Cosori Food Dehydrator Review: Is it Your Ultimate Kitchen Companion?

Designed in California, the Cosori Food Dehydrator dehydrates food efficiently by circulating hot air. Since the hot air eliminates the moisture in foods such as fruit and vegetables, the fungi/bacteria that are oftentimes present in that moisture are simultaneously taken care of, less food spoiled, and fewer health risks!

This dehydrator is a fantastic piece of appliance that can extend the shelf life of your favorite foods. It can easily and quickly dehydrate produce, meats even spices and herbs meaning you can store a lot of your food for future use.

The Cosori Food Dehydrator is easy to use. You can use the digital control setting to set the timer in 30-minute increments for up to 48 hours. Quickly and effectively dry food with the right temperatures between 95º-165ºF.

This Kitchen appliance is safe to use. It is certified by ETL and the FDA. This dehydrator is also BPA free which is essential for many customers. It has an auto shut off option which prevents the food from being overcooked and keeps the dehydrator from overheating so you won’t have any issues leaving it on.

Another great feature of this dehydrator is that it is easy to store and clean.  This dehydrator has five trays which are all BPA free and safe for dishwasher use. If you want to clean the dehydrator base, you can do so with a brush/sponge or a damp cloth.

You can stack all five trays to dehydrate more food and also save more space; it can also be stored quickly and safely and is compact and lightweight only  9.25 pounds.

Unpacking the Cosori Food Dehydrator: What’s in the Box?

When I first opened the box of the Cosori food dehydrator and took a look at the contents, my initial impression was a good one. The package was thoughtfully assembled, each plastic tray securely wrapped to prevent scuffing or scratching during transit. The sturdy structure of the dehydrator was certainly a plus point; it felt durable! 

The black front display of the Cosori Food Dehydrator has a digital control panel that makes it super easy to use, even if you’re a beginner. 

The circular design of the Cosori food dehydrator, let me tell you, is a space saver. It fits nicely onto my kitchen countertop without taking up much space. But don’t let its compact size fool you! Despite its neat footprint, the circular design doesn’t compromise on capacity.

There’s no need to fuss around with removing and rearranging trays, as you might with some other models. Simply peek through the transparent top and you’ll have a clear view of the top tray. 

FEATURES

  • The Cosori dehydrator has a built-in timer: You can use the digital touch control panel to change the time for up to 48 hours(in 30-minute increments), and you can also pause while dehydrating to check the food.
  • It has an adjustable thermostat which allows you to dehydrate various foods at the proper temperatures (95º-165º F) to get the best results.
  • It has auto-shutoff which prevents food from overcooking and the dehydrator from overheating.
  • It has a touch-control LED display.
  • It is safe for the trays to be cleaned in a dishwasher.
  • Memory Function
  • Power: 450W
  • It has five trays.

PROS

  • It is perfect for food preservation, delicious snacks, and preparation for people who love backpacking. It is excellent for dehydrating food in bulk and lets you decide how to dry your food.
  • The Cosori premium food dehydrator machine has an auto shut off option which is an excellent feature as you won’t need to keep checking on your food regularly.
  • It is easy to clean and BPA free.
  • It has a clear cover so you can see your dehydrated foods.

CONS

  • The clear cover only shows the top tray of the food dehydrator but not underneath.
  • It only has a 2-year warranty.

Getting Started: How to Use Your Cosori Food Dehydrator

If you’re anything like me, you’re probably eager to dive in and start using your Cosori food dehydrator. But before you do, let me walk you through some basics to get the most out of this machine. 

First off, set the dehydrator up on a flat, stable surface. This is a small kitchen gadget, so don’t worry about the counter space. I especially appreciate that Cosori designed this model in California with a sleek white finish, making it a stylish addition to my kitchen. 

Now, pop in your food items—meat for jerky, fruits, veggies, and even herbs. The package contents include five BPA-Free Trays, giving you plenty of room to experiment. I’ve even tried making dog treats for my fur babies! Remember to arrange your food items evenly on the trays to ensure consistent dehydration. 

Next, it’s time to set your temperature control and timer on the digital panel. I was pleasantly surprised by the wide temperature range (95ºF-165ºF), which means you can hit just the right temperature for any food item. The digital timer is super user-friendly, allowing you to set the drying cycle in 30-minute increments, up to a whopping 48 hours. 

I’m a big fan of overnight dehydrating, and the Cosori premium food dehydrator’s round-the-clock capability is a real game-changer. But if you’re worried about leaving it unattended, fear not! Cosori has thoughtfully included an automatic shut-off feature that prevents overheating, making it safe to let your dehydrator work while you’re away or asleep. 

