Tillie Doyle
There are a variety of baking pans available for different purposes, and a true baker will have a range of these in their kitchen. The type of pan you use can completely change the outcome of your bake, so it's important to choose wisely.
Sheet pans are shallow, flat baking sheets with a low rim, perfect for baking cookies. They are incredibly versatile and can also be used for roasting vegetables and cooking meat. Round cake pans are another essential, and come in a variety of metals. The shape cooks batter evenly and cools cakes effectively. Muffin pans are great for cupcakes and muffins, of course, but also for innovative cooking ideas like mini scones. Loaf pans are another versatile option, perfect for sweet and savoury bakes like banana bread and meatloaf.
Other types of baking pans include tube pans, which are used for light and airy cakes like angel food cake; Bundt pans, which produce decorative cakes that require no further decoration; pie plates, which can also be used for brownies, loaf cakes and tarts; and springform pans, which are perfect for cheesecakes and other fragile cakes and desserts.
Baking Pans for Your Kitchen
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| 9×13-inch baking pan | Brownie, sheet cakes, casseroles, lasagna, vanilla sheet cake, overnight cinnamon rolls, rice krispie treats |
| 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch square baking pan | Brownies, bars, cakes, fudge, cookie bars |
| Half sheet pans | Roasting vegetables, cooking meat, cookies |
| 9- or 10-inch round cake pans | Traditional layer cakes, biscuits, sweet rolls, meatballs |
| Muffin pan | Muffins, cupcakes, popovers, cupcakes |
| 9- or 10-inch pie pan | Pies, roasting chicken, quiche |
| 9×5-inch loaf pan | Pound cakes, banana bread, meatloaf, yeast breads, pull-apart bread, no-churn ice cream |
| Tube pan | Light and airy cakes, angel food, chiffon cakes |
| Bundt pan | Bundt cakes |
| 8-inch square baking pan | Brownies, bar cookies |
| Pie plate | Pies, brownies, loaf cakes, tarts |
| 9-inch springform pan | Cheesecakes, tarts, quiches, regular cakes |
Loaf pans
- USA Pan Loaf Pan ($16)
- Lodge Cast Iron Loaf Pan ($17.98)
- Amazon Basics Rectangular Baking Bread Loaf Pan, Set of 2 ($13.49)
- Pyrex 1.5-Quart Clear Basics Glass Loaf Pan, Set of 2 ($27.79)
- Wilton Advance Select Premium Non-Stick Bread Loaf Pan ($13.49)
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Round cake pans
When it comes to material, light-coloured aluminium pans are recommended over darker-coloured ones, as the latter can cause the edges of your cake to overbake. Non-stick pans are also a popular choice for their convenience, but they require extra care to maintain their coating. If you opt for aluminium pans, be sure to grease them well as they are not non-stick.
Whether you are a novice or an experienced baker, investing in a good set of round cake pans will ensure that you achieve flat, evenly baked cakes every time.
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Square and rectangular pans
When choosing a square or rectangular pan, consider the material. Metal, especially light-coloured aluminium, is a good option for even browning. Glass or ceramic pans conduct heat differently and are better suited for casseroles and presentations. Non-stick pans are also convenient, but they require extra care to maintain their coating.
- Nordic Ware 8x8-inch Square Cake Pan: Made of aluminum, this pan is perfect for brownies and cakes.
- OXO Good Grips 9x9-inch Non-Stick Pro Cake Pan: This pan has a non-stick coating and a ceramic and alloy steel construction.
- USA Pan 9x13-inch Rectangular Cake Pan: Made in the USA from aluminized steel, this pan has a nonstick and quick-release coating.
- Wilton Perfect Results 9x13-inch Oblong Cake Pan: This two-piece set is made of premium non-stick material.
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Springform pans
The key to a good springform pan is finding one with a tight seal, which prevents leaks during baking. Over time, with regular use, the seal can weaken, which is something to keep in mind. Springform pans are typically made from carbon steel or aluminized steel, the latter being the choice of professional bakeries for its efficient, even heat distribution.
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Muffin tins
When choosing a muffin tin, consider the material. Aluminium is a popular choice due to its superior heat conductivity, producing evenly browned baked goods. Aluminium muffin tins are durable, lightweight, and will never rust. However, they are not naturally non-stick, so greasing is required. Alternatively, non-stick muffin tins are available, which make for easy release and cleanup, but they require extra care to maintain the coating. Silicone muffin tins are also an option but are not ideal for browning baked goods.
When using a muffin tin, it's important to follow some care instructions to ensure its longevity. Hand washing with warm, soapy water is recommended, as dishwashers can discolour the tin. While aluminium tins are durable, it's best to use nylon, wood, or silicone utensils to avoid scratching the surface.
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Frequently asked questions
A 9"x13" baking pan is a standard size that can be used for a variety of dishes, from cakes to casseroles.
An 8"x8" or 9"x9" square baking pan is ideal for brownies and bars.
Round cake pans are a must-have for frequent bakers. Light-colored pans are preferable for delicate cakes like layer cakes, while dark pans can be used for cakes that benefit from a more caramelized exterior, such as pound cakes.
Yes, there are several other types of baking pans available, including sheet pans, muffin pans, loaf pans, pie plates, and springform pans.
Sheet pans are shallow, flat baking sheets with a low rim, perfect for cookies but also versatile enough for roasting vegetables and cooking meat. Cookie sheets, on the other hand, have one raised side and no rims, designed specifically for baking cookies.
