Oster ExpressBake Breadmaker 5838 review is it worth your kitchen upgrade

Description

Easy-to-Use Design with Modern Features

The Oster 5838 58-Minute Expressbake Breadmaker is a product that truly simplifies the bread-making process. From the moment I unboxed it, the compact and sleek white design stood out. It fits perfectly on my kitchen counter without taking up too much space, which is a blessing in my relatively small kitchen. The control panel is exceptionally user-friendly, featuring easy-to-navigate buttons and a digital display. I found the 3-step programming to be straightforward, even for someone like me who isn’t exactly a tech wizard. The addition of a see-through glass viewing window is a thoughtful touch. It’s oddly satisfying to watch the bread rise and bake without opening the lid and disrupting the process.

The overall build feels durable, and the cool-touch housing ensures safety, especially if you have kids around. However, I do wish the aesthetics were a little more modern since the design feels a bit dated compared to newer models.

Performance and Bread Quality

Using this machine, I’ve baked a variety of loaves, from cinnamon-raisin bread to savory rosemary olive bread, and I have to say, the results have been impressive. The 58-minute ExpressBake setting is a lifesaver when you need bread in a hurry. I was skeptical about how a 2-pound loaf could bake in under an hour, but the results were surprisingly consistent. The crust was golden and evenly baked, and the bread had a soft, fluffy texture.

One feature I particularly appreciate is the three crust color options: light, medium, and dark. I usually go for medium, and it’s been spot-on every time. The nonstick aluminum bread pan makes cleanup a breeze, as the bread just slides out without any hassle. The versatility of the machine, which includes eight settings for bread, dough, and even jams, makes it much more than just a bread maker. I tried the dough setting to make pizza crust, and it worked beautifully. However, the whole-wheat bread setting takes slightly longer and requires precise measurements to get the best results.

Highlights

• Quick 58-minute baking option for 2-pound loaves.
• Nonstick aluminum pan ensures effortless cleanup.
• 13-hour delay timer for freshly baked bread anytime.
• Multiple settings for a variety of bread types, dough, and jams.
• Compact, countertop-friendly design.

Areas for Improvement

While the Oster 5838 delivers on many fronts, it’s not without its flaws. The kneading paddle, although functional, tends to leave a hole at the bottom of the loaf. It’s a minor inconvenience, but worth noting if you’re particular about presentation. Additionally, the machine can be a bit noisy during the kneading cycle. It’s not loud enough to wake up the house, but it’s noticeable. Another point of concern is the lack of a dedicated gluten-free setting. For those who prefer gluten-free bread, you’ll have to experiment with the other settings, which might not yield perfect results.

• No gluten-free setting for specialized diets.
• Kneading paddle hole in the final loaf.
• Slightly noisy operation during kneading.

Competing Brands

When compared to similar bread makers like the Zojirushi Home Bakery and the Cuisinart CBK-200, this model holds its ground. The Zojirushi is widely regarded for its superior build quality and customizable settings, but it comes at a higher price point. On the other hand, the Cuisinart model offers a gluten-free setting and a more modern design, but its express-bake feature takes longer than the Oster’s 58-minute cycle. Where the Oster shines is in its speed and simplicity, making it ideal for beginners or those who want fresh bread without the fuss. However, if you’re looking for advanced features or a quieter machine, you might want to explore other options.

Smart Spending

For the price, the Oster 5838 58-Minute Expressbake Breadmaker offers excellent value. It’s hard to find a machine in this range that provides the same level of versatility and performance. The cost-effectiveness of this bread maker is evident when you consider the variety of breads and doughs you can make at home, cutting down on store-bought options that often come with preservatives. While it’s not the most advanced model on the market, it’s a practical choice for anyone who wants to enjoy freshly baked bread without breaking the bank.

If you’re someone who values affordable quality over premium features, this bread maker is worth considering. The ability to bake a 2-pound loaf in under an hour alone makes it a standout choice, especially for busy households.

Additional information