Finally, hit that start button and let the Cosori do its magic. One thing I adore is how quiet this machine is. Seriously, the quiet hum is barely louder than the noise level in a library. 

So that’s all the basic run-down you need. Now, you’re ready to enjoy delicious, homemade snacks. Oh, and don’t forget to check out the included recipe book to whip up exotic dehydrated foods.

Cosori Dehydrator: Understanding the Temperature Control and Timer Features

Let’s dive right into one of the most appealing features of the Cosori dehydrator: the temperature control and timer functions. These features are explicitly designed to provide optimum ease and preciseness when dehydrating a wide array of food items. 

At first glance, you’ll see four circular buttons gracing the front of your Cosori food dehydrator. These aren’t just fancy features; they’re crucial for an outstanding dehydrating process. So, let’s break them down. 

First up, the ‘Temp/Time’ button. This is where you get to be in charge of the dehydrating process. By pressing this button, you can set just the right temperature for your food items, anywhere from 95°F to 165°F. Want to dry herbs gently at a low temperature? No problem. Craving crispy beef jerky that needs a bit more heat? You got it. This button is your key to a customizable dehydrating experience. 

Next, we have the ‘HR’ and ‘MIN’ buttons. Featuring a digital timer that you can set in 30-minute increments, these buttons give you the freedom to set your dehydrating time up to a whopping 48 hours. Yes, you read that right. Whether you want to dehydrate overnight or just for a few hours, the Cosori dehydrator is ready and waiting. 

Finally, the ‘Start/Stop’ button. This is where the magic begins (and ends!). Once you’ve set your temperature and time, simply press this button to kickstart the dehydrating process. And when your timer ends, or perhaps if you need to sneak a taste test, this button will also pause or completely stop the process when needed.

Easy Clean-up: The Dishwasher-Safe Convenience of Cosori Dehydrator

Cooking can be fun, but cleaning up afterward? Not so much! But don’t worry, with the Cosori Food Dehydrator, your clean-up woes will be eased. One of the key highlights of this dehydrator is certainly its dishwasher-safe features. Specifically, the BPA-free trays provided with the dehydrator make for an effortless clean-up. You can just pop them into the top rack of the dishwasher once you’ve finished drying your food. Seeming just a minor convenience, you can feel assured that it’s a feature you’ll come to appreciate after those long dehydrating sessions.

Even the mesh screen and fruit roll sheet are simple to clean. They’re also dishwasher-safe, giving you more time to enjoy your homemade snacks or to experiment on that next delicious batch of dried goods. Just toss them onto the top rack, select your cycle, and voila – your clean-up is complete.

Keeping it Quiet: The Low Noise Level of the Cosori Dehydrator

Let’s talk about a feature of the Cosori Food Dehydrator that really impressed me — its whisper-quiet operation. Noise levels in appliances can fluctuate wildly, but the Cosori Dehydrator is engineered to keep the ruckus to a minimum. The noise emitted by this machine is less than 48dB, which, if you’re wondering, is equivalent to the noise levels recorded in a hushed library. 

So, you might ask, “What does this mean to me?” Well, as someone who appreciates a calm kitchen atmosphere — especially during those late-night snack experiments — I can tell you that being able to operate the Cosori Dehydrator without being bothered by the hum and clatter common in other dehydrators is a huge boon. 

The low decibel level of the Cosori Dehydrator means that you can pretty much let this nifty machine do its work while you catch up on Netflix or drift into dreamland without any disruptive noises. And for those of you who are into making homemade snacks while everyone in your household is silently slumbering, this quiet operation is a total game-changer. 

To give you a perspective, let’s put this into context. A normal conversation at home measures about 50dB, a soft whisper about 30dB, and moderate rainfall about 50 dB. This means that the Cosori Dehydrator, outputting less than 48dB, would be heard as little more than a whisper even when working its magic at full gear.  Enjoy the peace and tranquility while your Cosori food dehydrator gets the job done!

Safe, Reliable Dehydrating: Understanding the Overheat Protection Feature

One of the key safety features making the Cosori Dehydrator a favorite choice among home cooks is the built-in overheat protection feature. This smart little add-on gives you peace of mind, especially when you’re drying food for extended periods. And let’s be honest – nobody wants to babysit their dehydrator overnight, right? Well, you don’t have to with the Cosori Dehydrator. If the dehydrator overheats, it’ll automatically shut itself off to prevent any damage, saving you from potential fire hazards or food wastage. 

This feature represents a significant selling point, particularly for those who juggle multiple kitchen tasks or for those dehydrating enthusiasts who like to leave their machine working while they catch some Zzz. With the Cosori, you can wake up to perfectly dried foods instead of kitchen disasters. This brilliant feature makes it possible to handle other chores or comfortably hit the sack, knowing your dehydrator won’t overwork itself or compromise your safety.

