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There’s nothing quite like a warm, freshly baked muffin, and if you’re looking to try your hand at baking them from home, you’ll need one of the best muffin pans on the market. In her quest to find the best vessels for yummy Blueberry Muffins, Meggan has been hard at work testing models from beloved brands!
To make sure your muffins come out with moist interiors and perfectly golden tops, Meggan gave me the 411 on them. Her personal favorite is the USA Pan 12-Cup Nonstick Muffin Pan, which she now uses regularly. With her fresh insight, we worked together to narrow our list down to the six best bakeware options to buy.
Below, you’ll find more details on the ones we love, along with what you should look for when shopping for one.
Table of Contents
Our Top Picks
- What’s in Meggan’s Kitchen: USA Pan 12-Cup Nonstick Muffin Pan – $29.95 at Amazon
- Best Splurge: Williams Sonoma Goldtouch Pro Nonstick Muffin Pan – $39.95 at Williams Sonoma
- Best Budget: Wilton Perfect Results Nonstick 12-Cup Muffin Pan – $12.99 at Target
- Best Aluminum: Nordic Ware Aluminum 12-Cup Muffin Pan – $18 at Amazon
- Best Silicone: Silpat Perfect Nonstick Muffin Pan – $49.09 at Amazon
- Best Mini: USA Pan Mini Muffin Pan – $29.95 at Williams Sonoma
Reviews of The Best Muffin Pans
1. What’s in Meggan’s Kitchen: USA Pan 12-Cup Nonstick Muffin Pan
Meggan bought the USA Pan 12-Cup Nonstick Muffin Pan when she was testing out muffin tins and was impressed by the pan’s nonstick coating. It effortlessly released muffins and cupcakes without paper liners–even when they were still warm!
She also liked the uniquely textured surface that allowed for an even bake. The cups are your standard 2.75- by 2.13-inch size, while the rest of the baking pan has grooves that are great for cleanup. Although these are hand wash only, warm water, mild soap, and a gentle scrub with a brush or sponge work perfectly to remove excess batter and crisped muffin bits. Meggan also liked that the rims of the pan have a large overhang, which makes it easy to hold and put in the oven even while wearing oven mitts.
The Specs:
- Material: Aluminized steel
- Capacity: 12 cups
- Weight: 1 lb. 15 oz
- Care: Hand wash
The Pros:
- Sturdy construction
- Fluted surface bakes evenly
- Easy release
- Made in USA
- Nonstick coating
The Cons:
- Hand wash only
What Others are Saying:
It was named best overall muffin pan by both Food & Wine and Allrecipes. It also has a 4.9-star rating on Amazon from more than 4,500 reviews.
Buy the USA Pan 12-Cup Nonstick Muffin Pan:
2. Best Splurge: Williams Sonoma Goldtouch Pro Nonstick Muffin Pan
This splurge-worthy pick from Williams Sonoma is made from commercial-quality steel. This construction is super durable and performs really well, so I have a feeling it’ll last for years. Plus, the golden hue is so unique and pretty to look at!
The nonstick coating helps muffins cook evenly and release easily without leaving crumbs behind or breaking off at the base. The edges of the pan are also designed to stick out far enough to provide a secure grip for easy transporting. Although you can put it in the dishwasher, it’s suggested to wash it with warm water and mild dishwashing soap to ensure longevity.
The Specs:
- Material: Aluminized steel
- Capacity: 12 cups
- Weight: 2 lbs. 4 oz
- Care: Dishwasher-safe but hand wash recommended
The Pros:
- Beautiful aesthetic
- Even baking
- Quick release
- Easy to grip
The Cons:
- Expensive
What Others are Saying:
Food & Wine named it one of their top picks.
Buy the Williams Sonoma Goldtouch Pro Nonstick Muffin Pan:
3. Best Budget: Wilton Perfect Results Nonstick 12-Cup Muffin Pan
Wilton is a beloved baking brand that’s been around since 1929, so it’s a no-brainer that its nonstick 12-cup muffin pan would land on our list! Meggan has found that many darker-colored muffin pans can burn or undercook muffins, but this pan is the exception to the rule. In her testing, the muffins were baked evenly and thoroughly. Plus, the silicone-based nonstick coating released them effortlessly without paper liners, even when they were still warm.
She really liked how the two shorter sides of the pan have an extra overhang which makes the pan easy to handle and maneuver, even while wearing oven mitts. Even better, it’s priced affordably, so if you end up needing a second (or third!), it won’t put a major dent in your pocket.
The Specs:
- Material: Steel
- Capacity: 12 cups
- Weight: 1 lb. 9 oz.
- Care: Dishwasher-safe but hand wash recommended
The Pros:
- Perfect release
- Even bake
- Spreads evenly
- Resists warping
- Convenient handles
The Cons:
- Hand washing recommended
What Others are Saying:
It has a 4.8-star rating on Amazon with more than 480 favorable reviews.
Buy the Wilton Perfect Results Nonstick 12-Cup Muffin Pan:
4. Best Aluminum: Nordic Ware Aluminum 12-Cup Muffin Pan
This model by Nordic Ware has a sturdy aluminum construction that resists rust and warping. Although it doesn’t have a nonstick coating, Meggan found that the pan still heats evenly for a solid bake.
