Showing posts with label dough. Show all posts
Showing posts with label dough. Show all posts

3/24/2012

KitchenAid K4SSWH 4 -1/2 Quart Bowl Lift Stand Mixer, White Review

KitchenAid K4SSWH 4 -1/2 Quart Bowl Lift Stand Mixer, White
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I received this mixer yesterday for Christmas from my kids. Then I read the above review and I got a little aprehensive. Today I telephoned this number 1-800-541-6390 to ask about the attachments for this model mixer. She answered several questions and she gave me the numbers of appliance models that are compatible with the K4SS mixer. The wire whip model number is K5AW. The attachments with model numbers KSM500 and K5SS will all fit the K4SS mixer. Hope this helps.

Click Here to see more reviews about: KitchenAid K4SSWH 4 -1/2 Quart Bowl Lift Stand Mixer, White

The KitchenAid K4SS Stand Mixer has a all metal construction with a direct drive transmission. This powerful bowl lift stand mixer features a 300 -watt motor for handling all mixing jobs, and can effectively mix up to 8 cups of all-purpose flour. The KitchenAid stand mixer has a unique mixing action that spins the beater clockwise as the shaft spins counter clockwise; moving the beater to 67 different points around the bowl. This unique mixing action creates a thorough blend of ingredients and eliminates the need to rotate the bowl. The stand mixer also has a 10 speed control that allows the user to select the right speed for the mixing job; from very high to very slow stir. It's easy to select the precise speed needed for a perfect mix. The stand mixer includes a 4 1/2-quart-capacity stainless-steel mixing bowl with handle, as well as a burnished flat beater. The stand mixer measures 16.4 x 10.4 x 13.3-inches and carries a one-year hassle-free replacement warranty.

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1/27/2012

Electrolux DLX-2000 Magic Mill Assistent Stand Mixer, MagicMill DX200 N24 Assistant Review

Electrolux DLX-2000 Magic Mill Assistent Stand Mixer, MagicMill DX200 N24 Assistant
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Electrolux DLX-2000 Magic Mill Assistent Stand Mixer is a superb dough kneader. I make bread so I have not used it to make other food items. I took up bread making last year after a 25 year lapse. I started with an all in one bread maker but it was not versatile enough. I sold it. I then tried a Kitchen Aid Professional 600 which burned out after 5 minutes of kneading 6 cups of whole grain flour. I returned it. I bought the DLX-2000 and I haven't looked back. It handles 12 cups of whole grain flour without a hiccup. The resulting dough is beautiful.
This mixer is solidly constructed. The foot print is about the same as the large Kitchen Aid stand mixers but it is not as tall. It is much easier to use because the bowl is completely open. I bought the grain flaker attachment. I'll report later how it works.

