Types of trays: how to choose the right one

An oven sheet, commonly known as a baking tray, is a sleek, rectangular piece of metal with varying heights for its sides. This essential kitchen tool is primarily used in electric or gas ovens, as well as wood-burning stoves. Presently, there are several variations of baking trays that deviate slightly from the classical design. These include trays with built-in grates, sliding mechanisms, fluted bottoms, and increased depths. However, the primary distinction among these products lies in the material they are made from. Let us delve into the distinct characteristics of these baking trays.

Silicone

This particular material has the ability to withstand temperatures as high as 280˚C, making it an excellent choice for various cooking and baking applications. Additionally, it is incredibly easy to clean, saving you time and effort in the kitchen. One of the standout features of silicone utensils is their non-stick properties, ensuring that your food will not become stuck or burnt onto the surface of the tray. In terms of design, these trays are typically quite compact and have a relatively deep structure. This compactness is a result of the flexible nature of silicone, allowing it to be easily bent and manipulated. To address the potential drawback of flexibility, some models even include a metal frame for added stability and durability.

A rack or another baking tray is typically used to position the silicone mold inside the oven. The silicone mold comes in various shapes, such as quadrangular, circular, heart-shaped, and shell-shaped, among others. Its primary purpose is for baking confectionery items. Overall, it is primarily considered a baking mold.

Glass

Special glass is employed in the production of glass trays to withstand high temperatures, yet it does not fare as well with sudden temperature changes. Some smaller models can be equipped with lids and are commonly used in microwave ovens. Glassware is primarily used for baking purposes, though it can also be used for serving cooked dishes on the table, which is an added advantage. Glass is easy to clean and does not affect the taste or smell of the food, but it should be noted that glass products are somewhat fragile and can be broken easily.

Cast iron

Cast iron trays are known for their durability and strength, making them capable of withstanding even metal brush cleaning. Additionally, the substantial weight of cast iron cookware allows for optimal heat distribution, resulting in prolonged heat retention – a crucial property in certain cooking scenarios. The only potential downside to this type of cookware is its considerable heaviness.

Ceramic

Ceramic baking trays are known for their ability to retain the maximum amount of nutrients in food during the cooking process. They also provide consistent and even heating, as well as excellent heat retention. However, it is worth noting that ceramic trays can be heavy and fragile, as they have a porous structure that may develop micro-cracks over time. Despite this, they are generally durable and can last for several years. Additionally, there are baking trays available with a ceramic coating that offer similar properties to fully ceramic options.

Aluminum

An aluminum baking tray is light in weight and reasonably priced; it heats up rapidly, thereby reducing cooking time. However, this quality often results in food being burned. As a solution, aluminum products with a non-stick coating have gained popularity.

Teflon

Teflon, typically made of metal, is popularly used as a non-stick coating for baking trays. Its heat-resistant properties effectively protect food from sticking and burning. However, maintaining this coating requires careful handling. Scratches can adversely affect its non-stick functionality, rendering it useless. Therefore, it is crucial to employ wooden spatulas when removing cooked food and to clean these utensils using a sponge.

Carbon steel

Among the various types of utensils available, steel trays are the most widely used. These trays are known for their ability to maintain the quality of cooked dishes without impacting the taste or smell of the food. One of the key advantages of steel trays is the ease of maintenance, making them a popular choice among home cooks. Additionally, steel trays are highly durable and can withstand rigorous cleaning with stiff brushes. They are also resistant to temperature fluctuations, prolonged exposure to heat, and are available with various coatings such as Teflon, ceramic, and enamel.

Use of a baking tray

The baking tray is an essential tool for cooking and baking a variety of dishes in the oven. It can come in different shapes, such as rectangular or square, with edges that are bent. For smaller dishes, there is a special sheet that functions like a stand. The tray is versatile and can be used not only for baking but also for frying.

It’s important to use a specific tray for each category of dish, whether it’s meat, vegetables, or baked goods. These trays can vary in shape, depth, and even the material they are made from. The material of the tray can affect its heating properties, so it’s recommended to have several different types of baking trays at home to ensure optimal cooking and delicious results for each desired dish.