Comparing the Cosori Food Dehydrator Against Competitors

When it comes to choosing the best food dehydrator, there are plenty of contenders out there, but few match up to the versatile and intuitive Cosori Food Dehydrator. But let’s delve deeper into this and compare our star player with some of the other major players in the market. 

The Cosori Food Dehydrator stands head and shoulders above many competitors thanks to its sleek design and user-friendly features. It’s easy for beginners, with a digital timer offering adjustable temperature control, with temperature ranging between 95ºF-165ºF. This aspect, coupled with the capability to set the timer in 30-minute increments for up to 48 hours, certainly puts the Cosori dehydrator in a league of its own. 

On the other hand, Magic Mill Professional Food Dehydrator, another solid competitor, comes with a respectable six stainless steel drying racks and boasts of a digital thermostat and timer. While Magic Mill brings a lot to the table, especially for jerky lovers because of its high drying power, it lacks the sleek design of the Cosori dehydrator. Meanwhile, it’s worth mentioning that it does not have Cosori’s overheat protection, which could be a bit of a drawback for potential overnight dehydrators. 

Now let’s bring in the Excalibur 3926TB Food Dehydrator, known for its spacious nine trays, 15 square feet of drying space, and adjustable thermostat. It’s a behemoth when it comes to dehydrating large batches of food, but it lacks the convenient digital control panel found in the Cosori dehydrator. Moreover, the Excalibur, with its larger size, can take up a considerable amount of counter space, whereas the Cosori Food Dehydrator is more compact and kitchen-friendly. 

It’s also worth noting, for those considering animal-friendly options, that Cosori dehydrator offers the feature to make non-addictive dog treats, a benefit that might sway pet owners who are looking to create homemade snacks for their furry friends. 

In summary, while the Magic Mill and Excalibur dehydrators have unique selling points of their own, the Cosori Food Dehydrator strikes a fantastic balance of handy features, compact design, safety precautions and beginner-friendly usage and price, which sets it a cut above the rest. Ultimately, the decision will come down to personal preferences and specific dehydrating needs.

Stainless Steel vs Plastic Trays: Comparing Dehydrators

One of the unique selling points of the Cosori dehydrator is its BPA-free plastic trays. Unlike other models that use stainless steel trays, these plastic ones have been designed with safety and durability in mind. However, you might be wondering, why should that matter to you? Well, let’s dig a little deeper into the comparison between stainless steel and plastic trays and their respective pros and cons in a food dehydrator. 

Stainless steel trays have a reputation for being sturdy and long-lasting. They can handle high heat and are generally easy to clean – they often have the advantage of being dishwasher-safe. While stainless steel seems to be top dog in terms of durability, it can be costlier. That’s where plastic trays like those in the Cosori dehydrator shine, offering a more affordable alternative. 

Apart from their wallet-friendly nature, here’s what I like about the Cosori’s plastic trays: they are lightweight and easy to maneuver. Plus, they’re BPA-free, which is a significant consideration in today’s health-conscious market. Some of you might worry about plastic trays warping or cracking over time due to the heat. But, the Cosori dehydrator’s high-quality construction ensures this isn’t an issue, even with prolonged use. 

One concern with plastic trays, however, is the potential for food to stick, especially sugar-laden fruits. Here’s a pro tip: Line the trays with a piece of parchment paper or use the included fruit roll sheet for a fuss-free dehydrating experience. Dehydrating shouldn’t be a chore, and with the Cosori dehydrator in your corner, it certainly won’t be. 

Summing it up, both stainless steel and plastic trays have their own sets of pros and cons. But, in the case of the Cosori dehydrator, it’s clear that the benefits of the included BPA-free trays far outweigh any potential drawbacks for the majority of us home dehydrating enthusiasts. 

When considering your options, it all boils down to personal preference and specific needs. If you put high value on budget-friendly, lightweight, and health-conscious design, the Cosori dehydrator and its plastic trays are a solid contender.

Whipping Up Delights with the Cosori Food Dehydrator: A Peek into Delectable Recipes 

What’s cooking? Or rather, what’s dehydrating? With your brand new Cosori Dehydrator, the sky’s the limit when it comes to exploring a wide array of food items you can make. Let’s dive into some exciting recipes and creative culinary delights you can whip up using your Cosori Dehydrator. 

