Abstract: An improved toasting apparatus is disclosed including a variable speed conveyor belt for conveying products through the toaster; a bottom heating element positioned below the conveyor belt, the bottom heating element including variable control for controlling the amount of heat provided by the bottom heating element; a drying zone including a first plurality of upper heating elements positioned above the conveyor; a toasting zone including a second plurality of upper heating elements; and wherein the bottom heating element and the first and second plurality of upper heating elements are controlled individually and independently.