Which bread maker is superior: Zojirushi or Cuisinart? 

If you are in the market for a new bread machine, you may already be aware that several excellent models are available. Breville, Panasonic, Cuisinart, and Zojirushi are the dominant brands in home-bread baking. If you cannot choose between Zojirushi and Cuisinart, you may wonder which is superior: the Zojirushi or Cuisinart bread machine. These machines are trendy and have much to offer to bread enthusiasts. 

So, which one should you choose? In this blog post, I’ll compare these two machines to assist you in deciding which one is best for you. 

Zojirushi vs. Cuisinart Bread Maker 

To make a fair comparison, I will compare the Zojirushi Virtuoso Plus and the Cuisinart CBK-200 throughout this article. These are the two most popular models produced by both brands and are comparable in size and features. 

See my comparison below if you’re in a hurry and want a quick summary of the most significant differences between these machines. 

If you have a few minutes to spare and want to hear my complete comparison of the Zojirushi and Cuisinart bread machines, continue reading! 

Loaf Size 

Let’s begin this head-to-head comparison by discussing the capacities of both machines. Regarding loaf size, both the Cuisinart and the Zojirushi have a maximum capacity of two pounds. This is the standard size for most bread machines and is ideal for families. 

The Cuisinart is superior to the Zojirushi in terms of the bread varieties it can produce. Although both models accommodate a 2-pound loaf, the Cuisinart offers three loaf sizes. 

In addition to the 2lb loaf, you can make 1lb and 1.5lb loaves. This is a great feature, as you are not restricted to baking a single large loaf, which is a small household may go to waste. It is convenient to have this option if you have a smaller family or want to bake a loaf just for yourself. 

Bread Pan Shape 

Most bread machines have a vertical pan. The Cuisinart is comparable. Although the machine’s body is rectangular, the actual loaf produced is tall and thin. 

In contrast, the Zojirushi has a horizontal bread pan. This is much closer to the traditional rectangular shape of a loaf of bread. The horizontal pan ultimately produces a longer loaf, allowing for more slices than a vertical pan. 

Both bread pans are non-stick, making removing the loaf from the tin easy, and are BPA-free, so you can be confident that you are baking healthy bread. 

Kneading Paddles 

The paddle action distinguishes these two machines from one another. The Zojirushi features dual paddles. This is undoubtedly a unique feature of the Zojirushi Virtuoso Plus, as few dual-paddle bread makers are available. 

The dual paddle action significantly improves the mixing and kneading of all ingredients in large bread pans. With a single paddle, pockets of flour or unincorporated ingredients are inevitable. The dual paddle helps thoroughly combine all ingredients without leaving any behind. 

In contrast, the Cuisinart has a single paddle action. Although this is not as effective as the dual paddle action, it kneads the dough well. The single paddle will assist in mixing the ingredients, but don’t be surprised if you find a few pockets of unmixed ingredients. 

Heating Element 

Most bread machines only contain a heating element at the bottom of the appliance. Although common, it can cause the loaf to brown unevenly, with the bottom becoming overcooked and the top remaining pale and soft. 

The Zojirushi is one of the few machines with a dual heater configuration. There is one at the base and another beneath the lid. The additional heat source ensures a uniform browning of the loaf. 

Cuisinart, on the other hand, employs an alternative method to ensure an evenly baked loaf. The CBK-200 is the only bread machine currently available that uses convection heat. 

So how does that function? Convection ovens are undoubtedly already familiar to you. They are ubiquitous and can be found in virtually every household. The Cuisinart’s convection setting functions similarly. Inside the bread machine is a fan that circulates hot air around the loaf, ensuring even baking and a crisp crust. 

Pre-Set Baking Menus 

There is slight variation in the settings of bread machines. The Zojirushi Virtuoso Plus has fifteen settings: basic white, rapid white, European, whole wheat, rapid whole wheat, multigrain, gluten-free, salt-free, sugar-free, vegan, dough, sourdough starter, cake, jam, and homemade. 

