Baking cookies in a toaster oven might seem a bit unconventional, but it’s actually quite simple once you know the tricks. A toaster oven is great for baking cookies because it provides a compact, energy-efficient alternative to a full-sized oven, while still offering the same performance.
To bake cookies in a toaster oven, preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C), prepare the cookie dough, and drop spoonfuls onto a lined baking sheet. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, checking on them occasionally to make sure they don’t burn.
Now that we’ve established that baking cookies in a toaster oven is definitely possible, let’s dive into the details of how to do it and what to keep in mind along the way.
- Cookie Dough Recipe: Serving Size Adjusted For Toaster Ovens
- How to Bake Cookies in a Toaster Oven
- Can You Bake Cookies in a Convection Toaster Oven?
- Pros and Cons of Baking Cookies in a Toaster Oven
- Issues and Solutions When Baking Cookies in a Toaster Oven
- Final Thoughts on Baking Cookies in a Toaster Oven
Cookie Dough Recipe: Serving Size Adjusted For Toaster Ovens
Following is the recipe to make cookie dough yourself. In case you have cookie dough ready, skip to the baking instructions.
Toaster Oven Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1/8 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1/8 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 cup of unsalted, softened butter
- 1/3 cup of granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons of packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup of chocolate chips or other mix-ins
Instructions
- In a medium-sized bowl combine 1/3 cup of flour, 1/8 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/8 teaspoon of salt. Give them a quick whisk to make sure everything is evenly distributed.1/3 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/8 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/8 teaspoon of salt
- In a separate large bowl, beat together 1/4 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1/3 cup of granulated sugar, and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar until they’re light and fluffy.1/4 cup of unsalted, softened butter, 1/3 cup of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of packed brown sugar
- Add in a large egg yolk, making sure to mix well. Then, stir in your 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract.1 large egg yolk, 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- Slowly incorporate your dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
- Finally, fold in 1/4 cup of chocolate chips or other mix-ins of your choice.1/4 cup of chocolate chips or other mix-ins
- Bake in a preheated toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for 12 minutes. Check occasionally to make sure there's no burning.
How to Bake Cookies in a Toaster Oven
When you have cookie dough ready baking cookies in a toaster oven is pretty straightforward. The steps are as follows:
1. Preheat the Toaster Oven to 350°F
For optimal results, you should bake cookies in a preheated toaster oven. Select the “bake” setting and set the temperature to 350°F (180°C). If the recipe you’re following requires a different temperature, set it accordingly.
2. Line the Baking Sheet
Line the baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat (we recommend Silpat). If you got nothing to line your baking sheet with, use a thin layer of butter, shortening, or non-stick cooking spray to coat the sheet evenly. This will help prevent the cookies from sticking to the surface.
3. Put Cookie Dough on the Baking Sheet
Using a small ice cream scoop or spoon, drop rounded balls of cookie dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Be sure to leave enough space between each cookie to allow for even baking. You should be able to fit five to six cookies on a toaster oven baking sheet.
4. Bake the Cookies for 10-12 min
Place your baking sheet in the preheated toaster oven and bake for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges of your cookies are golden brown. Keep a close eye on your cookies, as toaster ovens can sometimes bake unevenly or faster than traditional ovens.
Once your cookies are done, remove the baking sheet from the toaster oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Can You Bake Cookies in a Convection Toaster Oven?
Yes, you can bake cookies in a convection toaster oven. In fact, convection toaster ovens are ideal for baking cookies because they have a fan that circulates the hot air, resulting in even and consistent baking. Just be sure to lower the baking temperature by about 25°F (15°C) and keep an eye on the cookies to avoid overbaking.
Pros and Cons of Baking Cookies in a Toaster Oven
Toaster ovens offer a unique and convenient way to bake cookies, but they also come with their own set of advantages and drawbacks. We will explore the pros and cons of baking cookies in a toaster oven, helping you make an informed decision about whether this method is right for you.
