6 Best Bread Makers for Mochi of 2026

Seeking an affordable entry into automated baking? The Elite Gourmet EBM8103M offers a compelling budget option for home bread enthusiasts. While not a dedicated mochi maker, its 19 pre-programmed functions cover a wide range of doughs, including basic, whole wheat, and even gluten-free, providing versatility for various baking projects. This machine automates the tedious kneading and rising steps, a significant plus for busy kitchens.

This model is designed primarily for standard bread doughs, accommodating 1, 1.5, or 2-pound loaf sizes. It features a useful 15-hour delay timer for overnight baking and a 60-minute keep-warm function. While it lacks specific mochi settings, its dough program could potentially handle glutinous rice flour doughs, though it won’t perform the traditional steaming and pounding required for classic mochi. Performance is reliable for basic bread tasks, freeing up your oven and reducing cleanup.

Compared to specialized machines like the Tiger Mochi Maker, the Elite Gourmet focuses squarely on bread and general doughs, offering broader utility for everyday baking at a significantly lower cost. It’s best suited for beginners or those needing a secondary bread machine without a large investment. Its simplicity and price point make it accessible, though it lacks the specialized functions or premium build of models like the KBS or Zojirushi units.

For those specifically seeking to make authentic, pounded mochi at home, the Tiger SMJ-A18U is the undisputed specialist in this lineup. Unlike bread makers that handle dough, this machine is engineered to steam and pound rice, replicating the traditional method with automated ease. Its core function is singular but highly effective, designed specifically for creating the unique chewy texture of fresh mochi.

Equipped with a dimple non-stick inner container and specialized impellers (one short for mochi, one long for miso), this unit handles the sticky, demanding process of mochi making efficiently. It can process up to 10 cups of rice, yielding a substantial batch. While it excels at its intended purpose, it’s crucial to understand that this is not a bread maker and cannot knead or bake standard bread doughs. Its performance is optimized for rice-based preparations.

Positioned as the premium, dedicated mochi solution, the Tiger stands apart from every bread maker on this list, including versatile units like the siroca. It offers a focused function that no standard bread machine can replicate, justifying its higher cost for mochi aficionados. This machine is ideal for individuals or families for whom traditional mochi is a primary culinary goal, offering precision and ease unmatched by multi-purpose appliances.

The siroca SHB-122 distinguishes itself as a highly versatile home bakery, going beyond standard bread functions to include unique capabilities like making fresh butter, buckwheat, and notably, rice cakes. This multi-functionality makes it particularly relevant for those exploring various homemade goods, including potential applications related to mochi dough or other rice-based preparations that don’t require traditional pounding. It offers a broader creative scope than many competitors.

Weighing approximately 3.9kg and featuring a 13-hour timer, this machine provides standard bread-making performance alongside its specialty functions. Its ability to make “rice cakes” suggests a program or method distinct from standard bread, potentially suitable for certain types of mochi dough or other cooked rice applications, though it won’t replicate the steaming and pounding of a dedicated mochi maker like the Tiger. The design focuses on delivering a satisfying homemade taste across its diverse menu.

Compared to standard bread makers like the Elite Gourmet or KBS, the siroca offers a clear advantage in versatility, specifically mentioning rice cakes and butter. While it doesn’t replace the specialized function of the Tiger Mochi Maker, it provides a middle ground for users who want bread and the ability to experiment with other ingredients and textures, including rice. It’s best for adventurous home cooks seeking a single appliance for multiple tasks.

The KBS 2LB Bread Maker emerges as a robust mid-range option, boasting a durable stainless steel design and a premium non-stick ceramic pan. With 19 pre-set menus, including dedicated programs for gluten-free and sourdough, it offers extensive options for the serious bread baker. Its focus is on delivering high-quality bread with advanced features like a ceramic pan and convection technology for even results.

Featuring a powerful 650W motor and 360° convection technology, this machine is engineered for efficient kneading and baking, promising reduced baking times and consistent crusts. It handles 1lb, 1.5lb, and 2lb loaves with three crust color options. While it excels at various doughs and bread types, it does not have a specific program for mochi or rice cakes and will not perform the steaming and pounding necessary for traditional mochi. Its strength lies in its versatile bread and dough programs.

Positioned above budget models like the Elite Gourmet but below premium bread makers like the Zojirushi Virtuoso, the KBS offers a strong balance of features and build quality. Its ceramic pan and convection system provide potential advantages for bread texture and health over standard pans. It’s an excellent choice for frequent bread bakers needing flexibility and reliability, but those prioritizing dedicated mochi making should look towards the Tiger unit.

The Zojirushi BB-HAC10 is a compact and well-regarded mini breadmaker, ideal for individuals or small households needing smaller batches of bread or dough. Its ability to produce a 1-pound loaf caters perfectly to those with limited space or smaller consumption needs. While primarily a bread machine, it includes useful settings for cookie/pasta dough and jam, adding a touch of versatility beyond basic loaves.

This unit is designed for simplicity and convenience, featuring an LCD control panel and viewing window. Its nonstick kneading blade and baking pan make cleanup straightforward. With a 450-watt rating, it efficiently handles its smaller capacity tasks. Like most bread makers, it lacks specific mochi programs and cannot steam or pound rice, limiting its use for traditional mochi, though its dough setting could handle some glutinous flour mixtures.

Compared to larger bread makers like the KBS or Zojirushi Virtuoso, the BB-HAC10 is significantly smaller and less powerful, focusing on single servings rather than family-sized loaves. Its size makes it highly portable and easy to store, a key advantage for smaller kitchens. It’s a premium option for those prioritizing compactness and Zojirushi’s quality reputation for small-batch baking, contrasting with the dedicated function of the Tiger Mochi Maker.

The Zojirushi BB-PDC20BA Home Bakery Virtuoso Plus represents the pinnacle of home bread making versatility and performance within the bread machine category. Featuring double kneading blades and dual heaters on both the bottom and lid, it ensures superior dough development and incredibly even baking and browning. This machine is built for serious bakers demanding consistent, high-quality results across a wide array of bread types.

This powerhouse offers an extensive selection of courses, including specialized healthy options like Multigrain, Gluten Free, Salt Free, and Vegan, alongside rapid courses that bake a loaf in under 2.5 hours. Its 700-watt rating and advanced heating provide exceptional performance. While it excels at creating diverse and complex bread doughs, it is designed specifically for baking bread and does not include functions for steaming or pounding rice needed for traditional mochi.

Positioned as the premium, feature-rich bread maker, the Virtuoso Plus stands above models like the KBS and Elite Gourmet in terms of build quality, performance features, and program variety. Its double blades provide a distinct advantage in kneading compared to single-blade machines. It’s the ideal choice for dedicated bread bakers seeking the highest quality and broadest bread options, offering a fundamentally different function compared to the specialized Tiger Mochi Maker.