Baking trays sizes

Types of baking trays

Understanding the various baking trays sizes can help one choose the right one for the next baking project. Some baking trays are designed to make certain types of baked goods only, while others are more versatile and can be used for cooking a wide range of dishes.

• Baking sheets or baking trays

  These are flat sheets of metal with slightly raised edges on all four sides. Baking sheets are ideal for cookies, biscuits, and flatbreads. They allow for even heat distribution and airflow, ensuring all sides of the baked goods are well cooked. Baking sheets come in different sizes, including half sheets (18 by 13 inches), quarter sheets (9 by 13 inches), and full sheets (28 by 20 inches).

• Cookie sheets

  Cookie sheets are similar to baking sheets but have very small or no edges. They are specifically designed for baking cookies and are usually placed directly on oven racks for optimal air circulation. Like baking sheets, cookie sheets also come in various sizes.

• Roasting pans

  The roasting pan is the baking tray's big brother. It is large enough to hold an entire chicken, a roast, or even a Thanksgiving turkey. The roasting pan is made of metal and usually has two sturdy handles on the sides for easy maneuvering. It is often accompanied by a roasting rack, which elevates the meat for even cooking and browning.

• Cooling racks

  Although not technically a baking tray, a cooling rack is an indispensable tool in any baker's arsenal. It is a grid-like metal rack used to cool down baked goods after taking them out of the oven. Using a cooling rack prevents moisture from building up at the bottom of the baking goods, making them soggy.

• Muffin tins or pans

  As the name suggests, muffin tins or pans are used to bake muffins. They are metal trays with multiple cup-shaped indentations, usually round, for baking individual muffins. Muffin tins come in various sizes, including mini (24 count), standard (12 count), and jumbo (6 count) muffin tins.

• Springform pans

  Springform pans are unique baking trays used for making delicate cakes like cheesecakes and tarts. It has a removable bottom and a latch-style clasp on the side that opens to release the finished cake. The springform pan ensures that the fragile cakes do not break or crumble when transferring them from the pan to the serving plate.

• Pizza stones

  Pizza stones are thick, flat slabs made of porous materials like clay or ceramic. They absorb moisture from the pizza dough, resulting in a crispy crust. Pizza stones are preheated in the oven before placing the raw pizza on them.

• Lasagna pans

  Lasagna pans are deep, rectangular metal baking trays specifically designed for making lasagna. They are large enough to accommodate multiple layers of pasta, meat, sauce, and cheese. Lasagna pans ensure even cooking and melting of cheese throughout the dish.

Design of baking trays

• Material Considerations:

  The materials used in the construction of baking trays are vital to their performance. Metal trays, like aluminum or stainless steel, are favored for their durability and excellent heat conductivity, ensuring even baking. Non-stick coatings are usually applied to metal trays to prevent food from sticking and to make cleaning easier. Silicone baking trays, on the other hand, offer flexibility and non-stick properties without the need for grease or oil. Glass or ceramic baking dishes are also popular because they hold heat well and offer a more aesthetic presentation when serving.

• Shape and Edges:

  The shape of the baking tray can determine what it can be used for. Rectangular or square pans are common for sheet baking, while round ones are better for cakes. The edges of the trays may also have various designs, such as rolled edges that add strength and prevent warping, or deep sides that keep liquids and crumbs inside.

• Size and Dimensions:

  When choosing a baking tray, its size and dimension should be considered in relation to the oven space and storage capacity. Some trays are designed to fit in standard oven racks, while others have specific measurements that make them more suitable for particular recipes. Knowing the sizes and dimensions of baking trays can help determine which one will be most appropriate for the intended use.

• Color and Finish:

  The color and finish of a baking tray can also influence its baking performance. Dark-colored trays absorb heat faster than light-colored ones, making them suitable for recipes that require a quick browning effect. Moreover, trays with matte finishes provide better grip for batters and doughs compared to those with shiny finishes, which may cause sliding or sticking.

• Special Features:

  Some baking trays come with unique features that enhance their usability. Trays with perforated bottoms allow for better air circulation around the food, resulting in crispy crusts for pizzas or evenly cooked fried items. Others are designed as removable bottom pans, making it easier to extract baked goods without damaging their shape or texture.

