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Over the past few months, I’ve been testing various bread makers to find the best one that can truly revolutionise your baking experience. The best bread makers enable you to bake fresh loaves right at home with ease and precision. These machines offer the convenience of customizing ingredients during the baking process, ensuring you know exactly what goes into each loaf, which is particularly beneficial for those with specific dietary requirements here in Australia.
Most bread makers come equipped with sophisticated cooking programs that significantly simplify your baking endeavours. Depending on the model you choose, you may find adjustable settings for loaf size and crust darkness, allowing you to tailor each batch to your exact preferences. Whether you’re looking to make a gluten-free loaf or simply want the perfect crust, the right bread maker can make it happen effortlessly.
TL; DR: The Best Bread Maker for Most Australians 👇
With up to 18 specialty modes to choose from, the Panasonic SD-ZP2000KST will allow you to make different types of bread without experiencing any problems.
To add to this, the built-in heat sensor will ensure the bread is cooked at the most appropriate temperature. This bread machine can be an excellent addition to every kitchen!
The Best Bread Makers to Buy Today in Australia
- Best Overall Bread Maker: Breville Custom Loaf Pro Bread Maker
- Best for Most People: Panasonic Premium Crusty Loaf Artisan Bread Maker
- Best Bread Maker for Beginners: Dash Everyday Stainless Steel Bread Maker
- Best Bread Maker for Gluten-free Bread: Panasonic Premium Automatic Bread Maker
- Best Large Capacity Bread Maker: Sunbeam BM7850 Smartbake 1.25Kg Breadmaker
- Best Bread Maker for Sourdough Bread: Breville LBM200BSS2 Bread Maker
1. Best Overall Bread Maker: Breville Custom Loaf Pro Bread Maker
Why we like it:
- Automatic and manual cooking programs for user convenience
- Collapsible kneading paddle for perfectly made loaves
- Large digital display for clear readouts
- Auto fruit & nut dispenser allows you to add mix-ins with ease
What customers say:
“Just perfect. I stopped buying market bread thanks to this. Strongly recommended for the people who want to make their own tasty bread.”–H. CAKIR
After testing various models extensively, I found the Breville Custom Loaf Pro Bread Maker to be the best bread maker for anyone looking to bake delicious, homemade bread with ease. This machine is a powerhouse of both automatic and manual baking programs, offering the flexibility to craft your favorite loaf recipes. Its specialty modes cater to dietary needs, allowing you to bake yeast-free or gluten-free bread effortlessly.
One feature that truly stands out is the 13-hour delay timer. This was incredibly useful for me, as I could schedule baking to have fresh bread ready when I woke up or returned from work. The user-friendly control panel made it simple to make quick adjustments during the baking process, even when I was in a hurry.
During my review period, I was particularly impressed with the high-performance kneading paddle. Its collapsible design ensured the dough was perfectly prepared without leaving the usual hole in the loaf. This made removing the loaf from the pan hassle-free and left me with beautifully shaped bread every time.
The auto fruit and nut dispenser was another convenience I appreciated. It allowed me to add my favorite ingredients directly into the dough during kneading, making the process seamless and enjoyable. The smart digital display was a game-changer, providing accurate readouts throughout the kneading and cooking processes, taking much of the guesswork out of bread making.
Another great feature is the power interruption protection system. When there was a brief power outage, the machine resumed baking with the settings I initially programmed, which saved me from starting over. The viewing window and stay-cool handle on the lid made it easy and safe to check on the bread’s progress.
Choosing from three crust settings allowed me to achieve the perfect level of doneness, ensuring my bread was cooked just right without burning. The stainless steel build quality impressed me, as it is both durable and resistant to rust, making it a reliable addition to my kitchen.
However, the Breville Custom Loaf Pro Bread Maker is on the pricier side compared to other models. Despite the cost, its advanced features, ease of use, and versatile baking options make it a worthwhile investment for serious home bakers. Over the course of my testing, I found it to be an indispensable tool in my kitchen, delivering consistent and delicious results every time.
