Photo by Theme Photos on Unsplash
This post contains Amazon affiliate links. We make a small commission for items purchased through these links, however the cost to you is the same. Read more here.
The Best Dough Kneading Machine, Options, and Tips
Are you in the market for a dough kneading machine? Great! Keep reading...
​
If you're in the market for a machine that can knead bread dough, pasta dough, pizza dough, or any other kind of dough, you'll want to read this post. We've compiled a list of the 12 best machines on the market, and we've also included some tips on how to choose the right one for your needs.
​
Dough kneading machines are great for making dough, and they can help you save time in the kitchen. Kneading dough can be very laborious. These machines help reduce the time and effort required to get the perfect product every time.
​
But before you buy a dough kneading machine for home use, there are a few things to think about. Some people might want to know more about how these machines work or the different types of dough kneaders available on the market today. This post will give you an overview of all that information so it's easier for you to decide which machine is right for your needs!
​
Which machine is best for kneading dough?
All you need to know about kneading bread dough
In A Hurry? Here are our top two picks
It depends. Several options exist to knead dough. Machines like KitchenAid mixers with their various attachments like the Dough Hook can knead dough very well, however there are also more specific machines that are specifically designed to do the job.
​
Want to see a side-by-side comparison? Click here! For the long answer... keep reading.
First, let's get a few things out of the way.
​
Is it better to knead dough by hand or machine?
​
Kneading dough by hand is a time-consuming and labor-intensive process. As discussed earlier, a dough kneading machine can help reduce the time and effort required to get the perfect product every time.
Is it better to knead dough by hand or machine? In my opinion, the answer is clear-- dough kneading machines make the process easier and faster, so you can have delicious homemade bread, pasta, or pizza in no time!
​
However, that doesn't mean there aren't risks associated with using a dough kneading machine like a KitchenAid or a bread machine or bread maker. One of the risks is that you overwork the dough and get it too hot. This can actually kill the yeast which will cause an unfavorable result in the end.
​
What are the risks of using dough kneading machines to knead dough?
​
This risk can be mitigated, however, but taking short breaks during the kneading process to let the kneading blade or dough hook attachment and other components cool down. Giving the dough ball a break from the constant churning of the dough hooks can be a good idea.
The same logic applies when using a bread machine.
​
What are the types of dough kneading machines?
​
There are really two types of dough kneading machines. One is a stand mixer of some kind, like a KitchenAid mixer, and another is an actual dough kneading or bread maker machine. You can get perfect dough with either, so it largely comes down to a question on preference and space.
Stand mixers can be larger and bulkier, but they also offer multiple other benefits such as various other attachments and are more versatile. They are also going to be more expensive - generally speaking.
​
Bread makers or a specific dough kneading machine will be more affordable and likely take up less space on the counter. Let's dig into both a bit and talk about the features, price, and size of each.
Option #1: Stand Mixers with Dough Hook Attachment
​
I'll start by covering a couple of the most popular stand mixers that come with, or have optional, dough hook attachments.
Again, this is a great option for added functionality outside of just specifically kneading dough. You can get multiple other attachments for pastries, grinding meat, and a plethora of other things that make this a great investment both within the baking world and abroad.
Best Value Stand Mixer: Cuisinart SM-50BC 5.5-Quart Stand Mixer with Included Dough Hook
​
This stand mixer's 5.5-quart capacity, 500-watt motor, die-cast metal construction, and 12 speeds allow for nuance and superior performance when mixing a variety of preparation tasks. This comes in especially handy when trying to reduce the temperature of the dough to protect the yeast. It has a polished stainless steel bowl, tilt-back head, and a power outlet for optional attachments.
​
The Norpro 3-quart mixer is a mix and whisk set that includes a Chef's whisk, dough hook, flat mixing paddle, and splash guard with pour spout - both of which are included.
It comes in 17 different colors and has a 3-year warranty.
​
Click here to read reviews on Amazon.com.
​
Best Stand Mixer Under $100: Hamilton Beach Electric Stand Mixer
​
7 speeds and a mixing guide on the stand mixer help you select the appropriate speed for each application. When adding dry ingredients to wet, slow first speed is ideal for kneading bread and minimizing splatter.
​
Cream or meringue are excellent candidates for high speed. The tilt-back head design makes it simple to access the bowl while adding ingredients thanks to the moving action. It's also simple to swap attachments because of the tilting function.
​
The 300-watt motor effortlessly mixes and kneads dough. This is a great, budge-friendly option for a kneader machine if making bread is your priority.
​
The retail price is over $100, but on sale it can be found for less.
​
Click here to read reviews on Amazon.com
​
Middle of the Road Pick: Aucma Stand Mixer,6.5-QT 660W 6-Speed Tilt-Head Food Mixer
​
Rotating Knife and Tight-Toothed Combination - This blender comes with a rotary blade, which is convenient for chopping. The tight-toothed combination also has a bonus: the two parts can be separated for easy cleaning. Variable speed control and 660W high-performance pure copper engine make it quite powerful. More power but less operation noise of up to76dB.
​
6.5-quart Stainless Steel Bowl with Handles - 6.5Qt Large capacity bowl with handles is suitable for all of your culinary needs. The Stand Mixer is simple to use for creating cakes, bread, cookies, pastries, muffins, and waffles while the dual handles are easier to hold.
​
When used with a dough hook attachment, this is a great middle-of-the-road option to knead bread without breaking the bank.
​
Click here to read reviews on Amazon.com
​
Best Dough Kneading Machine: KitchenAid KSM150PSER Artisan Tilt-Head Stand Mixer
We know that hand kneading is hard work, and it's easy to make mistakes that can ruin your dough. The perfect dough kneader machine can take the hard work out of kneading dough and help you get perfect results every time.
