Cuisinart Elite Collection, FP-12 Series Manual

Table of Contents

Contents

1 RECOMMENDED MAXIMUM WORK BOWL CAPACITIES
2 IMPORTANT UNPACKING INSTRUCTIONS
3 INTRODUCTION
4 FEATURES AND BENEFITS
5 ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS
6 MACHINE CONTROLS
7 WORK BOWLS
8 MACHINE FUNCTIONS
9 USER GUIDE & CAPACITY CHART
10 CLEANING AND STORAGE
11 FOR YOUR SAFETY
12 TECHNICAL DATA
13 TROUBLESHOOTING
14 IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS
15 Documents / Resources
- 15.1 Download manual

RECOMMENDED MAXIMUM WORK BOWL CAPACITIES

FOOD	CAPACITY 12-CUP WORKBOWL	CAPACITY 4-CUP WORKBOWL
Sliced or shredded fruit, vegetables or cheese	12 cups	N/A
Chopped fruit, vegetables or cheese	9 cups	3 cups
Puréed fruit, vegetables or cheese	10 cups cooked 6 cups puréed	3 cups cooked 1½ cups puréed
Chopped or puréed meat, fish, seafood	2 pounds	½ pound
Thin liquid* (e.g. dressing, soups, etc.)	8 cups	3 cups
Cake batter	One 9-inch cheesecake Two 8-inch homemade layers (1 box 18.5 oz. cake mix)	N/A
Cookie dough	6 dozen (based on average chocolate chip cookie recipe)	N/A
White bread dough	5 cups flour	N/A
Whole wheat bread dough	3 cups flour	N/A
Nuts for nut butter	5 cups	1½ cups

* when processing egg-based liquids, like a custard base for quiche, reduce maximum capacity by 2 cups.

IMPORTANT UNPACKING INSTRUCTIONS

This package contains a Cuisinart Elite Collection^™ 12-Cup Food Processor and the accessories for it:
12- and 4-cup work bowls, work bowl cover, large and small metal chopping/mixing blades, dough blade, adjustable slicing disc, reversible shredding disc, stem adapter, large and small pushers, spatula, instruction/recipe book and How-to DVD.

THE CUTTING TOOLS HAVE VERY SHARP EDGES. To avoid injury when unpacking the parts, please follow these instructions.
IMPORTANT UNPACKING INSTRUCTIONS

Place the box on a low table or on the floor next to the kitchen counter or table where you intend to keep the food processor. Be sure the box is right side up.
Open top flaps and remove the cardboard insert and the instructional material and How-to DVD. You will see a rectangular block of plastic foam that holds the processor parts, each fitted into cavity in the foam.
The spatula (A) and dough blade (B) are in cavities at one short side of the foam block. Remove them first.
The bowl cover (C) and large/small pushers (D) are in cavities at center of foam block. Grasp the edge of the bowl cover and lift it straight up, removing it next. Lift out the large/small pushers from its space under the bowl cover on the foam block.
The adjustable slicing disc (E) and reversible shredding disc (F) are on either long side of the foam block. Slide them out of their grooves wITH GREaT CaRE. THE BLadES aRE VERY SHaRP.
Remove the large metal chopping/mixing blade (G) from the foam block.
CaREFULLY REmOVE IT BY GRaSPING THE CENTER wHITE HUB aNd LIFTING IT STRaIGHT UP. NEVER TOUCH THE BLadE, aS IT IS RaZOR SHaRP.
Lift out the plastic foam block.
The housing base with 12- and 4-cup work bowls and small metal chopping/mixing blade are at the bottom of the box.
CaREFULLY REmOVE SmaLL mETaL CHOPPING/mIxING BLadE BY GRaSPING THE CENTER wHITE HUB aNd LIFTING IT STRaIGHT UP. NEVER TOUCH THE BLadE, aS IT IS RaZOR SHaRP. Then pull out the stem adaptor to the motor shaft.
Remove the base and bowls together by grasping the handle and lifting straight up. Do not rotate the bowl clockwise on the base. This will cause the bowls to separate from the base.
Place the food processor on the counter or table. Read the instructions thoroughly before using the machine.
Save the shipping cartons and plastic foam blocks. You will find them very useful if you need to repack the processor for moving or other shipment.

Please watch the enclosed How-to dVd before using the food processor.
NOTE: Remember to return your completed product registration card with all information carefully filled out.

INTRODUCTION

The food processor that re-invented the art of food preparation once again leads the way in innovation!
Superbly designed for high performance and ease of use, the Cuisinart Elite Collection^™ 12-Cup has the power, capacity, versatility, precision, and accessories to handle any task. From the two nested and sealed bowls to the adjustable slicing disc and reversible shredding disc, these incredible features create multiple food processors in one!
All of these pioneering, creative elements come together with Cuisinart's leading reputation to give you the Elite Collection^™ 12-Cup Food Processor – the finest food prep appliance for today's modern kitchen.

