A 9x13-inch baking pan is a versatile piece of cookware that can be used for both sweet and savoury dishes. It typically has a capacity of 3.5 to 4 quarts, but this can vary depending on the depth of the dish. Some deeper pans can hold up to 5 quarts. This makes it perfect for large batches of food and is ideal for potlucks, family gatherings or batch cooking.
What You'll Learn
A 9x13-inch pan holds 14-16 cups of batter
A 9x13-inch pan holds 14 to 16 cups of batter, which is about 3.3 litres. This is a common size for a rectangular baking dish and is often used for making large batches of food, such as peach cobbler, blueberry pound cake, sticky buns, lasagne, or a big batch of breakfast. It is also a good size for meal prepping, batch cooking, dinner parties, and bake sales.
A 9x13-inch pan is almost exactly double the volume of an 8x8-inch pan, which typically holds 2.6 quarts or 8 cups. The 9x13-inch pan's larger size makes it ideal for cooking larger quantities of food, but it's worth noting that using a larger pan than specified in a recipe will change the depth of the batter and affect the baking time. A 9x13-inch pan is also not suitable for all recipes, particularly those that require a specific pan size, such as sponge cakes or rolled cakes.
When substituting a 9x13-inch pan for a different size, it's important to consider the depth of the batter and adjust the baking time accordingly. The ideal pan substitution keeps the same batter depth as the original recipe to avoid drastic changes in baking time and temperature. If the new pan makes the batter shallower, the heat will reach the centre of the pan more quickly, and you will need to shorten the baking time and raise the oven temperature. Conversely, if the new pan makes the batter deeper, it will take longer to cook, and you will need to lengthen the baking time and lower the temperature.
To determine if a 9x13-inch pan is suitable for a recipe, you can calculate the pan's volume by measuring its dimensions and multiplying the length, width, and height. You can also directly measure the volume by filling the pan with water, one cup at a time, until it is full.
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A 9x13-inch pan is equivalent to two 9-inch round pans
However, it's important to note that the depth of the batter will be different between the two pan options. The 9x13-inch pan will result in a shallower depth, causing the batter to bake more quickly. On the other hand, the two 9-inch round pans will give you taller layers but will require a longer baking time.
When substituting one pan size for another, it's crucial to consider the impact on batter depth and make adjustments to baking time and temperature accordingly. In this case, using two 9-inch round pans instead of a 9x13-inch pan may require a slightly longer baking time and a lower oven temperature to prevent over-browning.
Additionally, it's worth mentioning that the shape of the pan will also affect the final product. The 9x13-inch pan will give you a rectangular cake, while the two 9-inch round pans will result in a layered cake with a circular shape.
In summary, while a 9x13-inch pan and two 9-inch round pans have similar volumes, the difference in shape and batter depth will influence the baking time, temperature, and the overall appearance of your baked goods.
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A 9x13-inch pan is not thermal-shock resistant
A 9x13-inch pan is a versatile piece of cookware that can be used for a wide range of dishes, from cakes and brownies to casseroles and chicken bakes. However, not all 9x13-inch pans are created equal, and it is important to choose one that suits your specific needs.
While some pans may be made of metal, others may be made of glass, stoneware, ceramic, or porcelain. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages. For example, metal pans are usually thinner, lighter, and more affordable, but they may heat unevenly, resulting in hot spots. On the other hand, glass, stoneware, ceramic, and porcelain pans are generally thicker and heavier, providing better heat distribution.
One important consideration when choosing a 9x13-inch pan is whether it is thermal-shock resistant. Thermal-shock resistance means that the pan can withstand sudden changes in temperature without warping or cracking. This is especially useful if you plan to take your pan straight from the freezer to the oven, or vice versa. Unfortunately, not all 9x13-inch pans are thermal-shock resistant.
For example, the Pyrex 3-Quart Easy Grab Baking Pan is a great budget option, with oversized handles and a lid for easy transport. However, it is not thermal-shock resistant, so you cannot take it from the freezer to a hot oven. In contrast, the Staub Stoneware Rectangular Covered Baker is thermal-shock resistant and can go directly from the refrigerator or freezer to the oven or microwave. This pan is also quite elegant, with a vibrant multi-coat porcelain enamel finish that will surely impress your guests.
