What it is
A ramekin is a small dish for serving individual portions, such as desserts or starters; it can also be used for tapas and snacks. Some models, including Le Creuset stackable ramekins, are made of stoneware.
When to use it
Use a ramekin to serve individual desserts or starters, as well as tapas, nibbles, and other snacks. Some stoneware models can go from preparation to presentation.
How to use it
For Le Creuset stoneware models, do not use the ramekin on a hob or another direct heat source. To avoid a sudden temperature change, do not put a frozen dish straight into a preheated oven; place it in a cold oven and let the dish and oven heat together.
How to choose it
Check the stated capacity and appliance compatibility for the specific model. For some Pillivuyt pieces, the listed capacity is a comfortable capacity, not the brimful capacity; its culinary porcelain is described as cooking evenly and keeping dishes warm during serving.
Cleaning and storage
Let the ramekin cool before cleaning. For Le Creuset stoneware models, wash with soapy water, rinse, and dry thoroughly. For stubborn residue, let the ramekin cool, fill it with warm soapy water, and soak it for 10 to 20 minutes.
Common mistakes
For Le Creuset stoneware: Do not plunge a hot dish directly into cold water: the temperature shock can crack it. Do not leave a stoneware ramekin fully immersed in water or use it on a hob or another direct heat source.
Safe use
Use oven gloves when handling hot dishes, and let them cool before cleaning. The stoneware instructions here apply to specific models; do not assume every ramekin has the same heat-source or appliance compatibility.
Frequently asked questions
Can a stoneware ramekin go directly on a hob?
Not if it is one of the Le Creuset stoneware models covered by these instructions: they should not be used on hobs or other direct heat sources.
Can I put a frozen ramekin straight into a preheated oven?
For the stoneware covered by these instructions, no. Put the frozen dish in a cold oven and allow the dish and oven to heat together.
Are all porcelain ramekins dishwasher- and microwave-safe?
Do not assume so. Pillivuyt's guidance says its porcelain pieces are dishwasher- and microwave-safe, except items decorated with precious metals such as gold, silver, or platinum. Check the specific model's instructions.
Does the stated capacity mean filled to the brim?
Not necessarily. For some Pillivuyt pieces, the listed capacity is the comfortable capacity rather than the capacity to the brim.
Sources and review
Sources consulted for this utensil’s documented uses, care and characteristics.
- Le Creuset stoneware stackable ramekin: use and care www.lecreuset.co.uk/en_GB/p/stoneware-stackable-ramekin/70403206720099.html
- Le Creuset stoneware: heating and cleaning instructions www.lecreuset.com.au/en_AU/how-to-care-for-and-use-stoneware/cap0180.html
- Le Creuset original ramekin care sheet s1.thcdn.com/design-assets/products/11123719/Le-Creuset-Stoneware-Ramekin-Care-Instructions.…
- Pillivuyt USA: dimensions, capacity and care FAQ pillivuytshop.com/pages/faqs
- Pillivuyt manufacturer FAQ: culinary porcelain and enamel pillivuyt.com/contact-pages/faq-pillivuyt
