Learn how to use a bread maker and bake delicious bread at home with just a few simple steps. Enjoy the convenience and taste of freshly baked bread.The bread machine allows you to bake delicious dough very easily and effortlessly. Here’s how to choose the most suitable one for you.
How to use a bread Maker
Having a bread machine available at home offers a real luxury : having hot, fragrant bread whenever you want ! For lovers of leavened dough, it is a truly indispensable appliance.
Furthermore, it is really simple to use so even those who are not familiar with the kitchen will be able to amaze the whole family with delicious homemade bread. In fact, all you have to do is add the ingredients to the basket and the machine does everything by itself: from leavening to cooking, all completely automatically. Not to mention that they are very versatile appliances : although they are known as bread makers, the majority of models can do much more.
In this article, let’s find out everything you need to know about bread making machines !
- What can you do with the bread maker?
- How to choose a bread maker?
- How much does a home bread maker cost?
- Why buy the bread maker?
- What is the best machine for making bread at home?
What can you do with the bread maker;How to use a bread Maker.
Let’s start by discovering all the functions of the machine for making bread at home .
- Bread, of course ! In different formats depending on the accessories supplied (for example pan bauletto or rolls) and with different flours, including wholemeal.
- Pizza dough . Just choose the appropriate program to also have delicious dough for pizza and focaccia.
- Gluten free dough . Today the majority of machines have a program dedicated to gluten-free dough.
- Cake mixes . Inside the machine you can also prepare dough for leavened cakes, such as Panettone, Pandoro or brioche.
- Jams and jellies . The majority of these appliances have a specific function for making delicious homemade jams, compotes and jellies.
- Yogurt. There aren’t many machines that have this function, but some even allow you to prepare yogurt!
Furthermore, based on the programs available to the machine, there are a thousand variations of each of these processes.
How to choose a bread maker?
Here are the most important factors to consider when purchasing a bread maker .
- Basket dimensions . Depending on the capacity of the basket it will be possible to prepare more or less bread. Usually it ranges from a minimum of 500 grams up to a maximum of 1 kg.
- Programs . Each machine has its own number of automatic programs. It is worth checking if you intend to create particular doughs, for example gluten-free ones or perhaps pizza dough. However, these devices usually have at least 15 programs, therefore more than enough to satisfy everyone’s needs.
- Delayed start . This is a very, very useful option, which allows you to start processing even when you are not at home to have hot bread when the time comes to sit down at the table. Usually you can set the departure up to 10-15 hours in advance.
- Accessories . Some bread makers are sold with accessories that allow you to obtain different formats such as rolls, loaf of bread or baguettes. If being able to choose the format is important to you, always check the accessories supplied.
- Browning level . Finally, a detail that for many is not a detail: there are machines that also allow you to select the level of browning, to have more or less dark bread depending on your tastes.
How much does a home bread maker cost?
There are bread makers in every price range. Generally, the cost changes based on the features, power and quantity of dough that can be prepared with the machine. The cheapest models start from around 50-60 euros but, if you choose a more performing device, you could spend up to 300 euros .
The choice obviously depends on the needs of each of us, the frequency with which you plan to use the machine and the available budget. Certainly, it is a very versatile appliance as we have seen, so it represents an investment that few regret!
Why buy the bread maker?
There are several good reasons to have a bread making machine at home, although obviously this is a completely personal purchasing choice.
- You will have complete control of the ingredients used and you can indulge yourself using wholemeal or ancient flours, add ingredients such as seeds, dried fruit and spices, but also avoid additives and preservatives that are often found in industrial products such as loaf bread.
- You can adapt the recipes to specific diets , for example you can bake gluten-free bread.
- The bread maker is an incredibly versatile appliance , not only for creating different types of bread but also for making other types of recipes including jams and many types of sweet and savory dough. For those who love cooking, it is a great ally!
- You will save , especially in the long run. Aside from stopping buying bread (which costs significantly more than the individual ingredients), you can also prepare many other homemade things, without needing to buy them in the shop or supermarket. The investment for these devices, as we have seen, is not excessive and consumption is low.
Finally, smelling fresh bread in the morning wafting through the house is a final, very good reason to buy a bread machine!
What is the best machine for making bread at home?
We have selected three different bread maker models . Some, cheaper, are suitable for those who use these devices sporadically and for beginners. The more powerful and technological ones are perfect if you already have some experience with preparing bread at home: thanks to the numerous features, they will allow you to indulge in a large number of different recipes!
