Cuisinart TOA-60 Air Fryer Toaster Oven Review Best for Versatile Cooking

Description

A Sleek and Functional Kitchen Companion

Testing the Cuisinart TOA-60 has been a whirlwind of culinary experiments, and to say it’s an all-in-one kitchen appliance would still feel like an understatement. This stainless steel air fryer/convection toaster oven has a strong presence on my countertop, both for its aesthetic appeal and its versatility. I’ve used plenty of air fryers and similar appliances before, but this one definitely comes with its own set of advantages and quirks.

The stainless steel finish immediately caught my eye. It has a modern, professional look that fits well in any kitchen style. Beyond looks, its compact yet spacious design offers functionality. With dimensions of 15.5 x 16 x 14 inches, it doesn’t overwhelm the counter. Yet, the 4-pound capacity is generous enough to handle a small chicken, a batch of crispy fries, or even a pizza.

Key Benefits

• Multi-functionality: This isn’t just an air fryer. It combines the functions of a convection oven, toaster oven, and broiler in one unit, making it a true multitasker. From toasting bread to baking cookies and roasting vegetables, I’ve put everything to the test.
• Temperature Control: The precise temperature control is a game-changer. Whether I’m trying to achieve a perfect golden-brown crust or slow-cooking a dish, I’ve noticed consistent results.
• Ease of Cleaning: With a nonstick interior and dishwasher-safe components, the cleanup is straightforward. After roasting a chicken, I was pleasantly surprised that the mess didn’t feel overwhelming.
• Powerful Performance: The 1800-watt output doesn’t just sound impressive—it delivers. Preheating happens in no time, and the air frying mode creates crispy textures with minimal oil.

Caveats

• Size Limitations: While the 4-pound capacity is decent for small to medium-sized meals, it might not suffice for larger families or bulk cooking.
• Noise Levels: The fan can get a bit loud during operation, especially on the air frying mode. It’s not unbearable, but it’s noticeable if you’re in a quiet space.
• Learning Curve: The touch controls are straightforward, but the multiple functions require some trial and error. I had a couple of early mishaps where I over-toasted my bread.

Performance That Holds Up

Cooking with this convection toaster oven has been a revelation. Its air frying setting consistently produces crispy, golden results without the need for deep frying. My fries came out crunchy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, while chicken wings had that perfect crispiness everyone loves. The convection mode baked cookies evenly, and the broiling feature was ideal for melting cheese on nachos.

What stood out to me was how quickly it heats up. It cuts down on the waiting time and delivers faster cooking compared to my traditional oven. However, the fan noise does remind you it’s working hard to circulate heat evenly.

Product Comparisons

Comparing this air fryer/convection oven to other models, I couldn’t help but notice its strengths and weaknesses. Against a standalone air fryer like the Ninja Foodi, the multi-functionality of the TOA-60 shines. While the Ninja focuses on air frying and pressure cooking, this unit offers a broader range of cooking methods. On the other hand, the Breville Smart Oven Air has a larger capacity and quieter operation, but it comes at a significantly higher price point.

For anyone seeking a balance between quality performance and versatility without going overboard on cost, this model makes a compelling case. However, if you prioritize a quieter machine or larger cooking space, you might want to explore alternative options.

Price to Quality Ratio

Taking into account the numerous features, the build quality, and the consistent performance, the price feels justifiable. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but you’re paying for a product that does multiple jobs well. If you’re looking to invest in a machine that can replace several kitchen appliances, this one is worth considering. The cost-effectiveness is apparent when you realize how many standalone devices it could potentially replace.

That said, this isn’t for everyone. If your primary goal is just air frying, you might find simpler, smaller, and cheaper options that fit your needs. However, if you want an appliance that can handle everything from breakfast to dinner, the value proposition becomes clear.

Final Thoughts on Its Usability

Using this stainless steel appliance daily has been a mix of convenience and discovery. While there are some areas that could use improvement, like the noise levels and the learning curve with the settings, the overall experience has been positive. It’s one of those gadgets that you’ll find yourself reaching for more often than expected, whether it’s for toasting a quick sandwich or preparing a full meal. The Cuisinart TOA-60 proves itself to be a reliable kitchen companion that delivers on its promises.

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