Scenarios for baking trays

• Commercial bakeries:

  For a commercial bakery, the baking trays should be durable, have a large capacity, and have a uniform heat distribution. The baking trays are used to bake cookies, pastries, bread, and cakes. The trays are used continuously, so the durability of the material is very important. Baking trays made of stainless steel or thick aluminum are usually the preferred choice because they resist warping and damage and have a long service life. In addition, commercial bakeries require large quantities of baked goods, so the baking trays must have a large capacity. Therefore, the depth and width of the trays should be large enough to hold multiple cookies or a whole batch of bread. Since commercial ovens are large, baking trays that fit into them are needed.

• Restaurants and cafes:

  For restaurants and cafes, baking trays are used for various purposes, including baking, roasting, and cooking. Trays used in restaurants and cafes need to be versatile and easy to clean. They can be used not only for baking but also for roasting vegetables, cooking meat, and preparing desserts. Therefore, the material of the trays should be non-toxic and safe for contact with food. In addition, the trays are used in a humid environment and are soiled by oil and grease. The trays need to be resistant to corrosion and easy to clean, so they have a long service life.

• Home kitchens:

  Home kitchens use baking trays for various purposes, such as baking cookies, roasting vegetables, and cooking. For home kitchens, baking trays need to be easy to use and store. They are smaller than those used in commercial kitchens, so they need to be easy to handle and clean. The material of choice is often aluminum or stainless steel, which are lightweight and easy to clean. Additionally, home kitchens do not have much storage space, so baking trays that can be easily stacked or disassembled are more suitable.

• Industrial kitchens:

  Industrial kitchens, such as those in hotels or large catering businesses, require baking trays that can withstand heavy usage and are easy to clean and store. Industrial kitchens need baking trays that can withstand constant use and are easy to clean and store. The material of the baking trays is usually stainless steel or a special alloy that can withstand high temperatures and be washed with strong detergents.

How to choose a baking tray

There are various baking trays available in the market, but it is important to know how to choose the right one. Here are some important factors to consider when choosing the perfect baking tray:

• Material

  Aside from the various baking tray sizes, it is also important to consider the material. Baking trays are made from different materials, including metal, glass, and silicone. Metal trays are durable and heat quickly, while glass trays are easy to clean and retain heat well. Silicone trays, on the other hand, are non-stick and flexible, making them easy to store. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, so choose one that will suit the needs.

• Purpose

  Another important factor to consider when choosing a baking tray is the purpose. Different trays are used for different purposes, such as roasting, baking cookies, and making cakes. Cookie sheets have low sides, which makes it easy to slide on and off. A roasting pan has handles and high sides to contain the juices. Knowing the purpose of the baking tray will make it easier to choose the right one.

• Size and storage

  When choosing a baking tray, it is important to consider the size and how it will be stored. Make sure to consider the size of the oven and the space in the kitchen. Some baking trays are foldable or can be stacked, so they take up lesser space.

• Non-stick coating

  Many baking trays come with a non-stick coating, which makes cleaning and removing food easier. However, be careful when using metal utensils, as they can scratch the coating and damage the tray.

• Durability and quality

  Choose a baking tray that is durable and has good quality. Trays that are made from good quality materials will last longer and provide even heat distribution, which leads to consistent baking results.

Q&A

Q1: How deep is a baking tray?

A1: The depth of baking trays can vary. Typically, it is between 2 to 5 inches.

Q2: What are the baking tray sizes in cm?

A2: Baking trays are measured in two popular sizes: 40x30 cm and 46x33 cm. Both sizes are written as large or given special names, like half-sheet pans.

Q3: What is the difference between baking sheets and baking trays?

A3: Baking sheets have no sides, while baking trays have small sides that lift to hold food in.

Q4: What is a baking tray size guide?

A4: Baking trays are measured in two popular sizes: 40x30 cm and 46x33 cm. Both sizes are considered large or given special names, like half-sheet pans. Baking trays come in a range of other sizes too, including small, medium, and quarter sizes.

Q5: What are the baking tray sizes in inches?

A5: The two baking tray sizes that people consider the largest are 16x12 and 18x12 inches.