Light-colored aluminum is the most reliable bakeware for cakes, cookies and bars because it heats evenly and browns gently. Dark metal pans brown faster, so many bakers reduce oven temperature by about 25 °F. Glass and ceramic heat slowly but hold heat, which suits casseroles, pies and gratins. Silicone is flexible and nonstick but browns less. Start with a sheet pan, a 9 by 13 inch pan, round cake pans and a loaf pan.
Pan material changes how baked goods rise and brown. Here is how they compare.
Comparison
| Material | Heats | Browning | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light aluminum | Quickly, evenly | Gentle, golden | Cakes, cookies, sheet pans |
| Dark / nonstick metal | Quickly | Faster, darker | Breads, crusts (watch timing) |
| Glass | Slowly, holds heat | Good on bottom, visible | Pies, casseroles, crisps |
| Ceramic / stoneware | Slowly, holds heat | Even | Gratins, casseroles, serving |
| Silicone | Slowly | Minimal | Muffins, molds, easy release |
| Cast iron | Slowly, holds heat | Excellent | Cornbread, skillet cookies, pizza |
Essential bakeware
- Rimmed half sheet pan (about 18 × 13 in): cookies, roasting, everything
- 9 × 13 inch pan: brownies, sheet cakes, casseroles
- Two 8 or 9 inch round cake pans
- Loaf pan (about 9 × 5 in)
- Muffin tin
- Pie plate (glass or ceramic)
Tips
- Use parchment paper for easy release and cleanup.
- Adjust temperature or time for dark and glass pans.
- Avoid metal utensils on nonstick bakeware.
- Let glass and ceramic cool on a dry towel or rack, not a cold or wet surface.
Care
Hand wash nonstick bakeware to protect the coating, and dry aluminum promptly. Many sheet pans discolor with use; that doesn’t affect performance.
Common questions
Glass or metal for baking?
Metal for cakes, cookies and breads that need even, quick heating and good browning. Glass for casseroles, pies and dishes where you want to see the bottom or hold heat.
Should I lower the oven temperature for dark pans?
Many bakers reduce the temperature by about 25 °F (about 15 °C) for dark metal pans, or check doneness earlier, to prevent over-browning.
Can glass bakeware go from fridge to oven?
Sudden temperature changes can cause glass bakeware to shatter. Follow the maker's instructions and avoid placing hot glass on wet or cold surfaces.