Disposable Pie Pans: What's The Cost?

Disposable pie pans are a convenient option for freezing pies or giving them away as gifts. They are typically made of recyclable aluminum, making them a less sustainable option. The price of these pans varies depending on the quantity and size. For example, a pack of 50 9-inch disposable pie pans costs around $20, while a pack of 30 9-inch pans costs around $16. Smaller pie pans, such as those measuring 6 inches or 5 inches, are also available and tend to be cheaper. These pans are designed for single-use, but some may be sturdy enough for multiple uses.

Where to buy disposable pie pans

Disposable pie pans are available in a variety of sizes and can be purchased from several online retailers, including Amazon and KitchenDance. Here are some places where you can buy disposable pie pans:

Amazon

Amazon offers a wide range of disposable pie pans in different sizes, colours, and pack sizes. Some options available include:

• NoCry Premium Disposable Pie Pans: Pack of 50 9-inch pans made from foil aluminium.
• MontoPack Disposable Pie/Tart Pans: Available in packs of 50 or 100, these 5-inch pans are oven-safe and can be stacked and stored.
• PARTY BARGAINS Disposable Mini Pie Pans: Pack of 50 6-inch pans that can withstand temperatures up to 240°C.
• Oopsu Round Tart Pie Foil Pans: Pack of 100 4-inch pans that can be used for baking, cooking, storage, or reheating.

KitchenDance

KitchenDance is an online retailer specialising in disposable pans and containers. They offer a range of disposable pie pans in different sizes and colours, including:

• 4" Disposable Aluminum Individual Pie Pan with Plastic Lid: A small, disposable, aluminium foil pan with a snap-on lid for easy transportation and storage.
• 5" Disposable Foil Tart/Pie Pan with Plastic Lid: KitchenDance's best-selling pie and tart pan, available in a range of colours. The clear plastic lid snaps into place, securing the contents during storage and transport.

In addition to the options listed above, disposable pie pans can also be purchased from other online retailers, such as WebstaurantStore.

How to choose the right size pie pan

When it comes to choosing the right size pie pan, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, pie pans come in a variety of materials, including ceramic, glass, metal, steel, cast iron, and porcelain. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages. For example, ceramic pans retain heat well and result in evenly baked pies, while glass pans allow you to monitor the crust during baking to prevent over or under-cooking. Metal pans conduct heat well but can cause the crust to brown faster than the filling is done. Disposable aluminum pans are convenient for freezing pies or giving them away, but they are less sustainable than other options.

Most pie pans are 9 or 10 inches in diameter, but you can also find smaller or larger sizes. If you're making a double-crust pie or a single-crust pie with a generous filling, a 2-inch deep pie pan is ideal. For single-crust pies, a 1.5-inch deep pan will suffice. Mini pie pans are perfect for individual servings or freezing single servings.

Some additional features to consider when choosing a pie pan include freezer-safe and microwave-safe options, a lid for easy storage, ruffled or fluted edges for a decorative crust, and dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup.

When measuring a pie pan, always measure the diameter from the inside rim to the opposite inside rim. For the depth, measure from the top of the rim to the crease of the pan at the bottom.

How to use a pie pan

Using a pie pan is a straightforward process, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your pie turns out perfectly. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use a pie pan:

Choosing the Right Pie Pan

Pie pans come in various materials, including metal, glass, and ceramic. The type of pie you're baking will determine the best material to use. For example, a glass pan is ideal for fruit pies, while a metal pan is better for cream pies. The size of the pie pan is also important, with the most common size being 9 inches in diameter, but they can range from 4 to 10 inches. If you're making a large pie, consider using a disposable pie pan with a 9-inch outer rim and an 8-inch inner rim. For individual-sized pies, you can use smaller disposable pie pans or even a muffin pan.

Preparing the Pie Pan

Before using your pie pan, it's important to grease it with butter and line it with parchment paper. This will make it easier to remove the pie after baking and prevent sticking. If you're using a disposable pie pan, you may not need to line it with parchment paper, but greasing it is still a good idea.

Pre-Baking the Pie Crust

To prevent your pie crust from becoming soggy, it's a good idea to pre-bake it before adding the filling. Place the dough in the prepared pie pan and bake it for a few minutes until it's firm. Then, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool before adding the filling.

