Baking with regular skillet vs. cast iron for apple pie
I have a recipe for apple pie I want to use. The recipe asks for a cast iron skillet.
Can I use a regular skillet in the oven instead of the cast iron skillet?
Best Answer
Technically, yes, though the crust will likely be less brown and evenly brown than if you use a cast iron skillet, especially if the sides of your regular skillet are thinner than the base. If that is the case, the sides will be less brown than the base of the pie.
You might also have to adjust the cooking time on the recipe as well, so if you're a stickler with following a recipe to the "T", then I'd ask someone to borrow their cast iron skillet :)
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Is cast iron good for baking pies?
Cast iron is great for baking because it retains heat and conducts it evenly. Hot spots can occur with glass and ceramic pie plates, but cast iron will give you an even crust, no spots in sight!Does baking in cast iron make a difference?
While slower to heat, cast iron's density assures that it retains and distributes heat evenly across its surface. Once preheated, cast iron delivers quick, steady heat to whatever food you place on it. A cast iron pizza pan is an ideal example of this in action.How do I cook an apple pie in a cast iron skillet?
DirectionsCan I use a regular pan instead of cast iron?
While your recipe will likely work fine with a normal pan, it won't develop the same kind of crispy exterior that it might with cast iron. Show activity on this post. If you don't have a cast iron pan and aren't willing to buy one today then use what you have.Cast Iron Apple Pie
More answers regarding baking with regular skillet vs. cast iron for apple pie
Answer 2
I love baking pie in cast iron; it absorbs some moisture that keeps crust crisp. Your skillet may be 'slicker' and let the crust steam a bit more. If it is an enameled, it is much more like baking in glass (which enamel technically is).
The other consideration is heating up time for bottom of the pan. Cast iron allows the top to brown before the bottom gets done. If it is a very juicy recipe, it may bubble up earlier than expected in a thinner skillet.
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