Lots of folks ask me for my gluten free bread machine reviews. Which bread machine do I prefer for baking gluten free bread? Which are the best bread machines for gluten free bread, specifically? And do you have to have a bread machine with a gluten free setting?
In the many, many years I’ve been baking gluten free bread, I have tried lots of bread machines for baking gluten free bread. Believe it or not, just because a machine has a gluten free setting, it does not mean it’s going to bake a good loaf of gluten free bread!
🎥 Watch this quick video to see how to test your gluten free bread machine to see if it will work well for gluten free breads, or if you should return it!
In this comprehensive bread machine review, I review 9 Gluten Free Bread Makers: Zojirushi (two models), Vevor, Panasonic, Oster, Hamilton Beach (several models), Cuisinart, and T-fal and compare their features for you.
Even within brands, there are some bread machine models to avoid, so pay attention to model numbers and links provided.
But first, let’s answer the question: Do I NEED a bread maker to bake gluten free bread?
While it IS nice to simply plop all the ingredients into a pan, press a button and walk away … it’s certainly not difficult to bake homemade gluten free bread in the oven with a pan. You just need the right gluten free ingredients and the right recipe.
Do I need a Bread Machine to Bake Gluten Free Bread?
First off, let me say that you do NOT need a bread machine to make awesome gluten free bread. But if you want to use a bread maker, there’s no sense in using one that does not have a gluten free setting or one that can’t be programmed to properly bake gluten free loaves.
That being said, not all “gluten free” settings are actually programmed properly! That’s why it’s so important to read these reviews and not buy a machine simply because it has a “gluten free” button.
For more information on HOW TO USE a bread machine for your gluten free baking, please read my article full of tips on how to use a gluten free bread machine.
If you’re looking for more gluten free bread baking tips, applicable to both oven and bread maker baking, also check out my Top 18 Gluten-Free Bread Baking tips.
Whether you decide to bake gluten free bread in an oven or a bread machine, there are so many reasons to try baking your own gluten free bread at home:
- it’s not hard to make delicious gluten free bread when you use the right ingredients
- homemade results are far better than any frozen gluten free loaf you would buy at the grocery store
- the slices are sized to make real sandwiches (without holes!) and
- it is far more cost efficient the long run to bake delicious gluten free bread at home (how much money have you already wasted buying gluten free bread your family wouldn’t eat? I rest my case).
Gluten Free Bread Machine Reviews
Note: All my bread machine testing has been done using my award-winning gfJules Bread Mix so that the results of each bake-out are dependent only on the machine as the one variable.
Recommended Machines for Gluten Free Breads (scroll down to each review in order):
Best Overall Bread Maker: Zojirushi® Home Baker Virtuoso Plus
Best Bread Maker in $100 price range: Vevor 15-in-1 3 Lb Breadmaker with Non-stick Ceramic Pan & Gluten Free Setting
Best Mid-Price Range Bread Maker: Panasonic Automatic Bread Maker (model SD-R2550)
Next Best: Hamilton Beach Premium Bread Maker with Fruit & Nut Dispenser Model 29890
Recommended only for Homemade Setting: Cuisinart Custom Convection Bread Maker CBK-210 Series
Best Overall Bread Maker
Zojiurushi Home Baker Virtuoso Plus
I’ll start with the Zojirushi® Home Baker Virtuoso Plus, as it has traditionally been the most highly regarded gluten free bread machine by most bakers (including myself). Its one drawback: the price. (click here to buy and save 10% with GFJULES)
I have traveled all over the country teaching gluten free bread baking classes and have most often used my trusty Zojirushi. While it has a pre-programmed gluten free setting, I program my own gluten free setting to avoid some of the issues which can arise with the pre-programmed one (including a punch-down setting which I never recommend for gluten free bread).
For more information on how to easily program a bread machine like the Zojirushi for baking gluten free bread (one of the attributes I like most about it), review my comprehensive article on baking gluten free bread in a bread maker OR my Gluten Free Bread Baking Cookbook.
Widely recognized as the gold standard for bread machines — especially in the gluten free category — the Zojirushi Home Bakery Virtuoso Plus is the bread maker that does it all, and it’s the one I’ve reviewed here for our sandwich bread baking purposes. 🎥 SEE MY VIDEO REVIEW HERE.
While most bread machines are compared to the Zojirushi, and you certainly can’t go wrong with this brand, the pricetag is steep. Depending on the model and where you find one, the price can range from $375 – $650!
It’s an investment I’ve rarely heard anyone regret, however. (Note: the Zojirushi Supreme model is cheaper, but it does not have a gluten free setting and I’m not reviewing it here.)
As I mentioned, it comes with a pre-set gluten free setting, but I prefer to program my own homemade cycle with this machine, as the pre-set Gluten Free setting calls for a punchdown and second rise, which is never a good idea with gluten free breads — this punchdown and second rise are very short and don’t seem to affect the bread’s structure much.
At any rate, the homemade settings are easy to program and we can get our gluten free bread just right that way!
This machine consistently produces great gluten free breads (I always test with my gfJules Gluten Free Bread Mix). You can see the long pan has not affected bread height — this loaf is 5 inches tall and the pan length is 9 inches, so you’ll get plenty of slices for sandwiches here.
It’s also a soft, squishy and airy loaf that anyone would love.
