Imagine waking up to the amazing smell of freshly baked bread, warm and crusty, right from your own kitchen. It sounds like a dream, doesn’t it? But sometimes, getting that dream bread can feel like a puzzle. You want a bread machine, but then you see all the different kinds. Which one is best? It can be confusing, and you might worry about picking one that doesn’t make great bread or is too hard to use.
That’s where horizontal bread machines come in! They offer a unique way to bake delicious loaves, and we’re here to help you understand them better. In this post, we’ll explore what makes these machines special and why they might be the perfect fit for your home. We’ll break down the good and the not-so-good, so you can feel confident about your choice.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll know exactly what to look for in a horizontal bread machine. We’ll cover everything from how they bake differently to what features really matter. Get ready to say goodbye to bread-making confusion and hello to perfectly baked loaves, every single time!
Our Top 5 Horizontal Bread Machine Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Horizontal Bread Machine Detailed Reviews
1. West Bend Hi-Rise Bread Maker Machine Programmable 12 Programs Including Gluten Free & 3 Loaf Sizes and Crust Colors with Traditionally-Shaped Horizontal Bread Pan with Dual Knead Blades
Rating: 8.9/10
Baking fresh bread at home is now easier than ever with the West Bend Hi-Rise Bread Maker Machine. This smart appliance lets you create delicious, homemade loaves with a variety of settings and sizes, all at the touch of a button.
What We Like:
- It makes three different loaf sizes: 2 lb, 2.5 lb, or 3 lb.
- The dual knead blades ensure your dough is perfectly mixed for a lighter, fluffier bread.
- You have 12 digital programs to choose from, including special settings for wheat, French, sweet, dough, and even gluten-free bread.
- You can pick your favorite crust color: light, medium, or dark.
- The delayed start feature lets you set it up to 13 hours ahead of time, so you wake up to the smell of fresh bread.
- It comes with a helpful recipe book for lots of yummy bread ideas, like garlic bread and bagel dough.
- The machine includes everything you need to get started: the bread maker, two knead blades, a non-stick pan, measuring tools, and a special tool to remove the blades.
- The horizontal bread pan is shaped like a traditional loaf pan for classic results.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the initial setup or learning curve a bit challenging.
- While it has many features, the design is functional rather than highly decorative.
This West Bend bread maker is a fantastic tool for any home baker. It offers great flexibility and convenience, making it simple to enjoy fresh, delicious bread anytime.
2. Neretva Bread Maker
Rating: 9.1/10
The Neretva Bread Maker is a versatile kitchen appliance that lets you bake a variety of breads and other treats with ease. Its large capacity means you can make enough for the whole family, and the automatic features take the guesswork out of baking.
What We Like:
- Super Large Capacity: Bake loaves up to 3.3LB, perfect for serving 7-8 people.
- 15 Program Menus: Choose from a wide range of options, including basic, French, gluten-free, cake, jam, and even yogurt! Plus, select your preferred crust color (light, medium, or dark).
- Even Baking: Dual heaters with 360° surrounding baking ensure your bread is perfectly cooked every time.
- Fast Baking: The 850W power means you can enjoy fresh bread quicker, saving you over an hour.
- Quiet Operation: The motor runs at less than 40 db, so it won’t disturb your home.
- Nonstick Ceramic Pan: This pan is chemical-free and super easy to clean.
- Dual Kneading Paddles: Get perfectly kneaded dough for a soft, chewy loaf.
- Auto Nut Dispenser: Add fruits and nuts, and the machine will add them at the right time for you.
- 15-Hour Delay Timer: Wake up to the smell of freshly baked bread without waking up early.
- Responsible Company: Neretva focuses on sustainability and high environmental standards.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the product boasts a 3.3LB capacity, the specific loaf sizes mentioned are 2.2LB, 2.76LB, and 3.3LB, which could be clearer.
- The “homemade” program is mentioned, but details on how to customize it are not provided in the features.
This Neretva bread maker is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering a user-friendly experience and delicious results for bread lovers of all kinds.
