The best bread machines of 2024

While all of the bread machines I tested can produce a decent loaf of basic bread, they come in different shapes and sizes with a range of additional features and price points. If size or price are limiting factors for you, the decision will be very easy, with only two compact models priced under $100. If not, it’s probably a matter of which additional features are more important, depending on which types of bread you expect to make the most. When you begin the process of choosing a bread machine, you will find that they vary greatly in shape, size, and price. There are a few factors that contribute to these differences in bread machine options and you’ll need to consider which features are most important for your baking needs.

Bread machine size

First, automatic bread makers come in different sizes. This refers not only to the physical space of the bread baking device (which can be large) but also to the size of the loaf that can be baked. Common sizes of bread makers include 1- and 2-pound loaf models – if you’re baking a loaf of bread just for yourself, a smaller bread maker may work well, while larger families may need larger loaves to keep everyone satisfied and comfortable. Carbohydrates.

Bread machine shape

You will also need to consider the shape of the appliance’s internal baking tray, as this will determine the shape of your loaf of bread. Many bread makers have square molds, which produce square loaves, but you can also find bread machine models that make horizontal loaves closer to what you buy in the store.

The types of bread he makes

Some are better equipped to produce a thicker, more consistent crust, some have built-in settings for gluten-free loaves, while others allow you to pre-set additional mix-ins like fruit or nuts, which you’ll add at the right moment along the way. Do you want to make different types of bread? Bread makers can only produce certain types of bread depending on the bread flour and its settings, so if you want to make wheat, whole grain, baguettes, white bread, sourdough bread, or other items, you’ll need a machine that has the right settings for your bread machine recipe. . If you want gluten-free bread, you should choose a gluten-free bread machine. Some fancy bread machines also have settings that are not intended for baking, such as cake settings.

Bread machine features and settings

Most bread machines produce a standard 1.5- or 2-pound loaf, and come pre-programmed with different settings, including white, wheat, and quick bread settings, among other common breads, as well as dough and jam settings. They all have the option to choose a light, medium, or dark crust, and also include a delayed start feature, meaning you can assemble the ingredients in the morning, and come home after work to enjoy the warm, comforting scent of freshly baked bread. (Put a soup or chili mixture into the slow cooker while you do this, and your evening self will be very pleased with your morning self.) Alternatively, you can set it at night and wake up to fresh bread.