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12/25/2011

Bosch Universal Plus with Blender Model: MUM6N10UC Review

Bosch Universal Plus with Blender Model: MUM6N10UC
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I have now had my Bosch for a couple of months. The model I have is a slightly more powerful (1000W) European version with the metal bowl, but otherwise it is the same. It replaces a much-loved Kitchen Aid mixer which I had in the States. I must say that as much as I loved my Kitchen Aid, this Bosch model outperforms it as well as many other mixers. My first impression of the machine upon using it to make bread was that it was way too easy. After using industry-grade Hobart machines, Kitchen Aid, Electrolux, and Kenwood for many years in work and home, I was amazed at how well and effortlessly the Bosch kneaded the dough. I have not one time need to scrape down the sides and there is no spillage.
The capacity is truly enough to make 4 loaves of bread at a time. The lid performs wonderfully, leaving no place for ingredients to escape. Further, the removable part of the lid allows the most space for adding ingredients of all home machines which I have tried. As comparisons: I use an Electrolux Assistant (same capacity bowl)at work every week to make 8 loaves of bread and pizza dough and am frustrated with every batch as the ingredients leap over the backside of the bowl nearly every time no matter how diligently I guard it. The splash guard on my Kitchen Aid I also found to be undersized for adding dry ingredients and I spilled them every time, in the end removing the guard completely. The kneading mechanism on the Bosch looks strange as it has a stationary dough blade as well as a dough hook, but it functions beautifully.
The double whisk works well to mix cake batters. The beaters fit snug in the bowl without hitting the sides. I have experienced that only minimal scraping is sometimes required for cake batters. While this has been occasional and quite optional (perfectionist), it does require that the splash-guard be removed first. I cannot yet give an opinion on its whisk ability regarding cream or eggwhites as I have not had occasion to test that yet. The beaters snap on and off of the head (much like traditional beaters) for easier cleaning and storage.
The plastic blender is of solid and sturdy material and the lid locks onto the blender bowl in addition to having a rubber seal. The blender is driven by a second rotor hidden under a removable cover on the tower part of the mixer base. It locks securely on the base and is as powerful as any free-standing blender I have used. Keep in mind that I do have a 1000W model, so your 800W experience may be slightly different.
Clean up is the only more complicated part of the process. There are not so many more parts, but the design makes it trickier to clean properly. With a tower in the middle of the mixing bowl (similar to a tube pan), it just plain takes more attention and time to clean and the angles of the dough hook makes it a bit trickier than the Kitchen Aid. The whisks are no more difficult than any balloon whisk. All this said, I am so satisfied with the machine that I actually enjoy the more complicated clean up as I get to baby it. And as the other reviewer noted, most parts are dishwasher safe.
I will edit this review as I have more information to add.
I have also attached a customer image which shows the blender attached, the dough hook placed in the bowl, and the double whisk attachment for a bit of visual information.
Enjoy your Bosch! :-)

Click Here to see more reviews about: Bosch Universal Plus with Blender Model: MUM6N10UC

Features: . 800 Watts . 6 ?? quart bowl . Blender . 4 speed settings + momentary switch . Cord storage . Suction feet for a secure standing . Wide range of optional accessories . Overload and start motor protection . 3 year motor / transmission warranty Selling Features: . BOSCH quality - making mixers for decades . The most powerful motor in its class . Unique and modern design . Large mixing bowl will handle up to 15 lbs of dough . Ergonomic and easy handling with rim at top of bowl . Works perfect whether small or large quantities (as little as one egg white) . Endless possibilities with optional accessories . Removable drive shaft is easy to clean . Whisk holder is dishwasher safe . Splash ring allows for easy adding of ingredients . Dough hook is designed to replicate hand kneading - 100% gluten development in minimal time Benefits: . BOSCH quality - higher than average lifetime for mixers in its class . High customer satisfaction . BOSCH has sold this series of mixer since the 1950's. . Long term proven quality and performance . Easy to clean

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12/22/2011

BlendTec Mix n' Blend II Mixer/Blender - K-tec Mixer / Blender Combo Review

BlendTec Mix n' Blend II Mixer/Blender - K-tec Mixer / Blender Combo
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I purchased the Mix and Blend machine by K-tec over two years ago. I have had at least five if not six replacement machines. I grind my own wheat and bought the machine originally to mix my wheat dough, but the machines keep breaking. K-tec has been very good about replacing the motor bases, but in the end I had to purchase a more expensive dough maker from another company to solve my problem. Basically, I wasted over $300. Don't buy this machine if you think that you want to mix up wheat dough. It just does not hold up. The vital parts are plastic.

Click Here to see more reviews about: BlendTec Mix n' Blend II Mixer/Blender - K-tec Mixer / Blender Combo

Blendtec Mix n' Blend II - K-tec Mixer / Blender Combo (Ktec) Features & SpecificationsThe Blendtec Mix n Blend II The Blendtec Mix n' Blend II is the perfect addition to your kitchen.This all new multi-purpose machine is sure to take the time and sweat out of healthy food preparation.The Blendtec Mix n' Blend does it all, mixing, whipping, kneading, and blending.Healthy food preparation has never been easier.The Mix n' Blend is a very simple to use machine with easy to read displays and a compact size to fit nicely on your counter.With this new mixer/blender combo backed by the Blendtec name, you know you are getting a powerful high quality product.This unit is made of quality parts and is virtually indestructible.Made of high impact Lexan plastic this unit will stand the test of time and is equipped with a high powered durable 1000 watt motor with an astonishing 1.8 peak horsepower!Features:Very powerful 1000 watt motor reaching 1.8 peak horsepower5 custom pre-programmed mixer cycles, or 8 pre-programmed blender cyclesSpecial "Auto Knead" function automatically prepares up to 12 pounds of bread doughDishwasher safe items include mixing bowl and attachmentsContains no aluminum parts4 quart mixing bowl with lid64 ounce blender jarAttachments include: dough hooks, kneading arm, cookie whisk and french whiskSpecifications:ModelBlendtec Mix n Blend IIPeak Horsepower1.8 HPWarranty2 Years on Parts - 3 Years on Motor - 1 Year on JarWattage1000 WattsWeight14.4 LbsDimensionsLength:7.75"Width:10.75"Height:15"

