Looking for recipes for your brand new bread machine?

The first loaf from a new bread machine is always a small event: the smell drifting through the house, the slightly lopsided top, the temptation to slice it while it is still too hot. After a few basic white loaves, though, most owners start wondering what else the machine can do. Quite a lot, as it turns out.

Why the machine earns its counter space

A bread machine mixes, kneads, proves and bakes in one tin, so the hands-on time is mostly measuring. Many models also have a dough-only setting, which is the secret to using them for far more than sandwich bread. If you have not bought one yet, or are thinking of upgrading, browsing these bread machine reviews is a handy way to compare features such as loaf sizes, crust settings and delay timers before choosing a model that suits your kitchen.

Five ideas to try next

Cheddar loaf

Add a generous handful of grated mature cheddar to a standard white or wholemeal dough when the machine signals for extra ingredients. When the loaf comes out, a sprinkle of more cheese on top and a minute under the grill gives a golden crust. It is excellent with soup.

Soft dinner rolls

Use the dough setting, then shape the dough into small balls on a lined tray. For a richer, buttery roll, swap a little of the liquid for melted butter; for a plainer country style, keep to flour, water and a splash of milk. Leave space between the rolls so they rise without squashing each other, then bake in the oven.

Pizza base

The machine handles the kneading, which is the tiring part of pizza making. A little more flour gives a thicker, bready base; a little more water gives a thinner, crisper one. Dried oregano or garlic in the dough adds flavour before any topping goes on.

Burger buns

An enriched dough with an egg and some butter makes soft buns that hold up to juicy fillings. Shape them, brush with milk or beaten egg and scatter sesame seeds on top before baking.

Cinnamon raisin breakfast loaf

Add raisins and a spoonful of cinnamon at the add-in stage, with a touch of sugar in the dough. Toasted and buttered, it makes weekend mornings feel special.

Tips for reliable results

• Follow the order of ingredients your manual recommends; many machines want liquids first and yeast last.
• Weigh flour rather than scooping it, as too much makes a dense loaf.
• Check the dough after a few minutes of kneading; if it looks dry, add a spoonful of water, and if sticky, a spoonful of flour.
• Let loaves cool on a rack so the base does not turn soggy.

Make it your own

Once you are comfortable with these, experiment with seeds, herbs, olives or different flours. Keep notes on what worked, because small changes to water or flour can transform a recipe. Before long the machine will feel less like a gadget and more like a dependable kitchen helper.