Joybuy Insights

Buying silicone baking moulds: a guide to choosing moulds for muffins, cakes and bread

Silicone baking moulds make it easier to release muffins, cakes and desserts. But soft materials, unclear temperature guidance and unsuitable dimensions can all lead to disappointing purchases. So if you’re looking for a silicone baking mould, don’t choose on colour, shape or a low price alone.

Three common pitfalls are worth watching out for:

  1. A mould that’s too soft and lacks stability: A flexible baking mould can warp as you carry it to the oven. Runny batter may then spill over or spread unevenly.
  2. Vague temperature and care instructions: Not every silicone baking mould is automatically suitable for the microwave, freezer or dishwasher. Always check the guidance for the specific product.
  3. The wrong size for your recipe: A 12-cavity silicone muffin mould isn’t suitable for a large sponge cake. On the other hand, a large silicone cake mould can leave you with a flat result if you’re using a small amount of batter.

What to look for when buying silicone baking moulds

1. Material, food contact and temperature range

Look for a clear material description, such as silicone suitable for food contact. Words such as “premium” or “professional” don’t, on their own, tell you much about a product’s suitability. The manufacturer or retailer should also specify the recommended temperature range and permitted uses.

The products featured here have quite different specifications:

  • According to the product description, the 5FIVE heart moulds are suitable for -40 °C to 230 °C and can be used in the oven, microwave and freezer.
  • The product information says that the 5five Silitop loaf mould is suitable for the oven and microwave, with a maximum temperature of 220 °C and a minimum of -20 °C in the freezer.
  • The PURECOOK baking set made from carbon steel is designed for oven use only. According to the product description, it is not suitable for the microwave, hob, naked flames or grill.

A non-stick baking mould reduces the need for extra fat, but you should still check the manufacturer’s instructions. A thin coating of oil or butter may still be useful for delicate batters.

2. Stability and ease of use

Silicone is flexible, but that doesn’t mean it’s always stable. If you’re using runny batter, it’s best to place the mould on a firm surface, such as a baking tray, or choose one with an integrated metal frame. This makes it easier to put in and take out of the oven.

Look for:

  • A reinforced frame or steel structure if you’ll be moving the mould frequently
  • Sides that are high enough for bread, sponge cakes and deep desserts
  • Enough space between the cavities to let the batter rise evenly
  • Outer dimensions that fit your oven and baking tray

According to the product description, the 12-cavity Silitop muffin mould has an integrated steel structure. The 16-cavity Madeleine Silitop is described as having a rigid frame. Both features can make these moulds easier to handle than a completely soft one.

3. Cleaning, storage and intended use

A dishwasher-safe baking mould can save you time after baking. Even so, always check the care instructions for the specific product. For example, the PURECOOK carbon steel moulds are explicitly not dishwasher-safe and should be washed by hand with warm water and a soft sponge.

Silicone moulds are usually easy to store, as they can be folded or rolled up. However, sharp knives, metal edges and abrasive cleaners can damage the surface. To help your mould last longer:

  • Clean it before first use
  • Don’t use sharp objects to release your bake
  • Allow it to dry completely
  • Avoid harsh cleaners if it becomes discoloured
  • Follow the product’s temperature limits and usage instructions

Our picks for different needs

Ideal for: Budget-conscious beginners
5FIVE silicone muffin mould

5FIVE Silicone mold for muffins

Why it suits this type of baker: This multi-cavity mould is designed for muffins and cupcakes and measures 35 × 20 × 4 cm. It’s a good choice for regular baking in a smaller household.

How it helps you avoid a common pitfall

The product description specifies food-grade silicone, a dishwasher-safe surface and the mould’s exact dimensions. This makes it easier to check whether it’s right for you before you buy.

Key benefits & strengths

Several cavities for evenly sized portions; according to the product information, suitable for the oven and freezer.

Ideal for: Quality-conscious bakers
Silitop silicone mould with 16 Madeleine cavities

16-Cavity Madeleine Silitop Silicone Mold

Why it suits this type of baker: The Madeleine mould has 16 cavities and a rigid frame. It’s a good fit if you want consistently sized portions and more control when handling the mould.

How it helps you avoid a common pitfall

The frame helps prevent the mould from warping when you fill it or carry it. The outer dimensions, number of cavities and weight are also provided.

Key benefits & strengths

Bake 16 Madeleines at a time; described as dishwasher-safe in the product information.

Ideal for: Specific baking needs & frequent use
5five Silitop silicone loaf tin, 26 cm long

5five Silitop Silicone Loaf Tin 26 cm Long

Why it suits this type of baker: This silicone loaf mould is designed for bread, cakes and similar bakes. According to the product description, it combines steel and silicone.

How it helps you avoid a common pitfall

The integrated rigid structure addresses a common problem with loaf moulds made entirely from soft material: a lack of stability.

Key benefits & strengths

1.59-litre capacity; according to the product information, it’s dishwasher-safe and suitable for the oven and microwave.

Ideal for: Creative dessert lovers
5five silicone mould for cannelés

5five Silicone Mold for Cannels

Why it suits this type of baker: The cannelé mould has shaped cavities designed to create the pastry’s distinctive form. It’s a good choice if you have a specific bake in mind.

How it helps you avoid a common pitfall

The specific shape and dimensions of 31 × 17 × 6 cm make its intended use clear, rather than suggesting it’s suitable for everything.

Key benefits & strengths

Fluted cannelé cavities; according to the product description, it’s dishwasher-safe and suitable for the oven, microwave and freezer.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and fully comply with the safety regulations in force in the EU.

Frequently asked questions about silicone baking moulds

Do silicone baking moulds need greasing?

Many silicone baking moulds have an easy-release surface. Greasing can still be helpful for dry or delicate batters. The right approach depends on your recipe, the mould’s design and the manufacturer’s instructions. If you’re using a new mould, it’s worth testing it with a small amount of batter first.

How long do silicone baking moulds last?

Their lifespan depends on the quality of the material, temperature, cleaning and storage. Avoid sharp objects, naked flames and temperatures outside the product’s stated range. Replace a mould if it develops cracks, sticky patches or permanent warping.

Are silicone baking moulds dishwasher-safe?

It depends on the product. Several 5FIVE and Silitop models are described as dishwasher-safe. The PURECOOK carbon steel set, on the other hand, is specifically intended for hand-washing. So check the care instructions before you buy, and if you bake regularly, choose suitable baking accessories such as soft sponges, dough scrapers or a sturdy baking tray.