Stainless Steel Bread Pans: Best Options Reviewed

A good bread pan is an essential part of any well-equipped kitchen. The best stainless steel bread pan for you will depend on your needs and preferences. Factors to consider include the material, size, weight, ease of cleaning, and special features such as textured bottoms or handles.

Some popular options for stainless steel bread pans include the USA Pan Aluminized Steel, Pyrex Basics 1.5-Quart Loaf Dish, and the Chicago Metallic Commercial II. These pans offer different features and benefits, so it's important to consider your specific needs when making a purchase decision.

In addition to stainless steel, bread pans can also be made of materials such as aluminized steel, cast iron, glass, ceramic, and silicone, each with its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of heat conduction, browning, and ease of release.

When choosing a bread pan, it's also important to consider the size and weight of the pan, as well as how comfortable it is to handle and how easy it is to clean.

Stainless steel vs other materials

Stainless steel is a blend of steel and chromium, designed to resist warping, denting, and scratching. It is non-reactive, meaning it will not interact with acidic ingredients, ensuring the integrity and flavor of your baked goods. It is also corrosion- and rust-resistant, making it easy to clean and maintain. However, stainless steel is a poor conductor of heat, which can result in uneven baking and potential hot spots.

Aluminum is a popular choice for baking pans as it heats up and cools down quickly, promoting even browning and ensuring your recipes are baked to perfection. It is also corrosion- and rust-resistant, providing a durable and lightweight pan that is easy to handle. However, aluminum can react with acidic ingredients, imparting a metallic taste and dull grey tint to your baked goods.

Glass baking dishes provide an even, consistent temperature, making them ideal for foods that require slow, even heat distribution. However, glass is a poor heat conductor, taking longer to heat up and cool down, and can result in over-browning or burning, especially in sugary recipes. Glass is also susceptible to thermal shock and can crack or shatter if exposed to sudden temperature changes.

Stoneware baking dishes retain heat well and ensure slow, even heat distribution. However, like glass, they can cause browning or burning in sweet dishes and should be monitored closely. They are also susceptible to thermal shock, breakage, and can be heavy, requiring careful handling.

Carbon steel baking pans are made by pressing raw, heavy-gauge steel, resulting in a durable material that is a superior heat conductor with non-stick properties. However, carbon steel requires regular seasoning and maintenance and is prone to rust if not carefully cleaned.

Cast iron is a poor conductor of heat and is slow to heat up and cool down. However, this self-regulating nature makes it ideal for dutch ovens, fry pans, and grill pans as it resists warping, denting, and chipping. Cast iron is available in its natural state or enamel-coated, with the latter being maintenance-free, easy to clean, and completely non-reactive. Both types are exceedingly durable and can produce juicy and flavorful roasts, as well as crusty breads.

Price

The price of a stainless steel bread pan varies depending on the brand, quality, and features offered. Here is a breakdown of the prices for some popular stainless steel bread pans:

• The 360 Stainless Steel Loaf Pan, handcrafted in the USA, is a high-quality option with a price tag to match. While the current listing on Amazon does not provide a price, customer reviews indicate that it is expensive. One reviewer mentions that the cost was "daunting," but they expect the pan to last for generations.
• The USA Pan Aluminized Steel loaf pan is praised for its performance and affordability. While the exact price is not mentioned, it is described as "affordable" and "reasonably priced."
• The Pyrex Basics 1.5-Quart Loaf Dish is a glass pan known for its even heat distribution. It is available on Amazon for $17.09.
• The Chicago Metallic Commercial II Traditional Uncoated Loaf Pan is a budget-friendly option that performs well. It is available on Amazon for $10.99.
• The Great Jones Breadwinner loaf pan stands out for its style and performance. However, it is priced higher than some of the more basic pans, with one reviewer noting that you are "paying for design."
• The Food Network Textured Performance Series Nonstick Loaf Pan is a runner-up option that offers excellent performance and easy cleaning. While the exact price is not mentioned, it is described as "slightly larger than some loaf pans" and "slightly faster to cook."
• The OXO Good Grips Glass Loaf Pan with Lid is a versatile option made of borosilicate glass. While the price is not mentioned, it is described as "heavier" due to its glass construction.

It is important to note that prices may vary depending on the retailer and any discounts or promotions offered. Additionally, some pans may be available in sets, which can affect the overall price. It is always a good idea to compare prices from multiple sources before making a purchase.

Size

When it comes to the size of your stainless steel bread pan, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, the standard size for a loaf pan is either 9" x 5" or 8.5" x 4.5", with a height of around 2.5" to 3". However, it's important to note that even a slight difference in size can significantly impact the size, shape, and baking time of your bread loaf. For example, a narrower pan will result in a taller loaf with a more iconic dome shape, while a larger pan may produce wide and bulky loaves. Therefore, it's crucial to know the exact capacity of your pan to ensure you're using the right amount of dough or batter.

