I’m a Former Pastry Chef — I Tested HexClad’s New Bakeware, and I Totally Get the Hype
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Credit: Stephanie Ganz
Baking season is upon us, and that means we're gearing up to make all kinds of Halloween treats , Thanksgiving pies , and holiday cookies . Whether you're a practiced baker or a novice, one thing is true across the board: Exceptional baking requires a combination of precise technique and good equipment. Just like high-quality flour or vanilla extract can make a cake extra-special, so can a really great cake pan.
So when I got the chance to test HexClad's new Hybrid Bakeware Set , I put on my apron and got to work. After three weeks of baking, here's my honest review.
A Quick Look at HexClad's Hybrid Bakeware Set
Includes two (9-inch) Round Cake Pans, one (8×8-inch) Square Cake Pan, one (9×13-inch) Rectangular Cake Pan, one (10×15-inch) Medium Baking Sheet, and one (9.5×14.5-inch) Stainless Steel Cooling Rack
Stainless steel and PFAS-free nonstick surface
Oven-safe up to 900°F
Dishwasher-safe (but hand-washing is recommended)
Lifetime warranty
What's the Deal with HexClad's Hybrid Bakeware Set?
HexClad's Hybrid Bakeware Set introduces a dual-surface technology that combines the best aspects of stainless steel and nonstick for an improved baking experience. I have to admit that I was skeptical about whether or not this hybrid approach would really make a noticeable difference in baking, but from my first pan of brownies I could tell that these pans were special.
The textured cooking surfaces feature a slightly raised steel element, which HexClad says helps air circulate around the food (leading to a more even bake). Below that, there's a ceramic nonstick-coated surface designed to help release baked goods from the pan. I can attest that, even without parchment paper, everything I baked released easily from these pans.
Why You Should Trust Me
I am a classically trained former professional cook, and I started my time working on the pastry side making cookies, biscuits, and tarts for a busy fine-dining restaurant. These days, I cook and bake for my family of four every day, ramping up my baked goods production around the holidays. Currently, I'm a writer and recipe developer who favors practical, low-fuss recipes and is always looking for the best ingredients and equipment to get the job done.
Credit: Stephanie Ganz
How I Tested HexClad's Hybrid Bakeware Set
Because each pan has a different function, I tested each pan several times using recipes that made the most sense for each pan. I evaluated each bake to determine how easy it was to remove the items from the pans once they were baked as well as the quality of the finished product.
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The chocolate cake test. For the cake pans, I baked a two-layer chocolate cake .
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The brownie test. For the square cake pan, I baked pantry cocoa brownies .
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The coffee cake test. In the rectangular cake pan, I baked a coffee cake .
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The cookie test. On the sheet tray, I baked oatmeal chocolate chip cookies .
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The hand-washing test. After baking, I washed each pan by hand, using warm, soapy water and a slightly abrasive sponge, noting any issues that this presented.
Credit: Stephanie Ganz
How It Performed
I tested each pan in the set by making cakes, brownies, and cookies to see how they held up and how easy it was to remove the baked goods from the pans. Here's how they did.
The 9×13-Inch Cake Pan
This pan performed well when I used it to bake a coffee cake . Per HexClad's instructions, I greased the pan with vegetable oil — it says to avoid using cooking spray. I prepared the recipe according to the directions, and the resulting cake was fluffy, tender, and moist. Plus, it was extremely easy to cut and remove from the pan without using parchment paper.
The 9-Inch Round Cake Pans
These cake pans produced two even, well-baked chocolate cakes that were easy to remove without a parchment circle. In my experience, getting cake out of cake pans is one of the most anxiety-inducing steps in the entire cake-making process, and these pans took all of that stress away.
The 8×8-Inch Square Cake Pan
This is my new go-to brownie pan. Both batches of brownies I made — one from scratch and one from a box — worked perfectly, and released easily from the pan. I also appreciated the stainless steel handles on the pan, which made it easier to load into and out of the oven.
The Baking Sheet and Cooling Rack
The baking sheet did an excellent job with these oatmeal chocolate chip cookies . They had slightly crispy bottoms and soft interiors, and, like everything else I baked in the HexClad baking pans, they were easy to remove from the tray without needing cooking spray or parchment paper. The only issue I have with the sheet pan is that it is a smaller-sized pan (it's technically considered a medium baking sheet), but I would prefer a larger size so I could make more cookies at a time. Also, it would be great to be able to use it for sheet pan meals, but the smaller size will be a limiting factor there as well.
What's so great
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Nonstick surface works well
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Durable and sturdy, with no warping
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Easy to wash by hand
Good to know
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Expensive
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Stainless steel handles show smudging and can stain over time
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Baking sheet is only 10x15 inches, rather than the standard 18x13 inches
Credit: Stephanie Ganz
Who Is HexClad's Hybrid Bakeware Set For?
HexClad's Hybrid Bakeware Set is perfect for serious, frequent bakers. The bakeware is durable, reliable, and effective — truly professional-level equipment. But because the set is pricey, it'll be most worthwhile for those who bake often. (For those occasional bakers or people on a budget, I'd recommend this under-$100 Nordic Ware set instead.)
Where Can You Buy HexClad's Hybrid Bakeware Set?
The Hybrid Bakeware Set is available online at HexClad .
Are There Any HexClad Sales Right Now?
HexClad will be running sales for Black Friday and Cyber Monday, so keep an eye out for upcoming deals on the brand's website.
Credit: Stephanie Ganz
Is HexClad's Hybrid Bakeware Set Worth It?
Yes. With this set, you can expect durable, reliable bakeware that elevates the baking experience. And although it is pricey, it does come with a lifetime warranty, so it feels like a pretty safe purchase. If you are an avid baker gearing up for a busy holiday season, this set is absolutely a worthwhile investment. It will make your bakes better and your life a little easier. It would also make a great gift for serious bakers .
Buy: HexClad Hybrid Bakeware Set , $399 at HexClad
More HexClad We've Tried and Loved
What's your favorite bakeware set? Tell us about it in the comments below.
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