It is generally safe to use olive oil or other cooking oils in the baking oven, as long as you use them correctly and within the recommended temperature range. Cooking oils have a smoke point, which is the temperature at which they start to break down and produce smoke. When oil reaches its smoke point, it can create an unpleasant flavor and release harmful compounds into the air.
Most cooking oils, including olive oil, have relatively high smoke points, making them suitable for baking at typical oven temperatures, which usually range from 300°F (150°C) to 450°F (230°C). However, it's essential to be mindful of a few things:
Choose the Right Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is a healthy option, but it has a lower smoke point compared to other types of olive oil or cooking oils like canola, vegetable, or grapeseed oil. If you plan to bake at higher temperatures, you might want to consider using an oil with a higher smoke point.
Watch the Temperature: Avoid exceeding the smoke point of the oil you are using. Check the smoke point of the oil you have on hand and adjust the baking temperature accordingly. If you're baking at very high temperatures (e.g., for roasting), consider using an oil with a higher smoke point.
Coating Baking Pans: When using oil in baking, you may be coating baking pans or greasing surfaces. Use a minimal amount of oil to avoid excess oil pooling and potentially smoking.
Avoid Dripping Oil: If using oil to coat pans, be cautious not to allow excess oil to drip to the bottom of the oven. Dripping oil can cause smoke and potentially lead to a fire hazard.
Be Vigilant: Always keep an eye on your oven while baking, especially if you are using oil. If you notice any smoke or unusual smells, turn off the oven and address the situation.
In most cases, when using cooking oils in baking at appropriate temperatures, there should be no issue with causing a flash point fire. However, it's always wise to exercise caution, know the smoke point of the oil you are using, and follow proper baking practices to ensure safety and avoid accidents. If you have concerns about a particular oil or are baking at extremely high temperatures, consider using alternatives like melted butter or shortening with higher smoke points.