The Cuisinart has an additional setting with 16 options: White, rapid white, whole wheat, rapid whole wheat, French/Italian, rapid French/Italian, quick bread/cake, low carb, gluten-free, dough/pizza dough, artisan dough, sweet bread, jam, last-minute loaf and bake only. 

Both machines have a variety of quick bake settings and the standard bread machine controls. Therefore, if you enjoy sourdough, you will adore Zojirushi. The Virtuoso Plus can make a sourdough starter and sourdough bread, typically tedious and time-consuming tasks when performed manually. 

Additionally, I appreciate that Zojirushi’s settings are fully customizable. With the ‘Homemade’ setting, you can customize your kneading, rising, and baking times and save up to three of your settings for future use! 

Crust Color 

The Zojirushi and the Cuisinart have three crust settings: light, medium, and dark. This is a common feature among bread machines. 

The default color setting for both bread machines is medium, but this can be changed with the push of a button. You may need to experiment with the crust to create the ideal setting for your family. If you prefer a softer crust, select the light setting. If you prefer a crisp crust, like the dark setting. 

The medium setting on my machine provides the ideal balance between crispness and softness. 

Delayed Timer 

The delayed timer is an additional feature found on many bread machines. This allows you to add your ingredients, set the timer, and have freshly baked bread ready when you wake up or return home. 

The Zojirushi’s delayed timer is 13 hours, while the Cuisinart’s is 12 hours. The difference between the two timers is negligible. It is also noteworthy that Cuisinart has a 15-minute pause function and a power failure backup. 

Viewing Window 

The viewing window is a convenient feature that allows you to monitor the bread’s progress without opening the lid and disrupting the baking process. 

The size of viewing windows on bread machines can vary considerably. The Zojirushi has a large viewing window that stretches nearly the entire length of the lid. The viewing window on the Cuisinart is significantly smaller, but it is still large enough to provide a clear view of the bread. 

Fruit and Nut Dispenser 

Bread machines with fruit and nut dispensers are a great feature. If you enjoy adding fruits and nuts to your bread, you may be disappointed to learn that neither the Zojirushi nor the Cuisinart bread machines have this feature. 

Both machines alert you with an audible tone when it is time to add your preferred mix-ins to compensate for the absence of a fruit and nut dispenser. 

Size, Weight, and Appearance 

The Zojirushi Virtuoso Plus is slightly larger than the Cuisinart Convection Bread Maker. The Zojirushi measures 10.5 x 18 x 12.88 inches, while the Cuisinart measures 12 x 16.5 x 10.25 inches. The Zojirushi weighs 24 pounds more than the Cuisinart’s 16 pounds. 

Regarding the portability of a bread machine, weight is crucial. The Cuisinart is the superior option if you intend to move your bread machine frequently. 

I adore Cuisinart’s contemporary, minimalist design. It has a stainless-steel exterior with black accents. The Zojirushi is not as aesthetically pleasing as the Cuisinart due to its bulky, dated exterior, but it is not an eyesore. 

Price 

Price is an essential factor for many individuals. Depending on where you purchase it, the Zojirushi Virtuoso Plus bread maker will set you back between $350 and $400. 

The Cuisinart costs nearly half as much as the Zojirushi, which is an enormous selling point. The Cuisinart Convection Bread Maker is available for less than $200. 

Zojirushi vs. Cuisinart Bread Maker: Which one is superior? 

It would help if you now understood which of these bread makers is best for your family. The Zojirushi and Cuisinart are both excellent machines with comparable features. 

Usually, personal preference will be the deciding factor. Do you want a fully customizable bread machine? If so, the Zojirushi may be the ideal appliance for you. Do you prefer a sleek, modern look? Then Cuisinart is your best option. In addition, the Cuisinart is less expensive and lighter, making it a more appealing option for some. 

Performance-wise, the Zojirushi is superior to the Cuisinart, but the Cuisinart is not far behind. It produces horizontal loaves that are simply unrivaled in quality. 

Take advantage of amazing deals on our Bread makers here