Aside from the machine’s large footprint, there are really no cons about this machine other than its price tag. It does take up a lot of pantry or cabinet space.
But, if you’re going to be baking a lot of bread or really love the idea of a machine doing it for you, this is a worthwhile investment. I don’t know anyone who owns one who doesn’t love it.
The idea with any bread machine is that you put all the liquids into the pan, dry ingredients on top, then the yeast. Push a button and the machine does all the work, producing a lovely gluten free loaf in a little over 2 hours.
One of the best features of the Zojirushi is its long pan with double mixing paddles. The machine mixes the dough better than most other machines due to the double paddle design. The long loaf also makes the bread shaped and sized to a more typical sandwich bread.
The Zojirushi produces a reliably well-mixed, well-cooked loaf every time, with the right gluten free bread recipe or mix, of course.
One note: unlike some other bread machines, it does not make a very crusty gluten free loaf. The crust is more like a store-bought, soft crust bread which is great! … unless you’re looking for a crusty loaf of bread.
Zojirusihi also makes a Home Bakery Maestro upright bread machine that makes a vertical-shaped loaf.
I used this machine for my gluten free Panettone Recipe and it worked quite well!
Click on the photo to watch the quick video about the bread machine being used for gluten free panettone.
The machine is about the same price as the Home Bakery Virtuoso Plus, though, and for my money, I would stick with the larger, two-paddle, horizontal loaf machine instead.
Best Priced Gluten Free Bread Maker
Vevor 15-in-1 3 Lb Breadmaker with Non-stick Ceramic Pan and Gluten Free Setting
In response to innumerable calls to find and review gluten free bread machines in the $100 price range, I have tried many machines and have been unimpressed.
Fortunately, I’ve found one that I love. This Vevor model stands out amongst lower priced machines as a workhorse that delivers on the promise of baking a good loaf of gluten free bread without requiring that you spend a fortune on the bread maker to do it. (Buy it here and save 5% with code VEV5OFF)
The Vevor machine has many bonuses which make it worth considering, including the ceramic pan (rather than a non-stick pan) which many of my readers have been eager to find. The pan is also long (like the Zojirushi) and boasts two paddles for even better mixing action.
A drawback of those paddles, however, is that they will need to be removed before the bread rises and bakes so that no large holes are created throughout the loaf, rendering the slices useless for sandwiches.
The Vevor Bread Machine has a gluten free setting as well as a homemade option, which is a great feature.
It also has a dark or light crust option.
As with all my gluten free bread maker reviews, I tested the Vevor Bread Machine using my gfJules Gluten Free Bread Mix and it turned out very well in this machine.
It didn’t rise all that high — only 4 1/2 inches or so — but because the pan length is 9 inches, it makes a longer, rather than higher loaf. Unlike some breads from other bread machines, this bread was not dense at all, and was soft and light.
I was more concerned with how it baked the bread, and it did a good job with that. There was no rubbery bottom, the cell structure was loose and airy, and the machine got hot enough to create a darker crust with that option.
A crusty loaf was was a nice alternative to the soft crusts most machines produce. It did take 4 hours, but that’s just something to build into your schedule.
Be sure to review my full 🎥 VIDEO REVIEW for all the details, pros, cons and a full look at the loaf this machine produced in a 4 hour gluten free cycle.
If you’d like to purchase this Vevor Bread Machine, be sure to use code VEV5OFF for 5% off!
Pros:
- Bakes a loaf that’s nearly 9″ long
- Gluten Free Setting pre-programmed
- Homemade Setting option
- Bake Only setting
- Dark and Light Crust Options
- 2 and 3 lb loaf size options
- 2 large viewing windows
- smaller size than Panasonic or Zojirushi
- 2 paddles mix the dough well
- GREAT price!
- Ceramic coated pan
Cons:
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- Two paddles need to be removed before rising and baking or there are holes throughout bread
- Bread must be smoothed before baking or uneven tops makes for rough sandwiches
- Pan is difficult to remove and lock in the machine
- Gluten free setting takes nearly 4 hours to finish
Best Overall Mid-Price Range Gluten Free Bread Maker
Panasonic Automatic Bread Maker (model SD-R2550)
This newer machine is quite impressive. I was happy with the results I got from this easy to use model, and excited about the features this machine boasts that others don’t.
At close to $300 though, this bread machine is on the higher end of the continuum of prices of machines I’ve rated. (On Amazon, you should be able to snag a refurbished model for around $165) Let’s take a look at what it offers. (🎥 Watch my video review)
One of the unique features of this machine is the nut/seed dispenser on the top. This well holds whatever seeds, dried fruits or finely chopped nuts you like, and the raisin/nut dispenser will add them at the optimal time to distribute them throughout the dough. The manual cautions not to add sugar-coated ingredients or alcohol-brined fruits, cheese or chocolates to the dispenser. I haven’t had a chance to try this feature with my gluten free Cinnamon-Raisin Bread recipe yet, but I’m eager to put this feature to the test!
While the nut dispenser is fun, it means that this machine does not have a window on the top, as all the other models do. Not a deal-breaker, but be forewarned that once the rise cycle begins, you will not be privy to what’s going on inside until it’s time to check that it’s done!
