The option to set a toaster to a high temperature that can potentially burn the bread might seem counterintuitive, but it exists for a few reasons:
Personal Preferences: Different people have different preferences when it comes to how they like their toast. Some prefer lightly toasted bread, while others like it darker and crunchier. By offering a wide range of toasting settings, manufacturers cater to a broader audience with varying tastes.
Versatility: Toaster ovens are not just used for toasting bread; they can also be used for other tasks like broiling, baking, and heating various food items. The higher settings are necessary for these other functions and can be useful when toasting items like bagels or thicker slices of bread that may require more heat.
Time Efficiency: Some individuals may prefer a quicker toasting process, and higher settings allow for a faster toasting time. This can be convenient for busy mornings or when people are in a rush.
Compensation for Older Toasters: Over time, toaster heating elements can lose efficiency, resulting in less effective toasting at lower settings. The higher settings can compensate for this decline in performance, allowing the toaster to still produce adequately toasted bread.
Culinary Use: Some recipes or cooking techniques may require toasting at higher temperatures to achieve specific outcomes, like toasting breadcrumbs for a recipe or making homemade croutons.
While the higher settings can potentially lead to burnt toast if not monitored closely, they serve a purpose for those who prefer their toast that way or need the versatility of the appliance for other culinary tasks. It's essential to know your toaster and adjust the settings according to your preferences to avoid burning the bread unintentionally.