A Black and Decker toaster oven is a versatile small appliance that can be used to toast bread, bake foods, broil meats, and more.
With proper use and care, a Black and Decker toaster oven can be a convenient addition to any kitchen. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to fully utilize all the features of your Black and Decker toaster oven.
Choosing the Right Model
When purchasing a Black and Decker toaster oven, there are a few key factors to consider:
Size
- Black and Decker offers toaster ovens in different sizes, from compact 2-slice models to large 6-slice models. Choose based on your needs and available counter space.
Temperature Settings
- Look for a model with a wide range of temperature settings for maximum versatility. Most have settings from 150°F to 450°F.
Functions
- Many models include toast, bake, broil, and convection cooking functions. Convection uses a fan to circulate hot air for faster, more even cooking.
Extra Features
- Some added features to look for include interior lighting, slide-out crumb trays, auto shut-off, and digital displays with clocks/timers.
Budget
- Black and Decker toaster ovens range from $40 on the low end to over $100 for higher-end models. Set a budget before shopping.
Setting Up Your Black and Decker Toaster Oven
Once you’ve purchased your Black and Decker toaster oven, follow these steps to get it set up:
Unpack the Unit
- Remove the toaster oven and any included accessories from the box. Make sure you have all pieces.
Wash Accessories
- Wash any racks or pans that came with the toaster oven in warm, soapy water before first use.
Place on Counter
- Choose a level, heat-safe countertop with ample space around the toaster oven. Don’t place under cabinets.
Plug In
- Make sure your outlet is 120V AC and plug in the toaster oven. Don’t use an extension cord unless absolutely needed.
Program Clock/Timer
- If your model has digital displays and settings, set the clock and program any additional functions. Refer to the instruction manual.
Do Test Run
- Do a test run by toasting some bread to ensure everything is functioning properly. Adjust settings if needed.
Using the Basic Functions
Black and Decker toaster ovens are designed for simplicity and ease of use. Here are tips for using the core functions:
Toasting
- Load slices of bread into the toast slots or directly on the rack. Set the toast shade setting based on your preference. Push down the toast handle to start.
Baking
- For baking, preheat the toaster oven before placing food inside. Use oven mitts to handle hot pans. Check food frequently and adjust time if needed.
Broiling
- For broiling, place food on the broil pan and slide it into the upper rack position. Watch food closely to prevent burning. Turn food halfway through.
Convection Cooking
- If your model has convection, use this mode for crisping foods faster. Lower the temperature by 25°F compared to traditional baking.
Timer Functions
- Many models have handy auto-shutoff timers. Use these to automatically turn off the toaster oven when cooking time is complete.
Toasting Tips and Guidelines
Follow these guidelines to toast bread perfectly in your Black and Decker toaster oven:
- Place bread in the center of the toast slots or rack for even toasting.
- Set the shade selector to your desired level of lightness or darkness.
- Press the toast button or lower the toast handle. The timer will start counting down.
- For crispier toast, butter or toast bread on just one side before toasting. The buttered side should face down.
- After toasting, use oven mitts to carefully remove the hot toast. Eject the toast lever gently.
- If toast is uneven, turn the shade dial down slightly next time. Watch toast closely until you find the ideal setting.
- Quickly wipe up any crumbs or fallen food debris to prevent burning and smoke.
Baking Recommendations
Your Black and Decker toaster oven can bake small quantities of foods like cookies, rolls, and more. Here are some baking tips:
- Always preheat for at least 5 minutes when baking foods like cookies, biscuits, rolls, and pizza.
- For cakes or breads, allow the toaster oven to fully preheat for 10-15 minutes before baking.
- Use flat, light metal bakeware for best results. Dark metal pans absorb heat and can lead to burning.
- Check doneness early and extend time if needed. Toaster ovens heat faster than full-size ovens.
- Rotate pans halfway through baking for more even cooking, especially for baked goods like cakes.
- Let baked goods rest in the pan for 5 minutes before removing. Use mitts – pans will be hot!
Broiling Essentials
Broiling is a quick way to cook meats and melt cheese in your toaster oven. Follow these tips:
- Always preheat for 5 minutes before broiling. Use the upper rack position.
- Place food on the broil pan and tray that came with your toaster oven. It allows fat to drip away.
- Broil meats 3-4 inches from heating element. Turn halfway through cooking.
- Brush meats, fish, and veggies lightly with oil before broiling for crisping.
- Watch food closely to avoid burning. Broiling is quick – don’t walk away!
- Let meats rest 5 minutes after broiling to allow juices to settle before slicing and serving.