FEATURES AND BENEFITS

Housing Base and motor
With a vertically projecting motor shaft, this powerful base will process through a variety of recipes with a 1000 watt peak power induction motor.
Touchpad Control Panel
These easy to clean, electronically controlled buttons, feature On, Off and Pulse options, for every food processing function. The contemporary, blue LED light will indicate when the unit is powered on.
Work Bowls
Designed with maximum versatility, the work bowl should be selected based on task appropriateness.
These nested bowls feature SealTight ^™ technology, which maximizes each bowl's processing capacity, ensures safe handling, and keeps all the ingredients contained in the bowl you're using! The bowls also include a locking feature to prevent them from coming out of position when pouring, and finger recesses (a) for user-friendliness. The large and small work bowls are all made of durable polycarbonate material with convenient measurement markings (b) and pour spouts (c).
Work Bowl Cover with Feed Tube
Work bowl cover with SealTight^™ Advantage feature allows for maximum bowl capacity during processing and pouring. To remove the work bowl cover, push in the release buttons (a) on either side of the handle interlock (b).
The Supreme^® Wide-Mouth feed tube (c) accommodates larger ingredients and saves precutting time.
Pusher assembly
Secured with a snap-fit, the small pusher (a) inside the large pusher (b) allows you to accommodate ingredients of all sizes. The large pusher lock (c), located on the handle, enables it to be pulled out to lock and pushed in to unlock – this feature should be used when processing heavy loads.
Small Chopping/mixing Blade
This small stainless steel blade will chop or mix anything in your small work bowl and also features the BladeLock System.
Large Chopping/mixing Blade
Stainless steel in construction, this heavyduty blade will process a variety of food in your large work bowl. The BladeLock System enables the blade to stay in place to prevent leaking, while providing optimal pouring.
Dough Blade
Designed for superb results, this blade will knead through all types of dough. The dough blade can be used only in the large bowl.
Adjustable Slicing disc
The versatile 6-in-1 disc allows for thin to thick slices with 1 to 6mm indicators. This disc may be used only in the large bowl.
Reversible Shredding disc
Provides the option of either fine or medium shredding for optimal results. This disc may be used only in the large bowl.
Stem adapter
This user-friendly tool easily attaches to either disc or small chopping/mixing blade to engage the motor shaft.
Spatula
Uniquely designed for use with either work bowl.
Cord Storage (not shown)
Keeps countertops safe and clean by conveniently wrapping excess cord under the unit.

ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS

Before first use
Before using your Cuisinart Elite Collection^™ 12-Cup Food Processor for the first time, wash the work bowls, work bowl cover, pusher assembly, blades, discs, and spatula (see Cleaning Instructions).

Place the food processor base on a dry, level countertop with the controls facing toward you. Do not plug the unit in until it is fully assembled.
With the large bowl on the base, use the handle to turn the work bowl counterclockwise to lock it onto the housing base.
To use the small bowl, place your thumbs in the finger recesses and align the pour spout facing opposite the handle. Push down to lock.

Blade Operation
The BladeLock feature is designed to keep the blade in place during processing, pouring, lifting, and handling tasks – but is not permanently attached. Handle with care. always check to be sure the blade is securely locked before turning the bowl upside down.
Note: The chopping/mixing blades should not be removed with liquid contents above the hub of the blade in the bowls, as this will defeat the SealTight^™ system.

Large Blade Operation

With your large work bowl assembled on the base, grasp the large chopping/mixing blade by its hub, align it over the center of the bowl, place it onto the shaft and turn it until it slides into place. Firmly push down to lock. always check to be sure the blade is securely locked before turning the bowl upside down. (To remove, first take the bowl off the base and put it on a flat surface. Rest the heel of your hand on the rim of the bowl and pull up gently and carefully.)

Dough Blade Operation

For use with the large bowl. Carefully lift and place the dough blade on the shaft and turn it until it slides into place.

Small Blade Operation

With both work bowls assembled on the base, position the stem adapter over the center of the bowls, place it on the shaft and turn it until it slides into place. Grasp the small chopping/mixing blade by its hub, place it over the stem adapter, turning it until it slides into place, and push down firmly to lock. always check to be sure the blade is securely locked before turning the bowl upside down. (To remove, first take the bowl off the base and put it on a flat surface. Rest the heel of your hand on the rim of the bowl and pull up gently and carefully.)

Disc Operation

When using your large bowl only, position the stem adapter over the center of the bowl, place it on the shaft and turn it until it slides into place. If using the adjustable slicing disc, use the rotating hub and indicator markings to select slicing thickness. Using the finger holes, align and insert the disc over the stem adapter.
If using the reversible shredding disc, determine whether the fine or medium side will be used and use the plastic hub to twist into position on the stem adapter. The finger holes may be used for removal of this disc.

Cover Operation

Place the work bowl cover onto the work bowl by positioning it directly over the bowls, and push down on the front and back to lock into place. Another way to put the cover on is by latching the back on first and then pushing down on the front to lock into place. Be sure both front and back locks are fully engaged.
To remove the cover, push in both sides of the release button (located on the cover interlock) and lift up to remove.
Note: The work bowl cover fits, locks and seals on the large bowl with any nested bowl combination. The work bowl cover will become easier to engage with repeated use.
Align pusher assembly and activating rod with the feed tube opening on the work bowl cover and slide it down completely.
Plug the food processor into a proper electrical outlet. It is now ready for use.
Note: The bowl, lid and pushers must be securely in place for the unit to operate.

MACHINE CONTROLS

On Button
The On control is a continuous button that allows the machine to run until Off is selected.

Properly assemble and engage the machine.
Add ingredients to the work bowl, either through the feed tube or directly into the bowl.
Press the On button. The blue LED light will illuminate and the motor will start.
Press the Off button when finished.