  • Beef Jerky: Season thinly sliced beef with your favorite marinade, place on the trays and adjust the temperature to 160°F. Dehydrate for roughly 4-6 hours and enjoy a protein-rich snack.
  • Fruit Leather: Puree fresh fruits like apricots, berries, or apples, then spread evenly on the fruit roll sheet. Dehydrate at 135°F for about 4-6 hours. Roll it up and store it for a nutritious, on-the-go snack.
  • Herb Crackers: Blend a mix of nuts, seeds, and fresh herbs such as parsley and basil. Spread the mixture on the trays and dehydrate at 115°F for 6 hours. Enjoy a gluten-free, nutrient-dense snack.
  • Homemade Dog Treats: Puree a mix of dog-friendly ingredients like sweet potatoes, carrots, and chicken. Spread the mixture on the trays and dehydrate at 165°F for about 6-8 hours. Your pup will love these healthy treats!
  • Dehydrated Veggies: Thinly slice your favorite vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or tomatoes. Arrange them on the trays and dehydrate at 125°F for 4-6 hours. These make for an excellent addition to soups and stews, or simply as a crunchy, healthy snack.

Securing Your Own Cosori: Where to Buy 

So, you’re sold on the idea of the Cosori Dehydrator and ready to buy? Great decision! You can easily find the Cosori Food Dehydrator online. It’s widely available on e-commerce sites such as Amazon, Cosori’s official website, and various kitchen appliance retailers. When purchasing, just make sure to verify that you are getting the package contents complete with 5 BPA-Free Trays, 1 Mesh Screen, 1 Fruit Roll Sheet, and the original recipe book. Adding this marvel to your kitchen tools will certainly up your homemade snacks game.

SUMMARY

The Cosori Food Dehydrator is an excellent kitchen appliance for occasional use. With its built-in timer, auto shutoff, and BPA free trays, it will give you a tremendous dehydrating experience. This is a mid-priced dehydrator which is compact and easy to store. Great for families, backpackers, travelers, and people who love to snack. We recommend this amazing product.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Cosori Food Dehydrator

What are the Best Brands of Food Dehydrators?

When it comes to top brands in the food dehydrator world, there are a few names that commonly rise to the top. Outside of the Cosori Food Dehydrator that we’re focussing on here, Excalibur is often lauded for its high-capacity models perfect for large-scale drying tasks. Then, there’s Nesco; their Snackmaster range is beloved for its affordability and user-friendliness. Presto dehydrators, specifically their Dehydro line, also draw high marks for their expandable drying trays. Last, but not least, Hamilton Beach makes a name for itself with high-wattage, and quick drying capabilities often at a budget-friendly price point. It’s worth noting that, while all of these brands produce quality dehydrators, the best option largely depends on individual needs. User-friendly interface, noise levels, drying capacity, and cost-effectiveness are factors to consider when making a choice. 

Is COSORI a Good Food Dehydrator?

With my experience as a user, I’d say that the Cosori Food Dehydrator is a game-changer in the kitchen. This well-designed appliance, hailing from sunny California, sports a brilliant combination of practical features and a sleek design that would make any countertop proud. 

One remarkable feature of this dehydrator is its user-friendly digital control panel. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, getting the hang of this machine is as easy as pie. The easy-to-use digital timer and adjustable temperature control let you customize your dehydrating tasks with precision. The timer can be set in 30-minute increments for up to 48 hours – yes, you read that right, 48 hours! As for the temperature, it offers a versatile range, from 95ºF-165ºF, allowing for just the right temperature for every food item, from tangy beef jerky to crunchy dog treats. 

Speaking of versatility, the Cosori Dehydrator boasts an impressive breadth of uses. You can create a healthy, homemade variety of dried foods, from meats to fruits and veggies. It even allows you to craft non-addictive treats for your furry friends. Add to this the capacity of creating dry food for outdoor adventures, and it truly shows its worth. 

Let’s talk about operating noise. Have you tried running other appliances overnight and ended up tossing and turning due to the sounds? Well, no such worries here. The noise level of this dehydrator barely surpasses that of a whispering library, promising peaceful slumbers even while it does its work. Plus, safety is built right in, thanks to the auto shut-off feature acting as a guardian against overheating. 

Finally, from an aesthetic standpoint, the Cosori Food Dehydrator carries a classic, minimalistic white design that blends effortlessly into any kitchen décor. Plus, its footprint won’t devour much of your precious counter space. 

So, to answer the question, is the Cosori a good food dehydrator? Yes, it certainly is. After all, good things come in well-dehydrated packages!

author avatar
Danny
Hey there, since 2016, my mission has been to provide you with the information and guides you need to make food dehydrating simple and fun. Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned pro, my site offers helpful guides, reviews, and recipes to enhance your dehydrating experience. I take pride in only recommending products I believe in, ensuring my readers' trust. As an affiliate of various programs, including Amazon Associates, your support helps me continue providing quality content. Thanks for stopping by, and happy dehydrating!