Here’s a comparison table to provide an overview of the benefits and challenges associated with using a toaster oven for baking cookies:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Great for small batches: Toaster ovens are ideal for baking small batches of cookies, perfect for those who don’t want to bake a large quantity at once. | Limited space: Toaster ovens have a smaller baking space, which means you can bake fewer cookies at a time compared to a traditional oven. |
| Faster preheating: Toaster ovens heat up more quickly than conventional ovens, reducing the overall baking time. | Uneven baking: Toaster ovens might bake cookies unevenly, resulting in some cookies being overcooked or undercooked. |
| Doesn’t heat up the kitchen: Since toaster ovens are smaller and use less energy, they don’t heat up the surrounding area as much as a conventional oven. | Not suitable for all cookie types: Large or delicate cookies might not bake as well in a toaster oven due to space limitations and uneven heating. |
| Compact and portable: Toaster ovens are perfect for small kitchens, apartments, or dorm rooms, and they can be easily moved if needed. | Learning curve: Baking in a toaster oven might require some trial and error to achieve the desired results, as the process can differ from using a conventional oven. |
| Saves energy: Toaster ovens use less energy than conventional ovens, making them more energy-efficient and eco-friendly. |
Issues and Solutions When Baking Cookies in a Toaster Oven
- Uneven baking: Cookies might bake unevenly due to hot spots in the toaster oven. To solve this, rotate the baking sheet halfway through the baking process to ensure even baking.
- Overbaking or underbaking: Toaster ovens might bake faster or slower than conventional ovens. Keep a close eye on your cookies and adjust the baking time as needed. Use an oven thermometer for more accurate temperature control.
- Burned bottoms: If your cookies have burned bottoms, try using a double layer of baking sheets to insulate the cookies from direct heat. You can also place a sheet of aluminum foil on the oven rack below the baking sheet to help reflect heat away from the cookies.
- Dry or tough cookies: Overmixing the dough or using too much flour can lead to dry or tough cookies. Mix the ingredients until just combined and measure your flour correctly, leveling it off with a knife.
- Cookies spreading too much or not enough: This issue can be caused by incorrect butter temperature or improperly measured ingredients. Ensure your butter is softened but not melted, and measure your ingredients accurately.
- Inconsistent cookie size: To ensure your cookies bake evenly, use a cookie scoop or measuring spoon to portion out the dough. This will help you achieve a consistent size and shape for each cookie.
By addressing these common issues and applying the solutions provided, you can enjoy perfectly baked cookies in a toaster oven every time.
FAQs About Baking Cookies in a Toaster Oven
Are Toaster Ovens Good for Baking Cookies?
Toaster ovens are good for baking cookies, especially for small batches. They are smaller than regular ovens, so they can heat up faster, which means you can start baking sooner. However, be cautious with temperature settings and baking times, as toaster ovens can vary in heat distribution and may require adjustments.
What is the Best Temperature for Baking Cookies in a Toaster Oven?
The best temperature for baking cookies in a toaster oven generally ranges from 325°F to 350°F (165°C to 180°C). However, it’s essential to consult your specific toaster oven manual and follow the recipe’s recommended temperature, making adjustments as needed based on your oven’s performance and heat distribution.
How do You Keep Cookies From Burning in a Toaster Oven?
To keep cookies from burning in a toaster oven correctly adjust the baking time and temperature. If your toaster oven has hot spots, rotate the baking sheet halfway through the baking time. Line the baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and burning. Finally, keep a close eye on the cookies while they are baking.
Final Thoughts on Baking Cookies in a Toaster Oven
Baking cookies in a toaster oven is an excellent alternative to using a conventional oven, especially for those with limited space, looking to save energy, or wanting to bake smaller batches. With the right recipe and ingredients, and by following the tips outlined in this article, you can achieve delicious and perfectly baked cookies in a toaster oven.
It may take some practice and adjustments, but once you’ve mastered the art of toaster oven cookie baking, you’ll have a convenient and efficient way to satisfy your cookie cravings anytime. So go ahead and give it a try – happy baking!
