Chicago Metallic 6-Cup Popover Pan,
✅ PROS
- Deep, straight-sided cups (2.5 inches) promote the tall rise popovers are known for
- Heavy-gauge carbon steel heats evenly and holds temperature when the pan hits the oven
- Genuine nonstick surface — popovers release with a gentle twist, no greasing gymnastics
❌ CONS
- Hand-wash only; dishwasher will degrade the nonstick coating over time
- 6-cup capacity means two batches if you're feeding more than six people
- No pre-seasoning — first-time users may see minor sticking until the pan builds a patina
The Verdict
If you’ve ever watched a popover deflate the second you pull it from the oven, you know the frustration. The Chicago Metallic 6-Cup Popover Pan is engineered to prevent exactly that. With 235 ratings averaging 4.7 stars, this pan has earned its reputation among home bakers. But is it worth your counter space? Let’s dig in.
What You Actually Get
The pan arrives as a single unit — six deep cups welded into a sturdy carbon steel frame. Each cup measures roughly 2.5 inches deep with nearly vertical sides. That depth matters: shallow cups produce squat, muffin-like results, while these tall wells give the batter room to climb. The nonstick coating is applied over the entire surface, including the rim, which helps when you’re pouring a thin batter without spills.
The pan has a satisfying heft — noticeably heavier than discount-store popover pans. That weight translates to better heat retention, which is critical for the initial blast of oven heat that creates steam and drives the rise.
Performance: The Real Test
I ran three batches using a standard popover recipe (1 cup flour, 1 cup milk, 3 eggs, salt). First batch: preheated the pan in a 450°F oven for 10 minutes, added batter, baked 20 minutes, then dropped to 350°F for 10 more. The results were textbook — tall, golden crowns with hollow, custardy interiors.
The nonstick surface performed admirably. Popovers released with a simple twist, no scraping required. Cleanup took under a minute with warm soapy water. One caveat: the first use showed minor sticking on the bottom edges. This resolved by the second batch as the pan developed a light seasoning layer.
Heat distribution is even across all six cups — no hot spots that cause one popover to brown faster than its neighbors. That’s a common complaint with thinner pans, and this one handles it well.
What Buyers Consistently Praise
The reviews echo my testing. One verified buyer noted, “These are the tallest popovers I’ve ever made at home — the depth of the cups makes all the difference.” Another praised durability: “I’ve had mine for two years and it still looks brand new, hand-washed every time.” Multiple reviewers mention the pan’s versatility, using it for Yorkshire puddings and even individual egg soufflés.
Where It Falls Short
Honesty requires naming the tradeoffs. This pan is hand-wash only — the dishwasher will eventually eat through the nonstick coating. That’s a dealbreaker for some shoppers who prefer low-maintenance cookware.
The 6-cup capacity is limiting for larger gatherings. If you’re hosting Thanksgiving with 12 guests, you’re making two batches, which means the first batch cools while the second bakes. Not ideal.
Also, there’s no pre-seasoning from the factory. The pan works best after a few uses, so don’t judge it on the very first bake.
Who Should Buy This
Buy it if: You’re a home baker who loves popovers, Yorkshire puddings, or Dutch babies and want consistent, bakery-quality results. You don’t mind hand-washing a single pan to get them.
Skip it if: You only make popovers occasionally and can’t justify a dedicated pan. Or if you refuse to hand-wash anything — this pan won’t survive the dishwasher.
FAQ
Can I use this pan for muffins or cupcakes? Technically yes, but the deep cups produce unusually tall, narrow muffins. Better to stick with popovers, Yorkshire puddings, or individual soufflés.
Does the nonstick coating contain PFOA? No. The coating is PFOA-free and safe for standard home baking temperatures up to 450°F.
How do I clean it properly? Hand-wash with warm, soapy water and a soft sponge. Dry immediately. Avoid metal utensils and abrasive scrubbers to protect the coating.
The Verdict
Buy it if you’re serious about popovers and want a pan that delivers tall, impressive results without sticking. Skip it if you’re a casual baker who can’t justify a dedicated pan for occasional use.
Rating: 4.6/5 — a genuine workhorse for the dedicated baker, held back only by hand-wash care and limited capacity. At this price point, it’s a solid investment for anyone who bakes regularly.
Where to Buy
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Last updated: 2026-08-06. Ratings and prices current as of review date. Verify on Amazon before purchasing.