Bread maker vs baking in oven

[Greenring]

I am preparing for Brexit and considering bread. I have seen quite a few threads which mention a bread maker - is there a reason people buy these rather than making bread the normal way? I have bread ingredients but have never made it and am not a particularly great baker so would consider a bread maker if it's likely to be inedible! But I don't really want to spend on something I won't otherwise use... Any advice?

---

If you've landed here looking for advice on bread makers vs baking in the oven, we've recently updated our guide to the best bread maker, including info on choosing the right one for your home. We hope it's useful.
MNHQ

I lf you have a sloeecooker, I found a recipe that works well and might be a half way house. It turns out with a sour dough like tang which we like. I use my kenwood to do all the kneeding then leave to prove overnight. I shape in the morning and throw it in the slow cooker, on a timer, for 2 hours. I'm trying to avoid palm oil (near impossible in sliced pan) but didn't want another machine in the kitchen when I use the kenwood and slow cooker regularly anyway.

www.thekitchn.com/how-to-make-bread-in-the-slow-cooker-192421

Also second the five minute bread book recommendation if you decide against the bread maker.

@SisterOfDonFrancisco wrap the loaf in a tea towel when it comes out of the machine - that gives a softer crust.

I hate the bread that’s made in the maker, it doesn’t taste the same. I also have issues with pre-sliced plastic wrapped bread. I can’t bake but yeasty dough is the easiest, it just needs some time and no tricks and strickt measurements.

SisterOfDonFrancisco to soften the crust put a tea towel over the bread as soon as it comes out of the oven until it is cool.

Tika77 I just use my bread maker to make dough as I can't do it by hand. I don't worry about strict measurements.

Oops, just saw MrsBobtonTrent mentioned the tea towel.

Dox, that’s a good idea, I know some people do that. I find kneading quite relaxing.