Cupcake Moulds

Asked by deeptiphansalkar. Answered on 9th April 2012

Full question

Hello Nigella Team. I have always wanted to make cupcakes but cannot, as I have a microwave and can't use metal pans. Is there any alternative to metal pans? Can I use small porcelain bowls? If yes, then will the temperature differ while preheating?

Our answer

Silicone baking moulds have become very popular in the past few years and most of these are suitable for microwaves. However do check packaging for confirmation as some silicone pans have metal in the edges to make them more rigid. There are individual silicone cupcake moulds that should be safe for microwaves and come in a variety of shapes. They look like colourful cupcake cases and generally you would serve the cupcake in the mould and then wash and re-use it. Silicone bakeware can usually be found on-line.

In conventional ovens you don't need to adjust the temperature for silicone bakeware, though the cakes can cook more quickly so it is best to start checking cakes several minutes before the end of the recommended cooking time. Unfortunately for microwave and combi ovens you will need to check your manufacturer's handbook for guidance on cake cooking times and temperatures, as all ovens vary.