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11/01/2011

Electrolux White Assistent Stand Mixer 8 Qt. Review

Electrolux White Assistent Stand Mixer 8 Qt.
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I'm prompted to write this after seeing another review that stated that this machine is only good for making bread but not for other mixing tasks. In fact, it will do everything any other stand mixer will do, and it will perform most tasks better than other stand mixers. I use it a couple of times a week to knead bread dough, at which it excels, but I've also made cakes, whipped egg whites, made cookies, and just about anything else you can imagine.
The thing is, as you can see from the picture of the machine, it is different from mixers most Americans are used to. There's a learning curve involved, so you must be prepared for that, or you'll be disappointed. I got the hang of it quickly, within a couple of weeks or so, but after a year I'm still refining my knowledge.
I should point out that Cook's Illustrated magazine, in their November 2005 issue, gave this machine a poor rating. I have to believe that they did not attempt to learn how to use it properly. I also have their top-rated mixer, the KitchenAid Professional 600, which I found very disappointing. It now sits in a basement closet after it stripped a gear.
If you make bread, especially if you make it frequently or in large quantities, chances are you'll grow to love this machine. For a single loaf of bread now and then, any good stand mixer will do, and you'll probably be happier.
If you don't make bread at all, a good sturdy hand mixer such as the Braun M880 Multimix would be something to consider. If you make bread, you can rest assured that the Electrolux will do that and anything else you need it to do.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Electrolux White Assistent Stand Mixer 8 Qt.

Whip cream, crush berries, knead dough, mix batter, and more with what some call Sweden's greatest kitchen machine. It puts 450 watts to work, along with a variety of attachments to quickly process numerous foods. Its superior motor design automatically adjusts torque to the load and as a result strains less and is far less likely to "walk" across your counter too. The timer allows you to start the mixer, set a time, and move to a different task while the machine goes to work. The unique roller and scraper design produce smooth, silky, elastic dough quickly and easily, effectively mimicking hand kneading. As the stainless steel bowl rotates, the deeply fluted roller perform like "fingers" while the scraper acts as the palm of the hand, scraping and massaging in a rhythmic motion. The white stationary bowl can be used to beat up to 18 egg whites for a gorgeous meringue or to cream butter and sugar for baking. When this bowl is used the whisks drive from below via a center column in the bowl, and this arrangement permits unimpeded access to the top of the bowl, with no overhead motor drive to get in the way.

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9/02/2011

Paderno World Cuisine Non-Stick Brioche Molds Review

Paderno World Cuisine Non-Stick Brioche Molds
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When I had to explain to a store clerk what a brioche was, I knew finding a pan to bake one in was going to be a challenge. I finally found a 6-cup as well as 6 individual brioche pans online at Amazon. They came in a timely manner and I have enjoyed several recipes of brioche. The sturdy but lightweight pan allows the bread to bake evenly and golden, and slides out of the pan easily. Cleanup is easy -- just pop into the dishwasher. Highly recommended.

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This Paderno World Cuisine 4.325 inch non-stick 10-flute brioche mold\'s fluted and flared sides beautifully shape and color the brioche. The top surface of the mold is approximately double that of the base which provides an excellent crust-to-crumb ratio.

