Black & Decker Crisp 'N Bake Air Fry Toaster Oven

Finding the right kitchen appliance that combines multiple functions without overwhelming your countertop can be a challenge. The Black & Decker Crisp 'N Bake Air Fry Toaster Oven, model TO1785SG, aims to tackle this issue by merging the functionalities of a toaster, oven, and air fryer into one compact unit. After spending considerable time using this tool, I have some insights to share about its performance, versatility, and overall value.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that caught my eye was its sleek design. The silver and gray color scheme fits well with most kitchen decors. Despite its compact size, the unit feels sturdy and well-built. Weighing in at 9.1 pounds, it’s lightweight enough to move around but solid enough to stay put during use. The glass door provides a clear view of the cooking process, which is a nice touch for monitoring without opening the door and losing heat.

User Experience

Setting up the Crisp 'N Bake was straightforward. The control dials are large and easy to read, making it simple to set the timer and choose the cooking function. However, I did find that the labels on the knobs could be a bit hard to read under certain lighting conditions, which might be a minor inconvenience for some users.

Performance

Toasting

The EvenToast Technology lives up to its name. I found that the toaster function produced evenly browned toast without the need for multiple cycles. This is a significant improvement over many other toaster ovens I’ve used, which often require flipping the bread halfway through to achieve even results.

Baking and Broiling

The baking and broiling functions are equally impressive. I tested the unit with a 9-inch pizza and several pot pies, and both came out perfectly cooked. The unit does require preheating for these functions, but the process is relatively quick. The bake pan and rack included in the package are of good quality and easy to clean.

Air Frying

Air frying is where this unit truly shines. The air fry mesh cooking rack is excellent for making crispy fries and onion rings with minimal oil. I found that shoestring fries took about 5 minutes, while thicker crinkle-cut fries took around 8 minutes. The results were consistently crispy and delicious. However, the unit does get quite hot during air frying, so caution is advised.

Capacity

While the Crisp 'N Bake is compact, it has a surprisingly roomy interior. It can fit up to four slices of bread or a 9-inch pizza, making it suitable for small families or couples. However, if you’re cooking for a larger group, you might find the capacity limiting. It’s perfect for quick meals and snacks but might not replace your full-sized oven for more extensive cooking needs.

Ease of Cleaning

Cleaning the unit is relatively hassle-free. The crumb tray is easy to remove and clean, and the interior wipes down easily. I have lined the solid shelves and crumb tray with aluminum foil to protect them from stains, which has made cleanup even more straightforward.

Additional Features

One of the standout features is the 60-minute timer, which is more than sufficient for most cooking tasks. The unit also includes a keep-warm function, which is handy for maintaining the temperature of your food without overcooking it. The indicator light is a useful addition, letting you know when the unit is in operation.

Drawbacks

No product is without its flaws, and the Crisp 'N Bake is no exception. Some users might find the learning curve for the air fry function a bit steep, especially when trying to achieve the perfect crispiness. Additionally, the unit's exterior can get quite hot during use, which could be a safety concern, especially in households with children.

Another minor issue is the length of the power cord. I found it a bit short, which limited where I could place the unit in my kitchen. A longer cord would offer more flexibility in positioning.

Final Thoughts

The Black & Decker Crisp 'N Bake Air Fry Toaster Oven is a versatile and efficient addition to any kitchen. Its compact size, combined with multiple cooking functions, makes it a valuable tool for those looking to save space without sacrificing performance. The air fry function is particularly impressive, providing a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods.

Would I recommend this tool? Absolutely. It’s perfect for small households or anyone looking to streamline their kitchen appliances. The minor drawbacks are easily manageable, and the benefits far outweigh them. The Crisp 'N Bake offers excellent value for its price, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone in need of a multifunctional kitchen appliance.