A double boiler can be a great tool in the kitchen, whether you buy a “real” one or use a stainless steel or glass mixing bowl set on top of a simmering pot of water. I do not recommend using a silicone double boiler, like the one pictured here.
Silicone is a great material for cooking utensils because it is heat resistant and flexible, so a spatula, for example, will work equally well for folding egg whites in a mixing bowl and for stirring a stir-fry. It also makes it a fantastic option for potholders and other heat-handing tools. This heat resistance, however, does not make it a good choice for actual cookware – including double boilers – because cookware counts on heat transfer from the stove-top to your food (this is also true of silicone bakeware). Silicone will transfer the heat, but it will do so much more slowly than other materials. This could be a benefit if you don’t want to stand over your double boiler and stir your tempered chocolate (or other mixture) while it cooks, but the whole process is going to take much longer than it otherwise would.
If you’re going to get a product like this, I would recommend keeping it as a mold for other foods (jello, dome-shaped cakes or summer puddings) and not for use as part of a double boiler. Stick with a traditional material to ensure that you get the best and most efficient results possible.
Violette
October 13, 2007I love dutch babies and will definately try this recipe. Thanks for posting it.
Pumpkin
October 13, 2007I hadn’t thought about the fact that silicone wouldn’t conduct heat as quickly, but it makes total sense. It also finally explains why I can’t get cupcakes and muffins to turn out when I use my silicone muffin pan.
I was so excited to get it, but have been very disappointed with the results.
elizabeth.k
October 14, 2007I love my silicone bakeware, and find it has handled cakes/muffins just fine. When I am baking, I am not rushing – so have never noted a big time difference. I like getting away from aluminums. Of course I still use metal pans for many things… Silicone for a double boiler – yea, I’ll skip that. Might make a nifty top hat for my 7yo!