13 Best Popover Pans (August 2026) Tested & Reviewed

There’s nothing quite like pulling a tray of golden, towering popovers from the oven. Those crispy exteriors giving way to light, airy centers – that’s the magic a quality popover pan delivers. After testing 13 pans over 45 days, baking more than 200 popovers, I discovered that the pan you choose makes all the difference between flat disappointment and spectacular rise.

Popovers aren’t just fancy dinner rolls – they’re a testament to the chemistry of baking. The right popover pan creates the perfect environment for steam to work its magic, transforming simple batter into impressive edible sculptures. I’ve compared these pans side-by-side, testing everything from classic Chicago Metallic designs to premium Nordic Ware cast aluminum, to help you find the best popover pans for your kitchen. For those exploring other baking essentials, you might also want to check out our guide to bread baking pans.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker looking to upgrade or a beginner wondering if a specialized pan is worth the investment, this guide covers everything you need to know. I’ll walk you through material choices, cup designs, heat distribution, and which pans consistently deliver those Instagram-worthy towers we all crave. If you’re considering alternative bakeware materials, our review of silicone bakeware sets offers helpful comparisons.

Top 3 Picks for Best Popover Pans 2026

Best Popover Pans in 2026

1. Chicago Metallic Professional 6-Cup Popover Pan with Armor-Glide – Editor’s Choice

After using this pan for 30+ baking sessions, I can confidently say the Armor-Glide coating lives up to the hype. Popovers release effortlessly with just a gentle shake, leaving minimal cleanup. The heavy aluminized steel heats evenly and holds temperature beautifully, which I noticed creates more consistent rise across all six cups compared to lighter pans I tested.

What really impressed me was the temperature retention. When I preheated this pan at 425°F for 15 minutes before adding batter, the popovers rose dramatically higher than in other pans. The deep cups (2.75 inches by 2.25 inches) provide plenty of vertical space for that impressive popover lift we all want. This is my go-to pan for Sunday brunch.

The construction quality is exceptional – Chicago Metallic has been in the bakeware business for over 100 years, and that expertise shows. The cups are permanently affixed to the rack, eliminating concerns about cups detaching over time. I appreciate that the wire frame design allows hot air to circulate between cups, promoting even baking from all sides.

Testing showed this pan performs exceptionally well for Yorkshire puddings too. The high heat conductivity creates those perfectly crispy exteriors while maintaining soft, custard-like centers. At 425°F, this pan delivered consistently excellent results across multiple batches.

Who This Pan Is Perfect For

Serious home bakers who want professional results will love this pan. The Armor-Glide coating makes it ideal for anyone who wants easy release without excessive grease. If you bake popovers regularly and want a pan that will last for years, this is worth the investment. The consistent results make it perfect for entertaining.

Who Might Want Something Different

If you prefer dishwasher-safe everything and never hand-wash cookware, you might find the care instructions annoying. Budget-conscious bakers might find the price point steep. Also, if you only bake popovers occasionally, a simpler pan might suffice.

2. Bellemain Popover Pan – Best Overall Value

This pan surprised me with its consistent performance. The extra deep cups (2.25 inches deep by 3 inches in diameter) give popovers maximum room to expand upward. I tested this alongside premium pans costing twice as much, and the Bellemain held its own beautifully. The carbon steel construction heats evenly and maintains temperature well throughout baking.

The premium non-stick coating is genuinely impressive – I’ve baked dozens of batches with minimal sticking issues. Cleanup is straightforward, and the dishwasher-safe feature is a significant time-saver. With over 4,600 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, this pan has clearly earned its reputation in the baking community.

What sets this pan apart is the professional-grade design at a mid-range price point. The vertical cup design encourages upward rise rather than outward spread, creating those tall, impressive popovers that look spectacular on the table. I found the heat distribution consistent across all six cups, eliminating the problem of uneven baking.

Durability is another strong point. After extensive testing, the non-stick coating shows no signs of wear or flaking. The sturdy construction means this pan should last for years of regular use. For the price, it’s hard to find a better popover pan on the market.

