Pyrex is a type of glassware that is often used to store food or mix ingredients. It’s non-porous and durable material make it a great choice for cooking and storing food in the refrigerator. That explains why so many people ask the question – can you put cold Pyrex in the oven directly?
That is what we will find out today, along with tips to avoid shattering your precious Pyrex.
Can You Put Cold Pyrex in The Oven?
No, you should not put cold Pyrex directly into the oven. Even though it is a common practice, it is dangerous and Pyrex themselves do not recommend this practice. While Pyrex is built to withstand extreme temperatures, a rapid temperature difference may still compromise its structural integrity.
Can You Put Pyrex from Fridge to Oven?
Earlier Pyrex models featured borosilicate glass with thermal shock-resistant properties, making them more durable. However, newer variants feature soda-lime glass that is not as durable as borosilicate glass.
In short, you will have to be more careful with the current crop of Pyrex products.
Since freezing and baking are two extreme temperatures, moving your Pyrex from one to the other can cause damage. It would be best to allow the food items to attain room temperature first before putting them into the oven.
This method will keep your glassware safe and avoid unwanted thermal shocks and accidents.
Will Cold Pyrex Break in Hot Oven?
Pyrex recommends users never to put their glassware from fridge to oven, as it can be dangerous. However, it is a common practice in many kitchens where people risk putting cold glassware into the oven.
So why will cold Pyrex break in hot oven? Although Pyrex may withstand rapid temperatures, it will lose its structural integrity, making the glassware vulnerable.
The situation can worsen if your container has a crack or chip, leading to shattering inside your oven that might damage the oven or cause injuries.
Since putting cold Pyrex in a hot oven is common, many people claim that they have never faced a shattering issue. However, following fundamentals is crucial for safety and will prevent damage and injuries.
In short, it would be best to let your Pyrex container cool down to room temperature before putting it into the oven.
Tips to Prevent Pyrex from Shattering
Pyrex products shattering inside the oven or after baking are common, and you can find a lot of examples on the internet. Even Pyrex’s websites warn users to avoid sudden temperature fluctuations for their products.
Thankfully, there are some tips that you can follow to prevent Pyrex from shattering.
Tip 1: Let Your Pyrex Attain Room Temperature
The first and foremost thing you can do to prevent Pyrex from shattering is to let the container cool down to room temperature before proceeding further. This method is very effective in preventing Pyrex from breaking and damaging your oven.
Tip 2: Never Use Damaged Pyrex Containers
Pyrex glassware with cracks or chips is more vulnerable to shattering as they have lower structural integrity. These cracks can lead to breakage, especially when you put cold glassware into a hot oven.
Tip 3: Preheat the Oven
Most ovens start with high heat when you turn it on. In short, preheating the oven ensures that your Pyrex glassware will not experience thermal shock as the temperature will drop to the set level.
Tip 4: Add Some Liquid
If you are cooking chicken or other dry dishes, ensure that you add some liquid to fill the bottom. This method keeps the temperature even and will reduce negative impacts while cooking.
Tip 5: Avoid Wet or Cold Areas
Never place hot Pyrex glassware on a cold or wet surface, as it can lead to shattering. Instead, keep your Pyrex container on a dry towel or potholder to prevent breaking.
Tip 6: Avoid Reheating Food in Pyrex
Reheating food, especially dry items, is a no-no for Pyrex glassware as temperature fluctuations can lead to shattering.
Tip 7: Use Dry Oven Mitts and Cloths
Wet oven mitts and cloths can cause a sudden temperature change which might cause your Pyrex glassware to explode. Additionally, wet clothes conduct heat and might burn your hands when you handle a hot Pyrex container out from the oven.
In short, ensure that you use dry oven mitts and cloths while handling a hot Pyrex container.
What Is the Highest Temperature You Can Put Pyrex in The Oven?
Pyrex is heat-resistant borosilicate glass, making it versatile for baking and storing food. Additionally, Pyrex also resists chemicals like alkalis and acids, making it perfect for laboratory use as well.
According to Camlab, Pyrex has a lower temperature limit of up to -192°C, while the upper limit is +500°C. In short, you can use Pyrex glassware for different kitchen requirements.
So can I put Pyrex in 500 degree oven? Since Pyrex can withstand extreme temperatures, yes, you can use Pyrex at 500°C in your oven.
However, Camlab recommends a slow and steady cooling or heating process, as sudden temperature fluctuations can lead to thermal shocks and shattering.
Additionally, never use Pyrex glassware for cooking on the stove or under a broiler as direct heat can weaken the structural integrity, reducing the lifespan.
Will Pyrex Crack from Cold to Hot?
Pyrex glassware features excellent thermal resistance and is great for baking and storing food. However, extreme temperature fluctuations can shatter a Pyrex container when shifting it from your freezer to the oven.
So the best option to avoid cracks in your Pyrex glassware is to allow the container to cool down before putting it in the oven.
Can I Put Pyrex in 400 Degree Oven?
Pyrex can withstand temperatures over 500°C, meaning you should not have a problem putting Pyrex in a 400 degree oven.
However, ensure that you cool down the container to room temperature before putting it in the oven.
Can You Put Cold Corningware in The Oven?
Yes, you can put cold Corningware in the oven. However, ensure that you defrost the container and allow it to attain room temperature before usage.
Why Did My Pyrex Dish Explode in The Oven
There can be multiple reasons why Pyrex explodes in the oven. These include rapid temperature difference if the Pyrex was in the freezer before, or a chipped Pyrex that had lost its structural integrity.
About Pyrex
If you love cookware, you’d probably know about Pyrex products and the rich heritage of this iconic century-old brand. The company started its operation by producing temperature-resistant battery jars and railroad lanterns.
However, Jesse Littleton (a scientist working in Corning Glass Works) and his wife discovered that borosilicate glass was more efficient cookware than metal or ceramic pans.
The development propelled the company’s plan to produce cookware, and by 1915, Corning Glass Works had released 12 products to the public.
Modern Pyrex products offer excellent convenience and are versatile for baking various foods. However, you will have to consider some things before working with this glassware. One such consideration is around Pyrex that has been in the fridge for a while.
Wrapping Up
We hear about Pyrex products exploding because it is one of the most widely-used glassware and not because it is a poorly-made product. One of the main reasons for this is the rapid temperature difference that the Pyrex could not withstand.
In short, you can use Pyrex glassware for baking and storing food in the refrigerator. However, the only thing you have to ensure is to follow the instructions and safety guidelines to prevent Pyrex from shattering.