As with other machines, I would encourage you not to use the gluten-free recipe that comes with the manual, as it’s a brown rice and potato starch recipe that isn’t likely to be nearly as yummy as the one that I tested and is pictured here. (Brown rice flour tends to make recipes gritty and dry.) I used my gfJules Gluten Free Bread Mix; another great recipe to try from scratch is my Gluten Free Sandwich Bread recipe instead.
The pan size is on the larger size, though not as large as the Zojirushi®; it has only one paddle. It does a great job of mixing, but the manual recommends that you open the lid and scrape down the sides with a rubber spatula when it beeps after 6 minutes. I did find this step to be necessary to ensure more uniform tops.
I also smoothed the loaf at the end of the mixing cycle, as the rapid mixing of this paddle tended to cause the dough to form a high peak at one side when done.
The paddle does stay put and has not come out with any of my loaves, which is a nice bonus, as most bread machines I’ve used wind up with the paddle coming out inside the loaf.
Another interesting feature is that it offers two other settings which should work for gluten-free: a Gluten-Free Cake setting and a Sourdough Starter setting.
Overall, this Panasonic® model has produced some lovely loaves for me using my gfJules® Gluten Free Bread Mix. All just over 2-lbs and in this machine, 6″ tall and 7″ long. A very nice sized loaf. (See this machine compared to two others in the side-by-side comparison, below) (🎥Watch my VIDEO review)
Pros:
- Bakes a lovely, smooth topped, 6″ loaf that’s over 7″ long
- One Gluten Free Setting pre-programmed — only ONE knead and ONE rise cycle
- Bake only setting available to add time or program your own
- Gluten Free Cake setting also available (note: I have not yet tested this setting)
- Sourdough starter setting (which should work for gluten free sourdough starter — recipe here)
- Start to finish, 2-lb loaf done in under 2 hours (1:50-1:55)
- bread has a soft crust
- dough paddle tends to remain in the pan, rather than in the baked loaf
- Raisin/Nut Dispenser
Cons:
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- Large size machine takes up more space in the kitchen (15′ wide x 8″ deep x 14 1/2 ” tall)
- Only one paddle to mix – need to use a rubber spatula to help mix the flour around the edges and at the end of the mix cycle to smooth out the loaf
- Bread has a soft crust – if you prefer a crunchy crust
- No window
- More expensive than Vevor® or Hamilton Beach®
Next Best Mid-Price Ranger Gluten Free Breadmaker
Hamilton Beach Premium Bread Maker with Fruit & Nut Dispenser Model 29890
While many Hamilton Beach models are out of production now (see reviews below), this newer model Hamilton Beach Premium Bread Maker with Fruit & Nut Dispenser Model 29890 is widely available and it performed well. You should be able to get one of these for between $110-$140 🎥 (Watch my video review)
In spite of the fact that this machine has a second kneading cycle (10 minute knead; 20 minute rise; 10 minute knead; 2 hours 15 minute rise and bake), it ultimately still produced a nice loaf. My suspicion after trying this machine several times is that the second rise is long enough to allow the yeast to recapture enough activity, despite the lack of gluten.
It would appear with these cycles that the second rise is nearly 1 hour and 15 minutes long. Given the punchdown/second kneading setting, I’m not ready to proclaim that this machine would be successful baking just any gluten free recipe, but it performed well enough with my gfJules Gluten Free Bread Mix to produce a very nice loaf. (See direct comparison to 2 other machines in section of reviews, below.)
It was also essential to smooth the dough in the pan before the final rise.
Pros Hamilton Beach 29890 Premium Dough & Bread Maker Machine with Auto Fruit and Nut Dispenser
- Compact Size & lightweight machine
- Bakes a tall, nearly 6″ loaf that’s 6 1/4″ long
- One Gluten Free Setting pre-programmed
- Sweet Bread, Dough, Jam, Rise and Bake settings also available (which would work for gluten free)
- Start to finish, 2-lb loaf with nice crust done in under 3 hours (2:55)
- less expensive than Zojirushi® or Panasonic® ($110-$139)
- bread has a soft crust
- comes with a paddle hook to help remove the dough paddle from the loaf if it does stay inside when the loaf is removed
- currently widely available
Cons:
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- Compact bread pan size bakes a tall loaf, but means slightly fewer slices (approximately 16, depending on how thick they are sliced)
- Only one paddle to mix – need to use a rubber spatula to help mix the batter fully
- Definitely needed to use a rubber spatula to smooth the bread before final rise
- Has extra punchdown which reduces airiness in bread
- dough paddle tends to remain in the bread, rather than in the pan
- Pan is only 6 1/2 inches long; Zojirushi® pan is 9 inches long; Panasonic is 7 1/2 inches
- bread has a soft crust
Direct Comparison of 3 Bread Machines for Gluten Free Bread
To emphasize the point that ALL BREAD MACHINES BAKE DIFFERENTLY, I used the same ingredients on the same day in 3 different machines and got 3 very different results. All three of these models are reviewed in depth below, but here’s a sneak peak at the difference a bread machine can make.
As you can see, the pan size is different (the one on the left made a loaf 1 full inch longer than the others) and the height also can vary.
Considering the loaf on the left is one inch longer and still taller than the other two loaves, it’s clear that it will be the lightest, loftiest loaf as well.
