10 Best Bread Loaf Pans in 2022 (Chef-Reviewed)
It’s easy to buy ready-made bread from the store, but nothing beats homemade, freshly-baked bread. Making the perfect loaf of bread is more than just getting the recipe right. An essential part of the equation is your bread loaf pan. Thankfully, finding the right loaf pan isn't so hard if you pay attention to the amount you want to bake, what type of flour you're using, and the best material for your needs.
To help purchase the right bread loaf pan for you, we’ve put together a versatile list of the 10 best bread loaf pans available online. At the top of our list is USA Pan's Bread Loaf Pan for its sturdy and reliable aluminized steel material, added lid for easier and even baking, and its careful construction. For more details on how to buy the right pan for you, scroll down to our trusty Buying Guide reviewed by a professional chef.
Quick List - Top Bread Loaf Pans
Lodge
Best Seasoned Cast Iron Loaf Pan That's Easy to Lift
Jim Quast (JQ) is a lifelong professional restaurant and corporate R&D chef who loves everything food-related and the tools, both big and small, to make those great food memories. He's a super huge BBQ, grill, and kitchen gadget fanatic. JQ has spent the last 30+ years trying to figure out what works to make your kitchen life easier and fun. If you can use it to slice it, dice it, cook it, smoke it, or store it, he's been there checking it out. Food = Life!
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How to Choose Bread Loaf Pans
Ready to get baking? Here are a few things to keep in mind as you find the best bread loaf pan for you.
Choose a Pan Size That Suits Your Baking Needs
The size of the pan will affect how well your bread bakes and how it will look. To figure out the correct pan size for your baking needs, two useful tips to keep in mind are to think about the cups of flour your recipe calls for and how much space the batter takes up in your pan.
Take Note of How Many Cups of Flour Your Recipe Calls For
If you're making a yeast loaf bread using up to three cups of flour, an 8.5 by 4.5 inch pan would be just the right size. Typically, this amount can serve approximately four to six people. This pan size is the most common size sold across the US.
For recipes between 3.5 to 3.75 cups of flour, depending on the type of flour you use, a nine by five inch pan would be suitable. This size is the second most common pan size sold, and this amount can serve about eight to 10 people. If you're following a recipe that asks for four or more cups of flour, a 10 by five inch loaf pan is most suitable.
You can also consider purchasing a large pan with multiple cavities or dividers. Mini bread pans can make loaves ranging from five by three inches to three by 2.5 inches. These are great to make bite-size loaves of bread or for baking any leftover batter.
Plan to Only Fill up Two-Thirds of the Pan
If you use pans that are larger than your flour amount calls for, it's likely that your bread might not rise properly and will fall flat. On the other hand, if you use a pan that's too small, your batter might overflow and burn. That's why it's important to also use the right-sized pan.
A good rule of thumb to remember is that your batter should ideally only fill up to two-thirds of the pan. Anything more, and your batter will likely spill over. If you have extra batter left over after you've filled your pan to the two-thirds limit, bake the rest in a different smaller pan, or even in muffin tins.
If you're using all-purpose or bread flour, it's best to go with a larger pan than you think you need, because the dough can balloon. However, if you're using a denser flour like whole-grain, it's alright to use a smaller pan.
Pick a Material Based on Performance and Durability
Now that you've got the right loaf pan size, let’s talk about materials. There are a few materials to choose from, and each one has its advantages and disadvantages.
Aluminum or Cast Iron for Strength
Aluminum is a material that is often used for cookware since it's a good conductor of heat. It has a smooth and even surface and allows the bread to cook evenly with a perfectly brown crust. It's also very durable, straightforward to clean, and lightweight.
Some things to note are that these pans can easily stain and might give your bread a metallic taste when it's exposed to acidic ingredients like lemon, lime, and orange. In terms of cleaning, handwashing is the best for these pans, since the dishwasher and hard water deposits can sometimes cause the pan to discolor.
However, even if your pan discolors from washing or dents from normal wear and tear, it doesn't degrade the quality of the material or make it unsafe to use. If you prefer a similar pan without these problems, you can opt for steel pans like stainless steel or alloy steel, as they are less likely to discolor. However, these don't transfer heat as well, so your bread is likely to lack browning.
Cast iron is another durable material for bread loaf pans as it's sturdy and provides a reliably good crust on baked goods. These loaf pans often come in two different options, enameled or non-enameled.
Enameled cast iron pans visually have a more smooth exterior while a non-enameled version will look more like your traditional, gritty cast iron. Enameled cast iron pans are said to conduct heat less than non-enameled pans, but this also means they heat up slowly and more evenly. As a result, people who have less experience cooking with cast iron may prefer to purchase enameled cast iron pans.