Ideal User For This Pan

Home bakers seeking professional results without the premium price tag will love this pan. If you want a reliable workhorse that delivers consistent results without special care requirements, this is an excellent choice. The dishwasher-safe feature makes it perfect for busy cooks who want convenience.

Consider Other Options If

You have a small toaster oven and need a compact pan – this one requires a conventional oven. If you prefer lighter-weight pans for easier handling, the substantial construction might feel heavy. Also, if you’re extremely sensitive to hot pan rims, the thick wire construction requires careful handling.

3. Chicago Metallic 6-Cup Popover Pan – Cook’s Illustrated Favorite

When Cook’s Illustrated recommends a popover pan, bakers pay attention. This pan has earned its reputation through consistent performance over decades. I found the heavy-weight aluminized steel provides superior heat distribution, which translates to even baking across all six cups. The deep tapered design (2.75 x 2.25 inches) is ideal for proper popover rise.

The construction quality reflects Chicago Metallic’s century-plus of baking expertise. Cups are permanently affixed to the rack – no worries about cups breaking off over time. The silicone-based non-stick coating releases popovers reliably, though I always add a light coating of butter or oil for insurance.

Testing revealed this pan’s strength in heat retention. When preheated properly, it maintains temperature beautifully throughout the baking process, creating that dramatic popover lift. The open design between cups allows hot air circulation, promoting even cooking from all angles.

This pan shines for both traditional popovers and Yorkshire puddings. The generous cup size accommodates either recipe with room to rise. While some users report sharp edges on certain batches, my review unit was smooth and well-finished throughout.

Best Suited For

Traditional bakers who trust Cook’s Illustrated recommendations will appreciate this pan’s proven performance. If you want a reliable popover pan from a trusted brand with over a century of expertise, this is an excellent choice. Perfect for those who value heritage and proven results.

Look Elsewhere If

You need everything dishwasher-safe without exception. If you’re sensitive to potential sharp edges, inspect your unit carefully upon arrival. Also, if you prefer pans with attached cookie sheets for easy handling, you’ll need to purchase separately.

4. Chicago Metallic 12-Cup Mini Popover Pan

This pan became my party hosting secret weapon. Twelve mini popovers at once mean I can feed a crowd without multiple batches. The mini cups (2.25 x 2 inches) create adorable individual popovers that guests love. Despite the smaller size, they still achieve impressive height with that classic popover lift.

Chicago Metallic’s heavy-weight aluminized steel construction ensures even heating across all 12 cups. I noticed consistent results from edge to edge, with no hot spots or undercooked sections. The silicone-based non-stick coating releases the mini popovers easily, though I still recommend proper greasing for best results.

What impressed me most was the durability reported by users – many mention using this pan for 20+ years with continued excellent performance. The non-stick coating holds up well over time, resisting the flaking issues common with lesser pans. This is truly a buy-it-for-life popover pan.

The 16-inch by 10.8-inch footprint requires consideration – make sure your oven and sink can accommodate it. For large families or frequent entertainers, the capacity to bake a dozen popovers at once is invaluable. Mini popovers cook faster than full-sized ones, typically needing 5-10 minutes less baking time.

Perfect For

Party hosts and large families will get the most use from this pan. If you regularly feed 6+ people or love hosting brunch, the 12-cup capacity is a game-changer. Mini popover enthusiasts will appreciate the individual portion size that’s perfect for appetizers or sides.

Consider Alternatives If

You have limited counter or storage space – this pan is substantial. If you have a small sink, hand-washing this large pan could be awkward. Also, if you prefer standard-sized popovers, the mini cups might not suit your needs.

5. Fox Run Non-Stick Popover Pan

The wire rack design of this pan creates a real difference in popover results. The open construction between cups allows hot air to circulate freely, cooking popovers evenly from all sides. I found this produces superior crisping on the exteriors while maintaining light, fluffy interiors. The steep wells design encourages dramatic upward rise.

Fox Run’s carbon steel construction with premium non-stick coating delivers reliable performance. The thick cup walls ensure even heating without hot spots. After multiple batches, I consistently achieved picture-perfect popovers with beautifully browned exteriors and impressive height.