The loaf on the left (Panasonic SD-R2550) is indeed the lightest, softest and airiest of the three.
The middle loaf (Cuisinart CBK-210) is rubbery at the bottom and was most dense. The one on the right (Hamilton Beach 29890) was a close second to the winner, the Panasonic on the left.
See more details in the reviews.Recommended Only For Homemade Setting
Cuisinart Custom Convection Bread Maker CBK-210 Series
I really wanted to like this compact bread machine with gluten free setting. It’s light and takes up much less counter space than other models — only 12 inches wide, 9 inches deep and 12 inches tall. It also has a window for viewing the machine’s progress and an automatic dispenser for nuts, raisins and other mix-ins.
Unfortunately, the gluten free setting on this machine did not perform well for gluten free breads.
As with all these other tests, I used my gfJules Gluten Free Bread Mix to eliminate variables. Consult with the Comparison of 3 Bread Machines section to see how it performed compared to others baked on the same day (even the bread mixes and yeast packets were from the same lots to eliminate any possible variables other than the machines).
The programmed gluten free cycle on this machine was just all wrong: 10 minute knead, 10 minute rise, 12 minute knead, 2 minute rise, then another 1 minute knead before 1:40 rise and bake. The last cycle leaves a maximum of 40 minutes for a final rise, which is the only way the loaf could redeem itself with yeast activity.
Something happened along the way here with the paddle and this loaf, where a huge crater was formed in the bottom of the loaf around the paddle and it remained uncooked and rubbery. The rest of the bread was delicious, although dense. That was thanks more to the mix than to the machine, sadly.
Again, see the comparison of this loaf to two others baked with the same ingredients on the same day in two different machines at the top of this review post, and watch my video review.
HOWEVER … this machine has a secret weapon: A CUSTOM SETTING.
After many, many experiments with this setting, I was able to come up with a gluten free CUSTOM setting which works well.
If you purchase this machine, here is the recommended CUSTOM SETTING FOR GLUTEN FREE:
- 17 minutes Knead
- 4 minutes Rest (for some reason, this is a required program)
- 13 minutes Knead
- 45 minutes Rise
- 1:50 minutes Bake
Pros Cuisinart Convection Bread Maker CBK-210
- Compact Size & lightweight machine — small countertop footprint
- Bakes a tall loaf that’s 6 1/4″ long
- Programmable “Custom” Setting
- less expensive than Zojirushi® or Panasonic® ($169)
- bread has a soft crust
- comes with a paddle hook to help remove the dough paddle from the loaf if it does stay inside when the loaf is removed
Cons:
-
- Compact bread pan size bakes a tallish loaf, but means slightly fewer slices
- Only one paddle to mix – need to use a rubber spatula to help mix the batter fully
- Bread was more dense than with other machines
- Rubbery crater formed at the bottom around paddle — REMOVE PADDLE AFTER KNEADING BEFORE RISE CYCLE
- Do not recommend the Gluten Free Program (use CUSTOM setting instead)
- Takes over 3 hours to complete program
- Pan is 6 1/2 inches long; Zojirushi® and Vevor® pans are 9 inches long; Panasonic is 7 1/2 inches
- bread has a soft crust
Other Hamilton Beach Bread Makers (note not all are recommended)
Models Recommended for Gluten Free Bread: 29885/29886/29887 & 29890 (note: not in production any longer)
Another affordable bread machine brand is Hamilton Beach, however, not all Hamilton Beach models perform well on gluten free breads.* Please note the model numbers I review and recommend, as other models reviewed and noted produced unacceptable results.
The pan is more compact than the Zojirushi, and has only one paddle for mixing. The bake time for the gluten free setting is a bit longer than some, but it’s still possible to have a fresh, hot loaf of homemade gluten free bread in under 3 hours, which is a pretty great option.
*Note that the model number machine I reviewed — which I liked — is 29885. Model numbers 29886 (red) 29887 (white) appear to also have the same mixing cycles which will work well. While these models work well, some other Hamilton Beach models are not programmed properly for gluten-free breads, even with a gluten free setting! Unfortunately, these models are not in production as of 2024, and are more difficult to find.
Back to my bread machine testing … check out the size of these slices with a standard veggie burger — now that’s a good size slice of bread! Unlike most store-bought gluten free loaves, these bread machine loaves produce sandwich bread with generously sized slices to make real sandwiches.
One thing to note about this gluten free bread machine: I tested the loaf with a bread thermometer at the end of the pre-programmed gluten free cycle and it needed more bake time to reach 205F internally (it’s always good to have an instant read thermometer so you know for sure!).