The best trays for cooking in the oven

The baking tray comes in two variations. The first option is custom-made to fit a specific oven and has a rectangular shape that matches its dimensions. This type of tray is installed on the oven’s guides and does not require any additional devices. The second option is a smaller, more versatile dish for oven cooking that can be of any shape and can stand on a grate inside the oven. Regardless of the variant chosen, a high-quality baking tray is effortless to clean and can withstand years of use.

Pintinox Prior

This baking tray is crafted from durable cast aluminum, ensuring seamless performance without any grooves or other bothersome features. With its ergonomic shape, this tray offers optimal comfort and ease of use. The interior is coated with high-quality Teflon Classic non-stick material, allowing for effortless food release and quick cleanup. Whether you have a gas, electric, or convection oven, this versatile tray is compatible with any type of oven.

The dimensions of the tray are as follows: it is a rectangular shape with a side length of 40 centimeters. What makes the bottom of this tray interesting is its ribbed design. This unique feature allows for healthier cooking, as it requires a minimal amount of fat and ensures that dishes are juicy and evenly cooked. To enhance convenience, this model comes with silicone handles that stay cool during the cooking process. As a result, the tray can be safely removed from the oven at any time without the need for additional tools. However, it is important to note that the main drawback of this particular cookware is its relatively high price point.

Paderno COM.

This is a circular-shaped baking pan with a diameter of 24 cm. It is ideal for creating delectable pizzas and flat pies. The pan has a low height of 2.5 cm. It is constructed with high-quality food-grade 10/18 steel, ensuring resistance to deformation at high temperatures as well as protection against temperature shocks and corrosion. The sides of the pan are slightly raised, facilitating the easy removal of pies once they are baked to perfection.

TimA Granit ART

This is a sleek rectangular baking pan. It has dimensions of 27 cm x 35 cm x 6.7 cm. The baking pan has an elegant and luxurious appearance. It is crafted from durable stamped aluminum and features a state-of-the-art Art Granit non-stick coating made from mineral-infused stone chips. The edges of the pan are designed with a raised rim, serving as a convenient handle that ensures a secure grip and prevents slipping.

Kalitva

This tray is highly popular and in high demand. It possesses the winning combination of being lightweight, aesthetically pleasing, and functional for everyday use. Furthermore, it offers easy maintenance and longevity, making it an excellent investment. Constructed from 0.9 mm aluminum, it features a top-quality Scandia Whitford non-stick coating. The exterior is elegantly coated in a beautiful shade of blue enamel, adding to its overall charm. This coating not only enhances its appearance but also acts as an additional safeguard, enhancing the tray’s durability in the long run.

The baking tray has dimensions of 27 by 35 cm and is equipped with convenient handles. With its height of 8 cm, it is suitable for cooking various dishes, including large biscuits. Additionally, this tray comes with a lid that makes cooking and storing food a breeze. One of the major advantages of this model is its dishwasher-safe feature, making it easy to clean. The Kalitva tray is known for its excellent value for money as it is affordable and practical, making it a preferred choice among consumers.

Tray varieties

The traditional tray is a rectangular sheet with raised edges. The height of the edges may vary. It is primarily utilized in electric and gas cookers, as well as in wood-burning stoves. Presently, there exist certain variations of the conventional form. They may be perforated, foldable, have a ribbed bottom, or be deeper. However, the main distinction between these items lies in the material they are manufactured from. Now, let’s examine their distinct features.

Silicone

This particular material has the ability to tolerate temperatures as high as 280˚C. Additionally, it is highly convenient to clean and food cooked in silicone cookware does not tend to burn. These kinds of trays are typically characterized by their small size and considerable depth. The compactness factor arises from the fact that silicone is not rigid and can be easily bent. In order to overcome this drawback, certain models are incorporated with a metallic frame.

When it comes to baking in the oven, many people opt to use a silicone mold, which is typically positioned on a rack or another baking tray. These molds come in a variety of shapes, from the traditional square to circles, hearts, shells, and more. They are particularly popular for baking cakes. In essence, they resemble baking molds in their overall appearance.

Glass

Glass baking molds are constructed from a unique type of glass that is able to endure high and prolonged levels of heat, although it may not respond well to abrupt changes in temperature. Some smaller versions of these molds are provided with covers, which make them suitable for use in microwave ovens. Glass bakeware is primarily utilized for baking purposes, but it also has the added benefit of being able to function as a serving vessel for cooked foods. In addition, glass is effortlessly cleaned and does not impart any unwanted flavors or odors to the food it contains. However, it is important to note that glass bakeware is fragile and susceptible to breakage.