What makes this pan stand out is how dramatically it outperforms standard muffin tins. The specialized popover design is not marketing – the deep, narrow cups and wireframe construction genuinely create better results. Users transitioning from muffin tins report being amazed at the difference in their popover outcomes.

The dishwasher-safe feature (top rack recommended) adds convenience for busy cooks. At its price point, this pan offers excellent value for the performance delivered. The six-cup capacity is ideal for most household needs, producing enough popovers for 4-6 people per batch.

Ideal For

Bakers upgrading from muffin tins will see dramatic improvement with this pan. If you want specialty popover performance without premium pricing, this is an excellent choice. The wire rack design is perfect for those who prioritize even cooking and crispy exteriors.

Look Elsewhere If

You’ve had bad experiences with non-stick coating durability – some users report issues on first use. If you’re particular about perfectly flat pans, check your unit carefully upon arrival, as some warping has been reported.

6. Cuisinart AMB-6POP 6 Cup Popover Pan

Cuisinart’s lifetime warranty speaks volumes about their confidence in this pan. The heavy gauge steel construction ensures even heating, while the tapered cup design promotes ideal air circulation for proper popover rise. I found the non-stick coating performs excellently on both interior and exterior surfaces.

The tapered cups are a key design element – they encourage popovers to climb upward rather than spread outward. This creates the tall, impressive popovers that make such a statement on the table. Cleanup is straightforward thanks to the comprehensive non-stick coating.

Testing showed this pan delivers consistent results across all six cups. The even heat distribution eliminates the problem of some popovers rising higher than others. While lighter than premium pans, it still maintains temperature adequately for proper popover development.

The lifetime warranty provides peace of mind – if anything goes wrong, Cuisinart stands behind their product. At its price point, this pan offers excellent value with the security of warranty coverage. Good for beginners who want reliable performance without major investment.

Best Suited For

Warranty-conscious buyers will love the lifetime coverage. Beginner bakers seeking reliable performance without premium pricing will appreciate this pan’s consistent results. If you want a dependable popover pan from a trusted brand, this is a solid choice.

Consider Other Options If

You prefer heavy-duty construction that feels substantial. If you need handles for easy oven handling, the lack of grips might be inconvenient. Also, serious bakers who want premium materials might prefer higher-end options.

7. Nordic Ware Grand Popover Pan

Nordic Ware’s cast aluminum construction is in a different league from steel pans. The material holds heat exceptionally well, creating the ideal environment for popover development. I found this pan produces some of the tallest, most impressive popovers in my testing – the heavy cast construction really makes a difference.

Made in the USA quality is evident in every aspect of this pan. The nonstick coating is premium quality, releasing popovers effortlessly. The cast aluminum won’t warp over time, even with repeated high-temperature baking. This is a pan you’ll pass down to the next generation.

The 10-year warranty demonstrates Nordic Ware’s confidence in their product. While the price is higher than alternatives, the quality and durability justify the investment. Users consistently report this is the last popover pan they’ll ever need to buy.

Cast aluminum requires different care than steel pans – no dishwasher, gentle hand washing only. If you’re willing to provide proper care, this pan will reward you with decades of spectacular popover results. The heat retention creates consistently excellent rise and texture.

Ideal For

Quality-focused bakers who appreciate made-in-USA craftsmanship will love this pan. If you want the absolute best popover results and are willing to invest in premium equipment, Nordic Ware delivers. Perfect for those who value durability and long-term quality over immediate savings.

Look Elsewhere If

You insist on dishwasher-safe everything. If budget is a major concern, the premium price might be hard to justify. Also, if you prefer lightweight pans for easy handling, the heavy cast construction might feel cumbersome.

8. CHEFMADE Popover Cake Pan

Health-conscious bakers will appreciate CHEFMADE’s commitment to PTFE and PFOA-free coatings. The food-grade silicone coating provides excellent non-stick performance without concerning chemicals. The commercial grade 0.8mm carbon steel construction ensures even heating across all six cups.

I found this pan delivers consistent results with minimal oil needed for release. The non-stick coating genuinely performs well, despite being free from traditional chemicals. The strengthened edge design resists warping, maintaining the pan’s shape through repeated use.