Pros 29885. Model numbers 29886 (red) 29887 (white):
- Compact Size & lightweight machine
- Bakes a tall, 5 5/8″ loaf that’s 6 1/2″ long
- One Gluten Free Setting pre-programmed
- Sweet Bread, Dough, Jam, Rise and Bake settings also available (which would work for gluten free)
- Start to finish, 2-lb loaf with nice crust done in under 3 hours (2:45)
- less expensive than Zojirushi® or Panasonic®
- bread has a soft crust
- dough paddle tends to remain in the pan, rather than in the baked loaf
- comes with a paddle hook to help remove the dough paddle from the loaf if it does stay inside when the loaf is removed
Cons:
-
- Compact bread pan size bakes a tall loaf, but means slightly fewer slices (approximately 16, depending on how thick they are sliced)
- Only one paddle to mix – need to use a rubber spatula to help mix the batter fully
- Machine sometimes did not fully cook my gluten-free loaf to 205º F in the bake time as programmed
- Pan is 7 1/4 inches long; Zojirushi® pan is 9 inches long; Panasonic is 7 1/2 inches
- bread has a soft crust
- ****difficult to find these machines for purchase – HB not manufacturing these models anymore****
Models NOT Recommended for Gluten Free Breads: 29882; 29982
There are other Hamilton Beach bread machine models, and at least two (model #29882 & 29982) have gluten free settings which include two rise times with a first kneading of 10 minutes followed by a second kneading cycle of 16-20 minutes after a significant resting/rising time (with the 29982 model, the first rise was ~15 minutes). That creates a very dense gluten free loaf. In other words — I do not recommend model 29882 or 29982 for gluten-free bread baking.
Click below for to see my video reviews of the 29982 model, and why see why the gluten-free settings generally do not work well on machines like this one when the program includes a punch down, or second mixing cycle after long first rise.
Video review part 1 shows the gluten free setting; video review part 2 shows the express bake 2lb setting without the second mixing/punch down cycle.
If you have a machine with a similar gluten free cycle, look a the manual and see if an express bake type cycle is an option for you.
To hear more about my bread machine testing, download episode 44 of You Had Me At Eat Podcast where ever you get your podcasts.
Many thanks to reader Patty S. who shared her manual with me on the Hamilton Beach 29882 machine, but very sorry to hear of her bad experiences because of those settings! Here’s how Patty’s experience with the Hamilton Beach #29882 machine went:
I made my bread using the dough setting and then the bake setting, like we talked about. The instruction book said it would mix/knead the dough then it would rise. Well during the rise period (30mins) about 17 minutes in, all of a sudden I heard it mix. It spun the paddle once, then a brief rest period then it spun again. As soon as I heard it I headed into the kitchen and shut it off and left it rise the remaining time with the machine off. I have no idea how many more times it would have spun if I had not shut it off. After waiting the remaining time I did start the bake only cycle.
The bread turned out wonderfully thanks to your assistance and information. It’s delicious!! I had toast for breakfast today which is the first time in 2 ½ yrs. I was in heaven!
With this all being said that machine will work but you really have to babysit it. If there were no other machines available I would definitely not mind. Although there are other machines so mine is going back and I’m ordering the correct Hamilton Beach #29885, which is actually $16 cheaper. Yeah me! Haha
Thanks again for your assistance and wealth of information! My bread would not have been a success without you!! Thank you thank you thank you!!!
And then, after Patty returned it for the Hamilton Beach #29885 (29887 appears to be the same in red) I recommend instead:
I used the 29885 and the bread turned out wonderful! I did not bake it for the additional time because when I stuck the thermometer in it read 205. The bread was done the whole way through, nothing was undercooked. I made your cinnamon raisin recipe this weekend, no extra bake time was needed for this also. It’s delicious!Thank you for your fabulous flour, recipes & wealth of information!
Way to go, Patty, for sticking with it! She was rewarded with great gluten free bread and now she has a great gluten free bread machine she can rely on!
RECAP of Hamilton Beach Bread Machine Models for Gluten Free Breads:
- Recommended Models for Gluten Free Bread Baking: 29885/29886/29887, 29890
- DO Not Recommend these Models for Gluten Free Bread Baking: 29981/29882, 29982
- Have Not Tested these Models Yet (test yourself with this method): 29985
Oster Expressbake Bread Maker with Gluten-Free Setting (CKSTBR9050-NP)
In answer to repeated calls for a mid-range gluten free bread machine option, I tested this Oster model.
You should be able to get your hands on one for less than $100 however, in this case, you get what you pay for. I was not impressed with the gluten free breads produced with this machine and I returned this machine.
As you’ll see from the below graphic, this model has only the needed knead, rise and bake cycles without the pesky punchdown and second rise cycles that plague so many other “gluten free” models.
Please ignore the gluten free recipe that comes with its manual; like so many others, it does not look appetizing.
Choose from among the many gluten free bread machine recipes on this site or just use my award-winning gfJules Gluten Free Bread Mix for best, easiest, most reliable results.
🎥 See my review of this model here.
Pros: Oster Expressbake Bread Maker
- Compact Size & lightweight machine — small countertop footprint
- available for under $100
- bread has a soft crust
- comes with a extra paddle replacement
- comes with a paddle hook to help remove the dough paddle from the loaf if it does stay inside when the loaf is removed
Cons:
-
- Only one paddle to mix – user needs to use a rubber spatula to help mix the batter fully
- Bread was more dense than with other machines
- Rubbery crater formed at the bottom around paddle — REMOVE PADDLE AFTER KNEADING BEFORE RISE CYCLE
- Bread does not rise high due to short rise cycle or low machine temperature
- bread has a soft crust
T-fal Gluten Free Bread Maker Review
This T-fal® Actibread Machine machine has long been one of my favorites, but it is no longer being manufactured. You can find them available here and there, and I highly recommend grabbing one if you can find it.
