Which one is the best pie pan?
Pie is an all-time favorite due to its distinctively flaky crust and mouth watering filling, which can be either savory or sweet. You’ll need the nicest pie pan and an excellent recipe to make the ideal filling and delectable pastry casing. The finest pie pans blend style and functionality to consistently create pie perfection.
A lovely pan with a timeless style is the Emile Henry Pie Dish. It is equally comfortable in the oven as on the table.
Things to consider before buying a pie pan
Materials
Three common materials are used to make pie pans: metal, ceramic, and tempered glass.
Tempered glass: The most popular and recognizable material for pie plates is tempered glass. Tempered glass produces uniform browning and is resistant to shattering. They are also reasonably priced and long-lasting.
Ceramic: Another traditional material, ceramic may cause a soggy bottom because it does not conduct heat as evenly. It’s also challenging to determine when your pie crust is done because they are opaque. For improved heat transfer, seek for thinner ceramics if you decide to utilize them.
Metal: Pie plates made of metal are inexpensive and lightweight. Cast iron is an exception to this rule. A tough and overbaked crust could result from the rapid browning action of metal. For pies with a custard basis that need a long cooking time, these are not a good choice.
Size
The recipe you are using and the quantity of people you are feeding will mostly dictate the size you choose. The majority of pie plates have a diameter of 8 to 9 inches, however some may be as large as 12 inches. Remember that when you bake a recipe made for a 9-inch pie crust in anything bigger, the pie will be underfilled.
Qualities of a high-quality pie pan
Wide fluted edge
Making a beautiful edge on your crust is made easier with a wide fluted edge. If you are unsure of how to finish the edges of your pie, it also serves as a guide.
Different colors
Pie plates made of ceramic are frequently offered in a variety of colors. This enables you to customize your pie plate to fit your own aesthetic.
Safe in hot weather
At least 400 degrees should be safe for your pie pan. Make sure the pan you choose can withstand the heat if you like to finish a crispy crust under the broiler.
Simple cleanup
The majority of pie pans may be cleaned and put in the dishwasher. Avoid pie plates that need to be hand-washed or made of cast iron if you value this kind of simple cleanup.
The approximate cost of buying a pie pan
Spend between $5 to $40, depending on the materials. The most expensive pans are those that are heavy-duty and aesthetically pleasing.
Pie pan frequently asked questions
Can other dishes be baked in a pie pan?
A pie is defined as a baked dish with one or two flaky pastry crusts encasing a filling of some sort. Although a pie pan can be used for baking without a crust, its intended function is the best.
Does flaky pie crust have a trick?
A. Indeed. Many home cooks find it difficult to make a flaky pie crust, but there are certain tricks to help you make the ideal pastry.
Use chilly ingredients: Make sure that everything is ice-cold, including the water and butter.
Work the dough as little as possible: the more you knead and combine the pie crust, the more gluten will form. A stiff pie crust that refuses to flake is the result of overdeveloped gluten.
Chill before rolling: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill it to allow the gluten to relax once you have included the butter and cold water.
Use a mix of butter and shortening: While some bakers insist on using only butter for their crusts, others find that a mix of shortening and butter works best. The shortening remains relatively separate and aids in the flaking of the crust even if the butter melts or is fully mixed.
Add a shot of vodka: To stop gluten from forming in the pie crust, replace a portion of the cold water with an icy shot of vodka. During baking, the alcohol content dissipates.
Which pie plate is best to purchase?
The top Pie pan
Pie Dish by Emile Henry
Important information: This lovely deep-dish bakeware works well for baking and serving.
What you’ll love: It’s a sturdy ceramic dish that can withstand high heat in the oven. Scratching is prevented by the coated surfaces. A slice of pie with deep sides and the ideal angle is picture-perfect. It feels robust and comes in five different hues.
Considering: Because it’s opaque, you can’t see when the crust is done, and it might not heat up as evenly as glass pie plates.
Best pie pan for the money
Oxo Good Grips Lidded Glass Pie Plate
What you should know: This lidded platter is the greatest choice for pie on the run.
What you’ll love: It’s ideal for potlucks and picnics. The BPA-free lid is ventilated to keep condensation from ruining your crisp crust, and it clamps securely to stop spills. Despite rapid temperature changes, the glass remains intact. It’s dishwasher safe as well.
should consider: While having a picnic, insects may also enter through the vents on the lid.
Worth watching
Pyrex Glass Pie Plate with Easy Grab
What you should know: If you need to cook two pies at once, this traditional glass set is a fantastic choice.
What you’ll love: Pyrex produces durable bakeware that is made to last at least a generation. You may make a gorgeous decorative crust with the wide scalloped edge. The pie is a little bigger because it is 9.25 inches. It’s safe to use in the microwave and freezer.
Consider this: Recipes made for a typical 9-inch pie plate may feel underfilled due to the slightly bigger size.