​
The KitchenAid Artisan Tilt-Head Stand Mixer is just that. It's our top pick for the best dough kneading machine. It has a powerful motor, tilt-head design, and a variety of attachments to choose from. It's also durable and built to last.
​
This behemoth of a machine comes in 22 colors and boasts a powerful 325-watt 10-speed motor that's sure to knead whatever do you are looking for. All of the options and power come at a cost, however. It is the most expensive of the stand mixers we covered here.
​
Option #2: Bread Machines With Built In Dough Kneading Ability
​
If a stand mixer isn't in the plan, a bread machine will also work to knead dough as well as manage the whole process from start to finish with the push of a button.
​
There are many affordable bread machine options ranging from $60 to $275 or more. We will walk through four popular options that spread the range of cost, functionality, durability, and overall quality.
Best Value Bread Maker: KITCHENARM 29-in-1 SMART Bread Machine
​
An excellent bread machine for beginners & pros alike. It supplies many recipes or you can save your own favorite recipe. There are 17 bread menus and 5 non-bread menus at your fingertips with the simple press of a few buttons.
​
Weighing 11.6 pounds it has a 2 pound capacity and runs on 120 volts. It comes in stainless steel for a sleek look that will go nicely with stainless steel appliances. Among the options are the ability to produce three different loaf sizes and three different crust colors of your liking.
​
Click here to read reviews on Amazon.com
​
Best Bread Maker Under $100: CROWNFUL Automatic Bread Machine
​
The CROWNFUL Automatic Bread Machine Maker is adaptable and capable of producing a lot of bread. The three-color crust setting is light, medium, and dark crust: you can choose the one you like. The CROWNFUL bread dough machine can also make gluten-free bread with the dedicated gluten-free setting.
​
This machine is on the larger side, weighing in at 18.3 pounds with dimensions of 14 x 11.8 x 11.8 inches. It comes in two colors, white and red to match your kitchen's style.
​
The CROWNFUL bread dough maker is a lot of machine for the price and would be a great addition to any kitchen baker’s arsenal.
​
Click here to read reviews on Amazon.com
​
Middle of the Road Pick: Cuisinart CBK-110 Compact Automatic Bread Maker
​
The Cuisinart CBK-110 Compact Automatic Bread Maker is a great choice for those looking for a quality dough kneading machine option that is also compact and easy to use.
​
This machine comes with 12 preprogrammed menu options, 3 crust shades, and a vertical baking pan for a counter-friendly design. It also has a lid with a viewing window and interior light so you can monitor the baking process, as well as a 13-hour delay start so you can have fresh bread anytime.
​
With a 2 pound capacity and weighing in at 10.8 pounds, this stainless steel bread maker will give you everything you need without forcing you to cash in the kids college fund.
​
Click here to read reviews on Amazon.com
​
Best High-End Bread Maker: Zojirushi Home Bakery Virtuoso Plus Breadmaker
​
Zojirushi is a Japanese company that specializes in bread machines and other kitchen appliances. The Virtuoso Plus is their high-end offering, and it does not disappoint.
​
This machine has a lot of great features like a delay timer, automatic fruit and nut dispenser, gluten-free setting, and three crust color settings. It also comes with a 13-hour delay timer so you can wake up to the smell of freshly baked bread in the morning.
​
The Zojirushi Virtuoso Plus bread maker is large, weighing 25 pounds with dimensions of 17 x 11.9 x 15 inches. It's available in two colors: white and stainless steel to match your kitchen's style.
​
If you are looking for a top-of-the-line bread dough machine, the Zojirushi Virtuoso Plus is the way to go.
​
Click here to read reviews on Amazon.com
​
In Summary
​
If you are looking for dough kneading machine options, both stand mixers with dough hooks and bread machines can do the job. The Cuisinart CBK-110 Compact Automatic Bread Maker is a good option if you're on a budget but want quality results.
​
If dough consistency isn't your main concern or you have more dough to knead (i.e., making dough in bulk), then it may be worth investing in a higher-end product like Zojirushi Home Bakery Virtuoso Plus Breadmaker, which has special features like the ability to make gluten-free breads or other settings that make baking easy, even when following special diets.
​
When it comes to dough kneading machines, there are a variety of options available to suit any bakers needs and budget. With so many different types and styles on the market, it's important to do your research to find the best machine for your specific baking needs.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Dough Kneading Machines
​
What does kneading dough do?
​
Dough kneading is the process of working dough with your hands or a dough kneading machine. This is done to form the dough, develop the gluten structure, and release any gas bubbles that may have formed. By kneading dough, you can ensure a consistent texture and flavor in your baked goods.
​
How to know when dough is done kneading
​
Kneading dough properly is important for developing the gluten structure, which gives dough its elasticity. If dough isn't kneaded enough, it can become dense and tough. Over-kneading dough can cause it to become sticky and tough.
​
The best way to determine if dough is properly kneaded is to feel it - it should be smooth and slightly tacky to the touch.
​
What happens when you knead dough too much?
​
When dough is kneaded too much, it becomes tough and doughy.
​
Gluten is a general name for the proteins found in wheat (wheatberries, durum, emmer, semolina, spelt, farina, farro), rye and barley. Gluten is what gives dough it's elasticity which in return creates a dough that is less likely to tear.
​
When too much gluten is developed, the dough becomes tough and can't rise as easily. This results in a bread that is dense and doughy.
​
How long to knead dough in mixer?
​
You can knead dough in a mixer for about 5-7 minutes on medium to high speed. If the dough is sticky, add a little bit of flour until it's easy to work with.
​
This will ultimately depend on the speed and power of the mixer. Refer to the instructional manual or settings on the machine for more information.