Bread Machine Purchasing Tips

• Size: Some models give you the option of making different sized loaves from 1 to 2 pounds. Typically, a 1-pound loaf contains about 8 slices and a 2-pound loaf contains about 16.
• Shape: Some models create loaves that are tall and square shaped with a round top. Others make a typical rectangular loaf.
• Price: Bread machines can range in price from about $80 to $400 depending on size and features. When determining how much to spend on a bread machine consider how often you will use it, how long you would like it to last, and what features are important to you.
• Cycle options: Bread machines vary in the cycles they offer. Some offer 100 percent whole wheat cycles, which may allow loaves made with all whole wheat flour to rise better than with a regular cycle. Others offer a dough cycle, which allow you to make dough for pizza or rolls that you will later shape and bake in your oven. Others allow you to program delayed cycles so that you can have a fresh-baked loaf when you wake up in the morning or return home at the end of the day. Also, some bread machines allow you to program cycles based on whether you like your crust medium or dark.