Can You Put Glass Bakeware In A Toaster Oven?

So many kitchen appliances exist. There are air fryers and slow cookers, food processors and rice cookers, microwaves and cooktops, but the one appliance that seems to be a favorite among the masses is the humble toaster oven. According to HOLR Magazine, the versatility, convenience, and most importantly, the level of energy efficiency are the top factors that make the appliance a mainstay on our countertops. While many think that they work just like a regular oven, there are notable differences, especially when it comes to the types of bakeware you can safely use.   

Unlike a microwave, toaster ovens use heating coils, and unlike a conventional oven, toaster ovens are also significantly more compact, reports Kitchen Snitches. That means that the heating elements are much closer in proximity to your bakeware, which results in a greater concentration of heat on materials like glass. But can this added stress on glassware actually be dangerous?

While some brands may say that their glass bakeware is safe to use in toaster ovens, Toaster Oven Love explains that generally speaking, most glass bowls and dishes will likely splinter, crack, or even explode when placed inside these countertop appliances. Given that glass expands and contracts under extreme heat or cold, Consumer Reports explains that added stress from close proximity to the heat source puts the material at greater risk of failing and shattering. 

Instead, The Brilliant Kitchen recommends ditching the Pyrex for stone, ceramic, and metal bakeware, as they can better withstand high temperatures without the risk of cracking and breaking. Although silicone baking mats and aluminum foil can also be viable replacements for glassware, these materials shouldn't touch the heating elements as they can be a fire hazard.

To ensure that your toaster oven and bakeware stay in tip-top shape, always make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and invest some time in learning about your appliance's settings — after all, it might just help you avoid any kitchen mishaps!