PULSE Button
The Pulse control is a momentary button that allows the machine to run only while it is being pressed. This capability provides more accurate control of the duration and frequency of processing. Unless otherwise specified, a pulse is about one second.

With the machine properly assembled and engaged, and ingredients in the work bowl, press the Pulse button repeatedly as needed. The blue LED On light will be illuminated upon activation.

WORK BOWLS

Two nested work bowls are provided for a very versatile processing experience. We recommend using the work bowls in a manner that will optimize efficiency. For example, if your recipe requires using both bowls, begin with the small bowl to minimize cleaning. This way the small bowl can serve as a prep bowl to reserve chopped ingredients for a recipe. A great example of this would be the Cherry Crumb Muffins recipe.
Note that the bowls lock into place to pour while nested. The convenient finger recesses can be used to remove the small bowl with ingredients, or the bowl can remain nested during pouring or food removal.
Chopping certain foods may scratch or cloud the work bowl, this will not affect the functionality of your work bowl.

MACHINE FUNCTIONS

Chopping (using the Chopping Blade)

For raw ingredients: peel, core and/or remove seeds and pits. Food should be cut into even, ½ to 1-inch pieces. Foods cut into same size pieces produce the most even results.
Pulse food in 1-second increments to chop. For the finest chop, either hold the pulse down or press ON to run the machine continuously. Watch ingredients closely to achieve desired consistency and scrape the work bowl as necessary.

Puréeing (using the Chopping Blade)

To purée fresh fruits or cooked fruits/vegetables: ingredients should be cut into 1-inch pieces; a smooth purée is achieved easiest when all the pieces are equal in size. Pulse to initially chop and then process ON until food is puréed; scrape the work bowl as necessary. Do not use this method to purée cooked white potatoes. (see Mashed Potato recipe.)
To purée solids for a soup or sauce: strain the solids from the liquid and process the solids alone. Add cooking liquid and process as needed.

Kneading (using the dough Blade or the metal Chopping Blade)

The dough blade is engineered to knead through yeast dough, while the metal chopping blade is ideal for pastry doughs.
The pusher lock is recommended to be in the locked position when kneading dough to avoid it from moving around – some vibration is still normal.
Dough kneading should be done in the large bowl only.

Slicing (using the adjustable Slicing disc)

Always pack food in the feed tube evenly to slice. For smaller amounts of food, use the smaller feed tube. For cheese slicing, always use the large feed tube. The food will dictate the amount of pressure: Use light pressure for soft foods, medium pressure for medium foods, and firm pressure for harder foods. Always process with even pressure.
For julienne or matchstick cuts: Place food horizontally in the feed tube and process with even pressure to create long, plank-like slices. Replace stack of slices in feed tube vertically and process again using even pressure.
For round fruits or vegetables: Remove a thick slice on the bottom of the food so that it sits upright in the feed tube. If food does not fit in the feed tube, cut in half or quarters to fit. Process with even pressure.
For small ingredients, like mushrooms, radishes or strawberries: Trim the ends so the food sits upright in the feed tube. Take advantage of the smaller feed tube if appropriate.
When slicing cheese, be sure that the cheese is well chilled before slicing.

Shredding (using the Reversible Shredding disc)

Always pack food in the feed tube evenly to shred. For smaller amounts of food, use the smaller feed tube. For cheese shredding, always use the large feed tube. The food will dictate the amount of pressure: Use light pressure for soft foods, medium pressure for medium foods and firm pressure for harder foods. Always process with even pressure.
To shred leafy vegetables like lettuce or spinach: Roll leaves together and stand up in feed tube. Process with even pressure.
When shredding cheese, be sure that the cheese is well chilled before shredding.