3. KBS Pro Stainless Steel Bread Machine
Rating: 9.1/10
Bake delicious, healthy bread at home with the KBS Pro Stainless Steel Bread Machine. This versatile appliance offers 17 pre-programmed settings, from classic French bread to whole wheat, and even jam and yogurt. Its large 2lb capacity means you can make plenty of bread for your family, and the included fruit and nut dispenser adds an extra touch of flavor and texture. The ceramic nonstick pan ensures easy cleanup, and the intuitive digital touchscreen makes it simple to use for everyone.
What We Like:
- It has 17 different programs for all your baking needs, including gluten-free and quick bake options.
- The 2lb capacity is great for making large loaves.
- The automatic fruit and nut dispenser takes the guesswork out of adding extras.
- The nonstick ceramic pan is healthy and easy to clean, with no harmful chemicals.
- The 710W motor kneads dough perfectly for soft, elastic results.
- It offers 3 loaf sizes and 3 crust colors to customize your bread.
- The 15-hour delay timer lets you wake up to fresh bread.
- The 1-hour keep warm function keeps your bread fresh.
- The stainless steel design looks sleek and is durable.
- Convection baking ensures even cooking and a fluffy texture.
- It comes with many useful accessories and a recipe book.
- Customer service is readily available for any questions.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has many functions, some users might find it a bit complex at first.
- The “quick bake” setting may not produce the same quality as a longer bake cycle for some bread types.
This bread machine makes homemade bread easy and enjoyable for bakers of all levels. You’ll love the convenience and the fantastic results.
4. Zojirushi Home Bakery Supreme Breadmaker
Rating: 9.5/10
The Zojirushi Home Bakery Supreme Breadmaker promises to bring the joy of fresh, homemade bread right to your kitchen. It’s a versatile appliance that does more than just bake bread. You can also make cakes, meatloaf, jams, dough for pizzas or rolls, and even sourdough starter. This machine makes baking easy and fun for everyone.
What We Like:
- It bakes many different things like bread, cakes, and meatloaf.
- It has special settings for jam, dough, and sourdough starter.
- You can choose how dark you want your bread crust to be.
- The loaves are a nice rectangular shape and weigh 2 pounds.
- The control panel is easy to read with an LCD screen.
- The non-stick coating makes removing bread and cleaning simple.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the initial learning curve a bit steep for all the advanced settings.
- The 2-pound loaf size might be too small for larger families or gatherings.
This breadmaker offers a lot of baking possibilities. It’s a fantastic tool for anyone who loves fresh baked goods and wants a convenient way to make them at home.
5. Amazon Basics Programmable Bread Maker
Rating: 8.8/10
The Amazon Basics Programmable Bread Maker makes baking fresh bread at home super easy. This 2-pound machine does all the work for you, from mixing and kneading to letting it rise and baking it perfectly. It’s a white, non-stick machine with a handy LCD screen that shows you all the options. You can make all sorts of delicious things with it!
What We Like:
- It bakes up to a 2-pound loaf, which is great for families.
- You don’t have to do any of the hard work; it mixes, kneads, rises, and bakes for you.
- The ExpressBake setting is a lifesaver when you need bread fast, in under 90 minutes.
- It has 14 different settings, so you can make regular bread, dough for pizza, gluten-free bread, and even jams!
- You can choose how dark you want your crust – light, medium, or dark.
- The non-stick pan makes cleaning up a breeze.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users found the instructions a little tricky to follow at first.
- The machine can be a bit noisy during the kneading cycle.
If you love fresh bread but don’t love the effort, this bread maker is a fantastic addition to your kitchen. It offers a lot of variety and convenience for its price.
Your Guide to the Best Horizontal Bread Machine
Why Choose a Horizontal Bread Machine?
Do you dream of fresh, warm bread without the hassle of kneading? A horizontal bread machine can make that dream a reality! Unlike their upright cousins, horizontal models often have longer loaf pans, giving you a more traditional bread shape. This guide will help you find the perfect machine for your kitchen.
