What are Some Different Kinds of Baking Pans?
Baking pans are very commonly used in food preparation. There are a number of different types of baking pans that may be used for several different purposes. Here are some examples of the different kinds of baking pans, including the different materials used in the manufacture of baking pans all over the world.
The average baking pan is made of either some sort of metal or glass. Metal baking pans often are constructed of aluminum, carbon steel, or tinned steel. Occasionally, the metal baking pan may have a copper treated bottom, similar to the copper coating found on many sets of stainless steel range top cooking pots and pans. Today, many baking pans constructed from metal will feature a nonstick surface. This makes the metal baking pans easy to use for all sorts of baked goods, and certainly makes the cleaning process much faster and simpler.
Along with metal, glass is a common material used for baking pans. Glass baking pans are made of made of tempered glass that will hold up well to prolonged exposure to heat in the oven. Some people prefer to use a glass baking pan, since they are rumored to provide an even distribution of heat during the cooking process. Glass baking pans come in clear types, as well as a variety of colors. Some of the glass baking pans may also include a ridged baking surface in the bottom of the pan, which is considered ideal when baking meats such as fish or chicken filets.
Along with glass and metal, there are other materials used for baking pans. Stoneware and pottery baking pans are favored in some cultures and with certain types of baked goods. Many people prefer pottery or stoneware when preparing a casserole of some sort.
Baking pans are commonly found in square, round, and oblong shapes and may measure anywhere from seven to fifteen inches (18 to 38 cm) in length and width. Depths may range from just under an inch to over three inches, depending on the intended purpose of the baking pan in question. Baking pans can be used for the preparation of appetizers, entrees, side dishes, and desserts. A wide variety of baking pans can be found in just about any retail store that carries kitchen supplies as well as in many supermarkets and food stores. While the cost will range from inexpensive aluminum types all the way to costly pottery and stoneware models, affordable baking pans are readily available just about everywhere.
Written by Malcolm Tatum
