10" x 15" sheet pan 

Sometimes called a jelly roll pan, this pan is perfect for sheet cakes, cookie bars, and roasting vegetables. Its raised edges contain batters while allowing for easy handling. The 10" x 15" size offers enough surface area for even baking. 

Common uses include: 

• Jelly rolls and Swiss rolls

• Sheet cakes

• Cookie bars

• Roasting smaller batches of vegetables

• Granola and other baked snacks

9" x 9" square cake pan

This classic square pan is a staple in any baker's collection. Usually 2 inches deep, it's ideal for brownies and smaller cakes. The square shape makes portioning desserts simple and even. 

They're commonly chosen when making:

• Brownies and blondies

• Coffee cakes

• Cornbread

• Snack cakes

• Cream cheese bars and other dessert bars

9" x 5" loaf pan

The standard loaf pan is essential for quick breads, pound cake, and sandwich bread. Loaf pans typically have straight sides and are 2 ½ to 3 inches deep, allowing batters and doughs to rise properly. 

Popular uses include: 

• Banana bread and other quick breads

• Pound cakes

• Meatloaf

• Sandwich bread

• Terrine and pate

9" x 13" rectangular baking pan

The 9" x 13" pan, sometimes called a quarter sheet, is perhaps the most versatile pan in any kitchen. It works for everything from lasagna to sheet cakes. This pan size is typically 2 inches deep.

This size is perfect for making:

• Sheet cakes and snack cakes

• Lasagna and casseroles

• Enchiladas

• Cobblers and crisps

• Bar cookies and brownies

 

11" x 17" sheet pan

Also known as a half-sheet pan, this larger baking surface is perfect for big-batch cooking. With a typical depth of 1 inch and a generous surface area, it's ideal for everything from cookies to sheet pan dinners. 

They're perfect for:

• Cookies (12 to 24 per batch)

• Sheet pan dinners

• Roasting vegetables

• Pizza

• Toasting nuts and seeds

9-inch round cake pan

9-inch round pans are the foundation of countless cake recipes. Most layer cake recipes are formulated for this size, making it essential for any home baker. 

Use them for: 

• Layer cakes

• Single-layer snack cakes

• Deep dish pizza

• Upside-down cakes

• Cheesecake bases

9-inch springform pan

With a removable collar that releases by opening a spring clasp, this specialized pan makes it easy to unmold delicate desserts. Typically 3 inches deep, springform pans are deeper than standard cake pans. 

They're ideal for: 

• Cheesecakes

• Tortes

• Deep dish quiches

• Ice cream cakes

• Mousse cakes

Cupcake and muffin tins 

Standard muffin pans have 12 cups, each measuring about 2¾ inches in diameter and 1 ¼ inches deep.  The uniform cup size ensures even baking and creates perfectly portioned treats that are easy to serve and store.

These pans are ideal for individual portions and when making: 

• Cupcakes

• Muffins

• Mini frittatas

• Popovers

• Individual cheesecakes

How to Choose the Best Baking Pan Size 

Selecting the best pan size is necessary for any baking task. Here's what to consider when choosing between different pan sizes for baking: 

• Check the recipe first. Recipes usually tell you what size pan to use for a reason. Recipe developers test their creations multiple times with specific pans, so following their lead is your safest bet.

• Think about the material. Not all pans are created equal! Dark metal pans brown food faster (sometimes too fast), while glass holds heat better. 

• Don't forget about depth. A cake meant for a 2-inch deep pan will spill over in a 1-inch pan. Similarly, bread might not rise properly in a pan that's too deep.

• Be realistic about your oven. That giant cookie sheet looks amazing in the store but is useless if it won't fit in your oven. Measure your oven space before splurging on new pans, and remember those handles take up space, too!

• Think ahead to serving time. How will you get that cheesecake to your office potluck? A springform pan makes removal easy, while a disposable aluminum pan might be best for a family reunion where you don't want to track down your premium bakeware.

• Consider your cabinet space. Before adding to your collection, consider where you'll store your baking pan when you're not using it.

• Match pans to your baking style. Do you love trying new recipes weekly, or do you have a few signature dishes you stick to? Your baking personality should shape your pan collection.

What to Do if You Don’t Have the Correct Baking Pan Size

If the exact pan size isn't available, you can use another one and adjust the cook time accordingly.

 

Switching pan shapes or sizes may also require adjusting the baking temperature and time. Generally, batters spread thinner than originally intended will bake faster and may dry out more quickly. Conversely, deeper batters take longer to cook through and may need a lower temperature to prevent over-browning. 

Understanding the difference between broiling and baking can also help when adapting recipes to different pan sizes, as these cooking methods affect how heat reaches your food.

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Use the Right Pan Size for Better Baking 

The correct baking dish size can help you achieve consistent, delicious results. The right pan ensures even cooking, proper rising, and ideal texture in baked goods. While there's room for substitution, starting with the right size in the first place eliminates guesswork. 

High-quality bakeware makes a noticeable difference in cooking results, too. Premium bakeware features even heat distribution, durable construction, and easy release. With proper care, quality pans can last for years. 

Circulon's range of tough, reengineered bakeware offers exceptional durability and performance. Our premium nonstick surfaces make cleanup easier while ensuring baked goods release perfectly every time. Whether you're looking for different types of pans or options for everyday cooking, our bakeware helps home cooks achieve professional results.