Tips & Tricks

The Best Pans to Use for Baking

Whether you’re new to the kitchen or an experienced Maker – you’ll want to feel confident during the process. When baking, think of yourself as a match-Maker. It’s important to identify which pans will be compatible with which recipes. If they aren’t a perfect fit, there might be trouble in paradise. Since we’ve seen how troublesome things can get, we’re here to shed some light on just how particular you should be when finding a pan’s perfect pairing.

Sheet Pans

Traits: Super versatile, getting along well with both savory and sweet dishes. A standard 12 x 16-inch “half sheet” is very amenable to several different recipes.

Most compatible with: Roasted potatoes, cookies, biscuits, cinnamon rolls

Relationship tip: We suggest having two of these in your kitchen. Opt for a heavier, uncoated metal to ensure they stick around for a good while.

Baking Pans

Traits: Coming in a variety of sizes, these guys are a bit more deep than sheet pans, and can handle a more layered, complex recipe.

Most compatible with: Deep dish pizzas, roast chickens, casseroles, single layer cakes

Relationship tip: Go with a round uncoated metal pan and an 8 x 8-inch square uncoated metal pan. They will always be there for you when you need them.

Round Cake Pans

Traits: These come in handy when you’re baking for presentation in addition to taste. The size and shape are perfect for flawless cake layers every time.

Most compatible with: Tiered multi-layer cakes, rolls, cookie bars

Relationship tip: Grab two of these in 8, 9 or 10-inch diameters to have on hand for all your celebratory baking needs.

Muffin Pans

Traits: These pans do the work for you. Just drop in a liner, add your desired batter and watch those tasty treats take shape.

Most compatible with: Muffins, cupcakes, popovers

Relationship tip: Standard-sized 12-count and mini-sized metal pans are great to have when you’re switching between recipes.

Pie Pans

Traits: They’re made for exactly what they sound like. Depending on the style you choose, they can double as both a baking dish and a presentation plate.

Most compatible with: Pies, quiche

Relationship tip: Opt for a 9-inch glass or ceramic pan for greater longevity.

Loaf Pan

Traits: Again, no false claims here. These are the perfect pans for those family weeknight creations.

Most compatible with: Quick bread, meatloaf, banana bread

Relationship tip: Go with a heavy, standard-sized 9 x 5-inch metal pan that’s at least 2.5 inches deep.

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