Regardless of whether it's enameled or not, cast iron is the heaviest material on this list. This is both a pro and con. It's a pro because it helps with sturdiness, but it could be hard to handle, especially with large capacities of dough. These pans are also not dishwasher- or microwave-safe, which can be a drawback for some.
Glass Lets You Watch the Baking Process
Although not a go-to for many bakers, glass bread loaf pans have their advantages. The transparency of glass pans comes in handy because you can check the doneness of all your sides anytime. Glass pans are also versatile because they can be used in the refrigerator, freezer, oven, or microwave. Moreover, since many consider them aesthetically pleasing, you can use glass pans to serve or store your bread.
Glass can take a longer time to heat up than metal materials. However, this also means these pans facilitate more even browning. Because of the slow heating process, you may have to tweak your cooking time when baking with glass pans. Do this by checking on the loaf earlier than you would normally and using the trusty toothpick method.
If not appropriately greased, food tends to stick to glass. So, make sure to grease your pan correctly if you opt for a glass pan. Glass pans can also be fragile and might chip, crack, or shatter when dropped or mishandled. These pans are typically dishwasher-safe, but it's advised not to use abrasive cleaners to avoid damaging the material.
Ceramic Pans for Even Browning
Ceramic bread pans are also gaining popularity, and for a good reason. Ceramic bread pans are great conductors. They heat up evenly and transfer that heat to your bread. This will give you perfectly cooked and browned bread.
They also have an excellent slick surface that prevents your bread from adhering to the pan. Plus, they are convenient to use since most ceramic pans are easy to clean and dishwasher-safe.
If properly taken care of, ceramic pans can last for years. However, it is essential to be careful in handling ceramic pans because they can easily chip, crack, and shatter just like glass pans.
Silicone or Paper Pans for Convenience
Although silicone bread pans are relatively new, they are gaining popularity. This is mainly because of silicone's durability and versatility. Unlike other bread pans, silicone pans are scratch-proof and do not break, dent, and oxidize as quickly as other materials.
They also do not break and shatter like glass pans. This kind of pan is safe to use in the microwave, freezer, and oven up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. However, a disadvantage is that they are not as dependable as stainless steel or aluminum. Silicone, as a material, doesn't conduct heat well.
A silicone bread pan might not give you the browning that a metal pan can provide. Keep in mind that silicone is very easy to bend as well, so the shape of your loaves might come out differently.
If you like to give baked goods as gifts, disposable paper loaf pans might be for you. They're easily transportable since they're much lighter than metal or glass, and there's no clean-up required. They're also freezer-, oven-, and microwave-safe.
It's important to note that some runnier batters may have trouble staying contained in paper pans. Also, cooking with these pans may require adjusting the baking temperature a bit lower since heat isn't conducted very evenly. This allows for more equal browning.
If you want a disposable loaf pan that conducts heat more evenly, you can consider aluminum disposable pans.
Consider Features Like Handles and a Lid
We all know that baking isn’t exactly the most effortless skill to master, which is why it’s good to look for features that will make it easier and will help give you great results.
Some bread loaf pans come with handles that make them easier to take in and out of the oven. These are most common for larger pans, as they have to hold more volume. Look for large, easy-to-grip handles, especially if you have big or bulky oven mitts. Some others also come with lids to help shape the bread as it's baking and expedite cooking.
Pans with grips or texture on the bottom are also helpful, as these features aid in air circulation. This circulation assists in browning your bread. However, these pans can be harder to clean because food can get stuck in the crevices.
10 Best Bread Loaf Pans Ranking
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | USA Pan Pullman Loaf Pan With Cover | | Best Versatile Aluminized Steel Pan for Easy and Even Baking | |
2 | OXO Good Grips Non-Stick Pro Loaf Pan | | Best Nonstick Aluminium Pan for Even Browning | |
3 | Lodge Perfect Results Large Nonstick Loaf Pan｜BW8LP | | Best Seasoned Cast Iron Loaf Pan That's Easy to Lift | |
4 | Pyrex Loaf Dish | | Best Glass Loaf Pan That Can Double as a Serving Dish | |
5 | Fat Daddio's Commerical II Traditional Uncoated Loaf Pan | | Best Aluminum Loaf Pan in Six Sizes | |
6 | CasaWare Ceramic Coated Non-Stick Loaf Pan | | Best Ceramic-Coated Loaf Pan With Fun Color Options | |
7 | Wekigai Cucina Bakeware Oven Lovin' Nonstick Loaf Pan | | Best Lidded Cast Iron Pan for Easy No-Knead Artisanal Bread Making | |
8 | Trudeau Silicone Structure Loaf Pan | | Best Lightweight Nonstick Silicone Bread Loaf Pan | |
9 | Fit Meal Prep Disposable Aluminum Foil Bread Pans | | Best Disposable Paper Bread Pan for Gifting | |
10 | Wilton Perfect Results Non-Stick Mini Loaf Pan | | Best Bread Pan for Bite-Sized Loaves |
USA PanPullman Loaf Pan With Cover
Best Versatile Aluminized Steel Pan for Easy and Even Baking
Pros:
- Comes with a lid that helps mold a perfect square loaf and facilitates faster, even baking
- Nine by four-inch dimensions allow for flexibility in baking larger loaves
- Nonstick inner coating
- Made with durable and long-lasting aluminized steel
- Lightweight while still being sturdy
Cons:
- Doesn't have handles for easier transport to and from the oven
- Some reviewers say the lid is hard to remove
This heavy-duty pan is made of durable aluminized steel with a lid that helps facilitate faster and more even cooking, especially for thicker batter such as banana bread. It also has a nonstick coating inside that's made from silicone. It's slightly larger than standard size, and the shaping lid allows this pan to be versatile and beginner-friendly.
