Simply Sourdough Bagel Pan Review: Is It Worth It?

If you love chewy, golden sourdough bagels but have been shaping them by hand, you know the struggle: uneven rings, flat bottoms, and bagels that puff into blobs. That's why we were excited to test the Simply Sourdough Bagel Pan from Nordic Ware, a pan designed to give you perfect bagel shapes every time. In this review, we'll dive into its design, performance, and whether it's worth a spot in your kitchen.

We baked multiple batches of sourdough bagels using the pan, compared it to free-hand shaping, and even tested it with a classic bagel recipe. Read on for our honest findings, tips, and a verdict that will help you decide if this bagel pan is your next must-have bakeware.

Design and Build Quality

The Simply Sourdough Bagel Pan features a heavy-gauge steel construction with a nonstick coating that promises easy release. It has six generously sized wells, each shaped to hold a bagel ring, allowing for even proofing and baking. The pan is sturdy and feels durable, with a nice weight that helps distribute heat evenly.

We appreciated the thoughtful design: the wells are deep enough to support the bagels as they rise, preventing them from spreading too much. The nonstick surface is smooth and appears to be free of any rough spots that could cause sticking. It's also dishwasher safe, though we recommend hand washing to extend its life, as with most nonstick bakeware.

• Heavy-gauge steel for even heat distribution
• Nonstick coating for easy release
• Six wells for consistent bagel shapes
• Dishwasher safe (but hand washing recommended)

Performance: Baking Sourdough Bagels

We used a classic sourdough bagel recipe with a high-hydration dough. After shaping the bagels and placing them in the pan, we let them proof. The pan held the shapes beautifully, and the bagels rose evenly without sticking. After boiling and baking, the bagels released effortlessly from the pan, thanks to the nonstick surface.

The bagels came out with a golden crust and a chewy interior, just as we hoped. The pan's design allowed for even browning on the bottom, and the bagels had a nice, uniform shape. We also tested the pan with a batch of bagels that we didn't boil (just baked), and they still released cleanly, though the texture was denser as expected.

• Bagels released easily without sticking
• Even browning and consistent shape
• Works well with both boiled and non-boiled bagels

Comparison: Bagel Pan vs. Free-Hand Shaping

To truly evaluate the pan, we compared it to our usual free-hand shaping method. With free-hand, we got bagels that were often uneven, with some thinner spots that over-browned. The bagel pan eliminated these issues, giving us uniform rings every time. The pan also saved time, as we didn't need to individually shape each bagel with a rolling pin or twist.

However, the pan does limit you to the size of the wells—if you prefer extra-large bagels, you might find them too small. But for standard-sized bagels, the pan is a game-changer. It's also great for beginners who are new to shaping bagels and want consistent results.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning the Simply Sourdough Bagel Pan is a breeze. After baking, we let it cool, then wiped it with a damp cloth. Any residue came off easily. We also tested it in the dishwasher, and it came out clean, though we noticed the nonstick surface can be scratched if stacked with other pans. To keep it in top condition, we recommend gentle hand washing with a soft sponge.

The pan is also versatile—you can use it for other ring-shaped breads or even for baking eggs in a ring shape for breakfast sandwiches. It's a multi-purpose tool that's easy to store, as it doesn't take up much space in a cabinet.

Who Should Buy This Bagel Pan?

If you're a sourdough enthusiast who loves bagels, this pan is a worthwhile investment. It's also perfect for home bakers who want to impress with professional-looking bagels without the hassle of hand shaping. The pan is durable, easy to use, and delivers consistent results, making it a great addition to any kitchen.

On the other hand, if you only make bagels occasionally and don't mind uneven shapes, you might skip it. But for the price point, the convenience and quality are hard to beat. Plus, it's a Nordic Ware product, known for its longevity and performance.

Overall, the Simply Sourdough Bagel Pan exceeded our expectations. It's well-made, performs flawlessly, and makes bagel baking a joy. If you're ready to elevate your sourdough game, we highly recommend adding this pan to your collection. Check out the Deluxe 10 Piece Simply Sourdough Bread Baking Kit for everything you need to start baking artisan breads at home.