Cast iron

Cast iron baking trays are renowned for their durability and robustness, even being resistant to scraping by metal brushes. Additionally, its solid construction allows for even distribution of heat during cooking and excellent heat retention, making it indispensable in certain culinary scenarios. However, one must take into consideration its substantial weight as its only drawback.

Aluminum

Aluminum molds for baking are known for being lightweight and cost-effective, while also having the advantage of heating up rapidly, resulting in shorter baking times. Nevertheless, one common issue with aluminum molds is that food tends to stick to the surface. Consequently, there has been a growing trend in using aluminum molds that are treated with non-stick coatings, allowing for easier food removal.

Ceramic

Ceramic baking molds are thought to effectively preserve the nutrients in food while cooking. They also offer uniform heat distribution and excellent heat retention. However, ceramic molds can be heavy and fragile due to their porous structure. Over time, micro-cracks may develop, potentially causing the cookware to become compromised. Nonetheless, ceramic molds generally have a long lifespan and can last for several years. In addition to pure ceramic molds, there are also pans available with ceramic coatings. These coated pans offer similar properties to fully ceramic models.

Teflon

Teflon is commonly utilized as a coating for preventing food from sticking, and the foundation of a Teflon skillet is typically composed of metal. This particular coating possesses a remarkable ability to withstand high temperatures and effectively safeguards food against sticking and charring. Nevertheless, it necessitates meticulous upkeep in order to preserve its non-stick properties. It is susceptible to acquiring scratches that have the potential to utterly obliterate its non-stick characteristics. As a result, it is advisable to employ wooden spatulas when extracting cooked food and to utilize sponges for dishwashing purposes.

Carbon steel

Steel trays are widely used and offer excellent cooking performance without altering the taste and flavor of the food. Additionally, they are easy to maintain and come at a reasonable price. Steel cookware is highly durable and can be easily cleaned using a stiff brush. They are also resistant to extreme temperatures and can withstand prolonged or intense heating. Steel pans are available with different coatings, including Teflon, ceramic, and enamel, making them versatile and popular among consumers.

Shapes and sizes

The baking tray has versatile use, whether it’s for baking, pizza making, bread making, or even barbecue grilling. The specific use depends on the shape of the tray, specifically the height of its walls. If the walls are raised high, it’s great for cooking dishes with liquid ingredients like dough or meat with sauce. On the other hand, a tray with low edges or only on two sides can be used as a baking sheet.

Additionally, the trays can be equipped with lids, which adds convenience to the cooking process.

There are different types of tray shapes available:

1. Universal shape: Suitable for all types of dishes. It features a medium height edge and a flat bottom.
2. Flat shape: This type of tray either has no edges or only 1-2 small ones. It’s ideal for making dry cookies and is often used as a stand for other molds.
3. A deep baking tray is specifically designed for cooking dough, meat, and vegetables. It features a high edge.
4. Featuring a grill surface, this baking tray allows you to preserve the juices when cooking meat and vegetables. It also has an embossed bottom.
5. The perforated baking tray has holes in the bottom, providing a browned crust at the bottom. It is commonly used for drying and cooking yeast and cottage cheese baked goods.
6. A round baking tray is designed for cooking yeast and puff pastry, as well as pizza.

When choosing a baking tray for home or commercial use, the size is an important factor to consider.

Here are some options for baking trays in this case:

1. Full-size 18*25 inches. These are used exclusively with commercial ovens.
2. Half-sized 18*13. These trays are considered to be more versatile and are often found in professional kitchens.
3. Measuring 9*13 inches, these baking trays are a common sight in households, but are rarely utilized commercially for small-scale cooking purposes.

There is a wide range of baking trays available for use in the oven.

The material used in their construction directly impacts their fundamental characteristics.

While these trays possess an attractive design, they may lack practicality. Impact or falls may cause breakage, therefore, it is advisable to slightly warm the tray before placing it in the oven. Glass baking trays are particularly susceptible to cracks stemming from sudden temperature changes. These models are primarily intended for domestic use, as they are capable of keeping cooked dishes warm for extended periods of time.

