Black & Decker Extra Wide Crisp 'N Bake Air Fry Toaster Oven

The Black & Decker Extra Wide Crisp 'N Bake Air Fry Toaster Oven, model TO3265XSSD, has quickly become an essential part of my kitchen. As someone who values both functionality and efficiency, this versatile appliance offers a lot to appreciate. Let me walk you through my experience with this multipurpose toaster oven.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing you’ll notice about this toaster oven is its considerable size. It’s designed to accommodate up to eight slices of bread, a 9 x 13-inch pan, or a 12-inch pizza, making it perfect for families or anyone who likes to prepare meals in larger quantities. The stainless steel finish gives it a sleek and modern look, which fits well in any kitchen decor. However, do keep in mind that its larger footprint requires ample counter space.

The build quality is generally solid. The knobs, while made of plastic, feel reasonably sturdy. The door mechanism is springy and secure, ensuring it stays closed or open as needed without slamming. One minor downside is that the knobs can feel a bit cheap, but they seem durable enough for regular use.

Performance and Cooking Functions

This toaster oven is equipped with five cooking functions: bake, broil, toast, keep warm, and air fry. The air fry technology is particularly noteworthy, offering a healthier way to enjoy fried foods with little to no oil. I’ve used it to cook chicken nuggets, tater tots, and French fries, all of which came out crispy and delicious. The included air fry basket is a handy addition, though it did warp slightly after the first use. This didn’t affect its functionality, but it’s something to be aware of.

The convection technology ensures even cooking, which I found particularly useful when baking. I’ve baked everything from cakes to meatloaf muffins, and the results have been consistently good. The pizza I made was evenly cooked and had a perfectly crispy crust. The oven does get quite hot, especially the back and sides, so it’s important to keep it away from anything flammable and to avoid touching it while in use.

Ease of Use

Operating this toaster oven is straightforward, thanks to its three control knobs for time, temperature, and cooking function. The 60-minute timer is a convenient feature, though it’s worth noting that the timer must be set past the 20-minute mark before adjusting to the desired time to ensure proper operation. This might seem like an extra step, but it’s necessary to prolong the life of the dials.

One of the standout features is the external crumb tray, which makes cleaning a breeze. The tray slides out easily, allowing you to dispose of crumbs and other debris without much hassle. I also appreciate the inclusion of a bake/broil pan and rack, which fit well and are sturdy enough for regular use.

Air Frying Experience

The air fry function is where this toaster oven truly shines. It operates at a constant 450°F, which might be limiting for some, but I found it sufficient for most air frying needs. The cooking chart provided is a helpful guide, though you may need to experiment with cooking times to get the best results. I’ve air-fried a variety of foods, including chicken wings and vegetables, all of which turned out crispy and well-cooked.

One minor issue is that the air fry function does not allow for temperature adjustment. This means you’ll need to be vigilant and possibly adjust cooking times to avoid overcooking. Despite this, the air fryer performs admirably, offering a convenient and healthier alternative to traditional frying methods.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning this toaster oven is relatively simple. The crumb tray and other removable parts make it easy to maintain. I recommend wiping down the interior after each use to prevent baked-on residue. Using parchment paper on the drip pan can also help with cleanup, especially when cooking foods that tend to splatter.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
- Versatility: Five cooking functions make it a multipurpose appliance.
- Capacity: Extra large capacity is perfect for families.
- Air Fry Technology: Offers a healthier way to enjoy fried foods.
- Ease of Cleaning: External crumb tray and removable parts simplify maintenance.
- Even Cooking: Convection technology ensures consistent results.

Cons:
- Size: Requires a significant amount of counter space.
- Knobs: Plastic knobs feel a bit cheap.
- Temperature Control: Air fry function lacks adjustable temperature settings.
- Heat: Exterior gets very hot during use.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Black & Decker Extra Wide Crisp 'N Bake Air Fry Toaster Oven is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. Its versatility, large capacity, and effective air fry function make it a valuable tool for a wide range of cooking tasks. While it does have a few minor drawbacks, such as the lack of adjustable temperature settings for air frying and its large size, the benefits far outweigh these issues.

I would highly recommend this toaster oven to anyone looking for a multipurpose appliance that can handle everything from toasting bread to air frying chicken. Its ease of use, combined with its ability to produce consistently good results, makes it a worthwhile investment for any home cook.