Should I Buy the New Cookie Press? Potato Ricing Explained

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Discussion Overview

The thread discusses the new cookie press from Pampered Chef, comparing it to the old version, and explores the technique of potato ricing. Participants share their experiences with both the cookie press and potato ricing, expressing varying opinions on the new design and its usability.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, expresses interest in the new cookie press due to a promotional offer but seeks opinions on its value compared to the old version.
  • Another participant explains that potato ricing involves pressing cooked potatoes through small holes for a smoother texture, noting their preference for the new cookie press's metal disks and handle design.
  • One participant shares a negative experience with the old cookie press, citing mechanical issues and inconsistent cookie results, and expresses excitement about the new design.
  • Another participant agrees that the new design looks better and acknowledges the challenges they faced with the old press.
  • One participant mentions a customer with arthritis who is concerned about the new cookie press's usability, indicating uncertainty about how to advise her.
  • Another participant suggests that if the customer can squeeze but struggles with twisting, she may prefer to buy the old model as a backup.
  • One participant raises a question about whether the customer can wait to try the new model before making a purchase decision.
  • Another participant shares their dissatisfaction with the old cookie press and questions the need for potato ricing, suggesting a hand mixer instead.
  • One participant notes the differences in texture between whipped, riced, and mashed potatoes, mentioning that riced potatoes are less common to find now.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ regarding the effectiveness and usability of the old versus the new cookie press, with some participants expressing excitement about the new design while others remain skeptical. There is no clear consensus on the best option for users with specific needs, such as those with arthritis.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences and preferences related to the cookie press and potato ricing, reflecting a range of usability concerns and cooking techniques.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants considering the new cookie press or those interested in potato ricing techniques may find the shared experiences and opinions relevant.

wadesgirl
Gold Member
Messages
11,383
I never owned the previous cookie press but thought with the fact that I can get it half price on the open stock pieces that I may order it. For those who have used the old one do you think it's worth it to get the new one? What exactly is potato ricing?

One thing I didn't like about the old one was if a customer asked me about it I didn't have any answers for them!
 
Potato ricing is pressing cooked potatoes through small holes so that they're almost as smooth as whipped potatoes. If your family likes its mashed potatoes with no lumps at all, ricing is the way to go.I love the control of the turned handle as apposed to the ratcheted trigger handle. I also like that the disks are metal instead of plastic. I can see this being a hit in my area.
 
I loved the idea of the old one- but it didn't work all that great. I've had mine for over two years, and it literally pooped out on me after my 1 year warranty expired. bleh. the plunger mechanisim doesn't dispense the correct amount of dough, and I always had to practice with it to get the right amount out with the trigger. AND then the cookies would burn, because inevtiable they were too thin in spots. I NEVER had butterfly or pumpkin shaped cookies work. SO I am very excited about a new design and yes I'm buying it.
 
Me too! It looks so much better! We have the old one and it was always a question of "holding your mouth right" to get them to work!
 
I have a customer tonight that has arthritis. She loves the old cookie press and is worried she won't like the new one. She can't twist (like the new one), and is thinking about buying the one we have now. Not sure how to respond or what to recommend... your thoughts?
 
I don't have the new one yet and haven't used it- if she really likes it yep I'd tell her to get another one, you can't be positive it will surface in the outlet!!
 
Can she squeeze? Many people with arthritic hands can't squeeze the trigger on the current cookie press. I've also found the current press to be a little temperamental. Additionally, some shapes seem to need a squeeze and a half, which makes it even trickier to use. (Can you tell that I'm overjoyed they redesigned it?)
 
She said she can squeeze but has trouble with turning (or twisting). It sounds like in her situation, she may want to buy the old one. I told her she can try the new one at the next party, but she's worried she won't like it and will miss out on getting the old one. She owns the old one, but wants a back up - :)
 
Can she wait till August so she can try your new one? Then if she doesn't like it, she can still order the current one?
 
If they're all sold out (which I doubt) then I'd be happy to part with my gently-used one dirt cheap!I have fielded complaints about this item, returned one for a customer and haven't much liked mine much either. I am not sure about getting one (toying with it b/c if I do need one for a show, anyone who has one is a good 20 miles away) but I would like to know how the other one works. Potato ricing sounds like a lot of hassle ... why not just turn on the good old fashioned hand mixer?
 
Whipped potatoes (made with a mixer) have a different texture than riced potatoes, which are different than mashed potatoes. It just depends on what you like. Many people put their potatoes through a ricer. They're hard to find now, though.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I buy the new Cookie Press?

The new Cookie Press is designed for ease of use and versatility, making it a great addition to any baker's toolkit. If you enjoy making cookies, especially in various shapes and designs, this tool can save you time and effort. Consider your baking habits and whether you often make cookies that require a press; if so, it may be worth the investment.

What features does the new Cookie Press offer?

The new Cookie Press comes with multiple discs for different shapes, a comfortable grip for easy squeezing, and a durable construction that ensures it will last through many baking sessions. Additionally, it is easy to clean, which is a significant advantage for busy bakers.

How does potato ricing work?

Potato ricing involves using a ricer, a kitchen tool that resembles a large garlic press, to create smooth and fluffy mashed potatoes. By forcing cooked potatoes through small holes, the ricer breaks them down without overworking the starch, resulting in a creamy texture without lumps.

What are the benefits of using a ricer for potatoes?

Using a ricer for potatoes provides a light and airy texture that is difficult to achieve with traditional mashing methods. It also helps to prevent the potatoes from becoming gummy, as it minimizes the amount of handling. This technique is especially useful for recipes that require a smooth consistency, such as gnocchi or potato pancakes.

Can I use the Cookie Press for other foods besides cookies?

Yes, the Cookie Press is quite versatile and can be used for other foods as well. You can use it to create shapes for cheese straws, meringues, or even savory items like mashed potatoes or deviled eggs. Its ability to create uniform shapes makes it a handy tool for various culinary applications.

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