Adding the Filling

Once the pie crust has cooled, you can add your desired filling. This could be anything from fruit fillings to cream or custard fillings. Be sure to follow a recipe for the best results.

Baking the Pie

Preheat your oven to the temperature specified in your recipe. Fruit pies typically require a higher temperature than non-fruit pies. Place the filled pie in the oven and bake it until it's done. To check for doneness, insert a knife into the centre of the pie. If it comes out clean, the pie is ready.

Cleaning and Caring for Your Pie Pan

After using your pie pan, clean it properly following the manufacturer's instructions. If you're using a stainless steel pan, avoid soaking it for extended periods. For disposable pie pans, simply recycle them after use. If you plan to reuse disposable pie pans, be sure to wash and dry them thoroughly before storing them.

How to clean a pie pan

The cost of disposable pie pans varies depending on the quantity, size, and brand. For example, a 50-pack of 9-inch NoCry Premium Disposable Pie Pans costs $20.99 on Amazon, while a 30-pack of 9-inch DOBI Pie Pans costs $15.99.

Now, onto cleaning a pie pan! Here is a comprehensive guide on how to do it:

• If your pie pan is made of metal, avoid using harsh detergents or abrasive scrubbers. Opt for warm, soapy water and a soft cloth for cleaning. For stubborn stains, try using a mild vinegar solution. Rinse the pan with clean water and dry it thoroughly before storing it away.
• For glass pie plates, you have more flexibility as any cleaner is safe to use. However, it is essential to avoid abrasive scrubbers, which can scratch the surface.
• If your pie plate is ceramic or stoneware, follow the same cleaning instructions as for metal pie pans. Warm, soapy water and a soft cloth should be sufficient, and a mild vinegar solution can help with stubborn stains.
• Always ensure your pie pan is thoroughly washed, rinsed, and dried before using it again. This will prevent any bacteria growth and ensure your next pie tastes delicious!
• To remove stubborn residue or stains, you can create a baking soda paste by mixing three parts baking soda with one part water. Apply this paste to the affected areas and let it sit for 15 minutes before scrubbing gently with a soft-bristled brush or sponge. Rinse and dry as usual.
• For burnt-on food or tough stains, fill the pie pan with hot water and add a degreasing dish soap. Let it soak for 30 minutes to an hour, then use a soft-bristled brush or sponge to scrub away the residue. Rinse and dry the pan thoroughly.
• If you're looking for a more natural cleaning solution, lemon juice or vinegar can be effective. Soak a cloth or sponge in equal parts water and lemon juice or vinegar, then use it to wipe down the pie pan. Rinse and dry the pan afterward.
• To maintain the appearance of your pie pan, consider polishing it with a small amount of cooking oil after each cleaning. This will help keep the pan looking shiny and new.
• Always wear rubber gloves when handling harsh chemicals or cleaning products to protect your skin.

How to prevent a pie from sticking to the pan

Disposable pie pans are available in packs of 12, 50, 100, and 1000, with prices ranging from $11.48 to $24.99. The price per pan can be as low as $0.11.

Now, here are some tips on how to prevent your pie from sticking to the pan:

Firstly, it is important to note that not all pie pans are the same. Metal pans, for example, are thinner and get very hot, resulting in a golden-brown crust. On the other hand, ceramic pans are thicker and better suited for pies that require longer cooking times. Glass pans, which are similar to ceramic in terms of heat conduction, have the added benefit of allowing you to see when the crust is cooked.

In general, you do not need to grease a pie pan. Homemade pie crusts are mostly butter, so the pie dough creates its own grease while baking. However, if you are using a store-bought unbaked pie dough sheet or making a crumbly crust like graham cracker crust, it is recommended to grease the pan lightly with butter, vegetable oil, shortening, or non-stick cooking spray.

To prevent your pie from sticking to the pan, it is crucial to use cold butter and ice-cold water when making the pie dough. Soft butter will not only make the dough difficult to shape and roll out but also increase the likelihood of the crust sticking to the pan. Additionally, make sure your dough is properly chilled before baking by refrigerating it for at least 30 minutes. This will help prevent the filling from leaking through any holes or cracks in the dough.

Finally, if you are making a double-crusted pie, be sure to seal the edges well to avoid any leaks.

Frequently asked questions