We got this replacement breadmaker for our previous M-R fastbake, which was slightly bigger, but had become broken after 3 years of weekly baking. We ended up with the smaller one because we used nectar points to get it, and this was the only breadmaker we could find in the redemption scheme. However, the different sized loaf isn't really a problem, it just feels unusual lying it on its side to cut (having a curved crust and flat top). however, apart from that minor quibble it is excellent.
Actually I have one other minor quibble, so I'll get it our of the way before describing the machine in more detail, it makes a big thing about having a drop down blade. If you are new to breadmakers this will mean nothing to you, but as the blade is the thing that mixes the loaf, and therefore remains in place during the baking, it provides a hole in the bottom of the finished loaf, not a big problem, just a bit ugly. however, this blade is hinged, and is meant to fall sideways before the baking starts, so you will not have to dig it out of the bread, making it all messy. However it rarely works for us. however, this means we are back where we were previously, with a hole in the bottom (or if we do a big/tall loaf) the flat end. The bread pan is non stick, and generally the blade comes out easily. Even if it doesn't you can soak it. About as easy to clean as the other one I used. As you can just about see from the little photograph at the top of the page, there is a little viewing window at the top.
OK, on to what it can do: the usual range of programs, basic white (3 hours, we practically only use this and number 8), french, wholewheat, cake, sweet, fastbake 1 (1h10min), fastbake2 (1h15min for a 2lb loaf), dough (perfect for my wife to make fabby pizza bases and ciabattas), jam (never ventured to try this yet), speciality, sandwich, extra bake.
We have yet to fail with this machine, although you do have to be careful when adding the ingredients that the blade doesn't fall over, because I guess that would reduce its ability to mix. the dough takes one and a half hours to produce, but then 15 mins to get lovely fresh pizza (try it with pasata and vegan cheese and herbs from the garden, simple and brill).
It is brushed steel, and looks good.
I think it is well worth the slight effort of putting things in the machine, for te joy of fresh bread.
How helpful would this review be to a person making a buying decision? Rating guidelines
(+) delicious bread,easy to follow instructions,easy to clean,attractive appliance (-) i may be gaining a few pounds because of all the bread im eating!blade may get stuck.
Not exactly sure I understand the "drop down blade" thing... is the blade hinged, or does it mix from the top, like a kenwood countertop mixing machiine?
Expired-Account 30.06.2007 18:54
Sounds great, I'd love one of these, very helpful
Sgathach 15.11.2006 09:37
I keep meaning to buy a bread maker, this sounds okay, although I might get frustrated at having to watch the blade doesn't fall down each time I used it.
Fast breadmaker with drop down kneading blade. Compact brushed stainless steel design ... more
Unique kneading blade - drops down during the breadmaking cycle Fastbake setting Bakes a 1.5lb and 2lb Loaf Choice of 12 settings Large viewing window Light medium an...
Jul 8th, 2006
(Aug 2nd, 2006)
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