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8/04/2011

KitchenAid Professional 600 Series 6-Quart Stand Mixer Review

KitchenAid Professional 600 Series 6-Quart Stand Mixer
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I already own a 5 Qt mixer from the "Artisan Series" but decided to upgrade to this model so that I could make larger batches of bread dough. For my recipe, a single batch is 2 cups of bread flour. I tried making a double batch (4 cups) in my new Pro 600, but after about 15 min. of kneading, the motor just turned off. I thought I had burned it out, but after consulting the instruction manual, it seems this is normal. Normal?! Yes, that's what it said--all I needed to do was wait for the motor to cool off (it's also "normal" for it to get so hot it is uncomfortable to touch) for 30 min. and then try again. I find it hard to believe that this mixer could make bread with 14 cups of AP flour, as the box says. Having said that, here are my thoughts on this mixer vs. the "Artisan Series" mixer I already own:1. The motor consumes over 50% more electricity (and is certainly more noisy) in the pro 600, but how much of that is being converted to extra torque, I'm not really sure. What I do know is that I can only do a single batch of bread at a time in either mixer.
2. As has been mentioned in other reviews, the Artisan mixer came with a "coated" paddle and dough hook, whereas the pro 600 has "Brandished steel". This means the Artisan's implements are dishwasher safe but the pro 600's are not. I had assumed those bright, shiny implements that I saw in the store display were stainless steel, but I guess not. If it weren't for this problem and the huge price tag, I would have given this mixer 5 stars.
On the plus side...
3. I love the new spiral dough hook--it is much better than the C shaped one in my Artisan
4. The soft start feature is a nice touch. Then again, it would be even nicer if there was a speed lower than the lowest one provided.
5. The larger bowl is nice
6. There is more of a difference between speeds 7-10 than the Artisan
Things I'd like to see changed in the next iteration:
--A gear box. I have a cordless drill that has a high and low gear. As could be expected, low is for more power, high is for more speed. Why don't these mixers use a simple gear selector like that? This would be a HUGE improvement--it would not only provide more power, but the lower speed I would like, as mentioned in point 4.
--Stainless steel implements as mentioned in point #2
CONCLUSION:
A very nice mixer, but so is my "Artisan". If you are going to buy a new mixer (and don't have an unlimited supply of money to throw at it), I wouldn't recommend the Pro 600--get one from the Artisan series instead--it is much cheaper and does just about as good a job. There are small advantages to the Pro 600, but even all together, I don't think they are worth the added price.

Click Here to see more reviews about: KitchenAid Professional 600 Series 6-Quart Stand Mixer

Designed with all-metal construction and a 6-quart capacity, this powerful stand mixer features a 575-watt motor for handling tough mixing jobs. It can effectively mix up to 14 cups of all-purpose flour and produce up to 8 pounds of mashed potatoes. The mixer can also churn through double batches of bread dough with the included burnished PowerKnead spiral hook, which replicates hand kneading with a forceful punching and rolling action. The mixer's 10-speed slide control ranges from a very fast whip to a very slow stir, while its Soft Start mixing function helps minimize ingredient splatter and flour puff with gentle acceleration to the selected speed after start-up. An electronic speed sensor helps maintain a consistent mixing speed, even when adding ingredients. For commercial-style motor protection, the mixer automatically shuts off when overload is detected.
The mixer includes a 6-quart-capacity stainless-steel mixing bowl with a contoured handle, as well as a professional wire whip, a burnished flat beater, a spiral dough hook, and a pouring shield. Its multipurpose attachment hub with a hinged hub cover flips open to allow for easy installation of attachments. The unit's professional bowl-lift design raises the bowl into the mixing position, and its solid, truly seamless one-piece motor head design cleans easily. The mixer features a premium satin-pearl custom finish that adds an elegant shimmer to any countertop. Available in a variety of fashionable colors, the stand mixer measures 14-3/5 by 16-1/2 by 11-2/7 inches and carries a one-year hassle-free replacement warranty.

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7/12/2011

Bread Maker Review

Bread Maker
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(More customer reviews)
I purchased this item 2 months ago, and the bread pan has already discolored. According to the machine's instruction manual, it says that "some discoloring" may occur, but it should not affect the "performance" of the machine. Performance? I am more concerned about whatever metal coating is falling out of the wall of the pan and into my bread! With everything being made so cheaply in China, you really have to watch out for these things. Whatever it is, this company is certainly okay with putting my health at risk, because when I tried getting in touch with customer service, they suggested that I return the bread maker to whomever I purchased from, and get a new one. What does that say about its quality? In addition, when I asked for spare bread pan to purchase as an accessory, customer service said they don't sell spare parts. I guess this is what I get for paying a low price for a cheap bread maker that can't guarantee quality, can't service, can't do it right.

