Panasonic Croustina SD-ZP2000 Bread Maker for Crust Bread (18 Programmes, Bread Machine, Gluten-Free, Crispy Bread, Whole Grain Crust Bread), White

I first heard about this breadmaker during the initial lockdown in 2020, but it was very expensive and virtually impossible to get hold of, as were most breadmakers. I needed a replacement for my 20-year-old machine, and ended up having to buy an inexpensive model which is a very indifferent machine. I continued to lust after the Croustina, specifically for its crusty capabilities, and was then sad to discover that it seemed to have been discontinued. I could not source one anywhere. Fast forward to this year, when I spotted one on Amazon, sold by a German company. The price is eye-watering, as breadmakers go, but I decided it was too late to wait. The item arrived quickly, with a UK plug specially fitted by the supplier. Wow! The bread is beautiful - the machine produces a 'boule'-shaped loaf and on the 'hard' crust setting offers a loaf that tempts you to break it open immediately and slather it with farmhouse butter. The soft setting still has a satisfying crust and chew, and there is a 'rapid' setting that still produces a beautiful loaf ( unlike my cheap machine which produces a brick as it has sacrificed a rise). I would recommend this breadmaker to anyone who loves bread for itself - the only downside will be the weight I will put on.............

Sent with a non UK plug.You’ll need an adapter or re-wire it (which will invalidate warranty !)

This breadmaker is cracked (see photo) and the lid is very loose. Although the seller has accepted a return they nevertheless expect me to pay the return postage for this heavy item to Bavaria! I am not impressed.

Arrived with a foreign plug.I eat wholemeal bread and this machine has only one option. There is no size option and no choice of crust colour.