While many home chefs have embraced this newest line of bakeware products, some of us have been slightly reluctant to depart from our traditional metal and glass baking pans that have stood the test of time, long enough to even ‘test drive’ a silicone pan.

Their cheerfully bright colors do attract our attention, but it’s their general flimsiness that raises a few skeptic baker’s eyebrows. However, manufacturers have been very quick to allay our visions of folding pans and overflowing batter, by designing optional or companion racks or ‘sleds’ that provide the much-needed stability especially for the larger pans.

Goodbye rubber – hello silicone spatulas! They really are that good – no melting and no more scissor-trimming to remove worn edges. They can take the heat and you can even use them in a hot skillet to scramble your eggs. After a year and considerable mileage, they still look like new.

• No greasing or oiling of pans required
• Pans heat quickly and bake evenly with no burnt or dark edges or bottom.
• Removal from pans is super easy – a slight twist or gently pulling on the sides and roll out your baking.
• They’re freezer, refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher and oven safe.
• Bake, store, freeze and reheat right in the pans.
• No rusting or staining.
• No need to alter your batter or temperature – bake as usual.
• Cleanup is a breeze.
• Lightweight and perfect for a camper or RV.
• Storing is easy – although they do not easily nest, no special attention is required and they retain their shape.

Imagine the uses for silicone bakeware and there are a few. You can freeze conversation-inspiring shaped ice cubes for the punch bowl or use the pans for your favorite gelled salads or desserts. And no more fears of your special coffee cake not releasing from the pan.

Silicone bakeware has been in use commercially for several years but it’s still quite new to the home market. Will it survive the test of time? I think it will – like anything new, we just need to give it a chance to show off its great features.

Know more about tips for a successful baking with silicone bakeware.