All in all, I am quite pleased with the results of this T-fal gluten free bread machine. It has produced beautiful results comparable to those of machines that cost far more, so I would highly recommend it if you are interested in baking homemade bread with a bread machine.
Pros:
- Compact Size
- Bakes a beautiful, tall loaf with nice crown
- Gluten Free Settings pre-programmed (including sweet bread & cake settings)
- Bake only setting available to add time or program your own
- Different loaf size & crust settings available
- Start to finish, 2 lb loaf with nice crust done in just over 2 hours
- Machine fully cooked my gluten-free loaf to 205º F in the bake time as programmed
- Less expensive than Zojirushi® or Panasonic®
- bread has a very crunchy, artisan-style crust
Cons:
- Lid attachment seems loose and may compromise oven seal with extended use
- Compact bread pan size bakes a tall 5″ loaf, but means slightly fewer slices (approximately 16, depending on how thick they are sliced)
- Only one paddle to mix – need to use a rubber spatula to help mix the batter fully
- Pan is 7 inches long; Zojirushi® pan is 9 inches long
- More expensive than Cuisinart®
- dough paddle usually stays inside the baked loaf and can be awkward to remove, as well as leaving a large hole in the bottom of the middle of the loaf
- bread has a very crunchy crust – if you prefer a soft crust, I highly recommend another machine instead
- No longer in production — very difficult to find this machine as of 2024
NOTE: as of 2021, T-fal has notified me that it is no longer manufacturing ANY bread makers. If you happen to get your hands on one of the T-fal gluten free bread machines left on the market — lucky you! Sometimes you can find them on ebay or other such sites. Otherwise, check out one of these other recommended gluten free bread makers.
What’s Your Opinion on Bread Machines for Gluten Free Bread?
Do you have a bread machine and use it to bake gluten free bread? Is yours a gluten free bread machine or a standard bread machine you have to program for gluten free loaves? Please leave a comment below with the bread maker you use and your review of it so others will learn which machines are worth trying.
Thanks for contributing your experiences!
**Note: I had previously recommended an older Cuisinart® machine among those I liked to use, but after after repeated problems with my Cuisinart bread maker not fully baking the loaves, I no longer recommend that machine. I have learned a work around (preheat your oven to 350°F and place the bread pan from the Cuisinart bread machine into the oven to bake approximately 10 more minutes at the end of the bread baking cycle), but this is not ideal. One reason we use a bread machine is so that we don’t need to turn on the oven, or perhaps because there is no oven available. Since this bread machine does not have a separate bake setting, access to an oven is required. I have heard from many other Cuisinart bread machine owners that they have had the same issues and have also learned to use the oven to finish baking the loaf. If you currently have a Cuisinart bread maker, I highly recommend purchasing a bread thermometer so you can determine if the gluten free bread is fully cooked on the inside before removing the bread to cool.
*Thanks to Zojirushi®, T-fal®, Hamilton Beach®, Cuisinart®, Vevor®, and Panasonic® for supplying me with gluten free bread machines to test and review. My opinions on bread machines are entirely my own, and a favorable review was not required. (I have since purchased two of these machines as gifts, just so you know — I’ll leave you to guess which ones!) I only work with companies and products that I love and recommend. Some links in this post may be referral links. If you do decide to purchase a product at a retailer after following my link, I may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you, which I use to pay for web hosting and services for this blog. Read my disclosure policy here.
(7 votes, average: 4.43 out of 5)
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Thank you for recipes I don’t have gluteen free and my machine my is Breadman Ultimate thank you
You’re very welcome, Clara. How are you liking that Breadman machine?
~jules
I have lost my book to my bread maker with the recipe that came with my machine is they any way I could get another booklet
Hi Bridget, yes you can go on-line and put your model number and machine into google search along with the word “manual” and it should pull up the manual you’d need for use instructions. Beware with some of those manual sites though, as they have advertisers on them with big “click here” buttons that make it look like that’s how to get the manual, but it’s actually for their ad. Read closely and you’ll see how to download the manual. I also don’t recommend using the gluten free bread recipes found in any of those manuals — I haven’t found any that turn out well.
~jules
Thanks for the help with bread makers. My friend loves her quasi art but is NOT GLUTEN FREE. Sine the ones you recommended are no longer available I’m going to try and make bread in my oven, using your bread mix . Until u find a bread maker mid cost that has just 1 knead, 1 rise and 1 bake. Thanks for the help. I’ve used your flours and mixes and they are great
I’m so glad you’re loving my gluten free flours and mixes, Diane! Baking homemade gluten free bread in your oven is really easy (a bread machine isn’t necessary), but if you do think you want to get one, check out the Oster machine in this review!
~jules
Are there any newer models that you’ve tested? All the mid range models are discontinued and so it’s hard to know what to buy other than the high end one.
Hi Stephanie, it’s so difficult when these manufacturers discontinue their machines! This Pohl Schmitt PCS-550 machine is definitely less expensive, but I haven’t tested it. The manual looks like the settings would be ok, not perfect, but probably good enough.
If you’re looking at other models, just check the manuals against my recommendations in the video at the beginning of this post.
I hope this helps!
~jules
Alas, only four days following your comment the Amazon link to the Pohl Schmitt PCS-550 machine is shown as not available. Sigh.
