Hamilton Beach Bread Maker: Easy Artisan & Gluten-Free Loaves

Fresh Bread at Home Without the Fuss: Quick Look

If you want warm, bakery-style loaves from your own kitchen without learning sourdough science, the Hamilton Beach Digital Electric Bread Maker Machine (29987) aims to be the easy route. It’s a digital countertop bread maker with a 2 lb capacity and 14 different settings — including dedicated artisan and gluten-free modes — finished in white and stainless steel. At roughly $112 and a solid 4.3-star average, it slots into the mid-priced, features-forward segment of home bread machines.

Key Features & Highlights

• 2 lb loaf capacity — Makes family-sized loaves that are ideal for sandwiches and toast.
• 14 programmable settings — A broad menu that covers basic loaves, artisan-style cycles, and a gluten-free option for specialty baking needs.
• Digital controls — A modern interface that suggests programmable timing and multiple cycle choices for convenience.
• White + stainless steel finish — A kitchen-friendly aesthetic that cleans up well and fits most countertops.
• Good value — Price sits around $112, which is competitive for a feature-rich digital bread machine.

A Nice Fit for You If…

• You want larger, 2 lb loaves for sandwiches, family breakfasts, and weekly meal prep.
• You need a machine that can handle gluten-free dough without extensive manual tinkering.
• You like the idea of artisan-style loaves at home but want an automated process.
• You want an easy-to-read digital control panel rather than manual dials.
• You’re buying a first-time bread maker and want broad presets to experiment safely.
• You prefer a countertop appliance with a polished white and stainless look that wipes clean.
• You’re value-conscious but still want more features than a basic, no-frills model.

Practical Use Cases — Where This Machine Shines

• Weeknight sandwich bread: Schedule a cycle to have a 2 lb loaf ready for dinner prep the next day.
• Gluten-free household members: Use the dedicated gluten-free setting for consistent, reliable results without complicated adjustments.
• Weekend artisan experiments: Try thicker crusts and textured loaves with the artisan-style cycles for a rustic finish.
• Small-batch bakers: Utilize the digital menus to create a regular bake schedule for weekly fresh bread, rolls, or specialty recipes.
• Busy mornings: Expect reliable toast-ready slices when you program timing ahead with the machine’s digital options.

Experience & Feedback — Living with the Machine

In daily use, owners can expect the approachable routine common to modern bread makers: measure flour, water, yeast and extras, add them into the baking pan, select a program, and let the machine handle kneading, rising, and baking. The digital interface and 14 settings indicate straightforward programmability — users often find this removes guesswork compared with manual methods.

Countertop presence: the white and stainless-steel finish cleans up with a quick wipe and fits most kitchen styles. A 2 lb-capacity machine typically occupies a similar footprint to other machines in its class — larger than compact 1.5 lb models but not oversized. Expect moderate motor noise during kneading; sounds are noticeable but not disruptive, much like an *appliance working hard*. Heat is confined to the top/baking area, and routine cleaning (wiping the exterior, removing crumbs) keeps it tidy.

Maintenance and durability feel: with regular use, typical owners report the need to remove and clean the baking pan and any exposed crumbs. The machine’s metal finishes resist stains and fingerprints with minimal care. As for leaks or micro-frictions, there’s nothing about the model that suggests unusual issues; typical category sensitivities (sticky dough around the paddle, occasional need to dislodge air pockets) apply.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Generous loaf size: 2 lb capacity is great for families and heavy bread eaters.
• Versatile programs: 14 settings offer flexibility from standard loaves to gluten-free and artisan cycles.
• Digital control: Easier scheduling and repeatable results than analog-only machines.
• Attractive finish: White and stainless steel looks at home on most countertops.
• Good value: Mid-range price for a feature-rich machine — competitive for buyers seeking capability without premium cost.