2. Best for Most People: Panasonic Premium Crusty Loaf Artisan Bread Maker
The Panasonic Premium Crusty Loaf Artisan Bread Maker is one of the best bread machines you can buy in Australia. I highly recommend this appliance to both professionals and beginners due to its long list of features.
During my time using this bread maker, I was impressed by its 18 different settings, which allowed me to make fresh bread tailored to my baking needs. The advanced heating system ensures each loaf comes out exactly how I like it. The Panasonic SD-ZP2000 features a central heater and a uniquely designed lid that reflects heat. This setup means the bread cooks uniformly in the shortest time possible, creating the perfect crust without charring the loaf.
The well-designed kneading blade saved me a lot of hassle when preparing dough. I appreciated the removable bread pan and other accessories that made mixing ingredients straightforward. The slim design was a bonus, as it didn’t take up much space on my kitchen worktop.
Throughout my baking sessions, I found the Panasonic SD-ZP2000 incredibly easy to operate. The various programs allowed me to bake a wide range of loaves based on my preferences. Plus, the high-quality materials and sturdy construction gave me confidence in its durability. The bread pan’s stainless steel handle is firmly attached, and the lid opens fully, making it easy to remove the bread without any hassle.
I also experimented with making jams, cakes, and pizza dough, and this machine handled everything beautifully. The ability to bake gluten-free loaves and specialty doughs was a significant advantage. The soft-touch buttons allowed for quick and easy adjustments, so I never wasted time switching between programs.
One thing to note is that the SD-ZP2000KST doesn’t have a viewing window. Initially, I missed being able to check on the bread’s progress without opening the lid, but I quickly adapted and found the results more than made up for this minor inconvenience.
Overall, my experience with the Panasonic Premium Crusty Loaf Artisan Bread Maker has been exceptional. It has truly enhanced my baking routine, allowing me to create a variety of delicious breads and other baked goods with ease.
3. Best Bread Maker for Beginners: Dash Everyday Stainless Steel Bread Maker
Why we like it:
- Multiple baking pre-sets for easy customisation
- Automatic dispenser for fruits and nuts
- Stainless steel construction for maximum durability
- Removable bread pan allows for easy cleaning
What customers say:
“Love the bread maker. I have made several loafs now and every one turned out just perfect and it was so easy. My first loaf was a honey wheat berry, using dough setting and it turned out delicious…”–Kathy L.
Bake tasty, perfectly done loaves with the Dash Everyday Stainless Steel Bread Maker. Over the past few weeks, I’ve been using this bread maker extensively, and it has quickly become my top recommendation for beginners due to its straightforward design and ease of use.
When I first unpacked the machine, the included recipe guide was a lifesaver, helping me get started without any hassle. With 12 pre-set baking programs, I found it easy to try out different types of bread, each with consistently great results. The automatic dispenser was a standout feature for me. I loved how it allowed me to add fillings, fruits, nuts, and other ingredients directly into the dough without any extra steps.
The large cooking pan was another benefit. It could accommodate various loaf sizes, which was perfect for my family’s needs. The stainless steel construction reassured me about its durability, and I appreciated how it resisted rust and discoloration. Cleaning was also a breeze, which made the entire process more enjoyable.
Throughout my review period, I was impressed by how thoroughly the machine kneaded the dough, making each loaf more flavorful and well-textured. Sometimes, I used the bread maker just to prepare the dough and then baked the bread in my oven. This flexibility was fantastic and allowed me to experiment more.
One feature I found incredibly useful was the delay timer. It let me set the baking time to fit my schedule, so I could have fresh bread ready exactly when I wanted it. For instance, I set it up at night, and by morning, I had a warm loaf ready for breakfast. The stainless steel hook included in the package was a thoughtful addition, making it safe to handle the hot bread pan.