Carbon stainless steel

The trays are made of eco-friendly materials, making them safe for use. The practical designs are easy to clean, and they come at an affordable price. They are widely used and popular among consumers. The metal material does not affect the taste of the food. Some trays also come with a non-stick coating or enamel finish.

Aluminum

The non-stick coating sets this product apart. It ensures that dishes are cooked rapidly due to the optimal heating of the material. The lightweight design of the tray makes it easy to use.

Silicone

One of the trendy choices that has gained rapid popularity is a new option. Withstands temperatures of up to 280°C effortlessly. These trays are known for their compactness and safety features. They are highly appreciated for their ability to prevent burns while handling hot dishes from the oven. Proper usage eliminates the need for excessive oiling before baking. The dishes heat up uniformly, and the tray doesn’t absorb any odors.

Modern manufacturers have largely abandoned the production of items from such a material. Although it is heavy, it is remarkably durable. It takes longer to heat up but maintains a steady temperature. Mechanical damage poses no threat. Perforated models are typically utilized.

Ceramic

Baking dishes enable the retention of various beneficial microelements in the food due to the stewing effect they create. This advantageous feature is made possible by the material’s porosity. Unlike other materials, ceramics do not release any harmful substances into the food being prepared. However, it is important to note that if any liquid seeps into the microcracks present in these trays, their structural integrity may be compromised, leading to their rapid deterioration.

Teflon

Taking care of the form is essential as it cannot withstand metal accessories, shocks, or any other mechanical impacts. Thanks to the non-stick coating, dishes don’t adhere to these trays.

Stainless steel trays

The primary characteristic of this model is its ability to withstand corrosion. It can typically be cleaned in a dishwasher. It is commonly equipped with a non-stick coating that prevents food from sticking to the sides and bottom of the cookware. Here are the top two products based on customer testimonials.

Mayer & Boch 3053

The baking mold is versatile and can be used for cooking various dishes including meat, fish, vegetables, fruits, rectangular pizza, pies, cakes, buns, and pies. It is made of high-quality stainless steel that is resistant to corrosion and does not react with food. The mold has a convenient size of 48×36 cm, making it suitable for large families.

Mayer & Boch 3053 ensures even and quick heating, resulting in fast and high-quality baking. It is equipped with a non-stick coating that prevents food from sticking, making it easy to clean. The mold is dishwasher safe.

• Can withstand oven temperatures up to 250 degrees;
• Silicone handles remain cool during the baking process;
• Requires minimal and infrequent oiling;
• Relatively lightweight;
• Features high sides measuring 4.7 cm.
• It is not recommended to utilize pointed metallic knives, spoons, forks, or spatulas;
• Avoid using abrasive detergents;

Food preparation in microwave ovens is not suitable for the "Mayer & Boch 3053" tray with a non-stick coating. This type of cookware is best for dishes like casseroles, lasagna, and potatoes.

BergHOFF Gem

A versatile baking mold that can be used for a variety of dishes, from fish to vegetables. This mold has a convenient built-in slicer in the lid, allowing you to easily cut your ingredients. Additionally, the lid closes securely and the mold has folding handles, making it perfect for taking your baked dish with you to someone’s house and keeping it warm during transportation.

The BergHOFF Gem is constructed from odorless carbon steel that does not oxidize at high temperatures. This material is also lightweight and durable, ensuring that the mold is less likely to deform. Furthermore, in order to facilitate the cleaning process, cadmium and PFOC were not used in the application of the non-stick coating to the bottom and walls of the mold.

• Special markings are available for cutting precise slices;
• Features very tall walls – 8.5 cm;
• Comes in a set of 3 items;
• The lid has comfortable handles;
• Ensures even distribution of heat.

Customers rave about the product’s exceptional durability and versatility – it’s perfect for baking peppers, potatoes, meat, mushrooms, and much more.

