Black & Decker Crisp 'N Bake Air Fry 4 Slice Toaster Oven

Navigating the kitchen with limited counter space can be a challenge, especially when your culinary ambitions require multiple gadgets. Enter the Black & Decker Crisp 'N Bake Air Fry 4 Slice Toaster Oven (model TO1747SSG), a compact appliance that promises to streamline your cooking needs. After spending considerable time with this device, here's my take on its performance, features, and overall value.

First impressions matter, and the Crisp 'N Bake certainly catches the eye with its sleek stainless steel housing. This design choice not only enhances durability but also adds a modern touch to any kitchen decor. The compact size—measuring 11.2" x 18"—is a boon for those with limited countertop space, making it a versatile addition to small kitchens and dorm rooms alike.

The interface is minimalistic, featuring just two control knobs: one for setting a 30-minute timer and another for selecting from five cooking functions: Air Fry, Bake, Broil, Toast, and Keep Warm. While the simplicity is appreciated, it does come with a caveat. The large dials, though easy to grip, lack precision. This imprecision can make it challenging to achieve the perfect toast or find the exact temperature for specific recipes, necessitating a bit of trial and error.

Air Fry Technology is the star feature of this appliance, promising to cook food with less oil by circulating hot air around it. In practice, this function is a mixed bag. For small items like chicken nuggets, fries, and pizza rolls, the air fry function delivers satisfactory results, offering a crispy exterior and juicy interior. However, the air fry function has only one setting—425°F—which can limit its versatility. Cooking times often need adjustment, and larger or more complex dishes sometimes end up unevenly cooked or with a rubbery texture on the outside.

Despite these limitations, the air fry basket is a handy addition. It's spacious enough to hold a decent amount of food, although the cooking process can be slow, particularly if you're accustomed to a more powerful standalone air fryer.

The baking and broiling functions are generally reliable. The oven heats up quickly and distributes heat evenly, thanks to its convection capability. I found it effective for making personal pizzas, small batches of cookies, and roasting vegetables. However, the clearance between the rack and the upper heating element is quite low, which can be problematic for taller dishes and contributes to the risk of food burning if not closely monitored.

The EvenToast Technology aims to provide uniform toasting, and it mostly succeeds. The oven can comfortably fit four slices of bread, though the results can be inconsistent. Achieving the perfect toast requires careful adjustment of the timer knob, a task that's made more difficult by the lack of clear gradation on the dial. On the lowest setting, it’s easy to undercook, while a slight turn can result in burnt toast.

One aspect that deserves praise is the ease of cleaning. The removable crumb tray and the non-stick interior make maintenance straightforward. The included accessories—a broil rack, air fry basket, and bake pan—are all dishwasher safe, which is a significant time-saver.

Safety is an area where this toaster oven doesn’t shine as brightly. The exterior gets noticeably hot during operation, including the door, which could be a concern if you have children around. Additionally, there have been instances where the unit smoked or even sparked during use, raising questions about its safety features. Always keep an eye on it, especially in the first few uses, to ensure it’s operating correctly.

In terms of value for money, the Crisp 'N Bake is competitively priced, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. However, the quality may be a hit or miss. While some users have reported years of reliable use, others have experienced significant issues within months, including mechanical failures and safety hazards.

Would I recommend the Black & Decker Crisp 'N Bake Air Fry 4 Slice Toaster Oven? It's a bit of a mixed bag. If you're looking for a compact, budget-friendly toaster oven that can do a bit of everything, this model might suit your needs. It's especially useful for small households or college students who need a versatile appliance for quick and straightforward meals. The air fry function is a nice bonus for those looking to cut down on oil without investing in a separate air fryer.

However, if you have specific needs or higher expectations for performance and safety, you might want to consider other options. The imprecision of the control dials, limited air fry settings, and safety concerns are significant drawbacks. For those who frequently use an air fryer or require more robust toasting capabilities, investing in a dedicated air fryer or a more advanced toaster oven might be a better choice.

In summary, the Black & Decker Crisp 'N Bake Air Fry 4 Slice Toaster Oven is a decent multi-functional appliance that can handle a variety of tasks, albeit with some limitations. Its compact design and budget-friendly price make it accessible, but be prepared for a learning curve and potential safety considerations. Choose wisely based on your specific needs and usage patterns.