Reply #33: I had resisted getting a bread machine for a long time

[csziggy]

But when I saw an almost new one with the labels still on it for $10, I couldn't resist. I'd thought about getting a KitchenAid mixer to mix the dough since my shoulder was not up to it any longer, but even used ones are expensive. And the bread machine is so much more convenient.

Toss everything in according to the directions, set the controls and walk off. I'll set a kitchen timer I can stick in my pocket to the length of time minus a few minutes and go off to other stuff, even yard work. Then a few minutes to shape the loaf, set the timer for it to rise and come back when it is ready to pop in the oven. For my standard recipes that I have made before, I can go off while it bakes. For new recipes, I stick close to the oven so I can monitor it.

The worst problem I have is keeping hubby from cutting the loaf before it cools. If it is cut too soon, it really does not finish cooking properly, so that is important. But that fresh bread smell so sooooo irresistible!

Mine is just a plain Oster, nothing fancy, but you might want to research brands and models before you go shopping. Some seem not to be that great. And make sure you can download the manuals since the thrift store machines probably will not have theirs with them. I need to start researching brands since I'd love to upgrade my bread machine - if I can find a good one in the thrift shops.