The "burn the bread" setting on toasters, often referred to as the darkest or highest toasting setting, is included to accommodate various preferences for toast doneness. While it may seem counterintuitive to have a setting that can potentially burn the bread, it is designed to cater to those who prefer their toast to be extra crispy, well-done, or even charred.
People have different tastes and preferences when it comes to toast, ranging from barely toasted to deeply browned or even slightly burnt. Some individuals enjoy the intense crunch and smoky flavor that comes with a darker toast setting, and having this option allows them to achieve their desired level of toasting.
Additionally, different types of bread and baked goods have varying moisture content and densities, which affect how they respond to toasting. For instance, some artisan bread or bagels might benefit from a longer toasting time to achieve the desired texture and flavor.
While the highest toasting setting might be too dark for most people's tastes, it's included to offer a full range of toasting options to cater to different preferences and ensure that everyone can enjoy their toast exactly as they like it. As always, it's essential to be mindful of the toasting time and adjust the settings based on the type of bread and personal preference to avoid burning or over-toasting your toast.