convection ovens

[bucketmouth64]

Anyone have a counter top convection oven? Wondering if these are worth purchasing. I've seen this term used a lot with ovens, but I don't know the benefits of it versus regular ovens. Do convection ovens reduce cook time? I don't want to replace my floor model oven so I thought about a counter top convection oven if they are efficient.

[Chef]

If you're looking for the best baking oven, convection is the way to go. The air is moved aound to evenly distribute the heat so you get even baking--front-to-back, top-to-bottom, side-to-side.

Frankly, not worth the extra money to get convection just for baking pastries, cakes, cookies, etc. when all you really need to do is turn the pan once or twice during the baking time so you don't get a lop-sided cake.

If your intent is to bake dessert type foods with a counter top oven be aware that they are so small inside that they tend to get real bad hot spots not condusive to baking pastry or cookies.

I hope this answered some of your questions. If not, ask away...

[bucketmouth64]

thanks for the info. chef. You did answer my question. I was thinking of using it for baking meal type foods in smaller quantities since I would be cooking for no more than two. I don't do much of any dessert type foods.

[Chef]

I bought a DeLonghi oven for the purpose you described and it's been awesome.

Not sure what your budget is. They aren't the cheapest on the market, but man it will out-last the cheap ones 10x's over. You can get them at the better Dept. stores or on line at chef's store.

[Big River]

I can't remember the last time I used my regular oven.