- Silicone Baking Molds
Silicone baking molds are bendable and naturally non-stick, making them a superb choice for baking items that might crumble easily. They are resistant to staining and don’t soak up odors, which means they last for a long time and are simple to clean. While these molds handle heat well, they don’t distribute heat effectively. Consequently, baking in them might take longer than in other types of pans, so consider adjusting your baking time or recipe to ensure the food cooks evenly.
Uses include: Muffins, cakes, candies
Dishwasher safe: Yes
Non-reactive: Yes
- Stainless Steel Baking Pans
These pans are composed of steel and chromium, designed to avoid warping, denting, or scratching. Being non-reactive, they won’t interfere with acidic ingredients, maintaining your baked goods’ taste and quality. They are also easy to maintain due to their resistance to rust and corrosion. Nevertheless, they do not conduct heat efficiently, which may cause uneven baking or hot spots in food.
Uses include: Cookies, pastries, meats
Dishwasher safe: Yes
Non-reactive: Yes
- Aluminum Baking Pans
Aluminum pans excel in high-heat baking done quickly. Their quick heating and cooling support even browning and perfect baking results. They resist rust well and withstand the heavy use of busy kitchens, offering durability. As one of the more cost-effective options, these lightweight pans are easy to handle, facilitating a swift move from oven to cooling rack.
Uses include: Cookies, biscuits, muffins
Dishwasher safe: No
Non-reactive: No
- Glass Baking Dishes
Glass dishes are ideal for recipes needing consistent heat levels for the best results. A downside is their poor heat conduction, meaning slower heating and cooling. The strong heat they retain could cause over-browning or burning, especially in sweet dishes like cakes or pastries. They can also break if exposed to rapid temperature changes.
Uses include: Casseroles, baked meats
Dishwasher safe: Yes
Non-reactive: Yes
5. Stoneware Baking Dishes
Stoneware baking dishes are perfect for keeping heat steady, which ensures food cooks slowly and evenly. Like glass, they can make desserts brown or burn, so check your dish often in the oven. They can break or crack easily from sudden temperature changes and tend to be heavy, so handle with care. Some stoneware dishes also look great for serving food at the table. For best results, season the dishes before using them.
- Used for: Baked pasta, casseroles, gratins, bread pudding, pie
- Dishwasher safe? Yes
- Non-reactive? Yes
6. Carbon Steel Baking Pans
Carbon steel pans are made from thick, tough steel, making them very durable. They need regular seasoning and cleaning to prevent rust and extend their lifespan. Known for even heat conduction and a natural non-stick surface, they’re great for consistent baking.
- Used for: Casseroles, cakes, bread, pies, meat, seafood
- Dishwasher safe? No
- Non-reactive? No
7. Aluminum Steel Baking Pans
These pans are made with steel coated in an aluminum-silicon alloy, offering strength and excellent heat distribution. Highly favored in bakeries for their lasting strength and rust resistance. Though more expensive and needing care, they’re ideal for high-volume baking.
- Used for: Baked goods, roasted foods
- Dishwasher safe? No
- Non-reactive? No
8. Tin-Plated Steel Baking Pans
They feature a steel sheet with a tin coating, providing excellent heat retention and distribution, ideal for delicate pastries. Prone to rust; thorough drying after washing is crucial. Their color darkens with use, but functionality remains unaffected.
- Used for: Cake, deep-dish pizza
- Dishwasher safe? No
- Non-reactive? Yes
9. Cast Aluminum Baking Pans
These lightweight yet durable pans are molded from heated aluminum. They ensure excellent heat retention and distribution. Affordable and great for budget-conscious businesses, though they react with acidic ingredients and may darken over time.
- Used for: Casseroles, meats
- Dishwasher safe? No
- Non-reactive? No
10. Hard Anodized Aluminum Baking Pans
Undergoing a special hardening process, these pans are scratch-resistant and very durable. They distribute heat well, ensuring consistent baking. Due to their unique qualities, recipe adjustments might be necessary.
- Used for: Pizza, cake
- Dishwasher safe? No
- Non-reactive? Yes
11. Exoglass® Baking Pans
Exoglass® pans are made from a tough, non-stick material by Matfer Bourgeat. They handle extreme temperatures without losing shape. More expensive but very durable.
- Used for: Cake, bread, tarts, quiches
- Dishwasher safe? Yes
- Non-reactive? No
12. Exopan® Baking Pans
These durable pans from Matfer Bourgeat are made with fine steel and can handle high temperatures. Their copper-wire-reinforced edges help with heat distribution and strength. While they cost more, they need little greasing.
- Used for: Cake, bread, tarts, quiches
- Dishwasher safe? Yes
- Non-reactive? No
Baking Pan Coatings
Non-stick coatings on pans prevent food from sticking, making cooking and cleaning easier, while reducing the need for oils and fats. PTFE coatings provide a robust, heat-resistant surface that is chemically inert.