Meggan also noted that the cupcakes and muffins baked in this pan came out with flat tops instead of domed ones, so she suggests it’s better to use it as a cupcake pan, as the shape will be easier to frost. Even though aluminum pans typically bake faster than nonstick pans, Meggan found this aluminum pan required 3 to 5 minutes of extra baking time than what her recipe suggested, so account for that when you try it out.
The Specs:
- Material: Aluminum
- Capacity: 12 cups
- Weight: 1 lb. 4 oz.
- Care: Hand wash
The Pros:
- Sturdy construction
- Warp-resistant
- Rust-resistant
The Cons:
- Requires liners
- Hand wash only
What Others are Saying:
It has a 4.8-star rating from over 2,000 reviews on Amazon.
Buy the Nordic Ware Aluminum 12-Cup Muffin Pan:
5. Best Silicone: Silpat Perfect Nonstick Muffin Pan
While some of the best muffin pans are usually made from aluminum or steel, this silicone option from Silpat is another great option. It’s lightweight and flexible, so it’s super easy to release your baked muffins when they’re cool!
It’s not as sturdy as other pans Meggan tested, so she recommends putting it on a sheet tray to bake. However, there’s no need to grease it before pouring in your batter and it easily wipes out with a cloth after use for quick cleaning. If you want to wash them in the dishwasher, you just need to put them on the top rack. It’s also freezer-safe, so you could also use it to portion leftovers or food prep like with Meggan’s Egg Muffins.
The Specs:
- Material: Silicone
- Capacity: 12 cups
- Weight: 13.6 oz.
- Care: Hand wash
The Pros:
- Nonstick without grease
- Molds uniform cupcakes
- Freezer-safe
- Dishwasher-safe
The Cons:
- Not sturdy
- Expensive
What Others are Saying:
The Silpat Perfect Nonstick Muffin Pan was featured by Insider and was named the best silicone muffin pan by Food Network.
Buy the Silpat Perfect Nonstick Muffin Pan:
6. Best Mini: USA Pan Mini Muffin Pan
This mini version of Meggan’s favorite muffin pan is a great alternative if you’re partial to smaller servings with less baking time required. Like the larger model, it features a durable design and a fluted surface for extra strength that allows muffins to easily release.
Because of the aluminized steel construction, your muffins can come out light and fluffy with a crispy edge. It’s not dishwasher-safe, but the nonstick coating prevents the muffins from sticking and washing it by hand is super quick.
The Specs:
- Material: Steel
- Capacity: 24 mini cups
- Weight: 2 lbs.
- Care: Dishwasher-safe but hand wash recommended
The Pros:
- Professional quality
- Nonstick
- Effortless release
- Even bake
- Makes 24 muffins or cupcakes
The Cons:
- Hand wash recommended
- Expensive
What Others are Saying:
The USA Pan Mini Muffin Pan has a 4.9-star rating on Amazon with more than 1,000 reviews. Plus, it was named the best mini muffin pan by Food Network.
Buy the USA Pan Mini Muffin Pan:
Other Muffin Pans to Consider
OXO Good Grips Non-Stick 12-Cup Muffin Pan
Meggan liked the OXO muffin pan’s study, heavy-duty construction, and nonstick finish. She found that it bakes muffins evenly and within their expected bake time. They also pop right out without the use of paper liners. But she also thought it was a bit heavy, and the large overhang doesn’t nest well with other pans, so it’s difficult to store. The OXO Good Grips Non-Stick 12-Cup Muffin Pan is available at Amazon for $27.99.
Amazon Basics Nonstick 12-Cup Muffin Pan
Meggan liked this Amazon Basics set because of its sturdy design. In testing, she noted that the muffins popped out easily with the use of paper liners. She also liked that they were extremely lightweight, but she couldn’t determine what the nonstick coating was made of and couldn’t find that information online. The Amazon Basics Nonstick 12-Cup Muffin Pan, Set of 2 is available at Amazon for $16.93.
Ninja Foodi NeverStick 12-Cup Muffin Pan
This Ninja Foodi muffin pan is durable and has a unique square shape that fits into some Ninja convection and toaster ovens. When she tested it out, Meggan found that muffins and cupcakes were released effortlessly without paper liners, even when the muffins were warm. The dealbreaker for her was that the pan doesn’t fit in all Ninja ovens, so baking could become a pain if you plan on cooking with small appliances. The Ninja Foodi NeverStick 12-Cup Muffin Pan is available at Amazon for $23.99.
Why You Can Trust Us
Hi! I’m Belle, an award-winning content creator and adjunct professor who works in restaurant PR in the Midwest. Over the course of 20 years, I’ve held almost every position imaginable in various restaurants, including ownership of a Korean-concept hot dog cart. My writing and on-camera work can be seen on Better Homes & Gardens.
