8 Best Bakeware Sets for the Kitchen of 2023

Good quality bakeware can last you years and baking for all kind of dinners, holidays, and special occasions. Find out which sets PropertyNest named as the best sets to have in your kitchen by baking needs, budget, and materials.
baking

Bakeware is a type of cookware with different materials, shapes, and purposes. If you're looking to start your new kitchen life off on the right foot, you'll want a bakeware set. Baking with high-quality bakeware can help to improve just about every aspect of your baked product, especially when you have the appropriate baking sheets, racks, pans, and molds.

Numerous features distinguish premium bakeware from the rest, including heat distribution and nonstick coatings. Furthermore, top-tier bakeware is typically dishwasher and oven-safe up to very high temperatures. Many bakeware sets on the market come with various items to make any dish you can imagine, while others are more specific and only come with certain items.

Our list of the best bakeware sets will save you hours of research to pick the perfect set for your needs.

Best Bakeware Sets

  • Caraway Bakeware Set: Best Set for Baking Desserts, Pastries, and Bread
  • Calphalon Non-Stick 6-Pc Bakeware Set: Best Budget Set
  • All-Clad Pro-Release Nonstick Bakeware Set: Best Non-Stick Set
  • CorningWare French White Bakeware Set: Best Affordable Ceramic Set
  • Made-In Bakeware Set: Best Non-Stick Ceramic
  • Libbey Baker's Basics 6-Piece Glass Casserole Baking Dish: Best Glass Set
  • Meichu Non-Stick Bake Molds Silicone Bakeware Set: Best Silicone Set
  • Great Jones Bakeware Set: Best Set Overall

Caraway Bakeware Set: Best Set for Baking Desserts, Pastries, and Bread

The Caraway Bakeware Set is the greatest bakeware set available. It comes with 11 distinct pieces and covers just about any need you might have, making it ideal for beginner bakers who need all the pieces. The set includes an 18x13" baking sheet with handles, ten 15" baking sheets, a 12-cup muffin pan, a 9x13" rectangle pan with handles, a 9" square pan, a one-pound loaf pan, two 9" circle pans, an 18x13' cooling rack, and two storage organizers.

With so many different pans to choose from, you can easily bake anything from appetizers to bread and desserts of all sizes, shapes, and tastes. While you can cook casseroles and roast vegetables or meats in some of these pans, these pans are better suited for baking cookies, muffins, cakes, bread, and brownies.

You'll also find that they will withstand greater temperatures than most bakeware at 550 degrees Fahrenheit, giving baking enthusiasts more options and versatility in their baking. With less prep required before baking and practically no scrubbing afterward, slick, non-stick bakeware sheets and pans give you a healthy and easy at-home baking experience.

Caraway's bakeware sheets and pans are eco-friendly and free of harmful PTFE, PFOA, PFAS, lead, and cadmium! So you can feel confident that what you're feeding your family is safe and healthy. Choose from 7 exciting colors.

Pros and Cons of Caraway Bakeware

Pros
  • Withstand oven temperatures up to 550ºF
  • Includes organizers for easy storage
  • Non-stick, and easy to clean
  • Non-toxic coating
Cons
  • Pans are not dishwasher safe
  • More expensive than other brands,

Calphalon Non-Stick 6-Pc Bakeware Set: Best Budget Set

With no hotspots, you'll never have to worry about uneven cooking again. The pans feature a heavy-gauge steel core that distributes heat evenly. Each pan has an interlocking nonstick interior for easy release and is dishwasher safe when you need extra help cleaning up. The pans also come with a 10-year warranty, so you can be confident in your purchase.

This great set includes Two 8-in. Round Cake Pans, One Medium Loaf Pan, One 9x13-in. Cake Pan, One 12-Cup Muffin Pan, One 10x15-in. Baking Sheet

This set is oven safe to 450 degrees, dishwasher-safe, and protected by a full 10-year warranty.

Pros and Cons of Calphalon Non-Stick Bakeware Set

Pros
  • Heats evenly to prevent hotspots
  • Nonstick for easy release
  • Easy to clean
Cons
  • Pans may warp in high heat
  • Not as durable as some other brands
  • Only comes with six pieces

All-Clad Pro-Release Nonstick Bakeware Set: Best Non-Stick Set

With this bakeware set, you can create stunning layer cakes, delicious bread, and precision pinwheels. Each piece is made of heavy-gauge aluminized steel, which allows for uniform baking at temperatures up to 450°F (grid to 445°F). Additionally, the oversized handles enable easy removal from ovens — even with oven mitts!

