Panasonic SD-R2530

What is the Panasonic SD-R2530 like to use?

Design-wise, this model is not dissimilar to the other Panasonic models we’ve tested. We loved its landscape design that offered us a decent amount of extra workspace in front of the machine. The lid opens up tall, indeed we found it a little too tall for our kitchen cupboards, so we’d recommend using this somewhere with plenty of head space.

We were impressed by the wealth of settings, particularly the ones for gluten-free bread, dough only and packet bread mix, which is the first time we’ve seen this setting. Like many of the other breadmakers we’ve tested, this Panasonic model allows for full customisation: you can make three different-sized loaves and there are three browning levels.

True to form with Panasonic, this model doesn’t come with a viewing window. We also found the display screen small and poorly lit, meaning we had to cup our hand around the screen to be able to see what we were selecting.

Precise measurements are a must when breadmaking, so this model comes with all of the spoons needed to get you started: a selection of measuring spoons and a measuring cup that can also be used for sourdough starter.

Results

Using BBC Good Food’s easy white bread recipe, we tested this model out. Like all of the other tests, we made a medium-sized loaf with medium browning.

The instructions clearly explain what order to add ingredients into the pan. We followed these and set the machine to go. For the first hour of the almost-four-hour programme, the breadmaker didn’t seem to do anything, which was a little disconcerting. But it started up after an hour, signalling on the screen what stage it was at.

Our baked loaf slipped out of the pan with ease. It did have a big crack down the centre, but we weren’t hugely concerned about it as it gave the bread a rustic, artisanal look. The sides of the loaf were darker than the top and we’d have liked to have seen some consistency. But the crust was crisp and inside, the bread was light, airy and open.

Conclusion

This breadmaker is a great choice if you’ve got a decent amount to spend and you’re looking for a model that can do a lot. As well as the wealth of settings, this model also comes with a delay timer, so you can wake up to the smell of fresh bread – is there anything better?

This isn’t the cheapest model on the market, but its incredibly well made and everything is provided for you. We’d have liked to see a little more consistency in colour, but overall it produced rustic looking loaves sure to impress friends and family.

Specifications

Machine size: ‎25.2 x 39.5 x 36.2 cm
Power: 550W
Programmes: 30 pre-programmed
Delay function: yes
Viewing window: no
Display: buttons
Crust colour adjustment: yes
Loaf size (s): medium, large, extra large
Guarantee: 1 year

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If you have any questions, suggestions for future reviews or spot anything that has changed in price or availability please get in touch at goodfoodwebsite@immediate.co.uk.