Like many, I found myself in a rut, consistently buying expensive, often stale, and additive-laden bread from the grocery store. The idea of homemade bread always appealed, but the time-consuming process of kneading, proofing, and baking from scratch seemed daunting. I craved the warmth and aroma of fresh bread, knowing it would not only elevate my meals but also offer a healthier option for my family. This problem truly needed solving; relying on commercial loaves meant sacrificing quality and control over ingredients, a compromise I was no longer willing to make. Finding a reliable, easy-to-use solution became a priority, and that’s when I discovered the Hamilton Beach Digital Electric Bread Maker Machine Artisan and Gluten-Free, 2 lbs Capacity, 14 Settings, White and Stainless Steel (29987).
- 3 EASY STEPS: Making fresh, homemade bread couldn't be easier. Just add ingredients, select cycle and press start.
- 14 SETTINGS: Includes Basic, French, Gluten-Free, Whole Grain, 1 lb. Express, 1.5 lb. Express, 2 lb. Express, Package (Quick) Bread, Sweet, Dough, Cake, Jam Bake and Artisan Dough.
- CUSTOMIZE BREAD YOUR WAY: Includes 3 sizes for 1, 1.5 or 2 lb. loaves and 3 crust shades from light to dark to give you all the options you need for making bread just the way you like it.
Key Considerations Before Investing in a Bread Maker
If you’ve ever dreamt of waking up to the smell of freshly baked bread or having complete control over your ingredients, then a bread maker might be exactly what you need. These appliances are fantastic for solving the common woes of store-bought bread: cost, freshness, and often, undesirable additives. They bridge the gap for those who love homemade bread but lack the time, skill, or energy for traditional baking methods.
The ideal customer for a bread maker is someone who frequently consumes bread, values fresh ingredients, and might have specific dietary needs, such as a gluten-free diet. It’s also perfect for busy individuals or families who want to simplify their meal preparation. On the other hand, if you only eat bread occasionally, have very limited counter space, or are an experienced artisan baker who enjoys the tactile process of hand-kneading, a bread maker might not be your primary kitchen tool. For those who rarely bake, a simple stand mixer might offer more versatility for other kitchen tasks.
Before buying, consider the following:
* Capacity: How much bread do you typically eat? Loaf sizes usually range from 1 to 2.5 pounds.
* Settings: Do you need specialized settings like gluten-free, whole grain, or quick bread?
* Customization: Can you adjust crust shade or loaf size?
* Convenience Features: Is there a delay start timer? Is it easy to clean?
* Footprint: How much counter space can you dedicate to it?
* Ease of Use: Are the controls intuitive?
* Brand Reputation: What do other users say about the brand’s reliability and customer support?
- PERFECT FOR BEGINNER: Whether you're just starting your baking journey or looking for an easy way to enjoy fresh bread at home, this automatic bread maker has you covered. Simply add the ingredients,...
- Cuisinart-quality technology promises superior crust, color and texture.UC Cubic Feet: 1.180, MC Cubic Feet: 1.350.MC Cubic Feet: 1.350, MC Cubic Feet: 1.350
- 550 watt non-stick bread making machine with up to a 2 pound loaf capacity
Introducing the Hamilton Beach Artisan Bread Maker
The Hamilton Beach Digital Electric Bread Maker Machine Artisan and Gluten-Free, 2 lbs Capacity, 14 Settings, White and Stainless Steel (29987) is designed to bring the joy of homemade bread to any kitchen with minimal fuss. It promises fresh, delicious bread with just three simple steps: add ingredients, select a cycle, and press start. When you purchase this bread machine, it typically comes with a removable nonstick bread pan, a kneading paddle, a measuring cup, and a measuring spoon, along with a small metal hook for easy paddle removal.
This particular model stands out with its ‘Artisan’ and ‘Gluten-Free’ capabilities, setting it apart from more basic bread makers and even some older models I’ve encountered. While a market leader like Zojirushi might offer more advanced programming options, the Hamilton Beach 29987 provides significant versatility at a more accessible price point and with a notably smaller footprint. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for a robust, feature-rich bread maker without the bulk or premium cost of higher-end competitors. It’s specifically tailored for individuals and families who desire variety in their bread, from a classic white loaf to specialty gluten-free or artisan doughs, all with the convenience of automation. It might not be for the professional baker who demands precise, custom program control over every stage of the bread-making process, but for the home cook, it’s a game-changer.
Here’s a quick rundown of its pros and cons:
Pros:
* Exceptional Ease of Use: The “3 Easy Steps” make bread making incredibly straightforward.
* Broad Versatility: Offers 14 settings, including specialized Artisan and Gluten-Free options.