Key Features to Look For
1. Loaf Size Options
Think about how much bread you usually eat. Many machines offer different loaf sizes, like 1 pound, 1.5 pounds, or even 2 pounds. Some let you choose between light, medium, or dark crusts. This gives you control over your bread’s appearance.
2. Bread Programs
Most machines come with pre-set programs for different types of bread. Look for options like basic white, whole wheat, French, sweet, and even quick breads. Some advanced models also have programs for dough, jam, or cake. More programs mean more baking possibilities!
3. Delay Timer and Keep Warm Function
A delay timer is a lifesaver. You can add your ingredients before bed and wake up to the smell of freshly baked bread. The keep warm function is also handy. It keeps your bread warm for an hour or so after it’s done baking, so it’s ready when you are.
4. Crust Control
Do you like your crust chewy or crispy? Many machines allow you to select your preferred crust color and texture. This feature helps you customize your bread exactly how you like it.
5. Non-Stick Pan and Kneading Paddle
A good non-stick pan makes removing your bread easy. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. A well-designed kneading paddle ensures your dough is mixed properly.
Important Materials and Quality Factors
1. Build Quality
A sturdy machine will last longer. Look for machines made with durable materials. Stainless steel exteriors often look sleek and are easy to clean. Plastic exteriors can be more affordable but might not be as robust.
2. Pan Material
The bread pan should be made of a high-quality non-stick material. Ceramic coatings are often preferred for their durability and even heating. Avoid pans that scratch easily.
3. Motor Power
A strong motor is essential for effective kneading. If the motor struggles, your dough might not be mixed properly, leading to dense bread. Check reviews for mentions of motor performance.
User Experience and Use Cases
1. Ease of Use
A good bread machine has a simple control panel. The instructions should be clear and easy to follow. Adding ingredients should be straightforward. You want a machine that makes baking enjoyable, not frustrating.
2. Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleanup is a big part of the baking process. Removable, dishwasher-safe pans and paddles make cleaning much easier. Regular cleaning ensures your machine works well and stays hygienic.
3. Use Cases
Horizontal bread machines are perfect for busy families who want homemade bread without the time commitment. They are also great for people with dietary restrictions who need to control ingredients. You can experiment with different flours, seeds, and spices to create unique loaves. Some people even use them to make gluten-free bread, pizza dough, or bagels. The possibilities are vast!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main benefit of a horizontal bread machine?
A: Horizontal bread machines typically produce a loaf shape that looks more like traditional store-bought bread.
Q: Can I make gluten-free bread in these machines?
A: Yes, many horizontal bread machines have specific gluten-free settings. You just need to use gluten-free flour blends.
Q: How do I clean my bread machine?
A: Most bread machines have removable pans and paddles that you can wash by hand or in the dishwasher. Wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth.
Q: Will a bread machine save me money?
A: Yes, making your own bread can be cheaper than buying it from the store, especially if you buy ingredients in bulk.
Q: Are horizontal bread machines noisy?
A: Some noise is normal during the kneading cycle, but most modern machines are designed to be relatively quiet.
Q: What kind of bread can I make?
A: You can make a wide variety, including white, whole wheat, sourdough, rye, sweet breads, and even jams and cakes.
Q: Do I need special ingredients?
A: You can use regular bread ingredients. Some recipes might call for specific flours or yeast, but many standard recipes work well.
Q: How long does it take to bake bread?
A: Baking times vary by program, but most cycles take between 2 to 4 hours, including kneading and baking.
Q: Can I add nuts or fruits to my bread?
A: Many machines have an automatic dispenser that adds these ingredients at the right time during the cycle.
Q: What is the warranty like on these machines?
A: Warranties vary by brand, but a typical warranty is one year for parts and labor.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Scott Fischer, the voice behind SliceItRight. My passion for food started in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned the art of slicing, dicing, and creating delicious meals. Over the years, I’ve explored everything from the perfect kitchen gadgets to mastering culinary techniques, and I’m here to share all of it with you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home chef, my goal is to make cooking easier, more enjoyable, and a lot more fun. So, let’s slice it right and cook up something amazing together!