Kitchen in the Box vs Lakeland Bread Maker Plus
We compare the Kitchen in the Box and the Lakeland Bread Maker Plus across every dimension that matters - our scores, the key specs, and how each performs on the things you will actually notice day to day.
At a glance
| Kitchen in the Box | Lakeland Bread Maker Plus | |
|---|---|---|
| Our score | 7.5/10 | 8.2/10 |
| Best for | Baking fresh, additive-free bread at home, ready for the morning with the timer, including gluten-free | Baking fresh, additive-free bread at home |
| Not ideal for | Anyone short on cupboard space or who only eats bread occasionally, where shop bread is simpler | Anyone short on cupboard space or who only eats bread occasionally, where shop bread is simpler |
| Brand | Kitchen in the box | Lakeland |
Loaf Sizes and Capacity
Kitchen in the Box
This bread maker is designed to bake loaves up to 2lb, making it suitable for small to medium batch baking rather than larger family output. It includes two loaf sizes, both within that 2lb limit, so recipes can be matched more closely to the household need. Loaf capacity also depends on dough volume, because oversized dough may not rise properly inside the pan. Loaf size is therefore a key constraint, but it remains practical for everyday baking.
Lakeland Bread Maker Plus
Loaf sizes and capacity matter because they determine how much dough can be baked per cycle, and they also influence how well a recipe fits the machine. The pan capacity governs dough volume, so using a recipe with a larger batch can lead to overflow, while smaller dough may rise unevenly. Matching ingredients to the machine's capacity helps produce consistent loaf shapes. Since loaf sizes are not listed, the instruction manual is the place to confirm the correct dough quantities for this model.
Programmes and Settings
Kitchen in the Box
Programmes and settings on the Kitchen in the box include 1 programme plus a gluten-free setting. The design focuses on a single core baking mode rather than a long list of specialised cycles. After selecting the chosen programme, dough can be prepared up to 2lb, followed by a keep-warm phase of 1H once baking finishes. The gluten-free setting provides a dedicated option. With fewer cycles, operation can be simpler, but overall control is more limited compared with multi-programme machines.
Lakeland Bread Maker Plus
After considering loaf sizes and capacity, it makes sense to look at the programmes and settings, because the chosen programme affects mixing time, rise time, bake time, and the final texture. The Lakeland includes different programme options for varying bake styles, and it uses adjustable settings such as crust colour. During setup, the user selects the programme, then confirms loaf size and desired crust tone, if available. Once started, the machine runs through mixing, resting, proving, baking, and cooling cycles to support consistent results.
Gluten-Free and Special Diets
Kitchen in the Box
Even though the bread maker includes a gluten-free setting, it uses a mostly single-programme approach to baking, with 1 programme plus a gluten-free option rather than multiple specialised cycles. For gluten-free needs, the user relies on that setting to cover the full workflow, from mixing through baking, followed by a keep-warm phase of 1 hour. The dispenser can add fruit or nuts automatically during mixing, which may help with some special-diet baking.
Lakeland Bread Maker Plus
For people who avoid gluten or follow special diets, the bread maker can help with controlled ingredient use, but the title does not confirm gluten-free capability, dedicated gluten-free programmes, or any separate settings. Results therefore depend on selecting a suitable gluten-free bread recipe and following it closely, including ingredient quantities, hydration, and any rising instructions specified by that recipe. If a person also avoids dairy or eggs, the machine will still be recipe-dependent for appropriate substitutions, rather than offering guaranteed dairy-free or egg-free modes. Cross-contact risk is not described, so careful cleaning and use of separate ingredients matter when baking gluten-free loaves.
Ease of Use and Controls
Kitchen in the Box
Ease of use largely depends on how the Kitchen in the box is set up before baking, since it is described as having one programme plus a gluten-free setting rather than many different cycle choices. The controls therefore stay simple: the user mainly selects which setting to use and when to start. It supports up to 2lb loaves, so the baker needs to choose an appropriate loaf size in advance. A delay timer (13H) allows scheduling, and the unit includes a 1H keep warm function.
