Essential Bread Machine Tips - By: Robin OBrien

Before you start using your new bread machine you should take the time in understanding how it works and what sort of problems may arise. Don't let a few set backs deter you from using your bread maker; most problems can be easily rectified. Here are a few tips to help you bake delicious bread, every time.

The best tip anyone can give you is to thoroughly read the instruction book that comes with the bread machine. It will give invaluable advice on how best to maintain and clean the appliance and it will also give you some delicious bread machine recipes to get you started.

The biggest complaint in using a bread maker seems to be that the loaf either doesn't rise or it collapses. Yeast makes the dough rise. So if your loaf isn't rising then you should check your yeast. Don't use yeast that has been lying around for months. Throw it away and buy a fresh batch. Also, when mixing in the ingredients, you must ensure that the yeast does not come into contact with the liquids used. Make a little well in the flour and place the yeast there; it's especially important that you do this when using a time delay function. Yeast needs sugar to multiply. Re-check you recipe to ensure you've used the right amount of sugar. You can replace white granulated sugar with brown sugar or honey - if you use honey be sure to reduce the amount of the other liquids used by the same amount.

If the loaf rises and then collapses this could be because there is too much sugar or not enough salt to inhibit the yeast. If you wish to cut down on the salt, it is possible to reduce the amount by as much as 50% but you should never remove the salt entirely.

Use all ingredients at room temperature, except for melted margarine and frozen yeast (when stored in the freezer).

If the crust is too thick or hard it could be because there is too much flour. Experiment by reducing the amount of flour.

If the crust isn't being browned evenly, try using a piece of aluminum - shiny side down - before the bake part of the cycle.

Don't expect a bread machine recipe from another brand to work first time with your model. Each machine works differently and you may need to adjust the recipe to get the best result.

You can make removing the mixing paddle much easier if you first coat it in either margarine or olive oil. Never use a knife or other metal implement to remove the paddle as you will scratch the non-stick surface of the pan.

Even if the manufacturer's instructions state that you can put the pan and paddle in a dishwasher you are best advised to hand wash. Just use warm soapy water. Put the water into the pan; do not put the pan in to the water. Leave the pan to soak for 15 minutes, empty it and then wipe it clean with a dish cloth.

The above bread machine tips will avoid many of the problems first-timers experience. The secret is to follow instructions to the letter and make minor adjustments if needed and to always carefully note the changes you've made so you can repeat the recipe at a later date.

About the Author

Follow the links for bread machine reviews on leading makes like the Oster bread machine and the Toastmaster bread machine.

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