Obviously the selected brands are all a guarantee of quality in the small kitchen appliances sector .
Imetec La Forneria
Imetec La Forneria is one of the most expensive models of bread makers that we have selected. In fact, it offers a high number of possibilities for making dough with different flours and even gluten-free ones. You can choose from 20 programs, including 11 functions for gluten-free flours, 5 for traditional flours and 4 special programs. Thanks to the 3 accessories sold included, you can also prepare sandwich bread, slippers and sandwiches .
The timer function allows you to set the start up to 15 hours in advance and operation is really simple: the machine does everything by itself, just add the ingredients into the basket, choose the leavening mode and the desired program, and in a few hours you will have your hot and fragrant homemade bread is ready.
Panasonic SD-B2510
The Panasonic SD-B2510 bread maker is a very easy to use and decidedly versatile model, thanks to its 21 programs which include the recipe for wholemeal bread, brioches, different types of desserts, pizza dough and four types of gluten-free dough for bread, cakes, pizza and pasta. To make the recipes, simply insert the ingredients and select the program which will automatically do everything on its own: the kneading blade works autonomously and, thanks to the particular ribs positioned in the pan, the result is always of the optimal consistency.
For the more experienced, it is possible to choose manual settings in order to experiment with ever-changing combinations of ingredients and cooking methods. Thanks to the timer (which can be set up to 13 hours in advance), you can wake up to the smell of freshly baked bread!
Moulinex OW2208
If it is versatility you are looking for, then the Moulinex OW2208 model is the right one for you. Calling it a bread machine is definitely an understatement given that it also allows you to prepare jams, porridge, cereals, yogurt and fresh cheese , as well as many types of sweet and savory dough (including three gluten-free ones). To use it, simply insert the ingredients into the practical basket, choose the programme, the browning level (if required by the recipe) and the weight: at that point the machine works on its own and you can check the preparation status via the large panel with side screen .
The timer allows you to delay the start by up to 15 hours and, when the bread is ready, it will remain warm for a full hour, so that you can still find it fragrant.
Did you know all the functions of bread makers? At this point, all you have to do is choose the perfect model for you!
Creating a tabular guide for using a bread maker involves outlining the key steps in a clear and structured format. Here’s an example of how such a guide could look. This table assumes a basic bread-making process and might need adjustments based on the specific features and functions of your bread maker.
| Step | Action | Details | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Preparation | Gather Ingredients | Measure out all the ingredients your bread recipe requires. Common ingredients include water, flour, yeast, salt, and sugar. | Use exact measurements for best results. |
| 2. Assembly | Add Ingredients to the Bread Maker | Add ingredients to the bread maker’s baking pan, typically starting with liquids, then solids, and yeast last. | Some models recommend adding yeast first. Check your manual. |
| 3. Settings | Select the Bread Type and Crust Color | Choose the appropriate program for your bread type (e.g., white, whole wheat, gluten-free) and desired crust color (light, medium, dark). | Experiment with different settings to find what you like best. |
| 4. Start | Begin the Bread Making Cycle | Press the start button to begin the bread-making process. The machine will mix, knead, rise, and bake the bread. | Do not open the lid frequently as it can affect the rising process. |
| 5. Monitoring | Check the Dough (Optional) | Some bakers like to check the dough during the kneading cycle to ensure it has formed a smooth, elastic ball. | If the dough looks too dry or wet, you can adjust by adding a little flour or water. |
| 6. Baking | Allow the Bread Maker to Complete the Cycle | The bread maker will bake the bread according to the selected settings. This usually takes several hours. | Avoid moving or bumping the bread maker during operation. |
| 7. Completion | Remove the Bread | Once the baking cycle is complete, carefully remove the baking pan from the machine using oven mitts and turn out the bread onto a cooling rack. | Let the bread cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing to improve texture. |
| 8. Cleaning | Clean the Bread Maker | After the bread maker has cooled down, clean the baking pan and kneading paddle with warm, soapy water. | Do not immerse the machine itself in water. Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth. |
This table is a general guide, and the exact steps and tips may vary depending on your bread maker’s specific functions and features. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.
Conclusion
Using a bread maker is a convenient and foolproof way to bake your own bread at home. By following this step-by-step guide, you can confidently create delicious bread with minimal effort. So, why settle for store-bought bread when you can enjoy the aroma and taste of freshly baked bread whenever you desire? Invest in a bread maker today and elevate your baking experience!