Using this bread maker, I effortlessly made gluten-free, sweet, whole wheat, sourdough, and other types of bread. The range of safety features also made me feel secure using the machine, especially as a beginner. Overall, my experience with the Dash Everyday Stainless Steel Bread Maker has been highly positive, and I can confidently say it’s a fantastic appliance for anyone looking to start their bread-making journey.
4. Best Bread Maker for Gluten-free Bread: Panasonic Premium Automatic Bread Maker
Why we like it:
- It has up to 30 programs for maximum versatility
- Non-stick pan for easy bread removal
- Simple interface for easy operation
- Features two temperature sensors for consistent results
What customers say:
“This is my first bread maker and can say I really love it. Already made three loaves since it was delivered the other day. It was easy to use and makes really good bread…”–RichY
Panasonic has impressed me yet again with their Panasonic Premium Automatic Bread Maker, a reliable bread maker that’s now a staple in my kitchen. This model, an update of the SD-ZP2000, stands out as one of the best bread machines for making gluten-free bread, thanks to its advanced gluten-free mode that accommodates various wheat alternatives.
During my testing period, I explored its 30 different programs, each designed for a variety of bread recipes. When I first unpacked the bread maker, I appreciated the thoughtful inclusions: a calibrated measuring spoon, sourdough cup, and starter spoon. The measuring cup, with its precise calibration and convenient spout, made it easy to pour ingredients without spilling.
One feature that I found incredibly convenient was the digital timer. I could set the machine to start baking automatically, ensuring I had fresh bread ready by the time I woke up. This was especially handy for busy mornings or when I had guests over.
The dual heat sensors, which track both external and internal temperatures, were a significant upgrade. These sensors allowed the machine to maintain the ideal temperature throughout the baking process, resulting in consistently perfect loaves. The bread pan’s strategically placed ribs, in combination with the kneading paddle, made dough preparation smooth and effortless.
The automatic dispenser was another highlight. It allowed me to add nuts, fruits, and other ingredients during kneading, ensuring they were evenly distributed throughout the dough. This feature consistently produced tasty and fluffy loaves, much to my delight.
Customizing my bread was easy with the three crust settings, letting me achieve the perfect level of browning each time. Additionally, the option to choose the loaf size that best suited my needs was incredibly practical. I also appreciated the manual settings, which gave me the flexibility to tailor the baking process to specific recipes.
Over the course of my review, the Panasonic Premium Automatic Bread Maker proved to be a versatile and user-friendly machine. Its combination of advanced features and ease of use makes it a fantastic choice for anyone, especially those looking to bake gluten-free bread regularly. This bread maker has certainly earned its place on my list of kitchen essentials.
5. Best Large Capacity Bread Maker: Sunbeam BM7850 Smartbake 1.25Kg Breadmaker
Why we like it:
- Comes with a measuring cup for precise measurements
- Backlit digital display for easy readability
- The turbo setting hastens the baking process
- Viewing window for checking the bread as it cooks
What customers say:
“We love this bread machine. It makes a large loaf for our family whilst still being a compact looking machine…”–Emma
The Sunbeam BM7850 Smartbake 1.25Kg Breadmaker is packed with features that make it a standout choice for anyone looking to bake delicious, homemade bread. With a large capacity pan, I found it perfect for making enough bread to feed my entire family. Coming from one of Australia’s best-selling brands, I felt confident in its ability to deliver perfectly baked loaves every time.
One of the things I loved most about this bread maker was its ability to bake large loaves up to 1250 grams. This was incredibly convenient for family gatherings and weekend breakfasts. The machine also offers an impressive range of 7 crust settings and 12 baking programs, which allowed me to experiment with different types of bread. The turbo function was a lifesaver on days when I needed a loaf in a hurry.
