How to Use Silicone Molds for Baking

When silicone molds first hit the scene, baking was changed for good. And yes, I mean that in the absolute best way possible. After all, I’ve spent the last ten years baking, and I think most people will agree that silicone molds are a game-changer.

Well, if you’re jumping aboard the “silicone train” and need a captain to guide you, consider me Captain Michelle – choo! By the time we reach the end of our destination, you will be a silicone-baking whizz.

The good news is that silicone baking molds are a breeze to work with, so you won’t need any fancy tools or knowledge to use them. In fact, our journey through learning to use silicone molds for baking will be almost enjoyable as an actual train ride through a lovely landscape.

All aboard!

How to Use Silicone Baking Molds

Like I said before, using silicone molds is so easy when baking. That’s because they’re super-duper flexible to pop out treats and are relatively nonstick, so you won’t have to worry about messy baked goods getting stuck to the pan.

Here is how to use them successfully.

Step 1: Start With a Clean Silicone Mold

Whether you’re using silicone or not, it is imperative to start with a clean item. After all, you don’t want to let your leftover crumbs and goop from your last baking project end up on your freshly baked treats.

Honestly, it makes me sick even thinking about it. 

Ensure the silicone baking mold is 100% clean and ready for action. 

Step 2: Grease the Silicone Mold

“Okay, wait a second – I thought you said silicone baking molds were nonstick?” Before you bite my head off, hear me out. 

Yes, silicone baking molds are nonstick. But that doesn’t mean they’re going to work perfectly every single time. They can also become less “nonstick” after multiple uses, especially if washed in the dishwasher.

In my opinion, it is always better to be safe than sorry. So, spritz on a dash of your favorite cooking spray and put your mind at ease.

And yes, it only takes a little bit – unlike some of the other pans you may be using.

Step 3: Place on Top of a Baking Sheet, Then Pour Batter

If you’re using silicone baking molds, I highly recommend placing the mold on top of a baking sheet. You see, one of the selling points of silicone is also one of its drawbacks: flexibility. 

If you pour batter into a silicone mold and try to pick it up – especially from one end – you’ll lose the batter all over your lovely kitchen floors.

Give your mold and batter some stability and place it on top of a baking sheet. It won’t affect the final result, I promise.

Step 4: Bake as Usual

Silicone baking molds will almost always take the same amount of time to bake as any other type of pan. (Try saying that three times as quickly as you can!)

That said, you shouldn’t need to adjust the baking time (and definitely do not touch the recommended temperature for your recipe).

If you need to add a little more baking time, that’s okay. Silicone is an excellent heat insulator and provides even and steady heating for your treats, so you shouldn’t be too concerned with dried-out or burnt goods.

Step 5: Enjoy!

When it’s done baking, pop the silicone mold out of the oven and let it cool. Don’t try to remove your treat before it is cooled. 

Otherwise, your silicone mold’s “nonstick” property won’t work as well, and you might leave more cake, cupcake, or brownie behind in your pan rather than on your dessert plate.

Step 6: Clean it Thoroughly

Whether cooking a pork roast or baking a pie, one essential part of creating any recipe is the cleanup. In fact, I consider “cleaning” as part of my baking process. Who wants to be left with stuck-on dirt and grime, anyway?

With that in mind, it is crucial to clean the silicone baking mold right when you’re done using it. 

I prefer to clean my silicone baking molds with soap, water, and a sponge (not too abrasive). That way, I can reach the crevices easily and take care of any grime that might be stuck. Then, I will toss it into the dishwasher. For extra big messes, I will add a dash of baking soda.

FAQs

Using silicone baking molds is easy and isn’t much different from using any other pan. If you want to keep learning about this topic, here are a few commonly asked questions you might want to know about!

Do you spray silicone molds when baking?

You can spray silicone molds when baking to provide added protection against sticking. You can also stick to good, old-fashioned greasing with a stick of butter. Either way, you will improve the nonstick function of silicone by adding an extra barrier of nonstick elements.

Do you put silicone bakeware directly on the oven rack?

It’s okay to put silicone bakeware directly on the oven rack, but I don’t recommend it. Again, silicone is very flexible, and you’re likely going to struggle with placing it in and out of the oven. Instead of setting yourself up for a mess, put the silicone on top of a baking sheet for stability.

How do you get a cake out of a silicone mold?

You can “pop” a cake out of a silicone mold with no problem, especially if you sprayed it with nonstick cooking spray and allowed it to cool entirely. If you’re still having trouble, run a fork, knife, or another utensil around the edge of the cake and the silicone to help it come out.

Final Words

Baking with silicone is a game-changer and can allow you to say goodbye to stuck-on treats officially. All you need to do is make sure it’s clean, grease it slightly, and bake. Don’t forget to clean it thoroughly when you’re done!

Do you like baking with silicone?

I have been a lover of sweets since day one. This led me on a self-taught baking journey starting at the age of 13. It's been over 10 years since the start of my baking adventures, and I’ve learned a lot along the way. Now, people rave about my delectable treats, whether it’s a chocolate cake or a strawberry crepe.