What if I want to make plain cookies? I just want to use the press to make it easier, but not to make designs.
1192636
No, I don't think it could be used to make plain cookies as it needs a patterned disc at the end.
1192637
I don't think the press would work without using one of the design plates. Without one of them, I think you'd just be forcing out a huge cylinder of dough, if anything. I've seen other presses that have 'plain' plates. As far as making things easier, that's not what I think of when I use this press. I've been mostly underwhelmed with its usefulness and performance. My old Mirro and newer Marcato/Atlas are far superior to this piece of flimsy, plastic junk from OXO.
1192638
For plain cookies I just roll the dough into 1-inch or so balls and flatten it with the bottom of a glass dipped in flour or sugar to keep it from sticking to the dough. No press needed.
1192639
Spread out your cookie dough evenly in the middle of a large piece of parchment paper. Fold the paper over the dough and use a bench scraper to force the paper under the dough, being careful to not cut through the paper. Roll into a cylinder and twist the ends to make a sausage shape like a roll of Pillsbury cookie dough. Refrigerate an hour or so, slice and bake. No cookie press needed.
1192640
Several the included disks are for simple, non-seasonal designs - flower, shell, leaf, wreath - but you do need to use a design disk in the press. Click on the photo, then scroll thru to the last of the 20 pictures to see the examples of shapes. I am very happy with this press, used it extensively for December baking, and find it much easier and faster to use than my old Mirro ever was.
1986326
I don't understand why you would have to "cure or pre-cure" the press. It is not heated up like a cast iron skillet. I did not cure or pre cure mine (but used the plastic bag because I am gluten free) and my flours respond differently. In any case it worked fine.
1908203
No, you just use your own recipe or a boxed mix. It works great. I also use the paper cupcake liners, which are very convenient.
1877668
No. The press is flat. You need to turn whatever you are cooking over to get grill marks on both sides.
1136034
I don't know. The cheese press was a Christmas gift to my son. I could pass on any comments he has in the future.
1130738
Yes, cookies really stick to the cookie sheet and don't bake evenly. You will definitely need parchment or something.
1791307
Paper or foil muffin cups work. You don't need to put it on a cookie sheet, though I could see why you might want to. I never have.
19097
Nothing cooking wise when it comes to texture etc. The iron press in my opinon is easier. Just pour in mixture and wait for it to cook on its own. These for sure come out nice and thick!
1512286
You could, but I would be gentle not to rip the material. Nothing sticks to it so if I am making cookies I generally just pick them up with my hands.
1657708
As JG says, the barrel seems sturdy but the pressing mechanism is not. Try looking for a Mirro "cooky" press on eBay. These vintage cookie presses are all metal and very sturdy and well-made. The only disadvantage is that there isn't as wide a variety of disks available for them.
1637481
Not sure, but pizzelles have so much butter in them, I've never had one stick to this press, and I prefer the thin crispy cookies vs the thicker chewier ones.
2121700
Thank you for your inquiry. We can do this, yes, however it normally costs a little extra for this service. Since you so politely inquired, we would be happy to include the cookie separation 30/30 service for free with your first purchase. Thanks and we look forward to working with you throughout the customization process.
824032
I feel you don't really need a recipe book. Once you find what will/will not work in the unit you're good to go.
1455537
I would do like Alice Hager said, make sure that the cookie press is screwed tightly together, the dough is at room temperature. Use the recipe included with the press, I did and it made cookie very easily.
2244031
i would not put the press in you non stick skillet. it will scratch the finish easily
1759890
No you can't, you need a priming tool. Or if you get a Lee press, it comes with it.
1646731
Cookies, yes. Not sure about chocolate. It's heavy so i would think you can.Nice pan!