The ceramic-reinforced PFOA-free nonstick coating helps keep your pastries fully intact every time. This five-piece set comes with a half-dozen baking tray and rack, two cake pans, and one loaf pan — perfect for any event! For extra long life of the nonstick finish, hand-washing is recommended.

The large handles provide a safe grip even when wearing gloves. In addition, the sturdy ceramic-reinforced PFOA-free nonstick surface allows for the release of snacks and is simple to clean. It's scratch and warp-resistant. In addition, heavy-gauge aluminum steel conducts heat evenly, allowing for consistent baking.

Pros and Cons of All-Clad Pro-Release Bakeware Set

Pros
  • Nonstick for perfect pastry release
  • Ceramic-reinforced for long life
  • Even baking at high temperatures
Cons
  • Handwashing is recommended
  • No large pans
  • Smaller set than most

CorningWare French White Bakeware Set: Best Affordable Ceramic Set

This set includes four different containers: 2.5 oval, 1.5 qt round with glass and plastic cover, 16 oz round with plastic cover, and 24 oz round with plastic cover. The bakeware's BPA-free plastic lids can be put in the top shelf of the dishwasher. The containers are stovetop, microwave, freezer, and oven safe. These CorningWare French White dishes have a timeless design that will never go out of style. The set is perfect for new home cooks or experienced bakers alike.

Pros and Cons for Corningware French White Bakeware Set

Pros
  • Stovetop, microwave, freezer, and oven safe
  • BPA-free plastic lids are top-rack dishwasher safe
  • Ideal for high temperatures
Cons
  • It may is not as durable as other materials
  • May crack or chip over time
  • Plastic lids may not fit tightly and warp

Made-In Bakeware Set: Best Non-Stick Ceramic

Made-In is probably best known for its high-quality non-stick, stainless steel, and carbon steel cookware. However, you may not know that they are manufacturers and purveyors of all kinds of cookware, bakeware, and even tableware made of top-shelf materials and manufacturing methods. Their bakeware is no different. We selected their ceramic-style bakeware set for its superior quality material which means flawless performance for you in your kitchen.

Made-In's handmade bakeware utilizes French porcelain which has naturally non-stick characteristics and can withstand high-heat baking and roasting--up to 650 degrees Fahrenheit. What's more is that these pans are thermal-shock resistant, which means these pans are made of truly the best quality materials. It's also microwave-safe and dishwasher-safe. Customers also love the simple yet elegant patterns or colors to choose from.

This is a 3-piece set with rectangular, square, and oval baking pans.

Pros and Cons of Made-In Bakeware Set

Pros
  • Made with high-quality materials and durable
  • Dishwasher and microwave-safe
  • Withstands high heat and has non-stick capabilities
  • Thermal-shock resistant
Cons
  • Only 3 pans
  • On the expensive side
  • Pans are better suited for casseroles and roasting--not cakes and cookies.

Libbey Baker's Basics 6-Piece Glass Casserole Baking Dish Set: Best Glass Set

Glass pans are a must-have for any household due to their classic aesthetics and heat retention capabilities. Not only can they be used for cooking and baking, but because they retain heat, glass pans also make excellent serving dishes straight from the oven or stovetop.

When it comes to finding good quality glass bakeware, Libbey's Bakers' Basics set is hard to beat. This set is affordable and includes all core bakeware essentials like a mixing bowl, pie plate, two baking dishes, and a covered casserole dish ideal for storing leftovers. Another perk is the oven-safe lids that come with each dish — they make it easier to transport food without worrying about spills and can also be used in the microwave.

If you're looking for an all-in-one glass bakeware set that has everything you need, the Libbey Baker's Basics is a great option to consider.

Pros and Cons of Libbey Baker's Basic Glass Casserole Dish Set

Pros
  • Affordable
  • Oven-safe lids included
  • Durable and easy to clean
Cons
  • Not non-stick
  • Only for temps below 425 F
  • Hand Wash Only

Meichu Non-Stick Bake Molds Silicone Bakeware Set: Best Silicone Set

These baking silicone molds are made with food-grade silicone and BPA-free materials. The silicone baking pans have non-slip ears for easy handling, plus they're soft, so you can carry them without worry and roll them up for storage. The set's internal surface is smooth, so removing food from the bakeware is easy. If you brush oil on the mold before using it, unmolding will be even simpler. Safe for temperatures from -40 to +446℉, this bakeware can go in your oven, microwave, freezer, or dishwasher.