Another factor to consider is the material of the pan. Stainless steel is a durable, scratch-resistant, and easy-to-clean option, but it may not create as evenly browned crusts as other materials like aluminum. Aluminum distributes heat more quickly and evenly, resulting in a darker crust on baked goods. On the other hand, glass and ceramic pans are great heat conductors, but they can cause baked goods with a high sugar content to get darker than desired. Silicone pans are known for their non-stick properties, but they don't brown well, so they won't give you that golden crust.

Additionally, the shape of the pan can affect the heat transfer and the final shape of your loaf. Pans with deeper and steeper sides tend to produce taller, more impressive loaves. Shallower pans, on the other hand, will create loaves with more volume on the sides and a less puffy top.

Lastly, consider the features of the pan, such as handles or texture. Handles can make it easier to manoeuvre the pan in and out of the oven, especially if it's heavy. Textured bottoms and sides can also help with loaf release and prevent sticking.

Ease of cleaning

When it comes to cleaning stainless steel pans, there are several methods you can use to ensure your cookware remains in top condition. Here are some detailed instructions and tips to make the process easier and more effective:

General Cleaning Tips:

• Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific care guidelines.
• Hand-washing is generally recommended over using a dishwasher to avoid potential damage and maintain quality.
• Allow the pan to cool down before cleaning to prevent warping and other issues.
• Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, or oven cleaner, as well as abrasive tools like steel wool, which can damage the surface.
• For light cleaning, use hot soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge or scrubber.

Removing Stuck-on Food:

• Fill the pan with soapy water, bring it to a boil, and use a spatula or wooden spoon to scrape away any stuck-on food.
• Alternatively, use a long-handled dish brush to loosen the food bits before scraping and rinsing.

Removing Tougher Stains and Discoloration:

• For burnt food or oil, create a mixture of baking soda and water in the pan, bring it to a boil, and simmer until the water evaporates. Then scrub with a non-abrasive sponge and wash as usual.
• For hard water stains or white, cloudy residue, boil a mixture of vinegar and water (1:3 ratio) in the pan, let it cool, then wash and rinse as normal.
• To remove rainbow discoloration, splash some vinegar in the pan, wipe with a soft sponge, and rinse. Alternatively, use a small amount of Bar Keepers Friend or a similar commercial cleaner, following the manufacturer's instructions.

Preventative Measures:

• Dry your pans immediately after washing to prevent water spots.
• Only add salt to water once it has started boiling to avoid "pitting corrosion," which can leave irreparable marks on the pan.
• Preheat your pan and add oil only when the oil is hot to create a temporary non-stick surface.
• Allow cold foods like meat or chicken to reach room temperature before cooking to prevent sticking.
• Preheat your pan on a lower heat setting to prevent overheating and burning your food.
• Always let the pan cool completely before washing to avoid warping and surface damage.

Browning ability

The design of the pan also plays a role in browning. Pans with thicker walls tend to bake bread more slowly and evenly, resulting in a nice golden-brown crust. On the other hand, pans with thin walls may require more careful monitoring to prevent the bread from burning. Additionally, the shape of the pan can affect the browning process, with deep, steep-sided pans producing tall, impressive loaves with a nice rise.

When it comes to stainless steel bread pans specifically, there are a few options available. The 360° Stainless Steel Loaf Pan, handcrafted in the USA, is made of surgical-grade stainless steel with a multi-core for rapid and even heat distribution. It has a thickness of .070", which is thicker than most bakeware brands on the market. This pan also features ergonomic handles for easier control and is oven-safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.

Another option is the TeamFar Loaf Pan Set, which includes two or three 9¼" × 5" bread loaf pans made of stainless steel. These pans are designed for baking bread, meatloaf, cake, and toast. They are stackable, easy to clean, and oven and dishwasher-safe.

The USA Pan Aluminized Steel loaf pan is another popular choice and was named the "Best Overall Loaf Pan" by TechGearLab. It has corrugated steel bottoms and sides that make for easy loaf release, creating tall, sturdy loaves with a nice golden-brown shell. This pan is also affordable and easy to clean. However, it lacks handles, which can make removing the pan from the oven and turning out the loaves more challenging.

In conclusion, when it comes to browning ability, it is important to consider the material and design of the bread pan. Stainless steel pans with thicker walls and deep, steep sides tend to produce more even browning and a desirable crust. Additionally, features like corrugated surfaces can enhance the browning process and make for easier loaf release.

Frequently asked questions