The fastest way to convert between baking pans is to compare their volumes. A 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan holds about 14 cups, a 9 x 9 x 2-inch pan 10 cups, an 8 x 8 x 2-inch pan 8 cups, and a 9 x 2-inch round 8 cups. Divide the volume of the pan you want by the volume of the pan the recipe calls for, and you have the multiple of the recipe to make.
Pan Size Conversion Chart
| Pan | Size in inches | Size in cm | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|
| Round | 8 x 2 | 20 x 5 | 6 cups |
| Round | 9 x 2 | 23 x 5 | 8 cups |
| Round | 10 x 2 | 25 x 5 | 11 cups |
| Square | 8 x 8 x 2 | 20 x 20 x 5 | 8 cups |
| Square | 9 x 9 x 2 | 23 x 23 x 5 | 10 cups |
| Rectangle | 11 x 7 x 2 | 28 x 18 x 5 | 10 cups |
| Rectangle | 13 x 9 x 2 | 33 x 23 x 5 | 14 cups |
| Loaf | 9 x 5 x 3 | 23 x 13 x 8 | 8 cups |
| Springform | 9 x 2 1/2 | 23 x 6 | 10 cups |
| Bundt | 10 x 3 1/2 | 25 x 9 | 12 cups |
| Tube | 10 x 4 | 25 x 10 | 16 cups |
Step by Step: Converting a Recipe
- Find the volume of the pan in the recipe.
- Find the volume of the pan you want to use.
- Divide the second by the first. That is the multiple of the batter you need.
- Multiply or reduce the ingredients by that number.
- Adjust the bake time and check for doneness early.
Example: a recipe for an 8 x 8-inch square (8 cups) that you want to bake in a 13 x 9-inch pan (14 cups) needs a little less than double the recipe.
Pans With the Same Area
The best swap keeps the same floor area, which keeps the batter depth and so the baking time and temperature the same. An 8 x 8-inch square is 64 square inches and a 9-inch round is 63.5, so they are interchangeable without changes.
What to Change When the Depth Changes
If the new pan makes the batter shallower, the center heats faster and more moisture evaporates, so shorten the bake and raise the oven slightly. If it makes the batter deeper, lengthen the bake and lower the oven slightly so the edges do not over-brown.
Measuring Your Pan
Measure the inside edge to inside edge, not the outer rim. Measure depth with a ruler held straight up from the bottom. For volume, pour in water by the cupful to the brim. Most home ovens fit pans up to 17 x 14 inches.
Quick Answers
What is the most common pan size? The 13 x 9-inch rectangle.
Can I use glass instead of metal? Yes. Glass holds heat longer, so many bakers lower the oven by 25°F.
What if I do not know my pan’s volume? Fill it with water and count the cups.
Related
- Nut Roast Recipe for Kids Lunchbox: Easy, Tasty & Healthy
- Safe Rhubarb Leaf Insecticide Recipe for Use Around Kids
- School Dinners Made Easy with Slow Cooker Recipes for Busy Families