Breville BBM800XL Bread Maker Review High-Performance Features for Perfect Homemade Loaves

Description

An All-in-One Bread Maker for Creative Home Baking

The Breville BBM800XL Custom Loaf Bread Maker Machine is a sleek, brushed stainless steel appliance that promises to turn your kitchen into a bakery. With its 13 automatic settings and 9 customizable programs, this bread maker is loaded with features to cater to all kinds of bakers. I’ve had the chance to explore its capabilities extensively, testing everything from basic loaves to more complex recipes. While it’s undoubtedly impressive, there are a few quirks to keep in mind.

Design and Build Quality

Right out of the box, the stainless steel finish is undeniably elegant. It’s not just a bread maker; it’s a piece of equipment that sits proudly on your countertop. The compact dimensions (9.6”D x 16.4”W x 13.3”H) make it suitable for most kitchens, though at 16.84 pounds, it’s a bit hefty to move around frequently. Despite its weight, the build quality feels premium, and the smart LCD display adds a modern touch. I particularly liked how the screen provides clear step-by-step updates during the baking process.

Cleaning the unit can be a bit of a hassle since it’s hand wash only, but the collapsible kneading paddle and bread pan are relatively easy to handle. The materials feel durable enough to withstand regular use without showing signs of wear.

Key Benefits

The Breville Custom Loaf excels in several areas, making it a standout choice for bread enthusiasts. Here are some of its winning points:

• Automatic Fruit and Nut Dispenser: This feature is a game-changer for anyone who loves experimenting with mix-ins. The machine automatically releases ingredients like raisins or nuts at just the right time, ensuring even distribution throughout the loaf.
• Collapsible Kneading Paddle: Unlike other bread makers where the paddle leaves a hole in your loaf, this one folds down before baking starts. It’s a small touch, but the results are much more aesthetically pleasing.
• Gluten-Free and Yeast-Free Options: As someone with friends who have dietary restrictions, I found these settings incredibly convenient. The gluten-free bread turned out surprisingly fluffy!
• Custom Recipe Storage: The ability to save up to 9 personal recipes is fantastic for those who like to tweak their bread-making process.
• Power Interruption Protection: With 60 minutes of backup power, I didn’t have to worry about losing my progress during unexpected outages.

Areas of Concern

Despite its many advantages, there are a few weaknesses worth mentioning:

• Price: It’s on the higher end of the spectrum compared to similar products, which might be a dealbreaker for budget-conscious buyers.
• Learning Curve: With so many settings and options, it took me some time to figure out the optimal configurations for different recipes.
• Noisy Kneading Process: While not excessively loud, the kneading phase produces noticeable noise, which might be bothersome in quiet households.
• Large Counter Space Requirement: Although the machine fits on most counters, its dimensions and weight mean it’s not ideal for smaller kitchens.

Performance and Features

Functionality-wise, this bread maker is like having a sous chef in your kitchen. The 830-watt motor ensures consistent results, even for denser recipes like whole wheat or rye. I was particularly impressed with the dough/pasta and jam settings, which add versatility beyond just bread.

The crust color options (light, medium, dark) worked flawlessly, giving me the freedom to customize each loaf. I tested the 1 lb to 2.5 lb loaf capacity and found that the machine performs equally well regardless of size. The timer function is another highlight, allowing me to wake up to the smell of freshly baked bread – a luxury that never gets old.

What sets this apart is its ability to cater to different levels of expertise. Beginners can rely on the automatic programs, while experienced bakers will appreciate the manual settings for greater control.

Competing Products

In comparison to models like the Zojirushi Virtuoso Plus and the Cuisinart CBK-200, the Breville Custom Loaf holds its own. For instance, the Zojirushi offers dual kneading blades for uniform mixing, but it doesn’t come with an automatic fruit and nut dispenser. Meanwhile, the Cuisinart is more affordable but lacks the customization options and smart LCD display that make the Breville stand out.

Where the Breville shines is in its versatility and design. The collapsible kneading paddle and recipe storage options are features that its competitors can’t match. However, its price point might make the Cuisinart a more attractive choice for those on a budget, even if it means sacrificing some premium features.

True Value

For those who bake regularly or enjoy experimenting with recipes, the Breville Custom Loaf Bread Maker offers excellent value for money. While it’s not the cheapest option out there, the combination of customization, automatic features, and build quality justifies the investment. It’s especially worth considering if you’re someone who appreciates the convenience of an automatic dispenser or the precision of programmable settings.

If you’re looking for a bread maker that combines functionality with a touch of luxury, this machine is hard to beat. However, if you’re on a tighter budget or prefer a simpler design, there are alternative options that might suit your needs better.

Additional information