USER GUIDE & CAPACITY CHART

FOOD	TOOL	PROCESS	YIELD	DIRECTIONS
FRUITS Apples	Metal Blade Metal Blade Slicing Disc Shredding Disc	Chop Purée Slice Shred	1 pound = 3 cups 1 pound = 3 cups 1 apple = ¾ cup 1 apple = ¾ cup	Cut into 1-inch pieces; pulse to chop – process for fine chop. Process to purée cooked and peeled apples for applesauce. Medium pressure Medium pressure
Avocados	Metal Blade Metal Blade	Chop Purée	1 medium = 1 cup 1 medium = 1 cup	Cut into 1-inch pieces; pulse to chop. Cut into 1-inch pieces; process to purée.
Bananas	Metal Blade Slicing Disc	Purée Slice	3 medium = 1 cup 1 pound = 2 cups	Process to purée ripe bananas. Light pressure for firm bananas.
Berries	Metal Blade Slicing Disc	Purée Slice	1 pint fresh = 2 cups; 10 ounce-bag frozen = 1½ cups 1 pint = 2 cups	Process until puréed. Strain to remove seeds. Thaw frozen berries before processing. Strawberries: remove stems; stack berries on their side. Medium pressure.
Coconuts	Metal Blade Shredding Disc	Chop Shred	1 medium = 4 cups 1 medium = 4 cups	Cut flesh into 1-inch pieces; pulse to chop. Process to finely chop. Cut flesh to fit feed tube, medium pressure.
Kiwis	Slicing Disc	Slice	2 kiwis = ¾ cup	Chill and peel; light pressure.
Mangoes	Metal Blade Metal Blade	Chop Purée	1 medium = ¾ to 1 cup 1 medium = ¾ to 1 cup	Cut into 1-inch pieces; pulse to chop. Cut into 1-inch pieces; process to purée.
Peaches/ Nectarines	Metal Blade Metal Blade Slicing Disc	Chop Purée Slice	1 lb = 2 to 2½ cups 1 lb = 2 to 2½ cups 1 lb = 2 to 2½ cups	Cut into 1-inch pieces; pulse to chop. Cut into 1-inch pieces; peel and process to purée. Remove pit, light pressure.
Citrus Fruits; Lemons, Limes & Oranges	Metal Blade Slicing Disc	Chop Slice	For medium fruit: 1 lemon = 2 to 3 teaspoons zest; 1 lime = 1 tsp zest; 1 orange = 1½ tablespoons zest	Zest: use vegetable peeler to remove rind; process. For the finest chopped zest, add small amount of sugar to chop with zest Trim ends; place upright in feed tube. Medium pressure.
Dried (sticky) Fruits	Metal Blade	Chop	1 pound = 2½ cups	Chill fruit. Add some flour from recipe to work bowl. Process using short pulses until desired consistency.
VEGETABLES Beans - Green, Wax	Metal Blade Slicing Disc	Purée Slice	1 cup = ½ cup purée 1 pound = 3 cups	Process to purée cooked beans. "French-cut": trim beans; stack in feed tube horizontally. Light pressure.
Broccoli/ Cauliflower	Metal Blade Metal Blade Slicing Disc Shredding Disc	Chop Purée Slice Shred	1 pound raw = 2 cups 1 pound cooked = 1 cup Broccoli stems only Broccoli stems only	Cut into 1-inch pieces; pulse to chop. Cut into 1-inch pieces; process to purée. Peel and trim stems. Medium pressure. Peel and trim stems. Medium pressure.
Cabbage	Metal Blade Slicing Disc Shredding Disc	Chop Slice Shred	2 pounds = 8 cups 2 pounds = 8 cups 2 pounds = 8 cups	Cut into 1-inch pieces; pulse to chop to desired consistency. Cut in wedges to fit feed tube; remove center core. Light to no pressure. Use slicing disc for coleslaw. Use shredding disc for extra-fine needs.
Carrots	Metal Blade Metal Blade Slicing Disc Shredding Disc	Chop Purée Slice Shred	1 pound (6 med) = 3 cups 2 med cooked = ½ cup purée 1 pound (6 med) = 3 cups 1 pound (6 med) = 2½ cups	Cut into 1-inch pieces; pulse to chop to desired consistency. Process to purée. Small rounds: trim; place upright in feed tube. Long slices: trim; place horizontally in feed tube. Medium to firm pressure. Small shreds: trim; place upright in feed tube. Long shreds: trim; place horizontally in feed tube. Medium to firm pressure.