* Customizable Loaves: Features 3 loaf sizes (1, 1.5, 2 lb) and 3 crust shades.
* Convenient Delay Start: Allows for fresh bread exactly when you want it.
* Effortless Cleaning: Removable nonstick pan and paddle simplify cleanup.
* Compact Design: Takes up less counter space compared to many other models.
Cons:
* Non-Backlit Control Panel: Can be challenging to read in dim lighting conditions.
* Kneading Paddle Removal: The paddle can sometimes stick in the baked loaf, requiring extra effort to remove.
* Movement During Kneading: Like many bread makers, it can shift slightly on slick countertops, potentially requiring a protective mat.
* Limited Custom Programming: Doesn’t allow for custom cycle programming, a feature found in some premium models.
Exploring the Capabilities of the Hamilton Beach Bread Maker
Having used the Hamilton Beach Digital Electric Bread Maker Machine for a considerable period, I can attest to its functionality and how it truly simplifies the art of bread making. Each feature plays a crucial role in delivering a satisfying baking experience.
Effortless Operation: The 3 Easy Steps Process
One of the most appealing aspects of this bread maker is its sheer simplicity. The “3 Easy Steps” promise – “Just add ingredients, select cycle and press start” – isn’t just marketing; it’s the reality of using the Hamilton Beach 29987. I remember my initial hesitation, thinking there had to be more to it, but truly, it’s that straightforward. You layer your liquids, then dry ingredients, and finally the yeast according to the recipe. After that, a quick selection on the digital panel, and off it goes. This streamlined process is incredibly important because it removes all the common barriers to homemade bread: the fear of failure, the complexity of traditional recipes, and the sheer amount of time involved. For someone like me, who juggles work and family, this means I can consistently produce delicious, fresh bread without feeling like it’s another chore. It’s perfect for busy mornings when I want warm toast or for quick weeknight dinners.
Versatility with 14 Pre-Programmed Settings
The 14 distinct settings on this Hamilton Beach bread maker are where its true versatility shines. Beyond the standard “Basic” white loaf, I’ve delved into “French” bread, which has a lovely crisp crust, and the “Whole Grain” setting, which consistently yields hearty and healthy loaves. The “Gluten-Free” setting has been a revelation for accommodating dietary needs; it properly adjusts kneading and rising times crucial for gluten-free flours, which behave very differently from wheat flour. The “Express” settings (1 lb., 1.5 lb., 2 lb.) are fantastic for when you need bread in a hurry, cutting down on the waiting time significantly. But it’s not just for bread; I’ve used the “Dough” setting to prepare pizza dough and dinner rolls, saving me immense effort. The “Cake” and “Jam” settings are surprising additions that expand its utility beyond just bread, offering a convenient way to prepare treats or preserves. This wide array of options is important because it caters to diverse palates and dietary requirements, eliminating the need for multiple appliances or complex manual adjustments. It encourages experimentation and creativity in the kitchen, making it feel less like a repetitive task and more like an enjoyable culinary adventure.
Customizable Loaf Sizes and Crust Shades
Being able to choose from 1, 1.5, or 2 lb. loaf sizes is a feature I’ve come to truly appreciate. For my household, the 1 lb. loaf is often perfect, providing just enough fresh bread for a couple of days without excess waste. When entertaining or preparing for a larger family meal, the 2 lb. option ensures there’s plenty to go around. This flexibility is vital because it allows me to scale my baking to my immediate needs, preventing stale bread and ensuring optimal freshness. Beyond size, the option for light, medium, or dark crust shades means I can personalize the texture and flavor of the crust. I generally prefer a medium crust for sandwich bread, but for a rustic artisan loaf, a dark, crispy crust is ideal. This level of customization, delivered by the Hamilton Beach Digital Electric Bread Maker, is significant because it allows me to tailor the end product exactly to my preferences, enhancing the enjoyment of each homemade loaf. It’s these small details that truly elevate the experience of using the machine.
Designed for Easy Cleanup: Nonstick Pan and Paddle
After the joy of baking comes the inevitable task of cleaning, and thankfully, the Hamilton Beach bread maker excels here. The removable bread pan features a nonstick coating, which genuinely makes cleanup a breeze. In my experience, most loaves slide out with minimal effort, leaving very little residue behind. The kneading paddle, too, is nonstick, though sometimes it does require a bit of soaking to fully loosen any stubborn dough fragments. While the product description states “Dishwasher Safe,” I’ve found that handwashing the pan and paddle is the best way to maintain the integrity of the nonstick coating over the long term, ensuring they last. This ease of cleaning is paramount because it removes a significant deterrent to frequent use. Nobody wants a complicated cleanup after enjoying a meal, and the simple maintenance of this machine means I’m always eager to bake another loaf. It truly contributes to the overall convenience factor.
