Bread Maker FAQ – Hole in the bread, cleaning, programs & tips
Why does the hole appear in the bread? Here are the most frequently asked questions about bread machines: Hole in the bread, gluten-free baking, cleaning & shelf life – explained simply.
Introduction: The famous 'hole in the bread'
Almost everyone who uses a bread maker for the first time stumbles across the same phenomenon: the small hole at the bottom of the bread.
This "bread maker hole" is probably the most well-known feature of these appliances – and also one of the most common reasons why potential buyers hesitate to purchase a bread maker. But: The hole is neither dangerous nor a real problem. In this article, we answer the most important questions about bread makers – from the explanation of the hole and gluten-free baking to cleaning.
Here you will also learn what to look out for when buying a modern bread maker with a digital display or a compact bread maker.
Why does the hole form in the bread?
The hole in the bread is caused by the kneading hook, which remains in the dough during kneading. Once the bread is baked, the hook is still in the crumb – so a small hole remains when you take it out.
Is that a disadvantage?
- Visually: Yes, it doesn't look quite perfect.
- In terms of taste: No, the bread still tastes delicious.
- Practical: The hole hardly causes any problems when cutting the bread slices.
Tip: Some models offer foldable kneading hooks that minimize the hole. With the Nutrilovers NUTRI-BREAD MAKER, the hole remains, but its compact size makes it hardly noticeable.
This makes it ideal if you are looking for a small bread maker that takes up little space but offers full performance.
Is it possible to prevent or reduce the size of the hole in the bread?
Yes, with a few tricks:
- Remove the dough hook: Take the hook out before starting the baking process. (Caution: Smooth the dough briefly afterwards.)
- Transferring the dough: After kneading, transfer the dough to a normal baking pan and finish baking in the oven.
- Model selection: Use appliances with a foldable dough hook.
Conclusion: If you can live with a small hole in your bread machine, you save yourself the extra work – and enjoy the convenience of a fully automatic baking process.
Can you bake cakes in a bread machine?
Yes! Many modern appliances offer special programs for cakes or sweet breads. Simply add the ingredients as you would for a batter, start the program – and after about 1–2 hours the cake is ready.
The Nutrilovers bread maker with digital display shows you the remaining time, temperature and program status – perfect for precise baking.
How long does homemade bread keep?
Homemade bread contains no preservatives – this is healthy, but it also means that it doesn't keep as long as store-bought bread.
- White bread: approx. 2–3 days
- Wholegrain bread: approx. 3–4 days
- Longer shelf life: Store bread in cloth bags, bread boxes, or frozen.
Advantage: You can bake fresh bread anytime, even overnight thanks to the timer function. The Nutrilovers also keeps your bread warm for up to 60 minutes, giving you flexibility.
Especially practical if you want to start your small bread maker automatically in the morning.
Is it possible to bake gluten-free bread in a bread machine?
Yes – but only with appliances that have a special gluten-free program. Gluten-free dough behaves differently than classic yeast dough and requires adjusted kneading and baking times.
The Nutrilovers NUTRI-BREAD MAKER has its own gluten-free program, so that people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance do not have to miss out.
Incidentally, this also works perfectly for sourdough – making the Nutrilovers a true bread maker for sourdough fans.
How do you properly clean a bread maker?

Cleaning is easier than many people think:
- Allow the device to cool down.
- Remove baking tin and dough hook
- Clean with warm water and a soft sponge.
- Do not use harsh cleaning agents or steel wool.
- Wipe the outer casing with a damp cloth.
Thanks to its removable non-stick baking tray, the Nutrilovers is particularly easy to clean. Furthermore, the materials are BPA-free and food-safe – safe for the whole family.
Which ingredients are best suited?
The basic ingredients for bread are:
- Flour (wheat, spelt, rye, wholemeal)
- Water
- Yeast or sourdough
- Salt
You can get creative with:
- Grains (sunflower, pumpkin, flaxseed)
- nuts or dried fruit
- herbs or spices
Tip: The included recipe book for the Nutrilovers bread maker offers plenty of inspiration for a variety of breads.
Whether classic white bread or hearty sourdough bread – your bread maker with digital display ensures that every recipe is a success.
Overview of other frequently asked questions
Is it possible to prepare just dough?
Yes – many people only use the bread machine for kneading and proofing dough. Perfect for pizza, rolls, or braided yeast bread.
How loud is a bread maker?
You'll hear a quiet humming sound while kneading. The Nutrilovers operates significantly quieter than many cheaper devices.
Is a viewing window really necessary?
Not essential, but practical. The Nutrilovers offers one thing – you always have the baking process in view.
How much electricity does a bread maker use?
Most devices operate between 600 and 700 watts. The Nutrilovers runs at 650 watts, which is within the efficient range.
Conclusion: Minor drawbacks, major enjoyment
Yes, a bread maker does leave a small hole in the bread. But this minor drawback pales in comparison to the advantages: fresh bread at the touch of a button, healthy ingredients, time savings, and creative variety.
The Nutrilovers NUTRI-BREAD MAKER is an ideal example:
- 19 programs including jam & yogurt
- 3 bread sizes & 3 browning levels
- Timer & Keep Warm Function
- BPA-free, stainless steel design, non-stick baking pan
- Price: only €169




