Metal for the crispiest crusts

Pros of metal molds

Metal pans and baking trays are an excellent choice when it comes to heating dishes quickly. These molds have a great ability to conduct heat, allowing the dish to brown the edges in just a few minutes. Metal’s high heat conductivity makes it the perfect option for crispy and fully baked dishes like French fries, pizza, and anything with a delicious cheesy and golden crust, such as appetizer tarts. Whether it’s copper, stainless steel, or cast iron, metal is the best material for recipes that require high temperatures. Speaking of cast iron, it’s worth noting that its non-stick properties actually improve over time. As it’s used and seasoned with oil, a natural "protective" layer develops, making it even easier to cook with.

Speaking of steel, it is possible to mix food in a steel container using metal kitchen tools instead of a wooden or silicone spatula. Steel cooking vessels come in two varieties: those with a polished surface that reflects like a mirror, and those with a matte surface. There is a belief that polished cookware is more sanitary, while matte cookware is more durable against physical damage.

Tortellini and cheese bake

Minuses of metal molds

When baking something sour, such as a fruit cobbler, it’s best to avoid using metal as it can cause stains on the molds and give the dish an unappetizing metallic taste. However, stainless steel and non-stick baking dishes are exceptions to this rule.

Moreover, metal dishes conduct heat quickly (excluding cast iron). They heat up rapidly and cool down just as fast. Therefore, if you need to keep a cooked dish warm, metal molds (without additional heating) are not suitable for this purpose. Additionally, it’s recommended to transfer cooked food from metal molds to a dish or store it in food containers rather than leaving it in the metal molds.

The best trays for ovens

Rectangular trays are the most popular option and come in standard sizes designed to fit perfectly in ovens. However, stores also offer a variety of square, oval, and round trays. All of these options are known for their durability and easy-to-clean nature.

PINTINOX PRIOR baking pan with ribbed bottom, Teflon

Located in Italy.

With an average price of 4000 rubles.

This particular model is crafted from high-quality aluminum, featuring seamless construction and a lack of protrusions that can collect dirt. It is compatible with all types of ovens and stoves, including induction cooktops. The mold measures a length of 40 cm, which is undoubtedly advantageous. The bottom’s ribbed surface helps to save oil and ensures that baked food turns out tender. Additionally, the Teflon Classic non-stick coating on the inside simplifies clean-up. The silicone handles allow for easy removal from the oven without the risk of burns. However, it must also be noted that this design comes with a downside – its expensive price tag.

Ideal tray for pizza from PADERNO COM

Country: Italy

The average price for this well-known Italian brand is 550 rubles. It has been in existence for more than 90 years and its products are highly regarded by both amateurs and professionals alike. All of the brand’s products are certified in Russia. This particular tray model is specifically designed for baking pizza and small pies, featuring sides that are only 2.5 cm in height. The standard pizza tray has a round shape with a diameter of 24 cm. Made from 10/18 stainless steel, which is considered to be food grade and does not release any toxins when heated. The finished dish is easily removed from the tray. Even at high temperatures, the tray does not deform, and there are no signs of corrosion or scratches after repeated washing. It’s important to note that this metal product does not have any handles and is not suitable for use in a microwave oven.

Form with a non-stick layer of increased durability TIMA GRANIT ART

Country: Russia

Average price: 2800 rubles

Forma 27×35 cm is a brand new line of kitchenware featuring a unique 7-layer Ceramic Granit construction. The outer ceramic coating not only adds a stylish touch to the accessories, but also provides protection against overheating and chemical reactions with water, grease, and food acids. The tray is equipped with non-slip contoured handles that span the entire width of the rectangular container. With a wall height of 6.7 cm, it offers the perfect balance for preparing dishes of any complexity and flavor. Beneath the decorative layer lies a compacted aluminum base, followed by a metal alloy and ceramic element coating. Layers of mineral particles and stone chips enhance the strength and resistance to cracking under high temperatures. The non-stick coating of the "porcelain stoneware" type meets all the necessary requirements.

The best universal model with a lid from KALITVA

Average price: 700 rubles.

The renowned Russian brand has been in existence for half a century. The aforementioned tray has garnered praise for its multi-functionality, lightweight construction, and dependability. It is crafted using embossing techniques, measuring 27×35 cm, and is fabricated from a food-grade aluminum alloy which ensures its eco-friendliness and health safety. In addition, the inclusion of small handles contributes to its usability. The metal has a thickness of 0.9 mm. The interior of this rectangular mold is coated with the Scandia Whitford non-stick coating.