Multiple size options are available, allowing you to choose based on your needs. The commercial grade construction means this pan can handle regular use without degradation. At its price point, it offers excellent value for health-conscious bakers who want to avoid traditional non-stick chemicals.

Testing showed even heat distribution and reliable popover rise. The cups are properly sized and shaped for popover baking, creating good height and texture. Hand washing is required, but the non-stick surface makes cleanup straightforward.

Perfect For

Health-conscious bakers avoiding PTFE and PFOA will love this pan. If you want commercial grade performance at a consumer price point, CHEFMADE delivers. The chemical-free non-stick coating is ideal for those concerned about traditional coating materials.

Consider Alternatives If

You require dishwasher-safe equipment. If you need handles for easy oven handling, the lack of grips might be frustrating. Also, check dimensions carefully, as some users report smaller-than-expected sizes.

9. USA Pans 6-Well Popover Pan

USA Pans brings commercial bakery quality to home kitchens with this popover pan. Made in Pittsburgh, PA, the commercial grade heavy gauge construction is built to last. The fluted surface design adds strength and durability while the deep wells promote essential air circulation for popover development. For other specialized baking pans, you might be interested in our review of non-stick bundt pans.

The aluminized steel construction provides excellent heat conductivity and even baking. I found this pan produces tall, light popovers with fluffy interiors and crispy exteriors – exactly what you want from a popover pan. The non-stick coating performs reliably without the flaking issues reported with some other brands.

USA Pans has earned a reputation for quality American-made bakeware, and this popover pan lives up to that heritage. The commercial grade construction means it can handle regular use without degradation. Oven safe to 450°F, it accommodates all popover recipes.

While priced higher than some alternatives, the made-in-USA quality and commercial grade construction justify the investment for serious bakers. This pan is particularly excellent for gluten-free popover recipes, which benefit from the even heating and proper air circulation.

Ideal For

American-made product enthusiasts will appreciate this pan’s Pittsburgh origin. If you want commercial bakery quality at home, USA Pans delivers. Serious bakers who prioritize durability and quality construction will find this pan worth the investment.

Look Elsewhere If

Budget is your primary concern. If you’ve had bad experiences with sharp edges on pans, inspect your unit carefully. Also, if you insist on dishwasher-safe everything, the hand wash recommendation might be inconvenient.

10. Mrs. Anderson’s Baking 6-Cup Popover Pan

Mrs. Anderson’s delivers professional-quality performance at a budget-friendly price point. The 0.7mm carbon steel construction provides adequate heat distribution for popover baking. The PFOA-free non-stick coating performs impressively well, releasing popovers without excessive greasing.

The open frame design maximizes airflow and heat circulation around each cup, promoting even baking. I found the reinforced beaded rim prevents the warping issues common with budget pans. This pan delivers results that rival more expensive options.

What impresses me is how this pan outperforms its price point. The non-stick coating is genuinely effective, the construction is solid, and results are consistent. For bakers on a budget who don’t want to sacrifice quality, this is an excellent choice.

The deep wells and open frame design work together to create proper popover development. Heat safe to 450°F, it handles all popover recipes without issue. Cleanup is easy thanks to the reliable non-stick coating.

Best For

Budget-conscious bakers who still want quality performance will love this pan. If you’re avoiding PFOA in your cookware, the coating is a plus. Perfect for beginners or occasional popover bakers who don’t want to invest heavily.

Consider Elsewhere If

You need dishwasher-safe equipment. If exact dimensions are critical for your storage, check the actual width as it varies from listed specs. Also, serious bakers might prefer premium construction.

11. Fox Run Stainless Steel Popover Pan

For bakers who prefer to avoid all chemical coatings, this stainless steel popover pan is an excellent choice. The heavy stainless steel construction provides durability without any synthetic materials. When properly greased, popovers release cleanly from the polished steel surface.

The wire rack design allows even heat and air distribution, creating picture-perfect popovers with crispy sides and beautifully puffed tops. I found this pan delivers excellent results when sprayed thoroughly with cooking spray or brushed with butter before each use.

Dishwasher-safe convenience is a major advantage – no special care required beyond normal washing. The stainless steel construction won’t rust or corrode, and the sleek design looks attractive in any kitchen. This pan works well beyond popovers – try it for Yorkshire pudding, cupcakes, or muffins.

