Bakeware 101: Your Complete Ovenware Buying Guide

Cooking and baking are not just about preparing food. Instead, they tie into creating memories and experiences that evoke joy and nostalgia. And what better way to do that than with the right tools and utensils? Combining the right bakeware sets, cookware sets, stove-to-oven cookware, and pots and pans can transform your cooking and baking experience in the kitchen.

In this guide, we'll take you through everything you need to know to make an informed decision when purchasing ovenware. We'll cover everything from the benefits of using ovenware to the different types of ovenware available. You'll also learn about the factors to consider when choosing the size and shape of your ovenware and the features you should look out for, such as non-stick coatings and oven-safe temperatures.

As a bonus, you'll get tips on how to care for and maintain your items, so you can enjoy using them for years to come. So whether you're a novice or an experienced cook, this guide has something for everyone. Get ready to take your cooking and baking game to the next level by choosing the best ovenware and bakeware for your needs, with help from Harris Scarfe!

Quick Links

• What Oven Dishes Do I Need?
• Best Materials For Ovenware
• How To Choose The Right Bakeware & Ovenware
• Ovenware Care & Maintenance
• Bakeware & Ovenware FAQs

Understanding Your Kitchen Arsenal: What Oven Dishes Do I Need?

From baking delicate sponge cakes to slow-roasting meats or crisping up veggies, your oven is designed to cook a huge variety of different meals and treats. Oven trays & tins, for example, come in various shapes and sizes, each serving a specific purpose in the kitchen. Let's explore some of the vast selection of oven-safe cookware and bakeware that will help you reliably create delectable dishes.

What Is The Best Material For Ovenware & Bakeware?

It can be difficult to choose the best material for your ovenware and baking sets, with so many options available. Different materials and constructions will lend themselves to different types of dishes, as well as having different requirements when it comes to care and maintenance. Let's explore the most popular types of ovenware that customers choose for their bakeware sets, cookware sets and stove-to-oven cookware - and their associated features & benefits:

Ceramic Bakeware

Ceramic ovenware is a popular choice for many cooks due to its beautiful designs and ability to retain heat. This type of ovenware is also non-reactive, meaning it won't affect the taste of your food. However, ceramic ovenware can be heavy and fragile, so handling it carefully is essential.

Best uses for ceramic ovenware include baking casseroles, roasting meats, and making lasagna.

Glass Bakeware

Glass ovenware is a popular choice for many home cooks due to its transparency, allowing you to easily see how your food cooks. This type of ovenware is also dishwasher-safe and non-reactive, meaning it won't affect the taste of your food. However, glass ovenware can break easily if dropped or exposed to sudden changes in temperature.

Best uses for glass ovenware include baking desserts, roasting vegetables, and making soups.

Metal Bakeware

Metal ovenware is a durable and versatile choice for many cooks. This ovenware heats up quickly and evenly, making it ideal for baking and roasting. However, metal ovenware can react with acidic foods, causing a metallic taste. You can find a range of different metal constructions and alloys, such as:

• Aluminium Ovenware
  Promotes even heating and is lightweight. Non-stick coatings prevent sticking.

• Steel & Stainless Steel Ovenware
  Durable and resistant to warping. Ideal for baking trays, cake pans, and muffin pans.

• Cast Iron Ovenware
  Offers excellent heat retention and even cooking. Perfect for casserole dishes and roasting pans. Find out how to care for your cast iron cookware and ovenware in our handy Food Hub article.

Silicone Ovenware & Bakeware

Ovenware and bakeware made from silicone is flexible, non-stick, and heat-resistant. It's an excellent choice for making cakes and desserts as it typically has a wide range of temperatures it can safely accommodate. This means you can use it in the oven as well as in the freezer to create mousse cakes, semifreddo and other moulded desserts and entremets. Keep an eye out for silicone baking mats as well, which are a handily reusable option for lining your baking sheets with a non-stick surface.

How To Choose The Right Bakeware & Ovenware

When it comes to selecting the best ovenware for your needs, here are a few simple factors to keep in mind:

• The size of your oven: While most ovenware will easily fit inside standard ovens, it may be tricky to fit larger ovenware pieces or bakeware trays within more compact appliances. Check the internal measurement of your oven space if you're on the lookout for large sheet trays or baking pans.
• The size of your family or the number of people you're cooking for: For ovenware like casserole dishes, review its capacity to ensure it can accommodate the volume of food you want to cook.
• The type of dish you're making: Review the type of cookware material against the meals you want to create - for example, if you're making lasagne, a ceramic or glass dish is optimal, as the acidity of tomato sauce can react with metal ovenware.
• Whether you want leftovers or not: If your oven and fridge space can accommodate, it may be wise to choose larger ovenware pieces and cook larger batches for meals. That way you'll be assured of delicious leftovers for lunches or pre-prepared meals ahead of time.
• The shape of the ovenware: If you make lots of stews, curries or casseroles it's wise to choose round oven dishes that are both oven-safe and stovetop-safe. The round shape will also make it much easier to stir whatever you're cooking for even distribution of flavourings and liquids.