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Bakery fresh bread made by you! The Bella Cucina bread maker turns your countertop into a full-service bakeshop, featuring 12 digital programs to help you bake loaf after loaf of delicious, homemade bread. Includes a nonstick bread pan and kneading blade for all-in-one convenience. One-year limited warranty. Model 13463.

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6/24/2011

Oxo Good Grips Dough Blender Review

Oxo Good Grips Dough Blender
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I do a lot of baking; a lot of different types of baking and therefore need good equipment that is not going to break my piggy bank. I have owned several dough blenders (still have them in the baking section of my kitchen) but found this Oxo brand to be the best of the litter. It fits my hand perfectly and for those of you who do a lot of work with these utensils know, this is very important. Nothing like a good hand cramp to set your day off just right. I suspect that this company has put in quite a lot of research as to the workings of the human hand and they pretty well have it nailed with this product.
The blades of this one (five) are quite stout and do not bend and flex as most do. I hate flimsy utensils, so this one was a real pleasure when I started using it. As to the sturdiness, this one if far superior to the Wilton, Pampered Chief or Anco...there is just no comparison. Trust me, I have used them all.
There are some considerations though. As pointed out by one reviewer, this mixer is not compatible with smaller bowls. I use rather large and heavy mixing bowls so do not have that problem myself, but I can see were some might have. Secondly, cleaning by hand is a chore. I have found the best way to clean this thing up is to soak it for a bit and then simply throw it in the dishwasher. I usually like to hand wash all my equipment, but in this case I go for the washer. The other way I have used is the simple use of a longer bristled kitchen brush.
As an added tip, this is a good tool to make thin butter patties with and to slice eggs for salads..a very nice even cut.
If you do a large amount of "scratch" baking, then this one is going to make life a lot easier for you.


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Cutting butter or margarine into flour for great pie and pastry crusts is easier than ever with this heavy-duty dough blender from Oxo. Designed with sturdy stainless-steel blades, the dough blender makes quick, efficient work of preparing crumb toppings and pastries. The broad, soft handle absorbs pressure and is non-slip for a secure grip. The kitchen tool measures 5 by 5-1/4 by 2 inches and is safe to clean in the dishwasher.

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6/17/2011

Sagaform Edge Oak Bread Board Review

Sagaform Edge Oak Bread Board
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(More customer reviews)
Great idea but mediocre execution. It is rough to touch -- could have been sanded better. And for the price, I expected better craftsmanship. It's made in Romania. Plus, once you cut bread, the crumbs are not so easily removed from the slots. All in all, I was disappointed.

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This handy breadboard from Sagaformis constructed of oak and features slots for the crumbs to fall through.You will no loger need to worry about having crumbs all over the kitchen when you want to cut your favorite crusty bread! The board is 17 3/4-inchby8 7/8-inch, the perfect size for most loaves of bread.

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5/25/2011

Paula Deen Signature Wood Pie Board, Natural Review

Paula Deen Signature Wood Pie Board, Natural
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I bought this pie board about a month ago. Love it! Works great when rolling out any dough. I use mine when I roll out dough for dumplings. It's large enough, less mess, dough doesn't stick to board and clean up is a breeze. Easy storage too.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Paula Deen Signature Wood Pie Board, Natural

Add that old-world charm to the kitchen with Paula Deen's beautiful wood cutting and pie board. Distinctly crafted from beautiful acacia wood in a natural tone, you'll want to keep it on the counter for display. The pie board has gentle rounded edges and is perfect for any baking job, large or small. The pie side is engraved with 6-inch, 8-inch, 9-inch, and 10-inch rolling guides, and edged with a 14-inch ruler for easy and accurate baking every time. Hand wash and dry immediately for best care.

