Best Non-Stick Muffin Pans: Effortless Baking And Clean-Up

Muffin pans are available in a variety of materials, including carbon steel, aluminium, food-grade silicone, and cast iron. While non-stick pans are popular, they are not the only option. For example, Libbey's cupcake and muffin cup set is made from heat-resistant glass, and each cup comes with a plastic lid for storing food. Cast iron pans, like Lodge's, require seasoning after each use and may still need greasing, but they are a durable, non-toxic alternative to Teflon. Fox Run's 100% stainless steel muffin pan is another non-Teflon option, but it is not completely rust-resistant and will need to be oiled or lined with paper to prevent sticking. For those who want a non-stick pan, USA Pan and OXO's non-stick muffin pans are highly recommended.

Non-stick vs. cast iron muffin pans

Muffin pans come in a variety of materials, including non-stick, cast iron, silicone, stainless steel, and carbon steel. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. Here is a detailed comparison between non-stick and cast-iron muffin pans:

Durability:

Cast iron pans are extremely durable and can last a lifetime if properly cared for. They are versatile and suitable for various cooking techniques, including stovetop and oven use. On the other hand, non-stick pans typically have a shorter lifespan of around 1 to 5 years. While they are more convenient and easier to maintain, they require replacement more frequently.

Cleaning and Maintenance:

Cast iron pans can be more challenging to clean and maintain. There are various opinions on the "right" way to clean them, and the process often requires extra time and effort. In contrast, non-stick pans are generally easier to clean due to their non-stick coating. However, it is important to use non-stick-safe scrubbing pads or soft sponges to avoid scratching the coating.

User-Friendliness:

Non-stick pans are typically more user-friendly, especially for beginners. They are lightweight and straightforward to use. Cast iron pans, on the other hand, can be less user-friendly for those new to cooking. They tend to be heavier and may require more technique to master.

Non-Stick Properties:

Both types of pans offer non-stick properties, but in different ways. Non-stick pans have a coating that prevents food from sticking, making them ideal for achieving an even browning without food adhesion. However, the coating can get damaged over time or if not properly cared for, which may render the pan ineffective or even dangerous. Cast iron pans, when properly seasoned, can also become non-stick. This process takes time and practice, and if not done correctly, food may stick to the pan.

In conclusion, both non-stick and cast iron muffin pans have their advantages and disadvantages. Non-stick pans are ideal for convenience, ease of use, and low maintenance, while cast iron pans offer durability, versatility, and long-lasting non-stick properties if properly seasoned. The best choice depends on your specific needs and preferences in the kitchen.

The best non-stick muffin pans

Muffin pans are available in a variety of materials, including carbon steel, aluminium, food-grade silicone, cast iron, and stainless steel. However, the best non-stick muffin pans are made from heavy-gauge aluminized steel, which conducts heat more evenly, helping to bake the contents more evenly.

USA Pan Nonstick Muffin Pan

This muffin pan is made from aluminized steel with a nonstick silicone coating. It performed well in tests, producing evenly browned and cooked cupcakes, muffins, and mini-frittatas. The pan has a medium-sized cup capacity of 100 milliliters, making it versatile for different recipes. It is hand-wash only and not suitable for use with oil-based cooking spray.

Williams Sonoma Goldtouch Pro Muffin Pan

This aluminized steel muffin pan with a nonstick coating was a close second in tests. It produced evenly baked goods with good browning, but it is slightly more expensive than other options and has a design that can trap crumbs, requiring extra scrubbing.

OXO Non-Stick Pro 12-Cup Muffin Pan

The OXO muffin pan is made from heavy-gauge aluminized steel with a PTFE, ceramic-reinforced coating. It has a textured nonstick surface that easily releases baked-on batter. The lighter colour of the pan also helps to prevent over-browning. The pan has extended ends for easy handling and is dishwasher-safe.

Rachael Ray Cucina Nonstick Muffin Tin

This inexpensive muffin pan features a highly effective nonstick coating. It has silicone grips for a secure hold and is oven-safe up to 500°F. However, the cups are on the smaller side, with a capacity of 87 milliliters, making them prone to overflow.

Le Creuset Muffin Pan

The Le Creuset muffin pan is a heavy-duty, well-designed option that is built to last. It has a durable nonstick coating and silicone handles for easy handling. The dark colour of the pan may lead to quicker baking times. The cups are also on the smaller side, but the pan has a raised rim to contain spills.

The best cast iron muffin pans

Muffin pans are available in a variety of materials, including cast iron, steel, silicone, and aluminium. While cast iron pans are pricier than other options, they are incredibly durable and can last a lifetime. They also offer superior heat distribution and retention, resulting in evenly baked goods with a perfect crust.

Lodge L5P3 Cast Iron Mini Muffin/Cornbread Pan

This pre-seasoned cast iron muffin pan from Lodge features six 2.5-inch-wide by 1.5-inch-deep impressions. It provides slow, even heating for consistent baking results. The pan measures 7.62" by 5.25" by 1.5" and is ready for immediate use, as it is seasoned with a vegetable oil formula. It is also available in a slightly larger size, measuring 11.3" by 7" by 1.1".