Celery	Metal Blade Slicing Disc	Chop Slice	2 medium stalks = ½ cup 2 medium stalks = ½ cup	Cut into 1 inch pieces; pulse to chop to desired consistency. Trim; place upright in feed tube. Medium pressure.
Cucumbers	Metal Blade Slicing Disc Shredding Disc	Chop Slice Shred	1 medium = 1½ cups 1 medium = 1½ cups 1 medium = 1½ cups	Cut into 1-inch pieces; pulse to chop. Rounds: trim; place upright in feed tube. Medium pressure. Long slices: trim; place horizontally in feed tube. Medium pressure. Shreds: trim; place upright in feed tube. Medium pressure. Long shreds: trim; place horizontally in feed tube. Medium pressure.
Garlic	Metal Blade	Chop	1 head = 12 to 16 cloves; 1 medium clove = ½ teaspoon	Peel; with machine running, drop cloves through feed tube to finely chop.
Ginger	Metal Blade Slicing Disc Shredding Disc	Chop Slice Shred	1-inch pieces = 1 tablespoon 4 ounces = ½ cup 4 ounces = ½ cup	Peel; cut into ½-inch pieces. With machine running, drop through feed tube to finely chop. Peel; place upright in feed tube. Medium pressure. Peel; place upright in feed tube. Medium pressure.
Herbs - Fresh	Metal Blade	Chop	1 cup loosely packed = ¹∕_³ cup	Herbs, work bowl and blade should be clean and completely dry. Pulse to roughly chop. Process to finely chop. Keep up to 10 days in airtight bag in refrigerator.
Jalapeño	Metal Blade Slicing Disc	Chop Shred	1 medium pepper = 3 tablespoons 1 medium pepper = ¼ cup	Remove seeds and stem. With machine running, drop halved pepper through feed tube to chop. Remove seeds and stem. Cut stem end flat to slice into rings; medium pressure. Place upright in feed tube for narrow slices, horizontally for longer slices.
Leeks	Metal Blade Slicing Disc	Chop Slice	1 pound = 2 cups 1 pound = 2 cups	Clean leeks; trim, discard dark green parts. Cut into 1-inch pieces; pulse to chop. Clean leeks as above. Place upright in feed tube; medium pressure. Long slices: trim; place lengthwise in feed tube. Medium pressure.
Mushrooms	Metal Blade Slicing Disc Shredding Disc	Chop Slice Shred	1 pound = 6 cups 1 pound = 5 cups 1 pound = 5 cups	Cut into even pieces; pulse to chop. Pack feed tube. Light pressure. Pack feed tube. Light pressure.
Onions	Metal Blade Slicing Disc	Chop Slice	1 pound = 4½ to 5 cups 1 medium = ¾ to 1 cup	Cut into 1-inch pieces; pulse to chop. Trim; place in feed tube. Medium pressure.
Peppers - Bell	Metal Blade Slicing Disc	Chop Slice	1 pound = 4½ to 5 cups 1 pound = 3 cups	Cut into 1-inch pieces; pulse to chop. Remove seeds and stem. Cut stem end flat to slice into rings; medium pressure. Halve or quarter and place upright in feed tube for narrow slices, horizontally for longer slices.
Pickles	Metal Blade Slicing Disc	Chop Slice	1 medium = ¾ cup 1 medium = ¾ cup	Cut into 1-inch pieces; pulse to chop. Place upright in feed tube for rounds; horizontally for longer slices. Medium pressure.
Potatoes	Metal Blade Metal Blade Slicing Disc Shredding Disc	Chop Purée Slice Shred	1 pound = 3½ to 4 cups 1 cup cooked (1-inch pieces) = ½ cup 1 pound = 3½ to 4 cups 1 pound = 3½ to 4 cups	Raw potatoes: cut into 1-inch pieces; pulse to chop. Sweet potatoes/yams: cut into 1-inch pieces; pulse to chop. Trim end flat; cut to fit into feed tube. Light to medium pressure for white potatoes; firm pressure for sweet potatoes/yams; light pressure for partially cooked potatoes. Trim end flat; cut to fit into feed tube. Light to medium pressure for white potatoes. Note: keep sliced or shredded raw potatoes in cold water to avoid discoloration; dry well before using. Mashed potatoes: process cooked white potatoes through medium shredding disc to avoid a gluey consistency.