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5/05/2011

Hamilton Beach Electrics All-Metal Stand Mixer Review

Hamilton Beach Electrics All-Metal Stand Mixer
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I purchased this unit just over a month ago. It arrived in less than a week. I've had no problems with it yet. It is truly all metal except for the splash guard/ingredient chute. To address some other reviews that had me concerned. The head doesn't slap around. That is a warranty issue for her. It does walk with big stiff dough recipes such as a two loaf all wheat. Simple physics, considering size and weight, tells you at medium to high speeds it will. Kinda lets you know it is a powerful electronic speed controlled mixer. I can easily steady the base for the few seconds to finish mixing. All other mixing jobs are done with ease. I, personally, like the tilt head. All stand mixers will require side scraping with some recipes, even the expensive KitchenAids. Although I made a five bar cheesecake yesterday and as I was watching the eggs, dropped in at the side one at a time, they were all fully captured and mixed in. I usually scrape once at the beginning and it spins into a dough ball at the end anyway. There is a dimple at the bottom of the bowl to help pick up added flour during the mix. Speaking of KitchenAid, have you read the reviews of those "attachments"? Besides being expensive they say all of them suck. It seems you can buy better and cheaper items to do the same thing taking up the same amount of space.
So far I've made 4 loaves of baguettes, 4 loaves of wheat, 2 loaves of sourdough, numerous cakes, batches of cookies, and of course a large cheesecake since I've had it with no problems. (Now you can see why I needed a strong stand mixer! My church loves me now too!) The key is to read the instructions more than once to ensure you understand how to operate this model. It has some cool recipes in there too! And yes, it is very easy to clean as well.
If you want a mixer to crank out mega-loaves of all wheat bread daily, (commercial), then this is not it. If you want to make great bread, dishes and pastries for your family then this can't be beat at this price range with this much power. After all, as one consumer already stated, this is a "Consumer Reports best buy". I've had a Sunbeam Heritage, (like the one shown on the Cookin In Brooklyn show), and contrary to popular belief there is NOT a motor under the bottom pedestal. It's great for everything else but gluttonous bread dough's. A white loaf every once in a while, maybe. But, I wanted to be more artisan and organic with my breads so I upgraded.
Note: the short time I've had it is the only reason I've given it 4 stars. For me, longevity counts as one star.
Hobby Baker


Click Here to see more reviews about: Hamilton Beach Electrics All-Metal Stand Mixer

Designed with die-cast metal and a 400-watt motor, this stand mixer provides constant power for consistent mixing as ingredients are added, as well as 12 speed settings, which allow for mixing flexibility and precise control at every speed. The unit offers professional results with its unique mixing head that orbits around the bowl as the beater rotates in the opposite direction. For stable hands-free mixing, the bowl locks to the base, and for easy access to the bowl, the appliance's quick-release head lifts up and locks into place. The mixer includes a two-piece pouring shield, which provides splatter-free mixing and an easy way to add ingredients, along with a flat beater, dough hook, and wire whisk. A user manual with recipes comes included. Available in a variety of fashionable colors, the stand mixer measures approximately 9 by 14 by 14 inches and carries a three-year warranty.

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3/18/2011

Breadman TR2500BC Ultimate Plus 2-Pound Stainless-Steel Convection Breadmaker Review

