I have recently purchased a Breadman Plus (3 months ago). I make (or
attempt to make ) bread everyday. I can empathize with the person who
reported having many flops with their machine. Even the recipes that come
with the Breadman Plus do not work in this machine. I have to stand right by
the machine during the mixing/kneading in order to adjust the ingredients.
Even then, the loaves rise, then fall during baking. I have contacted the
manufacturer on a couple of occasions. They seem to think that I do not
have the moisture content correct. I have on occasion made the dough so dry
that the loaf does not rise at all. I do live in Louisiana where the
humidity is high usually (90% on average); could this affect it? I have
varied the types of flour (King Arthur, Gold Medal, Pillsbury) and the
types/amounts of yeast, and adding lemon juice, and adding gluten......... I
am very frustated. I would never even dream of letting my machine make a
loaf by itself (overnight). Does anyone have any suggestions? The person
at the manufacturer said that it doesn't take a rocket scientist to make
bread in these machines -- why am I having all of these problems? One last
question, does anyone know what the difference is with Red Star INstant
Active yeast? I bought a pound at the local warehouse and it says to use
within 7 days of opening. Can I freeze it? Thanks in advance for any
helpful tips. Cheryl