FOOD	TOOL		PROCESS		YIELD	DIRECTIONS
Radishes	Metal Blade Slicing Disc Shredding Disc		Chop Slice Shred		½ pound = 1½ cups ½ pound = 1½ cups ½ pound = 1½ cups	Cut into 1-inch pieces; pulse to chop. Process to finely chop. Trim ends; firm pressure. Trim ends; firm pressure.
Scallions	Metal Blade Slicing Disc		Chop Slice		1 to 2 = ¼ cup 1 to 2 = ¼ cup	Cut into 1-inch pieces; pulse to chop. Trim, discard dark green parts, place upright in feed tube. Light to medium pressure. Long slices: trim; place lengthwise in feed tube. Medium pressure.
Spinach	Metal Blade Metal Blade Slicing Disc		Chop Purée Slice		1 pound raw = 10 cups raw 1 pound raw = 1½ cups cooked 1 pound raw = 10 cups raw	Pulse to chop. Process to purée. Roll leaves together and place upright in feed tube; medium pressure.
Zucchini/Summer Squash	Metal Blade Slicing Disc Shredding Disc		Chop Slice Shred		1 pound = 3 cups 1 pound = 3 cups 1 pound = 3 cups	Cut into 1-inch pieces; pulse to chop. Rounds: trim; place upright in feed tube. Long slices: trim; place horizontally in feed tube. Medium pressure. Shredding: trim; place upright in feed tube. Long shreds: trim and place horizontally in feed tube. Medium pressure.
CHEESES Soft Cheeses; Ricotta, Cream, Cottage, Brie, Blue, Fontina Mozzarella, Bel Paese	Metal Blade Metal Blade Shredding Disc Shredding Disc		Purée Chop Med. Shred Fine Shred		½ pound = 1 cup ¼ pound = 1 cup ¼ pound = 1 cup ¼ pound = 1 cup	Cut into 1-inch pieces. Process soft cheeses until smooth. Cut into 1-inch pieces; pulse to chop. Chill well; medium pressure. Mozzarella should be frozen for 25 to 30 minutes before shredding.
Firm Cheeses; Cheddar, Swiss, Edam & Gouda	Metal Blade Slicing Disc Shredding Disc Shredding Disc		Chop Slice Med. Shred Fine Shred		¼ pound = 1 cup ¼ pound = 1 cup ¼ pound = 1 cup ¼ pound = 1 cup	Cut into ½- to 1-inch pieces; temperature not critical. Chill well; light to medium pressure. Chill well; medium pressure. Chill well; light pressure.
Hard Cheeses; Parmesan & Romano	Metal Blade Shredding Disc Shredding Disc		Chop Med. Shred Fine Shred		¾ pound = 3 cup ¼ pound = 1 cup ¼ pound = 1 cup	Cut into ½- to 1 inch pieces; temperature not critical. *Never process cheese that cannot be pierced with the tip of a sharp knife. Cheese should be room temperature. Cheese should be room temperature.
ADDITIONAL FOODS Baby Food	Metal Blade		Purée			As with all fruit and cooked vegetable purées, cut ingredients into 1-inch pieces. Steam cooked ingredients until completely soft. Pulse to chop, then process until completely smooth. To ensure there are no lumps, press mixture through a fine mesh strainer. Keeps well frozen in ice cube trays for individual 1-ounce portions.
Butter	Metal Blade Slicing Disc		Chop Slice		¼ pound (1 stick) = ½ cup ¼ pound (1 stick) = ½ cup	Butter should be room temperature and cut into tablespoon-size pieces. Process, scraping bowl as necessary. Compound butters: process flavoring ingredients before adding butter. Pastry: cut butter into small cubes; freeze before using. Butter should be cold, not frozen; medium pressure.
Chocolate	Metal Blade Shredding Disc		Chop Shred		1-ounce = ¼ cup grated 1-ounce = ¼ cup grated	Cut into ½- to 1-inch pieces (or use chocolate chips). Pulse to start, then process to desired consistency. Texture will appear more rounded than grated. Chill chocolate; medium to firm pressure.
Crumbs; Bread, Cookies & Crackers	Metal Blade		Chop		12 to 14 graham wafers = 1 cup crumbs; 1 slice bread = ½ cup crumbs	Break up ingredients into ½- to 1-inch pieces. Process until fine. Breadcrumbs: make from fresh, stale or toasted bread.
Egg Whites	Metal Blade	Chop		8 egg whites = 1 cup firm whites			Egg whites should be room temperature; add 1 teaspoon lemon juice or vinegar per white. Process in an absolutely clean bowl for 1 to 2½ minutes until surface develops ridges and mass of whites almost stops moving. These egg whites should not be used in meringues. For whipped egg whites with volume, whip with whisk or electric mixer.
Meat, Poultry & Fish	Metal Blade Metal Blade Slicing Disc	Chop Purée Slice		2 pound boneless = 4 cups 1 pound boneless = 2 cups 1 pound boneless = 2 cups			Cut very cold raw or cooked meat/poultry/fish into 1-inch pieces; pulse to chop. Process for a few seconds at a time for a finer chop. Check texture often to avoid overprocessing. Cut very cold raw or cooked meat/poultry/fish into 1-inch pieces; pulse to chop. Process continuously until desired texture. Slicing cooked meat/poultry: be sure it is very cold. Use a single chunk of meat at a time. Slicing raw meat/ poultry: cut to fit feed tube; wrap in plastic to briefly freeze. Raw meat is ready to slice when hard to the touch but can easily be pierced with tip of a sharp knife. *Slicing meats works best when semi-frozen.
Milk Shakes/ Smoothies	Metal Blade	Chop/ Purée		Can make up to 16 8-ounce servings.			Milkshakes: add ice cream first; process and add milk through feed tube. Smoothies: add fruit first, then add the liquid while processing.
Nuts	Metal Blade Metal Blade Slicing Disc Shredding Disc	Chop Purée Slice Shred (fine/med.)		¾ pound = 3 cups ¼ pound = 1 cup ¼ pound = 1 cup ¼ pound = 1 cup			Pulse to chop. Hardness of nut dictates amount and time of processing. If either flour or sugar is added to nuts during processing, they can be processed as long as possible without becoming butter. Coarsely chopped nuts: 6 to 8 pulses. Finely chopped nuts: pulse 2 to 3 times, then process 20 to 30 seconds, watching carefully for desired consistency. Nut butter: process nuts 2 to 3 minutes, scraping bowl as necessary. For smoothest consistency, add some oil to nuts while processing. Medium pressure; nuts will have a coarse texture. Medium pressure; nuts will have a fine/medium texture.
Granulated Sugar (to make extra super-fine sugar)	Metal Blade	Chop		1 pound = 2 cups			Process 1 minute, or until fine.
Tofu	Metal Blade	Purée		10 ounces = ¾ cup			Drain; process 2 minutes or until smooth.
Whipping Cream	Metal Blade	Chop		1 cup = ½ cup whipped			Process well-chilled cream until cream begins to thicken. Add sugar as desired; process continuously until cream reaches desired consistency (about 3 to 4 minutes).
DOUGHS Pastry Dough	Metal Blade	Mix					Pulse mixture until it has consistency between cornmeal and small pebbly crumbs. Add water, 1 tablespoon at a time; pulse until a dough forms.
*Batters* Quick Bread, Cake & Cookies	Metal Blade	Mix					First sift dry ingredients together by processing; remove and reserve. Process the fats and sugars together and then add any remaining liquid ingredients. Pulse in reserved dry ingredients. Any ingredients that need to be coarsely chopped can be added with dry ingredients. For finely chopped ingredients, chop separately in small work bowl and then add to batter at the end.
*Yeast Dough* Breads	Metal Blade Dough Blade	Mix Knead					TIPS: Use ¾ cup warm liquid to proof 2¼ teaspoons dry active yeast. Sugar/honey aids in activating yeast, so add a small amount, about 1 teaspoon, to the warm liquid/yeast mixture when proofing. Food processor can handle up to 8 cups white flour for a yeast bread dough. The dough should have a soft, pliable texture and feel only slightly tacky.*
*Sweet Dough* Breads & Coffee Cakes	Metal Blade Dough Blade	Mix Knead					See TIPS above, but keep in mind that sweet doughs will be rich and sticky and may not clean sides of bowl; bowl may need to be scraped. Sweet doughs require less kneading once the ingredients are mixed.*

