The Bread Machine Dilemma

Making fresh bread is one of the economical and healthy ways that I provide food to my family. I like the fact that I can avoid giving my kids preservatives, and let’s face it, fresh homemade bread is very yummy. Our bread machine produces not only sandwich bread, but also pizza dough, quick bread, rolls, bagels, even jam. To say it gets used is an understatement. The problem is that we go through bread machines very quickly. A regular $30 (less if we get one at a thrift store) lasts only about six or seven months in our household before … Continue reading

My Bread Machine is Doing the Conga

Sometimes when all looks bleak, there is still a way to make something last just a little bit longer. We are experiencing a good example of that right now. Our bread maker has decided that not only will it make bread, but it must do it while dancing the can can across the countertop. You see, there are clips that hold the bread pan in the machine, and those clips are worn from some serious usage. As a result, when the kneading cycle gets going at a good pace, the pan typically jumps out of the machine, bumps against the … Continue reading

Make Your Breadmaker Work for You

Even with the rising price of flour, having a breadmaker can be a very frugal thing, provided that you use it well. Of course, you can save lots of money by making your own breadmaker, but I personally find that it is a good investment because it really helps me fit home made bread and even freezer cooking into my busy day. Here are some tips that well help you make your breadmaker work for you. First of all, if you have a breadmaker, use it. There is nothing worse than an idle appliance. Be realistic. If you don’t use … Continue reading

Bread Machine Wheat Rolls

These are by far the absolutely best bread machine rolls that I have tried. I make them often, at least once or twice a week, and they go quickly in my home. In fact, I’ve had to make extra batches of these rolls and send them home with guests. My eldest child is now an expert at forming them. The rolls are so easy to make, because you use a bread maker to form the dough and put it through the first rise. The recipe has the added goodness of powdered milk, which gives it a smooth texture as well … Continue reading

Quick Breads in the Bread Machine

Did you know that many bread machines will allow you to make quick breads in addition to regular yeast breads? You can use many bread machine to make corn bread, cranberry bread, and more. I love making quick breads in the bread machine because believe it or not, I find that in some recipes, the texture is improved over my hand mixing the ingredients. I can also just add the ingredients to the machine in the morning and go take a shower, allowing the machine mix and bake, knowing that I don’t have to watch the clock. I’ve tried traditional … Continue reading

Bread Machine: Ricotta Bread

If you are looking for a bread machine recipe that you can add to your personal home recipes, this may just be the one. This yummy, moist bread is a favorite in my household. I usually make three or four loaves a month. The ricotta cheese gives the bread extra protein, which is always good when it comes to growing kids. This bread is so good that I once accidentally left out the butter and no one even noticed. It wasn’t until I opened up the microwave later in the day (that is where I melt my butter) and found … Continue reading

Italian Bread for The Bread Machine

Here is a great little recipe that is full of flavor. If you don’t have a bread machine, you can always make this bread by hand. When you think of Italian bread, you probably picture a long white roll of white-type bread that has a nice crispy outside and a fluffy middle. While I love traditional italian bread, this recipe produces something a little different. This is a soft bread that takes its flavor from traditional Italian herbs. It is fragrant and wonderful; a very savory bread. I first made this bread to use up some fresh Italian oregano that … Continue reading