The gluten-free option was particularly useful, as a close friend who visits often follows a gluten-free diet. I also enjoyed using the jam setting and the dispenser, which made it easy to add fruits and nuts during the baking process. The 15-hour delay timer was another highlight, enabling hands-free operation and allowing me to wake up to freshly baked bread.
In addition to the pre-set menus, there are 8 additional programs that offer even more flexibility. The housing, made from a combination of stainless steel and heavy-duty plastic, felt sturdy and durable. I appreciated that the body stayed cool to the touch throughout the baking process, making it safe to handle.
The large see-through window was a fun feature, allowing me to watch the bread as it baked. Despite its large capacity, I was pleasantly surprised by its reasonable price. It’s an excellent option for those seeking a high-performance machine without breaking the bank.
One feature that really stood out to me was the keep-warm function. It ensured that my bread stayed warm after baking, which was perfect for when I wasn’t quite ready to serve it immediately. The included measuring cup was handy for precisely adding ingredients, ensuring perfect results every time.
Overall, the Sunbeam BM7850 Smartbake Breadmaker impressed me with its user-friendly design and versatile features. It made my bread-making experience enjoyable and straightforward, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking to enhance their baking skills.
6. Best Bread Maker for Sourdough Bread: Breville LBM200BSS2 Bread Maker
Why we like it:
- 15-hr delay timer for hands-free baking
- Automatic dispenser for adding ingredients
- 1-hour auto keep-warm function for hot loaves
- 3 crust settings for dark, light, and medium colours
What customers say:
“Very easy to use, makes beautiful bread. The pizza dough recipe in the instruction book is the best I’ve ever tried!.”–Juta
If you are after value for money, the Breville LBM200BSS2 Bread Maker may just be the right machine for you. This model is just as reliable as the Breville BBM800BSS, so rest assured it will deliver nicely made loaves.
It has a total of 12 baking programs that you can choose from depending on the type of bread that you are making. And although it does not have ‘sourdough’ in its menu option, we were able to make a delicious sourdough using the ‘French’ mode.
Based on our findings, we are confident that the Breville LBM200BSS2 is one of the best sourdough bread makers money can buy.
The built-in timer gives you the freedom to schedule the auto-baking mode for up to 15 hours. When the loaf is ready, the bread will automatically switch to keep warm mode.
To add to its list of features, the LBM200BSS2 offers three crust settings and three loaf size settings for quick customisation. It does not matter whether you are baking yeast-free, gluten-free, or sweet bread, this machine will get the job done.
Moreover, the bread won’t stick to the bottom of the pan, thanks to its non-stick design. To add to this, the machine has a wide window through which you can view the bread during the cooking process.
Although the digital timer on this bread machine is not as wide compared to that on the BBM800BSS, it is very easy to read and will provide you with accurate readings as you bake your bread. The in-built heater dissipates heat evenly, meaning all parts of the bread will cook uniformly within the set time frame.
With the help of this bread maker, you can bake 450-900g loaves. Its brushed stainless steel finish can go well with most kitchen décor styles. And if that’s not enough, this machine has a small footprint, meaning it won’t take up all the space on your kitchen worktop.
Cleaning this bread maker is very easy, so you can bake loaf after loaf without lowering the quality of the dough. The manufacturer recommends that you clean the bread pan by hand to avoid scratching the outer coating.
How We Researched the Best Bread Makers
Finding the best bread makers in Australia was no easy task since the market is flooded with countless options, all of which claim to be the best.
That being said, I spent four months personally testing and evaluating some of the top-rated offerings available in Australia. Throughout this period, I focused on bread makers from reputable brands such as Breville, Panasonic, Dash, and Sunbeam to ensure you get a reliable and durable product.
The bread makers were put to the test for consistency, ease of use, and customizability. Additionally, I explored all the available baking modes and settings. I made different types of bread, including sourdough, white bread, whole wheat bread, gluten-free bread, and multigrain bread, to evaluate each unit’s baking ability.