Note: Use dough blade for kneading dough in the large bowl only. The small bowl may not be used for dough.
*See troubleshooting for additional direction and techniques.

CLEANING AND STORAGE

Keep your Cuisinart Elite Collection^™ 12-Cup Food Processor ready to use on the kitchen counter. When not in use, leave it unplugged.
Keep the blades and discs out of the reach of children.
All parts except the housing base are dishwasher safe, and we recommend washing them in the dishwasher on the top rack only. Due to intense water heat, washing the work bowls, cover and accessories on the bottom rack may cause damage over time. Insert the cover with the feed tube facing up to ensure proper cleaning of the seal. (Note: The seal is not removable and water will drain properly.) Insert the work bowls and pushers upside down for drainage. Remember to unload the dishwasher carefully wherever you place sharp blades and discs.
To simplify cleaning, rinse the work bowls, cover, pusher assembly and blade or disc immediately after use so food won't dry on them. Be sure to place the pushers upside down for drainage. If food lodges in the pusher, remove it by running water through it, or use a bottle brush.
If you wash blades and discs by hand, do it carefully. When handling, use the plastic hubs on the blades and finger holes for the discs. Avoid leaving them in soapy water where they may disappear from sight. To clean the metal blade, fill the work bowl with soapy water, hold the blade by its plastic center and move it rapidly up and down on the center shaft of the bowl. Use of a spray attachment is also effective. If necessary, use a brush.
The work bowls are made of polycarbonate plastic, which is shatter resistant and heat resistant. They should not be placed in a microwave oven, as the aperture at the front of the pusher houses the metal rod that activates the motor.
The housing base may be wiped clean with a soapy, non-abrasive material. Be sure to dry once clean.
Four rubber feet on the underside keep the base from moving on most work surfaces when the machine is processing heavy loads. If the feet leave spots on the counter, spray them with a spot remover and wipe with a damp sponge. If any trace of the spot remains, repeat the procedure and wipe the area with a damp sponge and nonabrasive cleaning powder.

Never store any blade or disc on the motor shaft. No blade or disc should be placed on the shaft except when the processor is about to be used.

FOR YOUR SAFETY

Like all powerful electrical appliances, a food processor should be handled with care. Follow these guidelines to protect yourself and your family from misuse that could cause injury. Handle and store metal blades and discs carefully. Their cutting edges are very sharp.
Always place the stem adapter on the motor shaft before assembling the discs.
Never put blades or discs on the motor shaft until the work bowl is locked in place.
Always be sure that the blade or disc is down on motor shaft as far as it will go. Always insert chopping blade and dough blade in the work bowl before putting ingredients in bowl.
When slicing or shredding food, always use the pusher. Never put your fingers or spatula into feed tube.
Always wait for the blade or disc to stop spinning before you remove the pusher assembly or cover from the work bowl.
Always unplug the unit before removing food, cleaning, or putting on or taking off parts.
Always remove work bowl from base of machine before you remove chopping blade or dough blade.

TECHNICAL DATA

The motor in your food processor operates on a standard line operating current. The appropriate voltage and frequency for your machine are shown on a label on the bottom of the base.
An automatic, temperature-controlled circuit breaker in the motor ensures complete protection against motor burnout. If the processor runs for an exceptionally long time when chopping, mixing or kneading a thick or heavy mixture in successive batches, the motor may overheat. If this happens, the processor will stop. Turn it off and wait for the motor to cool before proceeding. It will usually cool within 10 minutes. In extreme cases, it could take an hour. Safety switches prevent the machine from operating when the work bowl or the cover is not locked into position. The motor stops within seconds when the motor is turned off, and when the pusher assembly is removed, a fast-stop circuit also enables the motor to stop within seconds.
Cuisinart offers a Limited Three-Year Warranty on the entire machine.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Food Processing

The food is unevenly processed

Solution:

The ingredients should be cut evenly into ½- to 1-inch pieces before processing.
Process in batches to avoid overloading.

Slices are uneven or slanted

Solution:

Place evenly cut food into the feed tube.
Apply even pressure on the pusher.

Food falls over in feed tube

Solution:

Large feed tube must be packed full for best results. If processing smaller quantities, use the small feed tube.

Some food remains on top of the disc

Solution:

It is normal for small pieces to remain; cut remaining bits by hand and add to processed ingredients.

Dough Processing

Motor slows down

Solution:

Amount of dough may exceed maximum capacity of your food processor. Remove half and process in two batches.
Dough may be too wet.
If motor speeds up, continue processing. If not, add more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time until the motor speeds up. Process until dough cleans the side of the work bowl.

Blade doesn't incorporate ingredients

Solution:

Always start the food processor before adding liquid. Add liquid in a slow, steady stream, allowing the dry ingredients to absorb it. If too much liquid is added, wait until ingredients in the work bowl have mixed, then add remaining liquid slowly (do not turn off the machine). Pour liquid onto dough as it passes under feed tube opening; do not pour liquid directly onto bottom of the work bowl.

Blade rises in work bowl

Solution:

Excessively sticky dough can cause blade to rise. Reinsert blade and immediately add 2 tablespoons of flour through the feed tube while the machine is running.

The large pusher moves when processing dough or other heavy loads.
Solution:

The pusher lock feature, located above the handle, should be pulled out (some vibration is normal).

Dough doesn't clean inside of the work bowl

Solution:

Amount of dough may exceed maximum capacity of your food processor. Remove half and process in two batches.
Dough may be too dry.
Dough may be too wet.

Nub of dough forms on top of blade and does not become uniformly kneaded.
Solution:

Stop machine, carefully remove dough, divide it into 3 pieces and redistribute them evenly in the work bowl.

Dough feels tough after kneading

Solution:

Divide dough into 2 or 3 pieces and redistribute evenly in bowl. Process 10 seconds or until uniformly soft and pliable.

Dough is too dry

Solution:

While machine is running, add water, 1 tablespoon at a time until dough cleans the inside of the bowl.

