The Best Pastry & Baking Molds

Buying Guide

Whereas cookware goes on ranges and stovetops, bakeware is something different as it’s made to withstand the punishing heat of an oven. Using quality bakeware will improve the form, shape and taste of your baked goods, and you don’t even have to invest a small fortune to get the best.

The basic sorts of bakeware every kitchen should have are two round cake pans, a large cookie sheet, a loaf pan, an edge baking pan and muffin pans. If you want to make anything more specialized like Bundt cakes or doughnuts, there are of course also pans for those. Choosing specialized pans for these pastries means you won’t have to fry anything and deal with all those extra calories or messy cleanup.

Back in the old days, the bakeware your grandparents might’ve had was cumbersome, heavy and hard to clean. Now, you can choose lightweight, non-stick materials that do well in ovens, microwaves, freezers and dishwashers.

Nonstick coated steel is the most popular choice because it is relatively inexpensive and easy to clean. Silicone is an eco-friendly option, is heat-resistant, and does not change the flavor of what you are baking. Remember that silicone will not last as long as metal, but it comes in more shapes and colors; it is also the most flexible.

When you buy bakeware, read the manufacturer’s instructions and only bake at the indicated temperatures. Otherwise, the bakeware could lose its form; sometimes, they even melt or warp if the oven temp is too high. Other bakeware materials include glass, stoneware, ceramic, cast iron and uncoated aluminum, but nonstick steel and silicone generally work best for pastry baking molds. Nonstick aluminum usually bakes faster and produces crispier edges, though.

• Experienced bakers like nonstick textured baking surfaces because they eliminate hot spots in the pans and promote good airflow.
• Even if your bakeware shows that it is dishwasher-safe, it will perform better and last longer if you hand-wash it with warm, soapy water. Wipe it dry with a clean dishtowel.
• Never use nonstick sprays on nonstick bakeware because those products build up over time and cause ingredients to eventually stick. You’ll notice the sticky accumulation on the pans when you use these sprays.
• If you are still worried about something sticking, use parchment paper or tin foil, but the first is best for baking. Use tin foil under things like oven-fried fish and french fries.
• Nonstick coatings don’t last forever, so when it stops working, it’s probably time to replace your bakeware.