As with cookware, bakeware comes in
a variety of materials. It is important to purchase bakeware that is
warp-resistant. Different materials used in the making of bakeware, can
affect heat distribution, conductivity, and browning.
- Stainless Steel - Stainless steel bakeware is
used because of its durability, shine and easy to clean property but
is not recommended for baking as it is a poor conductor of heat.
- Tinned Steel - It is an excellent conductor of
heat and it transfers heat slowly and evenly. It needs special care
because tin can rust easily.
- Aluminum - It is a durable and versatile metal
used widely for baking purposes.
- Silicone - It is the most versatile metal used
for making bakeware. It is oven, microwave, freezer and dishwasher
safe and allows even transfer of heat.
- Glass - It is widely used for oven to table
use. It is fairly easy to clean glass bakewares and it does not
stain. It is not recommended for high temperature baking.
- Stone - Stone bakeware is made from stone fired
at high temperature. It absorbs heat and enables even heat
distribution. It keeps food hot for even a longer time.
- Black Steel - Black steel is an excellent
conductor of heat and quickly distributes it uniformly throughout
the pan.
- Copper - It is widely used because of its
better conductivity. It provides extremely even heat and is heat
responsive.
Bakeware Finishes
- Insulated - The bakeware is made by two sheets
of aluminum separated by a layer of air and it results in even
browning without burning.
- Ceramic - It is used in conventional and
microwave oven. Ceramic bakeware holds heat for a long time while
providing the additional benefit of an attractive serving dish.
These surfaces are fairly resistant to sticking from food.
- Non Stick - Non stick coating is applied to
steel or aluminium bakeware and enables easy cleaning of the vessel.
The coating gives a darker surface to the bakeware ensuring quicker
heat absorbtion.
- Anodized - It is an electrochemical method of
treating raw aluminium. Anodized aluminum is more resistant to
scratching, corrosion and abrasion. It also possesses superior heat
conductivity.