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In search of the best popover pan? Look no further than America’s Test Kitchen. Our experts put dozens of models through their paces to find the very best.
Check out our top picks and some useful information below.
Popover Pan America’s Test Kitchen Comparison Table
What is a Popover Pan?
A popover pan is a specialized kitchen tool used for making light and airy pastry dough items, such as the traditional English popover. The pan typically has deep muffin holes rising out of a single base with slightly flared sides that suspend the dough in the air to allow it to expand with hot air while being baked.
Popovers made in these pans are crispy on the outside yet remain soft and moist on the inside, making them delicious treats for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Due to its unique design, a popover pan can be an invaluable addition to any home bakery enthusiast’s collection of baking tools.
Types of Popover Pans
Popover pans are made of materials such as cast iron, steel, and aluminum. Its material will decide the pan’s durability. Hence, the type of pans is also based on its material.
- Steel: Steel popover pans come in both non-stick and regular finishes. They are the most durable of all materials, but they also tend to be heavier than other options.
- Aluminum: Aluminum is lightweight and relatively inexpensive, making it a popular choice for casual bakers. This material may not last as long as steel or cast iron, but it is an excellent option for those just getting into baking.
- Cast Iron: Cast iron popover pans are long-lasting and heat evenly, making them a great choice for professional pastry chefs. These pans may be heavier than other options, but they will last longer and provide superior results in the kitchen.
Why Do You Need to Have The Best Popover Pan?
Popover pans are a great tool to have in the kitchen as they provide versatility and texture. Not only can you use it to make traditional popovers, but these pans are suitable for baking pastries, muffins, and traditional cakes as well.
The addition of high edges on the pan creates an oven-rising effect that can help create tall, airy pastries perfectly formatted for breakfast or brunch.
More than that, since popover pans increase air circulation, Items pull away from the pan much better after baking than those cooked in regular cooking containers like a cake pan or muffin tray.
Moreover, with different shapes available on the market to choose from, you can get creative with your recipes; there is no limit when it comes to using a popover pan!
America’s Test Kitchen recently tested various popover pans. Hence, I am sure that you can choose the right one from this source.
Top Picks for 5 Best Popover Pan America’s Test Kitchen
America’s Test Kitchen is renowned for its extensive product testing and results that focus on giving users top-notch products. When it comes to baking popovers, the brand has turned up five models that rate higher than all the others.
These pans come with a hearty recommendation from America’s Test Kitchen, based on careful testing mechanics. Each model is designed to ensure even baking and help deliver light, airy popovers that are sure to impress. Whether you need one individual pan or an entire set, these five popover pans stand out as the best in class.
1. EPICA Bellemain 6 Cup Nonstick Popover pan
EPICA Pan is a vertical cup with a depth of 2.25″ which will provide an extra-tall, crisp, and golden top. It has a non-stick coating and it is easy to clean.
Pros
- Lightweight, Easy to clean
- Non-stick coating
- Durable construction
- Dishwasher safe
Cons
- Cups might fall off over time
- It is not for many people
2. R&M International Non-stick 6 cups popover pan
R&M International Popover Pan has 6 cups with 2″ depth. It has a nonstick coating and it is simple to wash by dishwasher.
Pros
- Lightweight, Easy to clean by dishwasher
- Non-stick coating and steel construction
- Rinse high well and cook great
Cons
- No handles for safety
3. Nordic ware grand popover pan
Nordic Ware Grand Popover Pan has 6 cups and has two handles for nice safety and a nonstick coating which ensures easy release of popovers. It has a sturdy steel construction that is made to last long.
Pros
- Come with a lifetime warranty
- Canmake all 6 popovers one time
- Nonstick coating for easy cleaning
- Convenient and safe handles
Cons
- No dishwasher safe
4. Fox Run 4756 Linking Mini Popover Pan
Fox Run Mini Popover Pan comes with 12 cups and it has a nonstick coating which ensures easy release of popovers. There are many spaces between the cups so the air can circulate simply and make the popover swell.
Pros
- Lightweight design, Dishwasher safe
- Non-stick coating for easy releasing
- Sturdy steel construction
- Made of carbon steel for more durability
Cons
- The fragments might fall into the oven
5. USA Pans 6 well popover pan
USA Pans Popover Pan has 6 cups which have inward angle edges. These angle edges increase the height of popovers and it has a non-stick coating that ensures easy release.
Pros
- Sturdy construction and heat evenly
- Nice size for small batches
- High-quality and safe materials
- Non-stick coating for easy releasing
Cons
- Hand Wash only
- The price is high
Tips to Use Popover Pans
If you’ve ever wanted to bake those perfectly shaped and fluffy popovers, the key is to use the right equipment.
Popover pans are specifically designed for making popovers, so opting for this type of pan will guarantee delicious results.
When using a popover pan, be sure to fill each cup no more than two-thirds full with batter as any more will cause the popovers to overflow during baking.
Also, make sure that your oven is preheated before adding your filled pans as this will help minimize warping which can affect the shape of your popovers.
Finally, popping the pan in a cold oven will also give you great results. With all these tips in mind, you’ll have that perfect batch of popovers every time!
Guide to Choose the Best Popover Pan America’s Test Kitchen
Popover pans are a great way to make delicious, light, and fluffy popovers. Whether you’re a beginner baker or an experienced one, you will want the best pan for your popovers. The good news is that America’s Test Kitchen has done extensive research to provide you with their top-rated pans for easy, perfectly shaped popovers.
Here are some of the main things that you should consider when buying a popover pan:
Brands
There are a few specific brands that are known for their quality popover pans. Be sure to check out the reviews for these brands before making a purchase.
Materials
Popover pans are typically made from either aluminum, stainless steel, or cast iron. Aluminum is lightweight and heats quickly, but it can warp easily if cooled down too quickly. Stainless steel is non-stick and good for heavier batters, while cast iron pans are durable and will last a long time.
Size
When choosing your pan size, consider how many popovers you want to make in one batch. Smaller pans can fit six small or four large popovers, while larger ones can fit eight large or 12 small ones.
Non-stick Coating
Non-stick coatings are essential for making sure your popovers come out easily and without sticking. Look for pans that feature a safe, high-quality non-stick coating.
Design
The design of the pan is just as important as its materials and size. Look for pans with deep wells and angled edges, which will help create tall, fluffy popovers.
Cleaning
Lastly, consider how easy the pan is to clean. Look for pans that are dishwasher safe and don’t require too much effort to hand-wash.
By considering these factors, you’ll be able to find the perfect popover pan every time!
FAQs on Best Popover Pan America’s Test Kitchen
1: What is the best temperature for baking popovers?
The ideal temperature for baking your popovers is 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This higher temperature will help create a crisp outer layer and a light and fluffy texture on the inside.
2: Is it necessary to preheat the oven before adding the pan?
Yes, you should always preheat your oven before adding the pan. This will help minimize warping and ensure that the popovers come out perfectly shaped.
3: How do I clean my popover pan?
Depending on the material of your pan, you can either hand wash it or place it in the dishwasher. If you’re handwashing, use a non-abrasive sponge and mild soap to remove any residue.
4: How do I prevent my popover batter from sticking?
Make sure your pan is greased well before adding the batter. Additionally, opt for pans with a high-quality non-stick coating to help reduce sticking.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the variety of popover pans available, as well as their features and benefits is key to selecting the right one for you, whether you’re a novice or an experienced baker.
By following these tips and using our guide on the best popovers pan from America’s Test Kitchen, you too can get professional bakery-quality results at home.
Happy baking!
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