Sealing Springform Pans: Instant Pot Tips

If you're looking to seal a springform pan for your Instant Pot, there are a few options. You can use a foil sling, which involves cutting a large silicone pastry mat into strips, or you can use colourful Grifiti Bands Cross Style Silicone Rubber Bands. These are a little trickier to use when your pan is covered with foil, but they come in different sizes to fit different pans. Alternatively, Plate Retriever Tongs work best with pots that have a rim that you can grip and lift.

Using a sling or other tools to remove the pan from the pressure cooker

When cooking pot-in-pot in a pressure cooker, you will need a sling or another tool to help you remove the hot pan after pressure cooking. Here are some options for tools to help you with this:

Foil Sling

Take a 20-inch-long strip of aluminum foil and fold it lengthwise into thirds, as you would fold a letter. You can then use this foil strip as a sling to help lift your pan out of the pressure cooker. After use, you can save and reuse the foil sling by tucking it away with your pressure cooker accessories. However, the foil will eventually discolour and deteriorate, so you may want to explore other options.

Silicone Sling

A silicone sling is longer-lasting than a foil sling, as it doesn't discolour or deteriorate. However, you can't crimp the ends together above the pan, so it works best when your pan is covered with foil. You can buy these, or make your own by cutting a large silicone pastry mat into strips.

Grifiti Bands Cross-Style Silicone Rubber Bands

These bands come in different sizes to work with different-sized pans. They work well when your pan is not covered with foil, although they can still be used with a foil-covered pan.

Plate Retriever Tongs

These work best with a pot that has a rim that you can grip and lift. They can be hard to angle just right if the pot is larger and close to the edge of the inner pot.

Canning Jar Lifter

A canning jar lifter can be used to lift pans out of the pressure cooker, as well as for lifting corn on the cob or jars out of the pressure cooker.

OXO Good Grips Pressure Cooker Bakeware Sling

This product is perfect for getting cake pans in and out of the pressure cooker. The handles hook together so they don't interfere with the pressure cooker lid closing.

Ensuring the pan is the right size for your Instant Pot

Instant Pots come in a variety of sizes, so it's important to ensure that your springform pan is the right size for your particular model. Here are some tips to help you choose the right size pan for your Instant Pot:

First, consider the size of your Instant Pot. The most popular size is the 6-quart model, but there are also 3-quart, 5-quart, 7-quart, and 8-quart options available. The size you choose will depend on how many people you typically cook for and how much food you need to prepare. If you're cooking for a large family or entertaining guests, you might need a larger pot and springform pan.

Next, check the compatibility of the springform pan with your Instant Pot model. Not all pans are compatible with all models. For example, the Instant Pot Official Springform Pan in Gray is compatible with 6-quart and 8-quart cookers. On the other hand, the Instant Pot Electric Pressure Cooker Springform Cake Pan with Tempered Glass Base is designed for use with specific Instant Pot models, including the IP Duo60, IP Lux60, IP Lux60v3, Smart 60, Ultra 6, Iplux80, IP Duo80, IP Csg60, and IP Csg50.

Additionally, pay attention to the dimensions of both your Instant Pot and the springform pan. The pan should fit comfortably inside your Instant Pot, allowing for proper airflow and leaving enough space to lift it out easily. For example, a 7-inch springform pan is a good fit for a 6-quart Instant Pot, while an 8-quart Instant Pot can accommodate a larger 7.5-inch springform pan.

Finally, consider the type of food you'll be preparing. If you plan on making cheesecakes or other dishes that require a lot of liquid, you'll need to ensure that your springform pan is leak-proof and has a tight seal. You might also want to look for a pan with a non-stick coating for easier food release and cleanup.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that you choose the right size springform pan for your Instant Pot, making your cooking experience more efficient and enjoyable.

Using a pan with a tempered glass bottom

Choosing the Right Pan

When selecting a pan with a tempered glass bottom for your instant pot, look for one that is specifically designed for use in an instant pot pressure cooker. Ensure that the pan is made of high-quality, strong tempered glass that can withstand high temperatures. The pan should also have a durable stainless-steel rim and handle. Additionally, look for features such as a non-stick coating and oven-safe capabilities.

