Bakeware
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Bakeware

When it comes to bakeware there are a few different materials to choose from. Traditional choices like ceramic  and metal  are joined by relative newcomers like silicone  and glass (Of course, oven-safe glass isn't all that new - Pyrex ® was introduced to the market in 1915.) How do they compare?





Ceramic 

  • Slow to warm, but holds heat for a while.
  • Often attractive enough for serving.
  • Can't be used on open flame.
  • Shares many properties with glass cookware, but unlike glass it may not be safe to use metal utensils on ceramic cookware.
  • Unfinished stoneware is a popular choice, but can be difficult to clean.

Metal (Non-stick) 

  • The quality of a metal pan depends heavily on the finish.
  • Dark finishes will absorb heat better, making for better browning.
  • Some non-stick finishes are not safe for use with metal utensils.
  • Look out for pans with air insulation -- you may not get the browning results you want.

Glass 

  • Glass is a great choice for baking finicky dishes since you can see how your food is progressing.
  • Glass heats slowly but retains heat well. It is also much easier to clean than unfinished stoneware, and is safe for metal utensils.
  • Cook's Illustrated (subscription required) is very fond of their Pyrex® 13"x9" baking dish.

Silicone 

  • Silicone is the latest in bakeware technology.
  • Flexible pans mean that baked goods are easy to remove.
  • Silicone has the advantage of being more non-slip than other kinds of pans, but watch out -- a greased silicone pan can still be very slick!

Essentials

Jelly Roll Pans 

Baking Sheets 

Muffin Pans 

Tart Pans 

Pie Pans 

Square Cake Pans 

Round Cake Pans 

Springform Pans 

Loaf Pans 

Bundt® Cake Pans 

Specialized Bakeware

Madeleine Pans 

Popover Pans 

Ramekins 

Custard Cups 

Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Pans 

Baking Accessories

Mixing Bowls 

Rolling Pins 

Pastry Scrapers 

Pastry Blenders 

Cookie Cutters 

Pastry Brushes 

Cooling Racks 

Cake Lifters 

Crème Brûlée Torches 

Pastry Bags 

Pastry Tips 

Related Buying Guides

Sifters

Kitchen Mixers

Measuring Cups and Spoons

Spatulas

Whisks

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Category Links:
Home And Garden
Kitchen And Dining
Article started by 
feb
last updated by traci21