I worked with Meggan, the Executive Chef and founder of Culinary Hill, who uses muffin pans on a near-regular basis. After deciding to whip up new muffin recipes, Meggan took it upon herself to find which ones would make her recipes even better. After researching pans and baking a ton, she developed some strong options. To create the final rankings, we scoured trusted online reviews to narrow down the best muffin pans. We also compared models based on design, performance, quality, ease of cleaning, and overall value.
Everything to Know Before Buying a Muffin Pan
What to Consider Before Buying a Muffin Pan
Regardless of what type of muffins or cupcakes you want to bake, the quality of your muffin pan can impact everything from the texture and appearance to the ease of release (a.k.a. if they fall apart getting out of the pan). Before clicking ‘add to cart,’ consider the following factors:
Materials: One of the most crucial decisions for buying the best muffin pan is the material. Muffin pans are typically made from three different materials: nonstick, silicone, and traditional metal (this includes aluminum and steel).
- Nonstick Muffin Pans: These are a favorite among many bakers (and for good reason!). They make for easy release and cleaning, ensuring your muffins come out of the pan intact and beautifully shaped. However, nonstick pans are often sprayed with some sort of coating, so if you’re wary of that, you may want to do additional research or opt for a different material.
- Silicone Muffin Pans: These are flexible and reduce the risk of muffins sticking because you can push them out of the mold in one piece. They can also be folded and stored in small spaces but aren’t the sturdiest.
- Aluminum Muffin Pans: Metal muffin pans, usually made of aluminum or steel, are best known for their durability. They can provide even heat distribution, resulting in muffins with a nice golden crust. You’ll likely have to use liners each time you use them, though.
Care: To ensure your muffin pan lasts for years, follow these essential care and maintenance tips:
- Hand wash your muffin pan to protect the nonstick coating.
- Avoid using metal utensils that can scratch the pan’s surface.
- If you’re using a silicone pan, place it on a baking sheet for stability.
Size and Capacity: Muffin pans come in various sizes, typically ranging from mini (ideal for bite-sized treats!) to standard and jumbo. The choice depends on your intended use.
Design and Features: Some pans come with a nonstick coating, making it easier to release your muffins. Others have built-in handles for easy transport. Some even come in fun and unique shapes.
How Long Should You Cook Brownies in a Muffin Pan?
Cooking brownies in a muffin pan is a great way to create individual, portion-controlled treats. The cooking time for brownies in a muffin pan will depend on several factors, including your recipe, the size of your muffin cups, and your oven.
Since brownies in a muffin pan are smaller and shallower than traditional brownies, they will cook faster. Start by baking them for approximately 15 minutes and work your way up to 25. This is a broad range because it can vary depending on your recipe, oven temperature accuracy, and the size of your muffin cups. You can check on them by placing a cake tester or toothpick in the center to make sure they’re baked all the way.
How Do You Make Muffins Without a Muffin Pan?
If you don’t own a muffin pan, you can still make muffins by setting paper, foil, or silicone muffin liners on a baking tray, filling them with batter, and baking them — just remember that baking times may vary from the recipe you are following.
You could also bake small muffins in oven-safe mugs, ramekins, small bowls, or even flat-bottomed ice cream cones! If you want to go a size up, you can bake your muffin batter in a loaf pan and serve it in slices.
How Do You Make Eggs in a Muffin Pan?
Making egg cups in a muffin pan is super easy! Use cooking spray or a small amount of butter to thoroughly grease the cups of your muffin pan. This will prevent the eggs from sticking to the pan and make for easy removal. Carefully crack one egg into each greased cup of the muffin pan. If you prefer, you can first crack the eggs into a separate bowl and then pour them into the muffin cups.
Meggan likes adding spinach and mushrooms to her egg cups, but the add-ins are truly endless. Check out Meggan’s recipe for Quiche Muffins for another fun take on eggs for breakfast.
How Do You Grease a Muffin Pan?
You can use cooking oil or nonstick cooking spray to grease your muffin pan. Both options work well, and your choice often comes down to personal preference. Cooking oil can be applied with a paper towel or pastry brush, while nonstick cooking spray is convenient but can be messier, so you may want to spray it over the sink.
The Best Muffin Recipes
Muffin pans aren’t just for muffins! You can bake cupcakes, small quiches, frittatas, crustless egg muffins, and more! All of these muffins freeze well, so feel free to bake them in bulk!
- Blueberry Muffins
- Morning Glory Muffins
- Coffee Cake Muffins
- Pumpkin Muffins
- Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins
- Quiche Muffins
- Egg Muffins
- Asparagus Frittata
Prices were accurate at time of publication.
Belle DuChene is an award-winning digital content producer who has a passion for all things lifestyle including food, fashion, and French culture. (And French wine, of course!) Over the course of 20 years, she's held almost every position imaginable in various restaurants and has eaten her way through the side streets of more than 20 countries. Always a student, her kitchen looks like a library of culinary school textbooks and she will sit for the level one sommelier exam with the Court of Master Sommeliers this summer. Belle owns an award-winning content creation agency, teaches communications at three colleges and universities, and tutors in French. In addition to Culinary Hill, her writing and on-camera demonstrations have been published on BHG.com.