2 Slice Toaster with Cancel Button, Easy Clean Tray, Wide Slots
Why This Hamilton Beach Toaster Stands Out
The Hamilton Beach 2 Slice Toaster with Extra-Wide Slots (Model 22794) is designed to deliver fast, even browning with a stainless steel finish that matches modern kitchens. What makes it compelling isn’t just its premium look—the performance-forward Bagel mode, reliable Toast Boost, and mess-saving slide-out crumb tray come together to remove the everyday friction from breakfast. Add Auto-Shutoff, a responsive Cancel button, and a true Defrost setting that handles frozen slices without burning edges, and you have a hassle-free countertop essential built for daily use.
- Fast Setup Plug-and-go design with intuitive controls.
- Consistent Browning Dial-based shade control for repeatable results.
- Versatile From artisanal bread to bagels and frozen waffles.
Specifications & Functions
| Brand / Model | Hamilton Beach — 2 Slice Toaster, Stainless Steel (22794) |
|---|---|
| Slots | Extra-wide slots designed for thick bagels, Texas toast, and artisan slices |
| Core Settings | Bagel • Defrost • Cancel • Auto-Shutoff |
| Browning Control | Adjustable shade selector for light to dark toast |
| Convenience | Toast Boost lever for easy lift and safer retrieval |
| Cleanup | Slide-out crumb tray; smooth stainless surfaces wipe clean |
| Construction | Stainless steel exterior with cool-touch details |
| Safety | Auto-Shutoff, Cancel button to stop cycle instantly |
| Use Cases | Bagels, sliced breads, English muffins, waffles, frozen pastries |
Key Features in Everyday Use
Extra-Wide Slots = Real-World Flexibility
Standard toasters choke on thick cuts; the 22794’s extra-wide slots welcome bakery-style loaves, hand-cut sourdough, and fluffy bagels. The wider carriage ensures even exposure to the heating elements so the center warms while the outside crisps.
Bagel Setting That Gets It Right
True bagel mode prioritizes the cut side for a golden, toasty bite while gently warming the outer crust. Your sesame seeds don’t scorch, and the interior gets that café-style crunch-to-chew balance you’re after.
Toast Boost for Safer Retrieval
When the cycle ends, lift the lever for a little extra height. Toast Boost raises smaller slices and English muffins above the rim, minimizing fingertip risks and grabbing at hot edges.
Defrost Without Guesswork
Pop in frozen bread, press Defrost, and the toaster automatically compensates for the temperature difference, thawing then toasting to your chosen shade without over-drying.
Slide-Out Crumb Tray = Clean Countertops
Pull, empty, slide back in—no flipping the toaster upside down. A clean tray not only keeps your space tidy; it also supports consistent browning by preventing old crumbs from smoldering.
Auto-Shutoff + Cancel = Peace of Mind
Walk away mid-cycle? Auto-Shutoff ends the session and the Cancel button gives you immediate control at any time. It’s simple safety that fits busy mornings.
Perfecting Bagels, Breads & Beyond
If your breakfast lineup includes everything from chewy bagels to rustic boules, this toaster adapts without fuss. The Bagel setting delivers a toasted cut side and warm exterior, while the standard cycle evens out dense sourdoughs or lighter sandwich loaves. English muffins come out with just the right nook-and-cranny crispness, and waffles retain a steamy interior with a crunchy grid.
- Thick to Thin: Extra-wide slots keep bread upright for even exposure.
- Predictable Shades: Dial in your preferred level once and repeat tomorrow.
- No Burn Ends: Balanced heating reduces scorching on edges.
Easy Cleaning & Safety
Maintenance is wonderfully straightforward. The slide-out crumb tray prevents buildup and the stainless body wipes down quickly. With Auto-Shutoff preventing over-toasting and a fast-acting Cancel button, you’re in control even on hectic mornings. Fewer crumbs and fewer worries equal a more pleasant start to the day.
Quick Care Routine
- Dial to your usual shade.
- Use Bagel or Defrost as needed.
- After breakfast, pull the tray, dump crumbs, wipe, done.
Built for Daily Use
The lever feels sturdy, the controls are tactile, and the housing resists everyday smudges. It’s the kind of appliance you’ll use twice a day without thinking about it—precisely the point.
Hands-On Experience: What You’ll Notice
From the first slice, the Hamilton Beach 22794 behaves like a seasoned barista—quietly competent. The heating is consistent across both slots, the browning dial gives real control rather than vague increments, and the carriage holds slices centered instead of letting them drift. Small touches make a big difference: Toast Boost feels secure; the bagel mode really does privilege the cut face; and frozen pastries avoid that dreaded dry middle. Best of all, it’s quick: you’ll move from frozen to finished in minutes, with repeatable results that don’t demand your attention.
This predictability is what separates an average toaster from a keeper. When your morning routine runs on rails, you save time and avoid frustration. The 22794 becomes the steady, unobtrusive teammate that makes breakfast taste—and feel—better.
Who It’s Best For
Busy Households
Dependable, fast cycles and safe retrieval make it ideal for families getting out the door on time.
Bagel Lovers
True bagel mode delivers café-style results without trial and error.
Small Kitchens
Two slices, compact footprint, premium stainless look—easy to leave out on the counter.
Frozen-First Eaters
Defrost handles freezer staples—bread, waffles, pastries—without over-toasting.
FAQ (Quick Cards)
Q: Will thick bagels fit without getting stuck?
A: Yes. The extra-wide slots are designed for bagels and thick artisan slices, and the Toast Boost lever lifts shorter pieces for easy removal.
Q: What does the Bagel setting actually do?
A: It emphasizes heat on the cut side while gently warming the outer side, giving you a crisp interior and a tender exterior—classic deli-style bagels.
Q: Can I toast from frozen without pre-thawing?
A: Absolutely. Use Defrost to add a brief thaw phase before toasting to your selected shade.
Q: How do I keep the toaster clean?
A: Empty the slide-out crumb tray regularly and wipe the stainless exterior with a soft cloth. This helps maintain even browning and a crumb-free counter.
Q: Is there a quick way to stop toasting?
A: Yes—the Cancel button halts the cycle instantly, and Auto-Shutoff adds a safety backstop.