This is a very popular post, George! I’m so sorry — a bet a lot of people went there to buy it when they read my answer to your comment! I’ll do more research and if I find another prospect, I’ll let you know!!!
~jules
Hello Jules,
You indicate in your review that as of 2021 Tfal is no longer making bread machines, I see they have one listed on their website now (T-Fal ActiBread Programmable Bread Machine in Stainless Steel – PF311E51)and appears available at least at Walmart. Is this a new model and have you tested it?
Thx for your reviews and taking care of the GF community!
Hi Jim, that is the same bread machine. I don’t see it available at Walmart though — if you can find it in stock somewhere, I highly recommend grabbing it!
~jules
Hi Jules,
Thanks for your awesome reviews, so helpful! My boyfriend is gluten free and we haven’t baked any bread ourselves yet but he keeps talking about it. So, I want to get him the Hamilton Beach one for Christmas, but they don’t seem to sell over here in the UK! If I order it from the US, it may blow the its fuse with the higher voltage we have here. The Panasonic one is the only one I can get here (that I can afford), but I would like to also have the crustier bread option sometimes. Do you know if it has variable settings for it? I’d also like to have it bake overnight so we can wake up to it in the morning, but I’m aware you mentioned the Panasonic requires help mixing at the beginning. I don’t want to get the T-fal because I don’t think he will always want crusty bread. If I had to choose one or the other, I’d go soft. Do you have other ones you can recommend? I’ve seen the Hairy Bikers and the Sage brands online too.
Thanks for your help!
Frances
Hi Frances, so glad this article was helpful to you! I’d definitely recommend the Panasonic, and I can tell you I’ve baked several loaves in it at gluten free expos where I didn’t have time to help it mix at the beginning — it mixed my gfJules Bread Mix just fine; a thicker mix might be different, I’m not sure. The only difference was that one side of the loaf was taller than the other when I didn’t smooth it out with a spatula before it baked. It appears that the only crust setting for this machine is medium-dark. You can see from the photos what mine were like. Definitely not a hard crust, but not totally soft. I’ve added a photo of the setting options for you in the review section. Truly the most important thing is to look at the settings on the machine and make sure they look like the ones on this Panasonic or that they are programmable like the Zojirushi. There should only be ONE Knead, ONE Rise, ONE Bake setting each for gluten free. Look for around 60 min bake time for a typical 2 lb loaf. I hope that helps!!
~jules
Hello!!
I have a Hamilton Beach model 29985, have you heard of that model and it’s effectiveness with your mixes??
Hi Tara,
I haven’t tested that one — do you know if it has the second mix after the rise cycle? I find their manuals are very limited on details when it comes to their cycles, unfortunately, which is why I added the video showing how to test the machine without anything in it so you could see for yourself. Because it’s close to the 29982 model number, I’d think it would be similar to that machine (which was a fail), but I’d hate to write it off without knowing for sure!
~jules
Were you able to test this model? My family just bought me this version instead of the one I wanted and don’t want to open it if it’s not going to work.
I a tally can’t find the 29885 model anymore. It is listed on the same listing on amazing as the 29885, but it says 29885 isn’t available.
I used it a few times, but I am BRAND NEW to this adventure.of making my own bread with a bread machine.
What I have made so far with it has been ok. The first was really good, second with same recipe not so much- it was pretty crumbly. I am trying different recipe right now as we speak. I’m not super hopeful…we’ll see!
Keep me posted, Justine! If you’re using my gfJules Bread Mix, it makes things much easier to determine if it’s you, the recipe or the machine! Removing nearly all the variables, you can tell if the machine is the problem. It’s a great place to start, even if you decide to bake homemade recipes later.
~jules
Is the Hamilton Beech model still being made? If not, is there an equivalent replacement model that I should look for? I’m buying this as a gift for my daughter and her roommates.
Hi Jana, that model is still available, but it’s being replaced by a new version that I am hoping to test soon. Unfortunately the T-fal is no longer available (the one that I recommend which is comparable). Here are a couple links I found for the Hamilton Beach one that I know works well: https://www.wayfair.com/kitchen-tabletop/pdp/hamilton-beach-artisan-dough-bread-maker-white-hmb10000.html?piid=33438511 and https://amzn.to/3YkgjL1. I hope that helps!!!
~jules
I use an old Hamilton Beach 29881, and I never use the Gluten Free cycle since it does use an extra kneading and rising cycle that GF bread recipes don’t need. I’v had good luck with just using the Quick cycle for my bread recipe (which uses rapid rise yeast) which gets it done in 1 hour and 45 minutes. I always found it weird that the GF cycle on this machine actually takes longer than setting 1 (Basic Bread Setting).
Good tip for that machine, Randall! So glad it works out for your gluten free breads!!!
~jules
Bless you, Randall! I have the same model breadmaker as you, and have never been able to make decent gluten-free bread in it. I found this article and your comment yesterday as I got ready to try one last time before taking the bread machine to Goodwill. As you suggested, I used the quick bread cycle instead of the gluten-free, and made the best loaf of gluten-free bread I have ever had in my life! I am so grateful! Many, many thanks!!!
How wonderful, Gail! I’m so glad Randall’s tip was what you needed to make this machine work for you!!!