Baking doughnuts, muffin cupcakes, and bread are just a few of the things that can be made in these silicone molds. They're also ideal for baking birthday cakes, layer cakes, cheesecakes, coffee cakes, cornbread, and more for special occasions such as birthdays or holidays. They'll be a big hit with your guests at any celebration. The set includes one muffin pan with twelve cups, one Madeleine pan with twelve cups, one Baguette pan with eight cups, one bread pan, one round cake pan, and one square cake pan.

Pros and Cons of Meichu Non-Stick Bake Molds Silicone Bakeware Set

Pros
  • Non-stick
  • Very inexpensive
  • Durable and easy to clean
  • Dishwasher and freezer-safe
Cons
  • Can bend out of shape
  • Not very sturdy--no heavy foods
  • Can become discolored

Great Jones Fully Baked Bakeware Set: Best Set Overall

Great Jones is a cookware company, like Caraway and Made-In, that has popped up in more recent times to compete in the premium cookware market. Like many of its competitors, Great Jones touts non-toxic non-stick cookware made of quality materials. However, they have expanded into other areas of cooking and the kitchen.

We've named their bakeware set best overall because not only are some of the pieces non-stick but because the set is a mix of metal pieces as well as ceramics, giving the set a balanced approach to baking. That means it's not just a set for baking cakes, cookies, and bread but is great for making pies, casseroles, and roasts. We also liked that the set is dishwasher-friendly (although hand washing is recommended for longevity) and comes in fun colors.

It's not the cheapest set on the market but it includes seven pieces and customers rave that cakes and breads lift right off the pans without the use of parchment paper.

Pros and Cons of Great Jones Fully Baked Bakeware Set

Pros
  • Non-stick non-toxic pieces
  • Good set for different kinds of baking and roasting
  • People like the vivid colors and designs
Cons
  • Dishwasher-friendly
  • On the more expensive side

Is Non-Stick Bakeware a Necessity?

Non-stick bakeware can be helpful because it prevents food from sticking to the pan's surface and makes cleanup a breeze. However, it's not necessary to have non-stick bakeware to make great food. If you don't mind doing a little extra scrubbing, you can get by without it.

You can also always use parchment paper or non-stick foil to line your pans for a non-stick effect but it's not something you can use in every scenario. That's why having non-stick bakeware is a true convenience.

What Is Silicone Bakeware Best For?

Silicone bakeware is a great option because it's durable, easy to clean, and oven-safe. It's also flexible, so you can easily remove food from the mold. It can also double as a food mold for shaping foods or freezing them.

However, you don’t need to have silicone bakeware in order to make great food. If you don't mind doing a little extra scrubbing, you can definitely get by without it. Some silicone kitchenware can become discolored over time or get residue build up from insufficient cleaning or even being put in the dishwasher. Another disadvantage is that sometimes silicone bakeware can also absorb the scent of dishwashing detergent so your food could also end up tasting like the detergent.

Which Material is Best for Bakeware?

A few different materials can be used for bakeware, including glass, silicone, and stainless steel. All of these materials have their own advantages and disadvantages.

Glass

Glass is a popular choice for bakeware because it's durable and easy to clean. It's also oven-safe and can be used in the microwave. However, glass is a good conductor of heat, so it can cause food to overcook. Some food stains may also be difficult to remove from glass.

Silicone

Silicone is a popular choice for bakeware because it's flexible and easy to clean. It's also oven-safe and can be used in the microwave. Despite the advantages, silicone is not a good conductor of heat, so it can cause food to overcook.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is a popular choice for bakeware because it's durable and easy to clean. It's also oven-safe and can be used in the microwave. In addition, stainless steel is a good conductor of heat, so it won't cause food to overcook.

Dishwasher Safe Vs. Hand-Wash Only Bakeware

Dishwasher-safe anything makes it all much more convenient. However, just because something is labeled dishwasher-safe, it doesn't mean putting it in the dishwasher is the best option for that item.

Firstly, throwing bakeware in the dishwasher sometimes doesn't get the pan fully clean. You can have a build-up of crumbs and food in corners and crevices, which often need to be addressed by hand or with a brush. Continually throwing metal bakeware in a dishwasher can also wear away the non-stick coating much faster, until you eventually even get rust on metal bakeware.

As mentioned above silicone bakeware can get residues as well as absorb dish detergent smells. Ceramic and glass pans are generally very safe to put in the dishwasher and do not compromise their integrity. However, because food tends to burn onto them and turn into stubborn stains, you may still need to hand scrub these pans.