Convection Cooking Tips
Models with convection use a fan to circulate hot air for faster, crispier cooking:
- Reduce baking temperature by 25°F when using convection mode.
- Check food 5-10 minutes early since convection speeds cooking.
- Use convection for crisping up items like french fries, tater tots, chicken nuggets, and more.
- Place food in a single layer on pans for best convection results. Don’t overcrowd.
- Open the oven door briefly if convection fan is too loud. Take care not to get burned.
- Let convection oven fully preheat before cooking for best results.
Cleaning and Maintenance
With regular cleaning, your Black and Decker toaster oven will provide years of service. Follow these tips:
Remove Crumbs
- Always unplug before cleaning. Remove and discard crumbs frequently to prevent build up.
Wash Removable Parts
- Wash racks, trays, pans, and other removable parts in warm, soapy water. Avoid abrasives.
Clean Interior
- Wipe the inner walls and door with a soft cloth or sponge and mild detergent. Don’t use metal scouring pads.
Check Door Gasket
- Ensure the door gasket is intact. Replace if worn or damaged to maintain heat efficiency.
Descale Regularly
- For models without nonstick interiors, descale every 3-6 months to remove mineral deposits and keep heating elements working efficiently.
Don’t Immerse
- Never submerge the toaster oven body or cord in water. Wipe exterior with a damp cloth.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Here are some quick fixes for common toaster oven problems:
Toast Burning
- Adjust the shade setting darker next time. Lower times for multiple slices.
Uneven Toasting
- Rotate food mid-cycle. Ensure racks are centered. Replace worn racks.
Over or Undercooking
- Adjust temperature or cooking times up or down. Use a food thermometer if needed.
Smoking
- Clean out crumbs or drips causing smoke. Don’t use aluminum foil linings.
Door Won’t Close
- Ensure racks and bakeware fit properly. Check for obstructions. Don’t force the door.
Display Malfunction
- Unplug and plug back in. Reset display settings if needed. Contact manufacturer for repair help if issue persists.
Conclusion
Black and Decker offers a wide range of toaster ovens suitable for any home kitchen. With options from basic to more advanced models with convection and digital displays, you can find one that meets your needs and budget.
Follow this guide for choosing the right model, using all the functions properly, maintaining your toaster oven, and troubleshooting common issues. With the right techniques, a Black and Decker toaster oven will provide fast, versatile cooking for years of daily use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions given below:
What size pans fit in the toaster oven?
Most standard-sized toaster ovens accommodate pans up to 9 x 13 inches. Refer to your model’s dimensions before purchasing bakeware.
How close should I place food to the broiler?
For meats, fish, and veggies, place food 2-4 inches from the heating element when broiling. Use the upper rack position. Monitor closely to avoid burning.
Can I cook a small turkey in my toaster oven?
Most standard toaster ovens are not large enough to accommodate a whole turkey. You can cook single turkey breast fillets, but avoid full turkeys.
What causes smoking when broiling?
Drippings and crumbs that collect in the bottom of the toaster oven can smoke when exposed to high broil temperatures. Clean the interior regularly to prevent this.
Should I preheat my toaster oven?
Preheating is recommended when baking cakes, cookies, breads, and pizzas. Allow at least 5-10 minutes of preheat for best results. Toasting doesn’t require preheating.
How can I tell if my toaster oven is preheated?
Check if the heating element is red hot or use an oven thermometer placed inside to check if it’s reached the set temperature before baking.
What temperature should I bake cookies at?
Most toaster oven cookie recipes are baked between 300-350°F. Refer to your specific recipe, as baking temperature can vary. Monitor doneness closely.
How do I clean the crumb tray?
Slide out the removable crumb tray and discard debris into the trash after each use. Wash periodically in warm water and mild detergent.
Why won’t my toaster oven turn on?
If your toaster oven won’t power on, check that it is plugged in properly. Try a different outlet. If it still won’t turn on, contact the manufacturer.
Do I need special bakeware for my toaster oven?
Standard metal bakeware works best. Avoid dark pans that absorb heat too quickly. Choose pans that fit your model to allow proper air circulation.
Should I use foil to line the toaster oven?
It’s not recommended to line the walls or base with foil as it can interfere with airflow. Use foil only to tent or cover food as needed.
Can I cook a frozen pizza in my toaster oven?
Yes, toaster ovens are great for cooking frozen pizzas. Use a pizza pan, preheat, and increase cooking time stated on packaging since toaster ovens heat faster.
How do I stop my toast from burning?
If your toast is burning, turn the shade setting down slightly darker next time. Remove toast as soon as it is done. Never leave unattended.