~jules
Thank you for your reviews. I am new to gluten-free bread baking and just made my first loaf using the oven last Tuesday. I am legally blind, and I think a bread machine would be better for me when it comes to making bread independently. I am considering the virtuoso plus and the Panasonic. Do either of them have backlit displays? It would make it much easier for me if the numbers were lit up. Also, I have excellent hearing. How do you the machines compared to each other when it comes to noise? Also, to clarify, with the virtuoso plus you don’t have to scrape the sides of the loaf pan with a rubber spatula like you do with the Panasonic, right? Thanks so much!
Hi Kristi, so glad the reviews were helpful!
I’m sorry it took me a few days to get back to you with answers, but I had to go get both machines out and compare the displays for you. Neither one is backlit or particularly easy to read, honestly, but the Zojirushi does seem to be a bit easier to read than the Panasonic which is very, very dark. Noise-wise, they’re comparable. The double paddle of the Zojirushi makes it less likely that you have to scrape the sides than with other machines, but it’s a good policy to always check because it’s more about the recipe or the mix than anything — very thick or drier recipes may require a swipe or two to clean up the sides, and sometimes you want to smooth the top with a spatula for a nicer look to the top.
I hope this helps, Kristi!!!
~jules
Finally success,,,
After trying several over the counter breads I decided to get a Cuisinart and make my own. It was a bad choice. Bread was heavy and under-baked. I sprung for the Zojiurushi. It turned out fabulous. Yes, it’s a little more costly but well worth it. Thanks much for the support…..
So happy to hear you didn’t give up on gluten free bread baking, Dallas! And always happy to help! The Zojirushi is a solid gluten free bread machine and you can’t go wrong. If you’re planning to bake gluten free bread often, it’s a great choice and will pay for itself over and over!
~jules
Hi Jules
When adding the yeast, do you add proofed yeast or dry lastly? FYI love your recipes. Thank you
Hi Bernadette, so glad you’re loving my recipes — thank you!!
Regarding proofing yeast, I will indicate in my gluten free bread recipes whether to proof the yeast first or simply add in the quick rise yeast with the dry ingredients. Quick rise yeast should not be proofed first, so if that’s the yeast being used, it would not be proofed. Here’s more info about different yeasts for gluten free baking, in case you’re wanting to know all about yeast (and be geeky about these things like I am!! LOL)
~jules
I have a Cuisinart bread machine my hubby bought it for me, before I read all of the above..It consistently makes perfectly cooked bread, nothing undercooked.Maybe they have got the kinks out.
That is wonderful to hear, Nancy! Whatever works!!!! If you get a chance to drop the model number in the comments, I’m sure other readers would love to know about this machine, too!
~jules
Jules, love your site. Need to ask about the bread maker tests. The Zo Virt. still have multiple rises so assume you used the Homemade option. But the Panasonic manual shows one rise but maybe not long enough ? How did you use the Panasonic for the GF bread ?
I have the original ZO and still works so thinking I can program Homemade with your Knead, Rise, Bake recommendations.
many thanks
Diane
Hi Diane, I do use the homemade option on my Zo, but for some reason the gluten-free option (even with 2 rises) still seems to work out alright with this machine. Regarding the Panasonic, I have used it multiple times and really like it — turns out a great loaf of gluten free bread with my gfJules Gluten Free Bread Mix! I haven’t had time to test it with any from-scratch recipes yet. I test all the machines using my mix to reduce variables.
~jules
My wife surprised me with the Zojiurushi for Christmas – what a machine! I struggled for years with GF breads on other machines and had given up. 3 days in and we already have done (with gfJules flour, of course) a sandwich bread, french bread, and a fabulous pizza crust.
What a gift that keeps on giving, Craig! And in 3 days, sounds like you’ve really put that Zo to the test! I’m excited to see what’s in store next, but you’re well on your way to gluten free bread bliss, from the sounds of it! Thanks so much for dropping me a note to let me know!!!
~jules
Thanks so much for this information! I had the wrong Hamilton Beach breadmaker for years and could only make two recipes for gluten-free bread that actually worked every time. Now – that machine just stopped working – so I’ll try the newer version you suggested. Thanks again!
So glad this article will be helpful to you! Bread machines are so useful for gluten free bread, but only if you have one of the good ones!!!
~jules
Thanks very much. I have been baking gf bread for 15 years of being celiac and never once found a machine that allows only one knead and rise time, hence vary variable results with my own recipes and store bought gf bread mixes. I have been through 3 machines, the best one was the cheapest Breadman machine but the motor died after 8 months of weekly baking. Then Hamilton Beach which used to have a loaf done in only 1 hour and 40 minutes. But my Cuisineart has lasted the longest and was the most expensive, but does far too many knead and rise cycles. This is the first time I’ve found ANY reference to this necessary once only knead and rise cycle for GF bread! So glad to find this and so annoyed with all those other bread machines purporting to have GF cycles that are clearly not any good for making GF bread because of the second or even third punch back cycle!! I look forward to trying your recipes!
I agree, Gwen, I don’t understand why some of these machines purport to be good for baking gluten free loaves, but they so clearly are designed for regular gluten/wheat breads. I’m glad you’ve had success with some models, though. I’m getting ready to post about a newly released Panasonic machine that I’m very pleased with. You can add that one to your options, too!
Happy you found my site and I hope you get a chance to try out some recipes, too!
Happy baking!
~jules