Some reviewers noted that the nonstick coating wore off over time and that the lid was hard to slide open and closed at times. However, most others raved about how easy it was to make a perfectly square loaf in this pan and release the bread, thanks to its effective nonstick coating.
OXOGood Grips Non-Stick Pro Loaf Pan
Best Nonstick Aluminium Pan for Even Browning
Pros:
- Made with aluminized steel and ceramic coating for effective heat distribution and nonstick abilities
- Textured bottom facilitates airflow for easier release after baking
- Distributes heat very evenly for uniform browning
- Easy-to-read markings identify the pan size
Cons:
- Some customers complained the size was misrepresented in the product description; the loaf size it produces will be 8.5 by 4.5 inches
This ceramic-coated aluminized steel pan takes the best of both materials and allows for fast and even heat distribution, as well as long-lasting nonstick abilities. It also features a textured pattern on the bottom to minimize your bread's contact with the pan, therefore promoting airflow and quick release after baking.
The majority of customers were impressed by how reliably and evenly this pan browned their loaves of bread. They also noted that this pan distributed heat very quickly, allowing for faster cooking times compared to aluminum or glass pans.
LodgePerfect Results Large Nonstick Loaf Pan ｜ BW8LP
Best Seasoned Cast Iron Loaf Pan That's Easy to Lift
Pros:
- Sturdy, long-lasting, non-enameled cast iron
- Great even heat-conducting abilities
- Has dual handles
- Seasoned with vegetable oil for non-sticking abilities
- Crafted to prevent denting, bending, or warping in high temperatures
Cons:
- The handles can break if dropped or treated roughly, reviewers report
This non-enameled cast iron bread loaf pan is seasoned with natural vegetable oil and comes with handles for easier lifting. It's crafted with unparalleled heat retention and even heating in mind, and makes it easier to achieve the perfect crust and edges for any baked goods, whether it's sliced bread or sweet treats.
A couple of customers noted that theirs arrived with some faint rust, which they had to clean and re-season to fix. However, the majority of customers didn't share this issue and noted that their loaves baked evenly and popped right out of the pan. This was especially so after adding another layer of seasoning.
Best Glass Loaf Pan That Can Double as a Serving Dish
Pros:
- Handles for easier transport
- Can check your bread for even browning due to transparency
- Aesthetically pleasing and doubles as serving dish
- Nonporous Pyrex glass prevents staining or odors
- Microwave-, dishwasher-, and freezer-safe
Cons:
- Sensitive to extreme temperature changes
This glass loaf pan by Pyrex isn't just reliable and sturdy, but it's beautiful to look at and can double as a serving dish for meatloaf or casseroles. Made of nonporous glass, it also won't stain or absorb odors.
Many reviewers were impressed by how long-lasting and stain-proof it was and appreciated that its rounded edges made cleaning easier.
Fat Daddio'sCommerical II Traditional Uncoated Loaf Pan
Best Aluminum Loaf Pan in Six Sizes
Pros:
- Made with anodized aluminum for easier releases and clean up
- Rust-, peel-, and flake-proof
- Can withstand heat up to 550 degrees
- Safe to use in a pressure cooker, air fryer, and freezer
- Offers six different size options
Cons:
- No handles
- They don't stack and can get stuck together if you try
Available in a range of sizes from petite to large, these pans could suit a variety of baking needs. These anodized aluminum pans are not nonstick-coated. The long-lasting aluminum can withstand up to 550 degrees of heat and is also pressure cooker-, air fryer-, and freezer-safe.
Several customers reported that their set of two was impossible to separate. Some also noted that olive oil left a sticky residue on this pan, and baker's spray was a safer alternative. However, the majority of customers didn't have these problems and were very impressed with their durability and heat distribution.