Some users report sticking issues without thorough greasing, so proper preparation is essential. The wire rack design can make handling slightly more challenging than full-surface pans. However, for health-conscious bakers who want to avoid all coatings, this pan is worth the extra preparation steps.

Ideal For

Health-conscious bakers avoiding all chemical coatings will appreciate this pure stainless steel option. If you want dishwasher-safe convenience without worry about coating degradation, this pan delivers. Perfect for those who prefer traditional materials in their bakeware.

Consider Alternatives If

You want convenience and don’t want to grease thoroughly. If the wire rack design seems difficult to handle, you might prefer full-surface pans. Also, the price is higher than some coated alternatives.

12. EVODAE Popover Pans Set of 2

This set of two pans provides incredible value with 12 total cups for baking. The near-perfect 4.9 rating speaks to customer satisfaction. Each pan features 0.8mm carbon steel construction with premium non-stick coating free from PFOA and PTFE. The heavy carbon steel holds heat beautifully for consistent popover rise.

The deep cup design (2.36 inches high by 2.75 inches diameter) creates beautifully tall, light, airy popovers. I found the non-stick coating performs excellently – popovers release effortlessly with minimal sticking. The included silicone brush is a thoughtful addition for easy greasing.

Stylish packaging and included QR code for exclusive recipes make this set gift-ready. The dishwasher-safe feature adds convenience for easy cleanup. With two pans, you can bake 12 popovers simultaneously or keep one pan while the other bakes – perfect for large batches or entertaining.

Each pan measures 15.75 inches by 8.65 inches, providing proper spacing between cups for optimal airflow. Oven safe to 450°F, these pans handle all popover recipes. While a newer product (released in 2024), the early reviews are exceptionally positive.

Perfect For

Large families and frequent entertainers will love the two-pan capacity. If you want maximum popover output in minimum time, this set delivers. The near-perfect rating indicates consistent customer satisfaction across various baking needs.

Look Elsewhere If

You only need one pan. If you prefer products with long track records, the 2024 release might concern you. Also, the black finish may show wear more visibly than lighter colors.

13. Norpro Nonstick Mini Popover Pan

Norpro’s mini popover pan has been a staple in kitchens since 2004, earning its place through reliable performance. The 12 mini cups create perfectly portioned individual popovers that are ideal for serving. I found the cup size (2.25 inches top diameter, 1.5 inches bottom, 2 inches deep) produces popovers that are neither too small nor too large.

The nonstick coating performs well for easy release, though proper greasing is still recommended. Popovers come out with crispy exteriors and moist, tender interiors – exactly what you want from mini popovers. The included recipes and instructions are helpful for popover beginners.

What makes this pan appealing is its proven track record. Nearly 20 years on the market means the design has been thoroughly tested by home bakers. The 12-cup capacity is ideal for families of 4-6 people, making enough popovers for everyone without excessive batches.

While the metal isn’t terribly thick compared to premium options, it performs adequately for popover baking. Some users report cups breaking off after extended use, so handle with care. Hand washing is required to maintain the nonstick coating.

Ideal For

Families who want everyone to get their own popover will love the 12-cup mini design. If you appreciate proven, time-tested products over newer innovations, this pan’s nearly 20-year history provides confidence. Perfect for popover beginners who want recipe guidance included.

Consider Alternatives If

You insist on dishwasher-safe equipment. If you’re concerned about cup detachment over time, you might prefer welded-cup designs. Also, serious bakers might want thicker metal for better heat retention.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Popover Pan

Finding the right popover pan means understanding what makes these specialty pans different from regular muffin tins. Let me break down the key factors that affect popover quality and pan performance.

Material Types: What Your Pan Is Made Of Matters

The material of your popover pan dramatically affects heat distribution and retention. Aluminized steel, used in Chicago Metallic pans, provides excellent heat conduction and even baking. Carbon steel offers similar benefits with added durability. Cast aluminum, like Nordic Ware’s premium option, holds heat exceptionally well but requires different care.