The Convenience of Delay Start
The Delay Start function is a real game-changer for my routine. There’s nothing quite like waking up to the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread filling the kitchen. With this feature on the Hamilton Beach Digital Electric Bread Maker Machine, I can load all the ingredients before bed, set the timer for, say, 7:00 AM, and have a perfectly warm loaf ready just as I’m starting my day. It’s also fantastic for dinner parties; setting it to finish baking just before guests arrive ensures a spectacular presentation and a delightful culinary experience. This capability is incredibly important because it integrates bread making seamlessly into a busy schedule, maximizing convenience and freshness. It’s not just about saving time; it’s about optimizing the timing to have warm, aromatic bread precisely when it’s most enjoyable, turning everyday moments into something a little more special.
Compact Design and Build Quality
In many kitchens, counter space is a premium, and the Hamilton Beach Digital Electric Bread Maker Machine scores high marks for its relatively compact footprint. Measuring 13.98″D x 9.13″W x 11.89″H and weighing 9.3 pounds, it’s noticeably less bulky than some of the older bread machines I’ve encountered, or even some of its higher-capacity competitors. The white and stainless steel finish gives it a clean, modern aesthetic that blends well with most kitchen decors. Despite its modest size, the machine feels robust and well-built, capable of handling the vigorous kneading cycles. This compact design is crucial for those with smaller kitchens or limited storage options, ensuring the appliance doesn’t become an eyesore or a storage challenge. It speaks to the practical considerations of everyday kitchen use, proving that you don’t need a massive machine to achieve excellent results.
Considerations and Minor Drawbacks
While my long-term experience with the Hamilton Beach bread maker has been overwhelmingly positive, it’s only fair to acknowledge a few minor points that could be improved. As noted by some users, the control panel, while intuitive, isn’t backlit. This means that in lower light conditions, I sometimes need to lean in or turn on an overhead light to clearly read the settings. It’s a small inconvenience but worth mentioning. Another consistent point is the kneading paddle, which occasionally gets embedded in the bottom of the baked loaf. While the included hook helps, sometimes it requires a bit of gentle persuasion (and cooling of the bread) to fully extract without tearing the loaf. Finally, like many bread machines during the more vigorous kneading phases, this unit can subtly “walk” or vibrate on smooth countertops. Placing it on a non-slip mat or a damp towel effectively mitigates this, but it’s something to be aware of to protect your surfaces. These aren’t deal-breakers by any means, but rather minor quirks that come with prolonged use.
What Others Are Saying: Real User Experiences
After perusing numerous online reviews, it’s clear that my positive experience with the Hamilton Beach Digital Electric Bread Maker Machine is widely shared. Many users enthusiastically recommend it for its compact size, robust features, and excellent value. One long-time bread maker owner lauded it as a fantastic upgrade, praising its smaller footprint and the perfect size of its 1 lb. loaves for smaller households. They particularly highlighted its performance on basic white sandwich bread and creative recipes like sun-dried tomato and cheddar. Another user, who had owned fancier models in the past, expressed sheer delight at its simplicity and light weight, making it ideal for smaller kitchens. They successfully baked a 100% whole wheat loaf right out of the box, noting its straightforward operation. While a few pointed out the non-backlit control panel as a minor drawback, the overwhelming sentiment revolved around its impressive ability to produce delicious, perfectly baked bread with remarkable ease. Many were thrilled with the quality and variety of bread they could now make, emphasizing its convenience and the joy of fresh, homemade loaves.
Is the Hamilton Beach Bread Maker Right for You?
Ultimately, if you’re seeking to overcome the challenges of expensive, uninspiring store-bought bread and embrace the healthier, more flavorful world of homemade baking, the Hamilton Beach Digital Electric Bread Maker Machine Artisan and Gluten-Free, 2 lbs Capacity, 14 Settings, White and Stainless Steel (29987) presents an outstanding solution. Failing to address this problem means continuing to settle for less-than-ideal bread, missing out on fresh ingredients, and potentially spending more in the long run. This particular machine stands out as a superb fit for several compelling reasons: its incredible ease of use, making homemade bread accessible to anyone; its expansive versatility, offering 14 settings including crucial gluten-free and artisan options; and its smart design, balancing a compact size with effective performance and straightforward cleaning. Don’t miss out on the simple pleasure of fresh, homemade bread in your own kitchen. To explore all its capabilities and bring this fantastic appliance into your home, Click here to check out the product!
Last update on 2025-09-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API