CasaWareCeramic Coated Non-Stick Loaf Pan
Best Ceramic-Coated Loaf Pan With Fun Color Options
Pros:
- Comes in four different colors
- Can withstand heat up to 536 degrees
- Nonstick ceramic coating
Cons:
- Cannot be used with metal utensils
This bread loaf pan is made with a nonstick ceramic coating that not only makes it easy for your to release your baked goods from the pan once done, but it's also FDA, California Proposition 65, and European Union approved for food safety.
Some reviewers say the coating doesn't last, and the manufacturer also warns against using metal utensils with these pans. However, a lot of the reviewers were thoroughly impressed with the product's nonstick qualities and how nice the pan was visually.
WekigaiCucina Bakeware Oven Lovin' Nonstick Loaf Pan
Best Lidded Cast Iron Pan for Easy No-Knead Artisanal Bread Making
Pros:
- Made with high quality enameled cast iron
- No shaping necessary due to lid and pan that shapes bread for you
- Beginner-friendly
- Nonstick reusable liner included
- Aesthetically pleasing and doubles as serving dish
Cons:
- On the heavier side at about nine pounds
- Some reviewers say the lid is hard to align correctly
This enameled and lidded cast iron bread loaf isn't just visually pleasing, but it was also crafted so that you can make reliable, no-knead artisan bread without shaping your bread dough beforehand. With its perforated nonstick silicone liner, it makes cleaning much easier as well.
Some reviewers felt it was a shame that this loaf pan was on the smaller side. However, more customers were very impressed by how easy it was to make evenly-crusted bread with this pan, even for absolute beginners.
Trudeau Silicone Structure Loaf Pan
Best Lightweight Nonstick Silicone Bread Loaf Pan
Pros:
- Perforated steel structure in the rim for easier handling
- Microwave- and freezer-safe
- Dishwasher-safe
- Comes in five colorful design options
- Lightweight and flexible for easier transport and storage
Cons:
- Can only withstand heat up to 428 degrees
This lightweight silicone pan is made of nonstick silicone and has an integrated steel structure for stability and easier handling. Since it's microwave- and freezer-safe, you can reheat your baked goods while they're still in the pan, as well as store them in the freezer without having to repackage them.
Some reviewers noted that without proper pre-washing, this pan made their bread taste a little like plastic. However, many more reviewers raved about how truly nonstick this pan was and appreciated the convenience of being able to pop their baked goods out of the pan by finessing the flexible pan. They also noted it was very easy to clean.
Fit Meal PrepDisposable Aluminum Foil Bread Pans
Best Disposable Paper Bread Pan for Gifting
Pros:
- Paper is made from 95 percent recycled material
- Freezer- and microwave-safe
- Comes in a pack of 30
- Can withstand heat up to 400 degrees
- Lightweight and transportable
Cons:
- Not suitable for runnier batters
- Doesn't allow reliable even browning for every batter
This sturdy kraft paper bread loaf pan is a great way to share your baked goods for gifts or to sell. Surprisingly durable, these pans can withstand up to 400 degrees of heat. It's also made of recyclable material, so it's more environmentally friendly than other disposable options.
Some reviewers noted that runnier batters were not effective with these pans, and they also advised against long-term storage in freezers. However, the majority of customers loved that they could use these strong and visually pleasing pans to gift baked goods to their friends and family without worrying about the hassle of returning cookware.
Wilton Perfect Results Non-Stick Mini Loaf Pan
Best Bread Pan for Bite-Sized Loaves
Pros:
- Made of durable, thick steel
- Can make eight bite-size loaves at once
- Nonstick coating
- Larger sides that work as handles for easier grip
- Great for making use of leftover batter
- Dishwasher-safe
Cons:
- None
This nonstick, alloy steel pan will help you bake eight bite-sized bread loaves with this mini pan. This pan can come in handy not just for people who like to make mini loaves, but also for people who want to make use of their remaining batter when they've realized they made too much!
The reviews for this are overwhelmingly positive. Many customers confirmed that the nonstick coating worked well for them and liked that they could easily make single servings of bread and treats with this pan.
Looking for More Bakeware?
Whether you're a baking fanatic or just like to make cookies once in a while, having some quality bakeware in your kitchen doesn't hurt. Check out more bakeware that can make the process easier and more enjoyable.
Buying Guide Reviewed by Executive R&D Chef Jim Quast
This expert reviewed the contents of the buying guide for accuracy and provided factual corrections when necessary. They did not participate in the product selection process, nor are they affiliated with any of our choices unless explicitly stated so.
Top 5 Bread Loaf Pans
No. 1: USA Pan｜Pullman Loaf Pan With Cover
No. 2: OXO｜Good Grips Non-Stick Pro Loaf Pan
No. 3: Lodge｜Perfect Results Large Nonstick Loaf Pan｜BW8LP
No. 4: Pyrex｜Loaf Dish
No. 5: Fat Daddio's｜Commerical II Traditional Uncoated Loaf Pan
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.