How to Choose a Breadmaker

(451 Words)
Bread makers are wonderful, small appliances that allow you to quickly and easily make many different varieties of homemade bread. These machines come in many different sizes and shapes and also offer different features. Research the features available to decide what you want when searching for the right model bread maker for you.
Cycles
Look at the different cycles that the bread maker offers. Some bread makers offer more cycles than others, which can allow you to make more types of bread. For instance, it may have a specialty cycle for French bread or pizza dough, according to Consumer Reports. You also may want a bread maker that has at least one rapid cycle. This time-saving method uses a higher heat to make quick loaves, sometimes in only one hour.
Delay start timer
One feature that can be very convenient is a delay start timer. With this feature you can set the bread maker to start later so that the bread is ready when you want it. Most models allow you to delay it for 13 hours.
Temperature alarm
For yeast to grow properly, the kitchen should be at the right temperature. You may not think of this but if you buy a bread maker with the temperature warning signal it will let you know when there is a problem, and you can adjust the temperature accordingly.
Kneading cycle controls
You may want to add other things to your bread such as nuts, fruits, or other items. If you add them too soon then the kneading cycle may cut them up. Some bread makers will specifically tell you when you can safely add in these items.
Crust control
Many people are particular about how brown may want their crust to be. Bread makers with a crust control feature allow you to change the time of baking so that you can get an ideal crust color.
Cool-down setting
You may not always be there right when the bread is ready. Of course, you do not want your bread to get soggy. Some bread makers avoid this with a keep warm or a cool down function. This may give you an hour after it is done to take it out in the same condition.
Outage protection
You do not want a power outage to completely reset your bread maker. Some bread makers offer power outage protection so that it remembers where to start again once the power is restarted. This has a time limit that ranges by machine, and generally goes from a few seconds to an hour.
You will find many bread makers in stores that sell small home appliances. Look at all the features to pick the perfect breadmaker for you.