Another thermal-shock resistant option is the Emile Henry Modern Classics Large Rectangular Baker, made from high-quality, heirloom-worthy ceramic in France since 1850. This pan is oven-safe up to 520°F and comes with a 10-year warranty. Similarly, the OXO Glass Baking Dish with Lid is made of thermal-shock-resistant borosilicate glass, making it perfect for prepping and freezing meals ahead of time.
While a 9x13-inch pan is a handy addition to any kitchen, it is important to consider your specific needs and choose a pan with the right material, features, and thermal properties to suit your cooking requirements.
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A 9x13-inch pan is suitable for savoury dishes
A 9x13-inch pan is a versatile piece of cookware, perfect for not just desserts but also savoury dishes. Its large size makes it ideal for meal prepping, batch cooking, dinner parties, and bake sales.
This rectangular baking dish is often used for savoury dishes like stuffing, big-batch desserts, peach cobbler, and blueberry pound cake. Its larger size is perfect for making sticky buns, and it can also be used for cooking up a large batch of savoury dishes like mac and cheese, eggplant parmesan, or lasagna.
The 9x13-inch pan is also great for baked dishes with cheese, pasta, and vegetables. You can even use it to make a small focaccia or cornbread.
When substituting a 9x13-inch pan for a different size, it's important to keep the batter depth the same as in the original recipe. This ensures you don't have to make drastic changes to the baking time and oven temperature. For example, a 9x13-inch pan can be substituted for two 9-inch round pans, as the volume of batter is essentially the same.
The 9x13-inch pan is a kitchen essential, perfect for both sweet and savoury dishes, and its versatility makes it a go-to for cooks and bakers alike.
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A 9x13-inch pan is good for batch cooking
A 9x13-inch pan is a great option for batch cooking. With a capacity of around 14 to 16 cups, it is perfect for making large batches of food. This size is ideal for preparing big batches of desserts such as peach cobbler, blueberry pound cake, or sticky buns. It is also useful for savoury dishes like stuffing, mac and cheese, and lasagna. The larger size of this pan makes it perfect for meal prepping, batch cooking, and feeding a crowd.
When it comes to cake-baking, a 9x13-inch pan is a versatile option. It can be used as a substitute for two 9-inch round pans, providing a similar baking area. This is especially useful if you want to create a layered cake with a more shallow depth. However, it's important to keep in mind that using a 9x13-inch pan will result in shorter layers compared to a 9-inch round pan.
Additionally, the 9x13-inch pan is a great choice for those who enjoy baking bars or brownies. Its rectangular shape and ample size make it perfect for this purpose. The pan's capacity ensures that you can bake a generous amount in one go, making it ideal for bake sales, parties, or simply stocking up your freezer.
Another advantage of the 9x13-inch pan is its compatibility with various recipes. Many recipes are designed with this pan size in mind, so you won't need to worry about complicated conversions or adjustments. This saves time and effort, making your baking experience more enjoyable and efficient.
In summary, the 9x13-inch pan is a versatile and practical option for batch cooking. Its capacity and rectangular shape make it suitable for a wide range of dishes, from savoury meals to sweet treats. Whether you're feeding a large group or simply stocking your freezer, this pan size will make your cooking endeavours more efficient and rewarding.
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Frequently asked questions
The average 9x13 inch baking pan has a capacity of 3.5 to 4 quarts. However, the quart size can vary based on the depth of the pan. Some deeper pans can hold up to 5 quarts.
A 9x13 inch pan is equivalent in capacity to two 9-inch round pans or two 8-inch round pans that are 2 inches deep. It is also similar in capacity to a 3-quart Dutch oven, making it a good alternative for recipes that call for a Dutch oven.
A 9x13 inch pan is versatile and can be used for both sweet and savoury dishes. Some popular recipes include lasagna, peach cobbler, blueberry pound cake, chicken bakes, and breakfast casseroles. It is also great for big-batch meals and meal prepping.
Some recommended brands for 9x13 inch baking pans include Pyrex, Staub, Emile Henry, OXO, Caraway, and Great Jones. These brands offer durable and functional pans with features like thermal shock resistance, non-stick coatings, and easy-grip handles.