for you.
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We’ve been using the KBS 17-in-1 Bread Maker for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its versatility. We’ve tried a few different recipes, including sourdough and pizza dough, and the bread has always come out perfectly baked and delicious.
One of the best things about this bread maker is the dual heaters, which ensure that the bread is evenly baked and browned. We’ve had issues with other bread makers in the past where the bread would be overcooked on the top and undercooked on the bottom, but that hasn’t been an issue with the KBS.
Another great feature of this bread maker is the large touch panel, which makes it easy to customize your settings and choose from the 17 auto programs. We also appreciate the fruit nut dispenser, which adds ingredients at the perfect time for optimal results.
However, the bread maker can be quite noisy, which might be an issue if you’re using the delay timer and want to sleep through the noise. We’ve also had some issues with the recipes provided with the machine, but we’ve found plenty of resources online to help us find the perfect recipe.
Overall, if you’re looking for a versatile bread maker that can handle a variety of recipes, the KBS 17-in-1 Bread Maker is a great choice. Just make sure you have enough counter space and don’t mind a little noise.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying a bread machine, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you purchase the best product for your needs. In this section, we will discuss the most important features to look for when shopping for a bread machine.
Capacity
The first thing to consider is the size of the bread machine. Think about how much bread you want to make at one time and how often you will be using the machine. Bread machines come in a range of sizes, from small machines that make one-pound loaves to larger machines that can make loaves up to two pounds or more.
Programs
Most bread machines come with several pre-programmed settings that allow you to make different types of bread, such as white bread, whole wheat bread, and gluten-free bread. Look for a machine with a variety of programs that suit your needs.
Kneading Paddle
The kneading paddle is an essential part of the bread machine, as it mixes and kneads the dough. Look for a machine with a removable paddle for easy cleaning.
Timer
A timer allows you to set the bread machine to start at a specific time, so you can wake up to freshly baked bread or have it ready when you come home from work. Look for a machine with a delay timer that allows you to set the machine up to 12 hours in advance.
Crust Control
Most bread machines come with a crust control feature that allows you to choose between light, medium, and dark crusts. This is a great feature to have if you prefer a certain type of crust on your bread.
In conclusion, when shopping for a bread machine, consider the size, programs, kneading paddle, timer, and crust control features. By keeping these factors in mind, you can ensure that you purchase the best bread machine for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which bread maker is most suitable for beginners?
If you are new to bread making and want to try your hand at it, we recommend going for a basic bread maker that has simple controls and easy-to-follow instructions. The Zojirushi BB-PAC20 Home Bakery Virtuoso Breadmaker and the Cuisinart CBK-100 2 LB Bread Maker are both great options for beginners.
What are the top features to look for in a Zojirushi bread maker?
Zojirushi bread makers are known for their high quality and advanced features. When choosing a Zojirushi bread maker, look for features like multiple bread settings, a delay timer, a large viewing window, and a non-stick bread pan. The Zojirushi BB-CEC20 Home Bakery Supreme 2-Pound-Loaf Breadmaker and the Zojirushi BB-PAC20 Home Bakery Virtuoso Breadmaker are both excellent options to consider.
How does the Cuisinart Bread Maker compare to other top brands?
The Cuisinart CBK-100 2 LB Bread Maker is a top-rated bread maker that is affordable and easy to use. Compared to other top brands like Zojirushi and Panasonic, the Cuisinart bread maker may not have as many advanced features, but it is still a great option for beginners and those on a budget.
What are the best recipes to try with a new bread machine?
With a bread machine, the possibilities are endless when it comes to bread recipes. Some popular recipes to try include basic white bread, whole wheat bread, cinnamon raisin bread, and pizza dough. Many bread machines also come with recipe books and instructions for making different types of bread.
Can you make sourdough bread in a bread machine, and if so, how?
Yes, you can make sourdough bread in a bread machine. However, it is important to note that sourdough bread requires a longer rising time than other types of bread, so you may need to adjust the settings on your bread machine accordingly. It is also recommended to use a sourdough starter instead of yeast to achieve the sourdough flavor.
Is it more cost-effective to bake your own bread with a bread maker?
Baking your own bread with a bread maker can be more cost-effective in the long run, especially if you bake bread regularly. Homemade bread is often cheaper than store-bought bread, and you can also save money by buying ingredients in bulk. Plus, baking your own bread allows you to control the ingredients and ensure that your bread is free from preservatives and additives.