Vintage Cast Iron Muffin Pan

This vintage cast iron muffin pan, available on Etsy, features a unique design with harvest vegetables embossed on the exterior. It adds a rustic charm to your kitchen and is perfect for baking muffins or cornbread.

Griswold No 32 (962) Cast Iron Muffin Pan

Another option from Etsy is the Griswold No 32 cast iron muffin pan. This pan features a handle for easy handling and can also be used as an egg poacher skillet.

Vintage Lodge Cactus Cornbread Pan

If you're looking for something more whimsical, consider this vintage Lodge cactus-shaped cornbread pan. It adds a fun touch to your baking and is perfect for making cactus-shaped muffins or cornbread.

John Wright Cast Iron Snowman Muffin Pan

For a festive option, this John Wright cast iron muffin pan features a snowman design with eight cups. It is a restored piece that will add a unique touch to your holiday baking.

Cast iron muffin pans offer even heating and superior crust formation. They are long-lasting and easy to clean, making them a worthwhile investment for any baker.

How to clean a muffin pan

Muffin pans can be tricky to clean, especially when food is stuck on. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to clean a muffin pan, with some tips on preventing your muffins from sticking in the first place.

Before Baking

• Invest in a good-quality muffin pan. Opt for a non-stick muffin tin, which will make it easier to remove your muffins and clean up afterward.
• Use muffin paper or silicone liners. Paper liners are a simple and effective way to prevent sticking, while silicone liners are reusable and easy to clean.
• Grease your muffin tin well, especially if you are not using liners. Grease the bottom edges and rim of the pan to prevent the muffin tops from sticking. You can use cooking spray, oil, or butter.
• For lighter, more cupcake-like muffins, flour the tins after greasing for added insurance. Be sure to tap out any excess flour.

After Baking

• Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before removing them. This helps the muffins to firm up and prevents sogginess.
• If you have baked something with a lot of butter, such as sweet muffins, place a wet towel on the counter and set the muffin pan on top of it for about 10 minutes. This can help to release the muffins from the pan.
• If muffins are still stuck, use a thin utensil like a pairing knife to gently ease them out. Be careful not to damage the muffins or the pan.
• If your muffins are very wet or fruity, try placing the pan in a warm (not hot) oven with a pan of water on the bottom to create steam. Leave for about 5 minutes, then try removing the muffins again.

Cleaning the Muffin Pan

• If you have a non-stick muffin pan, be careful not to use abrasive scrubbers or brushes as these can damage the non-stick coating. Opt for a soft sponge or nylon bristle brush instead.
• For baked-on grease or food, create a baking soda mixture by mixing 2 tablespoons of baking soda with 1 quart of warm water. Pour the mixture into the muffin pan and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes. Let the pan cool, then scrub with warm, soapy water.
• For an overnight solution, place a couple of used or new dryer sheets in a sink full of warm water and lay the muffin pan on top. By morning, the baked-on gunk should wipe away easily.
• For stubborn stains, you can also try soaking the pan in a mixture of hot water, vinegar, and dish detergent. However, note that vinegar may damage the non-stick coating on some pans, so check the manufacturer's instructions first.

General Care Tips

• Unless your muffin pan is dishwasher-safe, it is best to hand-wash it to prolong the life of the non-stick coating.
• Avoid using cooking spray on pans with a silicone non-stick coating, as it can degrade the material.
• Always read the care instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure you are using and cleaning your muffin pan correctly.

How to prevent sticking

Muffin pans come in a variety of materials, including carbon steel, aluminum, food-grade silicone, and cast iron. While non-stick coatings are popular, there are also health-conscious alternatives without Teflon (PTFE) coatings, such as glass, cast iron, and stainless steel.

To prevent sticking, it is important to invest in a top-quality muffin tin that conducts heat evenly. Here are some tips to prevent your muffins from sticking to the pan:

• Use a non-stick muffin tin: Non-stick coatings make it easier to release muffins, but be careful when cleaning as they can scratch easily.
• Muffin paper liners: Paper liners are an easy and effective way to prevent sticking. They come in basic white or various patterns and colours for special occasions.
• Silicone muffin liners: Silicone liners are reusable and easy to clean and store. However, they may not work well with dense muffins as they can prevent browning.
• Grease the muffin tin well: If not using paper liners, grease the tin generously, paying attention to the bottom edges and rims. For lighter muffins, you may also want to flour the tins after greasing for added protection.
• Let the muffins cool: After baking, let the muffins rest in the pan for about 5 minutes before removing them. This allows them to cool and pull away slightly from the sides of the tin.
• The wet towel method: Place the muffin pan on a wet towel when you take it out of the oven and let the muffins rest for about 10 minutes before removing them. This works well for sweet muffins with a lot of butter in the batter.
• Ease the muffins from the pan: If the muffins are still stubborn, use a thin knife or metal skewer to gently ease them out, being careful not to damage them.
• Use a warm oven: If the muffins are still stuck, place them back in a warm oven with a pan of water at the bottom to create steam. The warmth and moisture will help loosen the muffins from the sides of the pan.
• Freezing stubborn muffins: If all else fails, let the muffins and pan cool completely, then cover and place in the freezer for about an hour. After that, run a thin knife around the edges and gently pop out the muffins.

Frequently asked questions