Breadman TR2500BC Ultimate Plus 2-Pound Stainless-Steel Convection Breadmaker
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
After reading other reviews, I took my life in my hands and ordered the Breadman 2500. Fortunately, I have had no trouble with the machine at any of the stages. Having baked bread by hand regularly for over 40 years, I was surprised to find the Breadman texture quite acceptable. Here are a couple of tips I got from the company while trying to do the basic set up: 1. When you turn on the machine to "burn off manufacturing oils", take the bread pan out and leave the top of the machine open. This was not mentioned in the booklet. 2. When you set the cycle you want for a loaf, don't expect to see words like "white bread" - you get only the amount of time it takes to run the full cycle. Keep pressing "Select" until the arrow on the right stops where you want it. Then do the same with "Crust Control" and "Loaf Size". Then you're ready to push "Start". 3. After you have completed the entire baking, push the Reset button and hold down for 4 seconds. Do this as well if the electricity goes off but you are not baking, or if you unplug the machine. This precautionary measure will keep you from finding yourself in an emergency cycle.
Some people have trouble with the dough ball not picking up all the flour during kneading. My suggestion is that your dough ball isn't quite moist enough. I am creating my own recipes, especially since I like to make some breads with cooked cereal. The important thing if there is some question as to whether you have the right balance of wet and dry ingredients is to observe your dough ball during the 2nd kneading. If there is any flour in the corners that has not picked up after a few minutes, use your rubber spatula to scrape it toward the middle. If this doesn't work, I suggest using a spritzer on the dough ball until the flour adheres. If the dough is sticking a little to the sides of the pan as it goes around, begin lightly sprinkling flour on the ball until it stops doing this. The whole wheat bread, which I made precisely according to the recipe, turned out perfect, but, as I say, if you are experimenting, this is how you can bake any bread recipe you want to and it will turn out perfectly. Your dough ball should be spongy and only slightly sticky.
I hope this is helplful information for Breadman owners. The key to all good bread is learning how to recognize the look and feel of a good lump during and after kneading.
NEARLY TWO YEARS LATER:
It is July 15, 2008, and I'm still baking away. So far I've never had a failure with this machine. I have found a few corrections to the white bread recipe (for 1 1/2 lb loaf) make a better loaf. To start with, I always use King Arthur bread Flour, which a lot of Wal-Marts carry. I use 1 cup plus 3 teaspoons water instead of 2 teaspoons, 2 teaspoons of yeast rather than 1 1/2, tho 1 1/2 works fine. That little bit of extra water helps. I also probably use couple of TBS oil, rather than 1 1/2. And I use 2 teasp. salt rather than 1/1/2. It is important to know that different flours behave different ways, and different batches of flours of the same kind can need more or less moisture. This is especially noticeable using whole wheat flour. If you let the bread sit in the machine for 10-15 minutes after baking is complete, the steam softens the sides enough to dump the loaf out but doesn't leave the loaf soggy. Before I figured that out, I used a small rubber spatula to loosen the sides. Be sure you don't scrape the pan with a metal utensil as it scratches easily. Well, happy baking!!
PUSHING FIVE YEARS
March 2011: Well, here we are, still baking away. The only adjustment has been that I have upped the baking time slightly (I use the 2# setting for a 1 1/2 lb. loaf). The old relic is still performing and making perfect loaves of bread! Hey, is this thing still on the market anyway??

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Wake up to the smell of freshly baked bread with this programmable bread machine. The unit bakes 1, 1-1/2, and 2-pound horizontal loaves and features a convection bake function for better, crisper crust faster. The machine also contains over 300 recipes programmed into its memory for creating not only a variety of breads, but also cake batter; jam; and pizza, bagel, and pasta dough. Plus, for the health conscious, there are gluten-free and low-carb programs. The unit's unique, patented fruit, nut, and herb "add-in" dispenser provides added convenience, while its removable lid with a see-through window allows for watching the baking process. Other thoughtful details include a handy oven light, bake-only with variable temperature, a 24-hour delay-bake timer, and 60-minute power-failure backup in case of a power outage. Wash the removable baking pan by hand only. Housed in durable stainless steel, the bread machine measures 9-1/2 by 15-1/4 by 12-1/2 inches and carries a one-year limited warranty.

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3/16/2011

Panasonic SD-RD250 Automatic Bread Maker with Fruit/Nut Dispenser, White finish Review