Features To Look For When Choosing Bakeware & Ovenware

• Non-Stick Coatings: Make sure your bakeware has a reliable non-stick coating for easy release and effortless cleaning.
• Thermal Shock Resistance: Especially important for glass bakeware, this feature ensures the dish can handle quick temperature changes without cracking.
• Heat-Conducting Core: Some pans come with a core that promotes even heat distribution, preventing hot spots that can lead to uneven baking.
• Reinforced Edges: Look for reinforced edges on baking sheets and trays to prevent warping, ensuring longevity.
• Stackability: For those with limited kitchen space, bakeware that stacks neatly is a practical feature.
• Oven-safe Temperatures: Oven-safe temperature refers to the highest temperature the ovenware can withstand without melting or warping. It's essential to select ovenware with a high enough temperature rating for the types of dishes you plan to make.
• Handles: Ovenware can have various handles, including metal, silicone, or plastic. Metal handles are durable but can get hot in the oven. In contrast, silicone and plastic handles are cool but may be less durable. The best type of handle depends on personal preference and the ovenware.
• Lids: Ovenware can come with different lids, including glass, metal, or silicone. Glass lids allow you to see the food cooking, while metal or silicone lids can lock in moisture and heat. The best lid type depends on the dish you're making and personal preference.

Ovenware Care & Maintenance

Now that you've selected the perfect ovenware for your kitchen, it's important to take good care of it to ensure it lasts for years. By following the care and maintenance tips, you can keep your bakeware sets, stove-to-oven cookware, and ovenware looking and performing at their optimal level for years to come

General Care & Maintenance Tips

• Avoid exposing your ovenware to sudden changes in temperature, which can cause cracking or warping.
• Don't use metal utensils on non-stick coatings, which can scratch and damage the coating.
• Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for use and care.

Bakeware Cleaning Tips

• Clean your ovenware promptly after use to prevent food from sticking and hardening.
• Use gentle dish soap and a soft sponge or cloth to clean your ovenware. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or steel wool.
• Soak your ovenware in hot water and dish soap for a few hours before cleaning for tough stains.

Oven & Bakeware Storage Tips

• Store your ovenware in a dry, cool place to prevent moisture from building up.
• Avoid stacking heavy ovenware on top of each other, as this can cause damage to the pieces on the bottom.
• If possible, store your ovenware with the lids off to prevent moisture from being trapped inside.

Check out our informative kitchen & pantry storage buying guide for more ideas on kitchen storage and organisation!

Bakeware & Ovenware FAQs

Can I use ovenware in air fryer?

Yes, you can generally use ovenware in an air fryer, as long as it's made of materials safe for high temperatures such as metal, stainless steel, or heat-resistant ceramics. Avoid using ovenware with plastic components or glass lids, and always check the manufacturer's guidelines for compatibility. At Harris Scarfe, our range of air fryers also includes a great selection of air fryer trays and bakeware that's specifically designed for use in your air fryer.

How to bake with silicone bakeware?

To bake with silicone bakeware, prepare your ingredients as usual and fill the silicone moulds with batter or dough. Place the moulds on a baking sheet and bake according to your recipe's instructions. Once baked, allow the silicone bakeware to cool before removing your baked goods for easy and mess-free release.

How to tell if cookware is oven-safe?

To tell if cookware is oven-safe, look for a label or symbol on the cookware indicating its oven-safe temperature range. Additionally, if the cookware has metal handles or knobs, it's likely safe for oven use, while plastic or wooden handles may not be suitable for use in the oven.

How to clean burnt silicone bakeware?

To clean burnt silicone bakeware, fill the bakeware with warm, soapy water and let it soak for several hours. Then, gently scrub the bakeware with a non-abrasive sponge or brush and rinse with clean water. Apply a paste of baking soda and water for tough stains to the affected areas before scrubbing.

Find The Best Ovenware From Leading Brands At Harris Scarfe

At Harris Scarfe, you can bakeware sets, stove-to-oven cookware, and durable ovenware from household brand names like Pyrex, Wiltshire, Wilton and Masterpro. Whether you're looking for non-stick coating, durable handles, or a specific oven-safe temperature rating, we have you covered.

Have you just got your hands on some exciting new ovenware and bakeware? First things first - make a clean slate by freshening up your oven - we have tips on how to clean your oven without ruining the kitchen! Once the oven is clean and ready to go, be sure to read our need-to-know tips, tricks and hacks for every beginner baker to learn some handy secrets for getting the best use out of your new bakeware and oven dishes.

Shop ovenware and bakeware essentials with Harris Scarfe to find the best in quality and price. Explore our complete kitchen & dining range online or at your local Harris Scarfe store, and be sure to check out our informative kitchen & dining buying guides and Food Hub articles for more inspiration.