Cons

• Counter footprint: Larger than compact models; needs dedicated counter or storage space.
• Typical noise: Moderate kneading noise — not silent, so expect daytime operation or ear-tolerant kitchens.
• Learning curve: Artisan and specialty cycles benefit from recipe tweaks for perfect results.
• Feature assumptions: Digital machines often include delay-timers and crust choices; double-check specific menus for advanced needs.
• No-frills extras: Lacks the boutique appeal and manual control of high-end machines for hobbyist bakers who want hands-on shaping.

Comparative Advantages

Compared to basic bread machines, the Hamilton Beach 29987 stands out for combining a 2 lb capacity with 14 settings, including artisan and gluten-free cycles — features that are often split between larger, more expensive units or simpler compact models. At its price point, it offers a compelling balance of size, programmability, and value that will suit most households who want reliable, automated baking without paying premium prices.

Audience Fit

This model best serves busy families, gluten-free households, and everyday home cooks who want hands-off, repeatable bread results with the flexibility to try artisan-style loaves. It is less suited for compact-kitchen minimalists who need a tiny machine or for advanced hobby bakers who prefer full manual control and shaping.

FAQs

Can this make a full-size sandwich loaf?

Yes — the 2 lb capacity is designed to produce family-sized loaves suitable for sandwiches and multiple slices.

Is there a gluten-free option?

Yes — one of the 14 settings is dedicated to gluten-free baking, which helps with the different kneading and baking profile those doughs need.

Are the controls digital?

Yes — the machine uses a digital interface, which typically allows programmable cycles and repeatable settings.

How loud is it?

Expect the usual moderate motor noise during mixing and kneading—audible, but within the range typical for home bread makers.

Is it a good value?

At around $112 and a 4.3-star average, it offers strong value for buyers who want a full-size loaf and a variety of automatic programs without a premium price tag.

Final Verdict

The Hamilton Beach Digital Electric Bread Maker (29987) is a practical, well-rounded choice for households that want bakery-style results with minimal fuss. Its 2 lb capacity and 14 settings — including artisan and gluten-free options — make it flexible enough for weekly bread, specialty diets, and casual experimentation. For cooks who prioritize convenience, value, and consistent loaves, this model is a smart pick; those seeking ultra-compact appliances or advanced artisanal control might look elsewhere. Overall, expect a dependable countertop partner for everyday fresh bread at a friendly price.

How It Stacks Up

The Hamilton Beach 29987 sits squarely between budget and midrange bread makers: affordable, user-friendly, and notable for its gluten-free and artisan settings. With a 2 lb capacity and 14 programs it covers most home-baking needs, though it lacks some of the high-end refinements found on pricier machines.

• Zojirushi Home Bakery Virtuoso Plus (BB‑PDC20) — Premium: top-tier consistency, dual kneading blades and more precise heating for even crusts; much pricier and larger, better for frequent bakers who want bakery-style results.
• Breville Custom Loaf (BBM800XL) — Premium: advanced features like automatic fruit/nut dispenser and highly customizable programs; offers more control than the Hamilton but at a significantly higher price and footprint.
• Cuisinart Compact Automatic Bread Maker (CBK‑110) — Midrange: simpler, compact interface and reliable basic cycles; usually a bit cheaper or similar in price to the Hamilton but with fewer specialty settings (gluten-free/artisan options are more limited).
• Sunbeam Programmable Bread Maker (basic model) — Budget: very affordable and straightforward for standard loaves; best for occasional bakers but lacks the Hamilton’s wider program list and specialty cycles.

If you prioritize value, a dedicated gluten-free program and an easy-to-use machine for regular home baking, the Hamilton Beach 29987 is a sensible pick. If you prioritize the highest loaf consistency, extra automation (dispensers) or more precise temperature control, consider a premium model like Zojirushi or Breville. If cost or counter space is the main concern, look at basic Sunbeam models; if you want a simple, reliable midrange option without specialty cycles, Cuisinart is a reasonable alternative.