Lakeland Bread Maker Plus
When bread diet needs and ingredient choices are handled carefully, the next thing people usually notice is how easy the Lakeland is to operate, since the title itself does not confirm specific gluten-free programmes or separate diet modes. The controls are typically aimed at simple step-by-step use, with the user following each stage from measuring ingredients to starting a cycle. A clear interface helps. Users still need to read directions for timing and ingredient order, because process steps can affect results. Overall, operation feels straightforward, though fine control options are not stated.
Crust, Timer and Dispenser
Kitchen in the Box
Crust results, timing control, and the auto fruit and nut dispenser are where the bread maker's simplicity becomes most noticeable after the basic setup. It supports up to a 2lb loaf, and crust outcomes mainly depend on using the single available bread programmes correctly. For planning, it includes a 13H delay timer, so ingredients can be prepared ahead of time and baking begins later. During the cycle, the automatic fruit and nut dispenser releases add-ins without manual timing, reducing missed steps, although the dispenser timing cannot be adjusted. After baking, a 1H keep warm mode helps.
Lakeland Bread Maker Plus
Crust setting, timer controls and any built-in dispenser matter most for people who want repeatable results without extra steps. The bread maker offers not stated crust options, so exact browning control is unclear. It includes a timer, yet the maximum delay, step size and whether it holds dough automatically are not stated. If a dispenser is present, it could add ingredients at the right point to reduce manual timing errors. Overall, straightforward planning is supported, but key details around crust and timing control remain unclear.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Kitchen in the Box
Cleaning and maintenance are important because the Kitchen in the box 12-IN-1 includes a removable nonstick pan and an automatic fruit and nut dispenser, and both require attention after each bake. First, unplug the unit and allow it to cool. Next, lift out the pan, wipe it with a soft cloth or sponge, and dry it fully before reassembly. Check the dispenser area for stuck pieces, then clear it gently with a damp cloth, as sugar and nut fragments can harden. For best results, avoid abrasive pads, as they can damage the nonstick coating.
Lakeland Bread Maker Plus
Cleaning and maintenance help the Lakeland Bread Maker Plus stay in good working order and support consistent baking results over time. After each loaf, unplug the unit, allow it to cool completely, then wipe the outer case with a damp cloth. The baking pan and kneading paddle require careful cleaning: remove crumbs, wash the parts by hand, and dry them fully before storing. If dough residue bakes on, warm water and gentle soaking can help, and abrasive tools should be avoided to protect the surfaces. Regularly checking for trapped crumbs in corners reduces lingering odours and helps maintain even heating.
Who Is This Bread Maker For?
Kitchen in the Box
This bread maker is best suited to anyone looking for a practical, mostly hands-off way to bake loaves at home, particularly when gluten-free baking is a priority. It includes a gluten-free setting and bakes up to a 2lb loaf, making it suitable for households wanting larger slices without constant monitoring. The auto fruit/nut dispenser also suits buyers who want the machine to add mix-ins during the cycle. A 13H delay timer supports planning ahead, while the 1H keep warm setting helps with serving later. It is less ideal for buyers who need multiple specialty programmes or fine control, as only one programme is specified.
Lakeland Bread Maker Plus
The Lakeland suits people who want a largely hands-off way to bake bread at home, particularly if they value consistent loaf results without mixing and kneading from scratch each time. It suits busy households that still want fresh bread, because the machine takes care of key steps after ingredients are added. It may also be practical for home bakers with limited counter space. It is less suitable for people who prefer full control over every stage, since repeatable programmes can restrict customisation. It is also less ideal for those looking for highly unusual recipes beyond standard bread styles.
Kitchen in the Box: pros
- Up to 2lb loaf
- 1 programmes
- Gluten-free programme
- Automatic fruit/nut dispenser
- Delay timer for fresh bread in the morning
Cons
- Takes up cupboard space when not in use
- The kneading paddle can leave a small hole in the base of the loaf
- Home-baked bread stales faster than shop bread, as it has no preservatives
Lakeland Bread Maker Plus: pros
- Fresh, additive-free bread for less than shop prices
Cons
- Takes up cupboard space when not in use
- The kneading paddle can leave a small hole in the base of the loaf
- Home-baked bread stales faster than shop bread, as it has no preservatives
Our verdict
Our pick is the Lakeland Bread Maker Plus (our score 8.2/10) - A practical bread maker for fresh home-baked bread with minimal effort. The Kitchen in the Box is still worth it if it is cheaper when you check, or if it better matches your specific needs.