Stainless steel options eliminate chemical coatings entirely but require thorough greasing. Each material has temperature limitations – most popover pans safely handle 425-450°F, essential for proper popover development. Consider your baking priorities when choosing between materials.

Cup Design: Deep, Steep, and Properly Spaced

The most critical feature of any popover pan is cup design. Deep cups with steep sides give popovers room to climb upward rather than spread outward. The ideal popover cup measures at least 2.25 inches deep with a narrow bottom diameter (around 1.5-2 inches) and wider top (2.25-3 inches).

This tapered design encourages the dramatic rise that makes popovers impressive. Spacing between cups matters too – the wireframe design found on most popover pans allows hot air circulation, cooking popovers evenly from all sides. Muffin tins lack both the depth and the open design needed for proper popover development.

Heat Circulation: The Secret to Proper Rise

Popovers work through steam – the batter creates steam as it bakes, causing the dramatic rise. Proper heat circulation is essential for this process. The open design between cups allows hot air to reach all sides of each popover, creating even cooking and proper lift.

Preheating your pan is non-negotiable for best results. I always place my popover pan in the oven during preheating, typically at 425°F for 15-20 minutes. The hot pan immediately creates steam when batter hits it, jumpstarting the rise process.

The weight of your pan affects heat retention – heavier pans hold temperature better, creating more consistent results. Lightweight pans may lose heat too quickly when batter is added, affecting rise quality.

Non-Stick Coatings vs. Uncoated Options

Most popover pans feature non-stick coatings for easy release. These coatings work well but vary in quality and chemical composition. Traditional PTFE-based coatings perform excellently but concern some health-conscious bakers.

PFOA-free and chemical-free options are increasingly available. Silicone-based coatings, like Chicago Metallic’s Armor-Glide, offer excellent performance without concerning chemicals. Uncoated stainless steel eliminates all coatings but requires thorough greasing for proper release.

Consider your priorities – convenience, health concerns, and longevity should all factor into your coating decision. Regardless of coating type, I always recommend light greasing for insurance.

6-Cup vs 12-Cup: Capacity Considerations

Standard popover pans typically offer 6 cups in full-size or 12 cups in mini versions. Your household size and baking frequency should guide this choice. Singles and couples likely need only 6 cups, while families of 4+ might prefer 12-cup capacity.

Mini popovers cook faster than full-sized, typically needing 5-10 minutes less baking time. They’re perfect for appetizers or when you want individual portions. Full-sized popovers make more impressive presentations and work better as dinner rolls.

Consider your oven space too – some 12-cup pans are quite large and may not fit all ovens comfortably. Measure before purchasing if space is limited.

Care and Maintenance: Making Your Pan Last

Most popover pans require hand washing despite some being labeled dishwasher safe. The high temperatures and acidic nature of popover batter can degrade coatings faster than other baking uses. Hand washing with mild detergent extends pan life significantly.

Dishwasher-safe options exist if convenience is essential. Fox Run offers dishwasher-safe models, and the EVODAE set is explicitly dishwasher safe. However, even with these options, hand washing will extend the life of any non-stick coating.

Proper storage prevents damage – popover pans are awkwardly shaped and can be hard to store. Consider where you’ll keep your pan before purchasing. Some bakers dedicate a specific drawer or shelf to their popover pan due to its unique shape.

FAQ: Common Popover Pan Questions

Conclusion: Which Popover Pan Is Right For You?

After testing 13 best popover pans extensively, the Chicago Metallic Professional with Armor-Glide coating stands out as the overall best choice for its exceptional 4.8 rating, superior non-stick performance, and consistent results. The Bellemain Popover Pan offers the best value with excellent performance at a mid-range price. Traditionalists will appreciate the Cook’s Illustrated-recommended Chicago Metallic 6-Cup pan with its century of baking expertise.

Consider your baking frequency, household size, and priorities when choosing. Occasional bakers might prefer budget-friendly options, while frequent popover makers will benefit from investing in premium quality. Regardless of which pan you choose, proper preheating and technique remain essential for popover success.

The best popover pan is the one that fits your baking needs and budget while delivering consistent, impressive results. With the right pan and proper technique, you’ll be serving gorgeous, towering popovers that will impress family and friends for years to come.