Dough is too wet

Solution:

While machine is running, add flour, 1 tablespoon at a time until dough cleans the inside of the bowl.

Technical

The motor does not start

Solution:

There is a safety interlock to prevent the motor from starting if it is not properly assembled. Make sure the work bowl and work bowl cover are securely locked into position.
If you are slicing or shredding and the above solution does not work, make sure that the food contents in the feed tube are cut below the maximum fill line so that the activation rod can engage the motor.
If the motor still will not start, check the power cord and outlet.

The food processor shuts off during operation.
Solution:

The cover may have become unlocked; check to make sure it is securely in position.
A safety protector in the motor prevents the motor from overheating, which is caused by excessive strain. Press the Off control button and wait 10 to 15 minutes to allow the food processor to cool off before resuming.

The food processor cover becomes unlatched in the back and or makes a loud noise.
Solution:

The back of the cover becoming unlatched, and any related noise, will not prevent the unit from working. Simply push down to lock the back into position.

The motor slowed down during operation.
Solution:

This is normal as some heavier loads (e.g. slicing/shredding cheese) may require the motor to work harder. Simply reposition the food in the feed tube and try again.
The maximum load capacity may have been exceeded. Remove some of the ingredients and continue processing.

It is difficult to remove the chopping/mixing blade from the work bowl.
Solution:

These innovative blades have been designed to lock in the work bowl to prevent them from falling out when emptying the contents of the bowl. Using extreme care, use a little extra force to remove the blade.

The food processor vibrated/ moved around the countertop during processing.
Solution:

Make sure the rubber feet at the bottom of the unit are clean and dry. Also make sure that the maximum load capacity is not being exceeded.
This is normal as some heavier loads (e.g. slicing/shredding cheese) may require the motor to work harder.

The large pusher falls out when the cover is turned upside down.
Solution:

The pusher lock feature, located above the handle, should be pulled out.

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS

Always follow these safety precautions when using this appliance.

Getting Ready

Read all instructions.
Blades and discs are sharp. Handle them carefully.
always unplug from outlet when not in use, before putting on or taking off parts, before removing food and before cleaning. To unplug, grasp plug and pull from electrical outlet. Never pull cord.
Do not use outdoors.
Do not let cord hang over edge of table or counter, or touch hot surfaces.
Do not operate any appliance with damaged cord or plug, or after appliance has been dropped or damaged in any way. Return appliance to the nearest authorized service facility for examination, repair or electrical or mechanical adjustment.

Operation

Keep hands as well as spatulas and other utensils away from moving blades or discs while processing food, to prevent the possibility of severe personal injury or damage to food processor. A plastic scraper may be used, but only when the food processor motor is stopped.
Avoid contact with moving parts. Never push food down by hand when slicing or shredding. Always use pusher.
Make sure motor has completely stopped before removing cover. (If machine does not stop within 4 seconds after you remove the pusher assembly, call 1-800-762-0190 for assistance. Do not use the machine.)
Never store any blade or disc on motor shaft. To reduce the risk of injury, no blade or disc should be placed on the shaft except when the bowl is properly locked in place and the processor is in use. Store blades and discs, as you would sharp knives, out of reach of children.
Be sure cover and feed tube are securely locked in place before operating food processor.
Never try to override or tamper with cover interlock mechanism.

Cleaning
To protect against risk of electrical shock, do not put base in water or other liquid.

General

This appliance should not be used by or near children or individuals with certain disabilities.
Do not operate this, or any other motordriven appliance, while under the influence of alcohol or other substances that affect your reaction time or perception.
This food processor is UL listed for household use. Use it only for food preparation as described in the accompanying recipe and instruction book. Do not use this appliance outside of its intended use.
The use of attachments not recommended or sold by Cuisinart may cause fire, electrical shock or personal injury, or damage to your food processor.
To avoid possible malfunction of work bowl switch, never store processor with pusher assembly in locked position.
Maximum rating of 6.5 amperes is based on attachment that draws greatest current. Other recommended attachments may draw significantly less current.

NOTICE: If your food processor has a plastic case, it has a polarized plug (one blade is wider than the other). As a safety feature, this plug will fit in a polarized outlet only one way. If the plug does not fit fully in the outlet, reverse the plug. If it still does not fit, contact a qualified electrician. Do not attempt to defeat this safety feature.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
FOR HOUSEHOLD USE ONLY

RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK
shock hazard The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of un-insulated dangerous voltage within the product's enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of fire or electric shock to persons.
warning The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.

SPECIaL CORd SET INSTRUCTIONS NOTICE
If you have a die-cast metal unit, for your protection, it is equipped with a 3-conductor cord set that has a molded 3-prong grounding-type plug, and should be used in combination with a properly connected grounding-type outlet as shown in Figure A.
If a grounding-type outlet is not available, an adapter, shown in Figure B, may be obtained so that a 2-slot wall outlet can be used with a 3-prong plug. As shown in Figure C, the adapter must be grounded by attaching its grounding lug under the screw of the outlet cover plate.
NOTE: do not remove the grounding prong.

Before using an adapter,
it must be determined that the outlet cover plate screw is properly grounded. If in doubt, consult a licensed electrician. Never use an adapter unless you are sure it is properly grounded.
Note: Use of an adapter is not permitted in Canada.

RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT OPEN

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK) NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE REPAIR SHOULD BE DONE BY AUTHORIZED SERVICE PERSONNEL ONLY