Panasonic SD-RD250 Automatic Bread Maker with Fruit/Nut Dispenser, White finish
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
EDIT UPDATE: an XL loaf weighed 2 lbs 11.5 oz
I never thought that I would be so excited about an item but I truly was. I underestimated our technology because I didn't realize that you could now stick dry ingredients into a machine and a few hours later beautiful crusty soft bread pops out! WOW! Gone are the laborious & boring tasks of kneading, kneading, leaving to rise and eventually kneading again which would take away half of your afternoon. It just isn't great time management in our busy lives this day in age, to spend it preparing and baking a loaf of bread.
Hubby attempted his first loaf (ever!) the moment the box arrived. At first glance, the machine is on the large-ish side as I suspected it would be. You could leave it on a counter but if you are limited on space as we are it just wouldn't be feasible; unless you were truly making a loaf of bread a day.
There is an instructional guide with all the tidbits of info you may need on the machine's settings and problems that may occur with solutions. There are even a variety of recipes to get you started in the bread baking world. The machine's strong points are the fact that it will do all the work and provide you with a loaf of bread after a minimum couple of hours. I am very excited to try the pasta and pizza dough settings. As far as baking, I will leave that to my trusty oven. It is still a wonderfully feature packed machine that also has a fruit/nut dispenser.
We provided pictures of our first attempt at a loaf of Pepperoni and Provolone Cheese bread. The options selected were Bake Rapid, XL loaf & Dark Crust. The selected options took a total of 1 hour & 55 minutes. Preparation was 5 minutes including pressing the selected options mentioned above and the start button. Once the bread is done, the machine will beep 8 times and you are informed by the guide that it must be removed immediately and placed on a wire rack. We had to wait a bit after removing for our bread to cool down so that removal of the kneading tool would be easy. According to the directions, if your kneading tool is stuck in the bottom of your bread then you may need 20-30 more mLs' of water. We were a bit impatient so that is why we chose the Rapid Bake option lowering the total time to 1.55 opposed to 4 hrs. Next time we will attempt the longer cooking time and see what the difference in taste and quality shall be. The machine does vibrate a bit while it is kneading, but it isn't noisy in the least. At one point I was concerned because I got a hint of "burning motors" smell, but I suspect that it may be because it was the first time it was used.
Hubby's first loaf was DIVINE! We love bread in our household to the point of being able to polish off a whole loaf in one sitting. The bread was crusty on the outside and softy/fluffy in the center with little tidbits of spicy pepperoni and herbs sprinkled throughout. While it was baking it smelled very much like a pepperoni roll. Our dogs and kitten stood below the machine sniffing at the air... that is how much the aroma permeated our household. When it was finally removed and cooled we made turkey sandwiches and there are only 3 slices left today. It was that good!! The XL was a great size for our family of 5, but it would be overwhelming for a single person or small family. I am not sure how the bread stores because we don't have any left.
Options for baking bread:
Dough type: Basic or French
Baking speed: Bake or Bake Rapid
Size: Medium or XL
Crust: Light or Dark
Timer: When you want a loaf to be ready at a certain time up to 13 hours later.
Options for making Dough:
Dough Type: Basic, French or Pizza
Option: Dough
If you choose Pizza then you skip Dough type and go straight to start.
No timer because with these options(other than pizza) you must shape the finished dough and allow it to rise and then bake in oven.
Options for making Pasta:
Select: Pasta
Rest dough for 1 hr in the refrigerator before cutting.
No timer option
Option for Baking Cakes:
Select: Bake Only
Select: Baking Time
No timer option
Total baking time cannot exceed 90 minutes.
Highly recommend for bread lovers that would like to have control of what goes in their bread. Also recommended for families/individuals that like fresh bread daily. It is wonderful to be able to make a loaf and not have to go through all of the babysitting and effort that accompanies making fresh bread. True time saver with wonderful results.
INCLUDED IS A 1 year warranty... wish it was longer!


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Microprocessor controlled for even baking, special "dispenser" for addition of nuts or fruits, 5 baking modes basic/bake/French/pizza/pasta, 2 loaf sizes (M or Xl), diamond fluorine non-stick coated pan, large lcd readout, 13-hour preset timer, white.From the Manufacturer
No need to live above a bakery to enjoy the warm aroma of freshly baked bread on a daily basis. Equipped with an array of user-friendly features, this automatic bread machine by Panasonic makes baking fresh, healthy homemade bread--and much more--easier than ever. Now anyone can enjoy the simple pleasure of freshly baked homemade bread--without the time-consuming efforts normally associated with kneading and baking bread. Just add ingredients, press a few buttons, and it takes care of the rest.


Choose from 2 loaf sizes and light or dark crust colors.

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3/15/2011

Dough Mixer - 11 Inch Review

Dough Mixer - 11 Inch
Average Reviews:

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I read about this gadget on the Artisan Bread in 5 Minutes a Day website, and decided to give it a try. I have a large food processor, but it seemed like a lot of parts to wash for just a few twirls of the dough, and the wooden spoon worked but was more effort than I like to expend.
This cool little gadget does an excellent job, no fuss, little effort, and it cleans up very easily. I highly recommend it.

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This bread dough mixer with beech wood handle is 11 inches in length. Mixing dough is much easier with this tool than with whisks or wooden spoons. Easy to clean. Made in Poland.

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