Is it better to bake a cake in glass or metal? There is no right or wrong answer to this question. It really depends on your preferences. Some people prefer to bake a cake in glass because it doesn't conduct heat as well as metal and can prevent the cake from overcooking. Other people prefer to bake a cake in metal because it conducts heat better and can help the cake to brown evenly.

What is the Best Way to Clean Baking Sheets?

The best way to clean baking sheets is to wash them by hand with warm soapy water. If you have a dishwasher, you can also put them in on the gentle cycle. However, you should avoid using harsh cleaners or scrubbers on baking sheets, as this can damage the finish.

What Kind of Bakeware Lasts the Longest?

The type of bakeware that lasts the longest will depend on the material it is made from and how well it is cared for. Some materials, such as stainless steel, ceramic, and glass, are known for their durability. However, not all metal, ceramic, and glass pans are created equally.

Far before a material fails you in the kitchen, you're more likely to experience pans losing their non-stick quality or having stains that you can no longer remove. Metal pans can also start to warp in heat over time which might compromise your baked goods.

How Often Should you Replace Your Bakeware?

In reality, bakeware, unless made of really bad quality materials probably doesn't have to be replaced very often. If your pans are warped, rusted, scraped chipped, or have caked-on stains, it's probably time to replace them.

Do You Need to Grease Bakeware?

The short answer is yes. However, it really depends on what you are baking. You will not want to grease pans if you are making meringue as oil compromises the stability of the egg whites. You will want to grease for most other things--especially muffin/cupcakes pans. Even if you have non-stick pans, it's a safe bet to always grease them. The grease not only helps with release but also creates a protective barrier and helps keep your pans working for longer.

How Do You Clean a Burnt Baking Sheet?

If your baking tray is burnt, you can try scrubbing it with a baking soda paste. You can make a paste by mixing equal parts baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the burnt area and scrub gently. If the burnt area is still stubborn, you can try soaking the tray in a solution of vinegar and water. There are also great non-bleach scouring products from Barkeeper's Friend or Pink Stuff Cleaning Paste which might aid you in getting your sheets looking brand new.

Conclusion

There are many different types of bakeware on the market, and all of them have their own advantages and disadvantages. The best bakeware for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. However, all bakeware sets should be made from high-quality materials and should be easy to clean. When choosing a bakeware set, be sure to consider the material it is made from, the size and shape of the pieces, and the price.

Methodology

How We Decided

To narrow down your choices, we looked at the most important factors when purchasing bakeware.

Customer Ratings

We read customer reviews and looked at review ratings to find the products with the best feedback. Customer reviews are important when choosing products because you can learn about someone's experience before purchasing them yourself. This way, you don't have to waste your money on a product that doesn't meet your expectations. All of the products we chose had rates of 4.5 stars or higher from verified customers.

Pricing

We wanted to ensure that the products we chose were affordable without sacrificing quality. All of the products we chose are priced around $30 or less. This way, you can get high-quality bakeware without spending much money.

Materials

The materials used in bakeware can affect how well it conducts heat and how easy it is to clean. We looked for products made from materials that are known for being durable and easy to clean, such as glass, silicone, and stainless steel. We also made sure to choose products that are oven-safe and dishwasher-safe for your convenience.

Additional Features

We also considered additional features that might be helpful, such as non-stick surfaces and nesting capabilities. Non-stick surfaces can make removing food from the bakeware easier and make cleanup a breeze. Nesting bakeware takes up less space in your cabinets, which is great if you have limited storage. We only chose products that had at least one of these helpful features.

Frequently Asked Questions

What brand of bakeware is best?

All-Clad is the best brand for nonstick bakeware, whereas Great Jones offers a great set for mixed materials and uses.

What bakeware do professionals use?

Professional bakers typically use pans made of anodized aluminum because of its ability to conduct heat well and evenly. Nonstick cookware does not last as long and usually quality varies.

What is the most durable bakeware?

Glass and ceramic are the more durable and last longer than metal bakeware. However, they are not suitable for all types of baking.

What is the best nonstick bakeware?

All-Clad Pro Release Non-Stick Bakeware Set and Caraway Bakeware Sets are both durable and conduct heat well. You might also try silicone bakeware which is generally nonstick but silicone conducts heat differently.
John Alois
About the author

John Alois has been writing full-time in the electronic and consumer goods niche for the last half-decade, honing his skills and learning the best writing practices for numerous sites and publications. John also shares his expertise and experience in the kitchen with readers, having spent years working in professional kitchens across Upstate New York. John Alois graduated from the University at Albany with a bachelor's degree in Cultural Anthropology.