Big Pan, Big Crowd: How Much Food Does It Serve?

An 18 x 13 pan is a common baking pan size, also known as a half sheet pan. It's a versatile addition to your kitchen, perfect for baking, broiling, cooling, or storing. This size pan can hold between 14 and 16 cups of batter and is ideal for large gatherings, serving up to 80 people. The large surface area of this pan means that it will take longer to bake than a smaller pan, so adjustments to temperature and baking time may be necessary.

An 18 x 13 pan is a standard half-sheet pan

The 18 x 13 half-sheet pan is larger than the quarter-sheet pan (9 x 13 inches) but smaller than the full-sheet pan (18 x 24 inches). It has a capacity of around 7 to 8 cups of batter and can feed a crowd of 36 to 48 people, making it perfect for smaller gatherings, receptions, or birthday parties.

When it comes to baking cakes, an 18 x 13 pan is a good option for single-layer cakes or multiple-layered cakes. If you're making a multiple-layered cake, you can use two shallow pans for thinner cakes or one deep pan for a tall cake that can be sliced into layers after cooling.

The versatility of the 18 x 13 half-sheet pan doesn't stop at desserts; it's also great for savoury dishes. You can use it for meal prepping, batch cooking, dinner parties, and more. It's a handy pan to have in your kitchen, and it's recommended to have at least two of these pans on hand.

In terms of care, it's best to hand-wash this type of pan to ensure its longevity. However, if you do decide to put it in the dishwasher, use a mild detergent to avoid any flaking or tarnishing.

Overall, the 18 x 13 half-sheet pan is a must-have for anyone who enjoys baking or cooking. Its standard size and versatility make it a valuable addition to your kitchen, allowing you to create a variety of dishes, from cookies and cakes to savoury meals.

It can hold 14-16 cups of batter

An 18 x 13 pan can hold 14-16 cups of batter. This is the equivalent of a full-sheet cake, which serves up to 80 people.

The amount of batter a pan can hold is important to know when substituting one pan size for another in a recipe. Using a larger pan than the one specified in a recipe will result in a shallower depth of batter, and therefore the batter will bake more quickly. Conversely, using a smaller pan will result in a deeper depth of batter, and the batter will take longer to bake.

When determining the volume of batter a pan can hold, it is important to measure the pan's dimensions from inside edge to inside edge, and not to include the thickness of the pan in your measurement. To measure the depth, place a ruler straight up from the bottom of the pan.

It is also worth noting that most recipes only require the pan to be filled about halfway with batter, to allow room for the cake to rise.

It's best for large gatherings

An 18 x 13 pan is a great option for large gatherings as it can feed a large number of people. It is a versatile choice, perfect for serving at weddings, large parties, or corporate events.

The number of people an 18 x 13 pan can serve depends on the size of the slices. Smaller, 2" x 2" slices will yield more servings, whereas larger, 3" x 3" slices will yield fewer. On average, an 18 x 13 pan can serve around 20-24 people. This makes it an excellent option for large gatherings, ensuring that everyone gets a generous portion of cake.

When planning for a large gathering, it is always better to have too much food than too little. It is a good idea to cushion the number of expected guests by 10-20% to account for people who want seconds or unexpected guests. This will ensure that you don't run out of cake and that everyone gets to satisfy their sweet tooth.

Additionally, consider the type of cake and the meal being served. A single-layer iced cake will require smaller portions than a double or triple-layer cake with lots of icing. If cake is the only food being served, people will also tend to take bigger portions.

By using an 18 x 13 pan, you can easily feed a large gathering and avoid the hassle of baking multiple cakes. It is a straightforward way to ensure everyone gets a delicious treat.

It's also good for baking, broiling, cooling, or storing

An 18 x 13 pan is a versatile addition to your kitchen. It is perfect for baking, broiling, cooling, and storing a variety of dishes and baked goods.

Baking

The wide and shallow base of the tray conducts heat evenly across the surface, ensuring evenly baked goods every time. The flat construction of the pan ensures even browning and baking. The pan's dimensions also make it ideal for adapting recipes to fit different cake pans. For example, a 9-inch round cake pan is 63.5 square inches and can hold 8 cups of batter, while an 18 x 13 pan has a larger surface area of 234 square inches and can hold up to 14-16 cups of batter. This makes it a good option for larger gatherings, as it will yield the most servings.

Broiling

The 18 x 13 pan can be used for broiling or roasting, either on its own or with a wire rack placed on top. The wire rack allows for even cooking without the need for turning, while the sheet pan underneath catches any cooking juices.

Cooling

The wide and shallow base of the pan also makes it suitable for cooling baked goods or roasted meats. The tapered shape of the pan allows for easy stacking, making it convenient to store while cooling multiple batches.

Storing

The pan's dimensions of 18 x 13 x 250 mm (or 18 x 260 mm in another model) make it suitable for storing in most kitchens. The tapered shape again comes in handy, allowing for easy stacking and storage when not in use. The pan is also dishwasher-safe and freezer-safe, making it convenient for cleaning and storing leftover dishes.

The flat construction ensures even browning and baking

The Baker's Lane 18" x 13" Half Size Extender and Bun Pan Sheet Cake Pan Set is a great choice for busy bakeries, cafeterias, coffee shops, and cafes. Its flat construction ensures even browning and baking every time. The flat top edges make the extender easy to grab and remove, and it comes off clean with a little help from some cooking spray.

The set includes a durable half-size sheet pan and a 2" high pan extender, which work together to create perfectly baked goods with straight sides that are easier to decorate. The extender design yields straight sides and insulates product edges, while the flat construction ensures even browning and baking.

The sheet pan is made with 19-gauge aluminum construction, making it perfect for everyday use. The natural finish is easy to clean and maintain, and the wire-reinforced beaded rim adds durability and structure. The result is smooth, crisp edges that make icing a breeze.

This pan set is a one-stop shop for all your bakery needs, delivering a wide range of quality baking, confectionery, and packaging products at an affordable price. It's perfect for any business, from cafes and donut shops to large bakery or hotel operations.

Frequently asked questions