Convection Oven

A convection oven saves a lot of time and power, since these ovens cook foods up to 50 percent faster than ordinary household ovens. These ovens can actually replace three to four other kitchen appliances, including the microwave, toaster oven, and conventional oven, freeing up space in the kitchen and on the countertops. There is also a good selection of features, sizes, and price ranges to choose from.

A convection oven is capable of baking, broiling, toasting, reheating, defrosting and keeping foods warm. These ovens are designed to distribute an even flow of air around the food inside, producing consistent results time after time. It also acts like a toaster oven, quickly and evenly browning breads, biscuits, bagels, muffins and more. Look for models by Black & Decker and others.

Some of these ovens are 2-tier ovens. Use both racks to cook a full batch of cookies or even two pizzas. Or, remove the top rack for cooking larger foods, such as a roast or casserole. Some models also come with a crumb tray to help keep the bottom of the unit clean. Another handy feature is a baking pan that fits nicely onto the oven rack for making cookies, toast, pretzels and other foods. Countertop ovens are attractive enough to keep on the counter all the time, yet compact enough to stow away in the cabinet when it isn't needed. Find models from Frigidaire and more.

Other features available on some models include programmable presetting for commonly cooked foods, such as pizza and toast. Many models include handy timers and automatic shut-offs so foods aren't overdone if the cook is busy when the time's up. Look for digital ovens with LED displays that virtually never burn out. These are offered by Calphalon and others.

A larger convection oven is ideal for larger families and people who frequently entertain or cook for others. Look for large 6-slice ovens that hold six pieces of toast at once, or up to two medium-size pizzas. These ovens are available by Krups and more.

Shop for a convection oven to meet a variety of needs around the kitchen, at Macy's.