If you’re an avid baker, you know that the right oven is essential to creating perfect treats. Electric ovens are a popular choice for homeowners due to their convenience and precision. While gas ovens are still a great choice, electric ovens bring convenience to the table.
So in this Home Centrale post, we’ll explore 11 things to know about baking with an electric oven, the latest trends and innovations in baking with an electric oven, as well as provide some tips and tricks to help you achieve delicious results. Ready? Let’s go!
Want to learn more about convection ovens? Go here!
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The Benefits of Baking with an Electric Oven
Electric ovens have come a long way since they were first introduced in 1896. Since then till now, there have been so many improvements and benefits to using one in your home. Here are just a few:
- Precision: Electric ovens allow for precise temperature control, making it easier to bake delicate items like macarons or soufflés.
- Consistency: Unlike gas ovens, electric ovens provide consistent heat throughout the baking process, preventing hot spots and ensuring even cooking.
- Convenience: Electric ovens typically heat up faster than gas ovens, and they don’t require an open flame, making them safer to use.
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Electric vs Gas Ovens
To help you decide which type of oven is right for you, we’ve created a comparison table that outlines the differences between electric and gas ovens.
| Electric Ovens | Gas Ovens |
|---|---|
| More even and consistent heat | Heat can fluctuate |
| Longer preheat and cool down times | Faster preheat and cool down times |
| Requires a dedicated electrical circuit | Requires a gas line |
| Easy to clean | Requires more maintenance |
| More energy-efficient | Less energy-efficient |
Innovations in Electric Oven Technology
As baking has become more popular in recent years, electric oven manufacturers have been working to develop new technologies to make the process even easier and more precise. Here are a few of the latest innovations:
- Smart ovens: Some electric ovens now come equipped with smart technology that allows you to control the oven from your smartphone. You can preheat the oven, set the temperature, and even receive notifications when your food is done.
- Steam ovens: Steam ovens are becoming more popular in the baking world, as they allow you to bake bread and other items with a crispy crust and soft interior. They work by injecting steam into the oven, creating the perfect environment for baking.
- Dual-fuel ovens: If you want the best of both worlds, a dual-fuel oven may be the way to go. These ovens combine the precision of an electric oven with the power of a gas stovetop.
Best Electric Ovens to Buy in 2023
1. Breville BOV845BSS Smart Oven Pro
The Breville BOV845BSS Smart Oven Pro is a versatile electric oven that’s perfect for any home baker. With its 10 pre-set cooking functions, including baking, roasting, and broiling, you can easily bake anything from a batch of cookies to a roast beef dinner. The oven also has a convection feature that allows for even baking and a built-in fan that circulates hot air for faster cooking times. Plus, its sleek stainless steel design will look great in any kitchen.
2. KitchenAid KCO255BM Dual Convection Countertop Toaster Oven
The KitchenAid KCO255BM Dual Convection Countertop Toaster Oven is another great option for home bakers. Its dual convection feature ensures even cooking, and its large interior can accommodate up to six slices of bread or a 12-inch pizza. The oven also has a built-in temperature probe that allows you to monitor the internal temperature of your food, and this ensures that it’s cooked to perfection.
3. Cuisinart TOB-260N1 Chef’s Convection Toaster Oven
The Cuisinart TOB-260N1 Chef’s Convection Toaster Oven is a high-quality electric oven that’s perfect for baking, broiling, and toasting. Its spacious interior can hold up to a 4-pound chicken or a 12-inch pizza, with its convection feature that ensures even baking. The oven also comes with a baking tray, broiling rack, and crumb tray for easy cleaning.
4. Hamilton Beach 31103DA Countertop Convection & Rotisserie Toaster Oven
If you love roasting meat then the Hamilton Beach 31103DA Countertop Convection & Rotisserie Toaster Oven is a great option. Its built-in rotisserie feature allows you to roast chicken, beef, or pork to perfection, and its convection feature ensures even cooking. The oven also comes with a baking pan, broiling rack, and crumb tray for easy cleaning.
5. BLACK+DECKER TO3290XSD 8-Slice Digital Convection Countertop Toaster Oven
The BLACK+DECKER TO3290XSD 8-Slice Digital Convection Countertop Toaster Oven is a budget-friendly option that still delivers great results. Its digital controls and convection feature make it easy to cook everything from a batch of cookies to a roast beef dinner, and its large interior can hold up to eight slices of bread or a 12-inch pizza. This electric oven also comes with a baking pan, broiling rack, and crumb tray.
*Prices are only accurate at the time of publication of this post; this may change at any time.
11 Things To Know About Baking with an Electric Oven at Home
Baking is an art that requires precision and patience. With the help of the right tools, anyone can create mouth-watering baked goods that can satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.
One of the most important tools in your baking arsenal is your oven. If you have an electric oven at home, there are a few things you should know to make sure your baked goods turn out perfectly every time. Here are 11 things to keep in mind when baking with an electric oven.
1. Understand the Heating Process
Unlike gas ovens, electric ovens use heating elements to generate heat. This process can take longer than gas ovens, but once the oven has reached the desired temperature, it is more consistent. It is important to preheat your electric oven for at least 10-15 minutes before baking to ensure that your baked goods cook evenly and thoroughly.
2. Know Your Oven’s Temperature
Electric ovens can have hot spots, which means that some areas of the oven may be hotter than others. To avoid burning your baked goods, it is important to know where these hot spots are. You can do this by placing a few pieces of white bread on the rack and baking them for a few minutes. The areas where the bread browns faster are the hot spots.
3. Invest in an Oven Thermometer
To ensure that your oven is at the correct temperature, invest in an oven thermometer. You can get one from your local appliance store or on Amazon. This will give you an accurate reading of the temperature inside your oven, allowing you to adjust the temperature if necessary.
4. Use the Right Bakeware
When baking with an electric oven, it is important to use the right bakeware. Glass and ceramic dishes are good choices because they distribute heat evenly. Avoid using dark metal pans, as they can absorb more heat and cause your baked goods to burn.
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5. Avoid Opening the Door During Baking
Opening the door during baking can cause the oven temperature to drop, which can lead to uneven baking. Avoid opening the door unless it is absolutely necessary.
6. Use the Right Rack
The position of your baking sheet in the oven can also affect the baking process. For example, placing your baking sheet too close to the top of the oven can cause your baked goods to burn. Always use the middle rack unless the recipe specifies otherwise.
7. Rotate Your Baked Goods
To ensure even baking, rotate your baked goods halfway through the baking time. This will ensure that they cook evenly on all sides.
8. Use a Baking Stone
If you are serious about baking, consider investing in a baking stone. This will help distribute heat evenly, resulting in perfectly baked goods every time.
9. Keep Your Oven Clean
A clean oven is essential for even baking. Make sure to clean your oven regularly to avoid any buildup of grease or food particles that can affect the baking process.
10. Don’t Overcrowd Your Oven
Overcrowding your oven can affect the baking process by blocking the heat from circulating evenly. Make sure there is enough space around your baked goods to allow for proper air circulation.
11. Experiment and Have Fun
Baking is a fun and creative process. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different recipes and techniques. With a little practice, you can become a master baker in no time!
Conclusion
Baking with an electric oven can be a rewarding experience if you know how to use it properly. If you’re like me who loves to eat homemade warm pies on Saturdays, then you’d know that the choice of an electric oven will come in handy for your home.
Remember to follow our guidelines while you apply some creativity to your baking. Happy baking!