Preparing the Pan

Before using your pan with a tempered glass bottom in the instant pot, always check for hidden cracks or chips. You can do this by tapping the glass lightly with your finger or knuckle—a cracked bowl will produce a duller sound compared to a regular bowl. It is also important to avoid placing the pan directly on the bottom of the instant pot. Instead, use a steamer insert or wire trivet to ensure proper airflow and prevent the glass from shattering.

Cooking with the Pan

When cooking with your pan, avoid sealing the lid to prevent condensation build-up. The instant pot's pressure and steam will not cause the tempered glass to shatter, but rapid temperature changes can. Therefore, it is recommended to add five extra minutes to the timer when using a glass pan. Additionally, avoid placing the pan on cold or wet surfaces after cooking, and be careful not to bump, scratch, or poke the glass with utensils.

Cleaning and Maintenance

To clean your pan with a tempered glass bottom, always allow it to cool before immersing it in water. You can wash it by hand or in the dishwasher, depending on the manufacturer's instructions. To prevent scratches and maintain the non-stick coating, avoid using abrasive sponges or brushes. Dry the pan thoroughly before storing it, and be gentle when handling the glass to prevent chips or cracks.

Benefits of Using a Pan with a Tempered Glass Bottom

Pans with tempered glass bottoms offer several advantages over traditional metal pans. The glass allows you to monitor your food as it cooks, ensuring perfect results every time. Additionally, the glass is durable and can withstand high temperatures, making it ideal for various dishes. The non-stick coating also makes for easy food release and cleanup. Finally, the pans are often oven-safe, expanding the types of recipes you can create.

Considering the depth of the pan

When choosing a springform pan for your Instant Pot, it's important to consider the depth of the pan to ensure it fits properly in your device. While taller pans can be appealing as they provide more room for cake layers, you should be wary of purchasing a pan that's too tall for your Instant Pot. A taller pan may also alter your cooking time, as it will likely not heat up as quickly as a shorter pan.

The Instant Pot Silicone Springform Cake Pan, for example, has a depth of 2.5 inches, which is on the shorter side. This pan fits nicely into the Instant Pot without bending or warping. On the other hand, the Fat Daddio's Springform Cake Pan is noted for its deep sides, which provide ample space for layered desserts.

To ensure your springform pan fits properly in your Instant Pot, it's recommended to choose a pan with a depth of around 2.5 to 3 inches. This will provide enough space for your cake or dessert while also allowing for proper airflow and heating in your Instant Pot.

Additionally, when considering the depth of the pan, keep in mind that you may need to adjust your cooking time accordingly. A taller pan with thicker walls may require a longer cooking time, as it will take longer for the heat to penetrate the pan and cook your food evenly.

Using a pan with a tight seal to prevent leaks

To prevent leaks, it is important to use a springform pan with a tight seal. There are several ways to ensure a tight seal. One way is to use a pan with a smooth sliding clip, such as the Instant Pot® Silicone Spring Form Round Cake Pan, which provides a perfect seal and releases easily. Another option is to use a pan with a secure latch, such as the Nordic Ware Leakproof Springform Pan, which ensures that nothing will leak out during the cooking process.

Another way to prevent leaks is to use a foil sling or silicone sling to lift the pan out of the pressure cooker. This method can be tricky, as it is important to ensure that the sling does not interfere with the lid closing properly. Additionally, the foil can discolour and deteriorate over time. An alternative to a foil or silicone sling is to use a canning jar lifter, which can also be used to lift corn on the cob out of the pressure cooker.

When choosing a springform pan, it is important to consider the size and thickness of the pan. For a six-quart Instant Pot, a six- or seven-inch springform pan is recommended. Anything larger may be difficult to remove. It is also important to consider the thickness of the walls, as a pan with thicker walls will take longer to heat up and may require a longer baking time.

To prevent leaks, it is also recommended to wrap the outside of the pan in foil, especially when making dishes such as lasagna or macaroni and cheese, as juices may seep out. Additionally, using a solid crust on the bottom of the pan can help to prevent leaks.

By following these tips and using a pan with a tight seal, you can prevent leaks and create delicious sweet and savoury dishes in your Instant Pot.

Frequently asked questions