What it is
A baking pan with separate wells lets you bake several individual portions at once. Specific models can differ in the number of wells, material, and type of coating.
When to use it
It is used for muffins and cupcakes. Some models are also suited to individual portions such as egg bites, mini quiches, taco cups, or individual lasagnas; check the uses listed for your particular pan.
How to use it
Divide the mixture among the wells and follow the recipe for greasing and flouring when required. Some models can be used with paper liners, but liners are not essential for every pan. For the Nordic Ware Brilliant Muffin Pan, do not fill the wells more than three-quarters full to help prevent overflow.
How to choose it
Check the product details for the number and size of wells, as well as the material and coating. Models include aluminum and steel pans, and care instructions are not the same for every pan.
Cleaning and storage
Care depends on the model and its coating. Some manufacturers recommend hand washing with warm water and mild soap, then rinsing and drying thoroughly. For the specified nonstick models, avoid sharp metal utensils, scouring pads, and abrasive cleaners; follow the instructions for your particular product.
Common mistakes
Do not assume every muffin pan is dishwasher-safe or accepts the same utensils. Filling the Nordic Ware Brilliant Muffin Pan wells more than three-quarters full may lead to overflow. For the specified nonstick models, avoid metal utensils and abrasive cleaning products.
Safe use
For Nordic Ware’s uncoated Naturals aluminum range, acidic foods may darken, pit or corrode the surface after prolonged use. In that range, dishwasher-related discoloration is cosmetic and does not affect safety or baking properties.
Frequently asked questions
What is a muffin pan used for?
It is used to bake muffins and cupcakes in individual wells. Some models are also used for other single-serving portions, such as mini quiches or egg bites.
Do I need paper liners?
Not always. The specified USA Pan muffin pan can be used with or without paper liners.
Can I put a muffin pan in the dishwasher?
It depends on the model. The cited model instructions recommend hand washing, so follow the care directions supplied for your pan.
Sources and review
Sources consulted for this utensil’s documented uses, care and characteristics.
- USA Pan Bakeware: Use and care www.usapan.com/use-and-care
- Nordic Ware support: Naturals uncoated aluminum care nordicware.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/articles/9980734393239-Naturals-Aluminum-Bakeware-Use-and-Ca…
- USA Pan: Muffin Pan www.usapan.com/12-cup-muffin-pan-1200mf
- Nordic Ware: Brilliant Muffin Pan www.nordicware.com/products/brilliant-muffin-pan/
- Wilton Silver: Muffin Pan wilton.com/silver-non-stick-bakeware-muffin-pan-12-cup/191011484/