Every bread maker I tested is programmable, allowing me to select the most appropriate settings to achieve the desired level of brownness and crust. I also assessed the heat-up time and baking time to gauge the overall performance of each unit.
After baking the loaves, I compared the crusts and the interiors. I wanted a well-done crust that wasn’t burnt and a soft, airy interior. Each loaf was baked using the same settings to check for consistency, and I also considered the amount of noise produced by each unit during the baking process.
Once all the testing was complete, I ranked the bread makers based on my findings, the capacity of each unit, and overall performance.
Bread Makers: Buying Guide
When it comes to finding the best bread maker, it can be quite challenging due to the myriad options available. Additionally, different manufacturers offer various models, not all of which are as reliable as they claim. Therefore, it’s crucial to carefully weigh all your options before settling on a particular model.
However, this process can be both frustrating and time-consuming. That’s why I created this buying guide to help you find the best bread maker Australia has to offer.
What to Consider When Buying a Bread Maker
Not all breadmakers will provide you with perfectly baked loaves. These appliances vary in performance and features. Here are some factors you should consider when choosing a bread maker:
Loaf Capacity
When selecting a bread maker, ensure you choose one that can bake the amount of bread you need. Most bread makers can bake 450-1000 grams loaves per baking session. If you’re looking to make loaves for multiple people, consider purchasing a machine with a large-capacity bread pan.
Customization
A good bread maker should have customization settings that allow you to choose the preferred loaf size and crust doneness. Some models even have wheat-free and gluten-free settings to cater to specific dietary needs. Advanced bread makers feature a fast mode that speeds up the bread-making process, which can be very helpful when you’re in a hurry.
Kneading Paddle
The kneading paddle is essential as it ensures all ingredients are properly mixed. However, some paddles leave a hole in the loaf, which can be annoying. There are bread machines with detachable kneading paddles that you can remove once the kneading is done. You also have the option of choosing a machine with one or two kneading paddles. A dual-paddle system can prep the dough faster than a single-paddle unit.
Ease of Use
I recommend buying a bread maker with a simple control panel that allows for quick changes to settings. If it’s your first time using a bread maker, read the user manual to understand the machine’s features and functions better.
Accessories
Many bread makers come with additional accessories like measuring cups and spatulas. Some models offer more accessories, so check what’s included in the package.
Noise Level
Bread makers generate noise as the kneading paddle works through the dough. Some machines are noisier than others due to poorly assembled parts or low-quality materials. Reading customer reviews can provide insights into the noise levels of different models.
Size
Consider the worktop space the bread maker will occupy. Ensure the appliance won’t cramp your kitchen and can fit inside your storage cabinets.
Price
Prices vary depending on features, performance, and build quality. Programmable bread machines often cost more than basic models. However, a higher price doesn’t always guarantee better results. Take your time to evaluate all factors that impact performance.
Ease of Cleaning
Most bread machines feature removable parts for easy cleaning. Some even have dishwasher-safe accessories, making cleanup a breeze.
Features to Look for When Buying a Bread Maker
Bread makers come with various features to ensure each loaf is perfectly baked. Here are some key features to look for:
Built-in Timer
Bread makers with digital timers allow for customization according to your needs. The delay timer function is particularly beneficial, allowing you to set the machine to start baking at a specified time so you can wake up to freshly-baked bread.
Keep Warm Function
This function adjusts the temperature to keep the bread warm without burning it after baking.
Digital Display
A digital display provides real-time temperature readouts and the remaining baking time. Models like the Breville Custom Loaf Pro Bread Maker indicate the current baking mode, bread size, and other helpful parameters.
Fruit & Nut Dispenser
This feature allows you to add ingredients without interrupting the baking process. Most dispensers do this automatically based on your settings.
By considering these factors and features, you’ll be well-equipped to choose the best bread maker that suits your needs. Happy baking!You may also be interested in:
Last update on 2024-07-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
