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If you wish to cook various sauces and other recipes more efficiently, we have created a list of the best double boilers to upgrade your kitchen. A double boiler helps to make yummy meals and sauces. It helps to cook slow-stir ingredients without burning them. So, if you want to melt chocolate or cheese, or steam vegetables, a double boiler can come in handy. Once you use a double boiler, you may never want to use make-shit boilers again.
While the double boilers have heat-resistant handles, it is advised to use oven mitts or potholders to avoid thermal burns. With various sizes available, choosing the right double boiler may be challenging. So, read on to learn more about the available and consumer-tested double boilers to find one that suits your needs.
Caution: Although these double boilers may have heat-resistant handles, it is advisable to handle them with pot-holders or oven mittens to prevent thermal burns.
Top Picks
13 Best Double Boilers For Healthy Cooking In 2024
1. Best Stainless Steel: Cook N Home 2 Quarts Double Boiler
Cook N Home’s two-quart silver double boiler is a versatile kitchen tool that makes cooking delicate dishes a breeze. It is made of stainless steel, and the riveted silicone-wrapped handles remain cool even when placed on an open flame. It also comes with a tempered glass lid with steam vents, allowing you to keep an eye on the cooking process. Additionally, it has a thick aluminum bottom that helps distribute heat evenly.
Pros
- Durable 18/10 stainless steel layers
- Compatible with all stovetops
- Dishwasher-friendly
- Compatible with induction cook-tops
Cons
- May not be highly sturdy
- May not be true to size
"I have found it to be a dependable tool for a range of tasks, from melting chocolate to making fudge without the hassle of burning the ingredients. Its even heat distribution results in consistent cooking results, making it a winner for me."
2. Best High-Capacity:Cuisinart Saucepan and Double Boiler Set
A wonderful tri-ply stainless steel double boiler for preparing sauces and porridges, the set is brought to you by the reputed brand, Cuisinart. It includes a 3 quart saucepan with a tight-grip and no-spill lid. Both the pan and pot are designed with heat-surround technology that ensures the warmth is evenly distributed for uniform cooking. And as for the handles, they are heat-resistant and the cookware is also dishwasher-safe.
Pros
- High-capacity model
- No-spill lid
- Heat-resistant handles
- Designed with heat-surround technology
- Dishwasher-safe
- Saucepan can be used separately
Cons
- May warp
"I am impressed with the unique cone-shaped design of the inner pot. Besides facilitating even heat distribution, the design also aids in faster heating of the contents. The inner pot cannot be used as a standalone unit; however, this does not affect its functionality."
3. Best Heat Distribution:Farberware Stainless Steel Double Boiler
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has garnered more than 2,868 positive reviews on Amazon.
Oven-safe, induction-safe, and with an aluminum full-cap — this double boiler’s classic style meets technology and reveals its superior workmanship. It is easy to use — all thanks to its strong, easy-grip handle. The stainless-steel and aluminum-core combination guarantees rapid and uniform heating. Compatible with all stovetops, this 2 quart stainless-steel double boiler by Farberware, a brand that holds a rich tradition of offering premium quality cookware, is also easy to clean. Watch a tester’s experience in this review video to learn more about the boiler.
Pros
- Classic style meets technology
- A trusted brand for decades
- Superior workmanship
- Rapid and uniform heat distribution
- Oven-safe up to 350-degree F
- Induction-safe
- Dishwasher-safe
Cons
- May not be durable
- Might be a bit difficult to clean
"I recommend this double boiler for its classic look and sturdy design. The even and flat base offers convenience, and I like that it is dishwasher-safe. Keeping the inner rim of the pots moisture-free is a bit time-consuming, but it is worth the ordeal to avoid mold build-up."
Cook N Home 2 Quarts Double Boiler Best Stainless Steel | Cuisinart Saucepan and Double Boiler Set Best High-Capacity | Farberware Stainless Steel Double Boiler Best Heat Distribution | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 3 pounds | - | 2.86 pounds |
| Dimensions | 12.6 x 6.3 x 7 inches | - | 11.5 x 7.75 x 6.75 inches |
| Color | - | - | Silver |
| Material | - | - | Stainless Steel |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 77 | 223 | 2,868 |
| Price | $35 | $224.99 | $39.99 |
4. Best Non-Stick:T-Fal Stainless Steel Double Boiler
The fear of double boilers toppling is real, which is why strong and easy-grip handles are imperative! Take T-Fal Stainless Steel Double Boiler as a prime example for it has ergonomic handles that guarantee safe cooking. The boiler, on the other hand, is sturdy with aluminum construction and the pan is made of durable stainless-steel that ensures rapid and thorough heating. And the most important feature— the boiler is nonstick, which means no scrapping, only easy cleaning!
Pros
- Nonstick boiler
- Heats up quickly and evenly
- Robust and durable construction
- Ergonomic handles
- Dishwasher-safe
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Some food items may stick on to the bottom
"I love how this generously sized double boiler has made it easier for me to make jam in large quantities. Cleaning it is a bit tricky due to its grooves, but it is a minor trade-off for the convenience it offers while cooking. Also, the glass lid allows me to monitor the temperature with ease."
5. Best Long-Lasting:Excel Steel 3-Piece Boiler
Watching the cheese or chocolate melt slowly in the pot adds a different kind of thrill to the whole experience of cooking. The Excel Steel 3-piece double boiling pot lets you monitor the food through its tempered and clear glass lid. Since the tried-and-tested dual boiler is made of high-quality polished stainless steel and has an efficient design, the upper unit can easily double up as a regular pan. Durable, easy-to-clean, and dishwasher-safe, if you are someone who loves to prepare creams and sauces then this boiler may be the one for you!
Pros
- Reliable, durable, and long-lasting
- Convenient to use
- Monitoring food is easier
- The upper unit is induction-safe
- Heat-resistant handles
- Easy to clean
Cons
- May not be rust-proof
- Construction might be a little flimsy
"I have been using this double boiler for melting beeswax and reheating leftovers for quite some time now. Its lightweight design and heat-resistant handles make the cooking process easier. I found the steel slightly thinner than expected, but this does not undermine its functionality and convenience."
6. Best Durable:Cook N Home Double Boiler Steamer
Pamper yourself with this steamer and boiler. This two-tiered boiler and steamer set includes a stockpot, steamer insert, double boiler, and a glass lid. All of these are made of top-quality mirror-polished stainless steel, and on the base, these pots have aluminum for precise heating. Are they safe to cook on induction? Absolutely! They are also compatible with other stovetops such as halogen, ceramic, electric, etc. A must-try for those who love to prepare healthy meals, Cook N Home Double Boiler Steamer will make a great addition to your kitchen.
Pros
- Durable and robust
- Compatible with all cooking platforms
- Riveted handles for easy grip
- Glass lid for monitoring food
- Cooks and steams food evenly
Cons
- Handles are not heat-resistant
- Cannot use all tiers at once
"The cookware set has been a reliable candidate for steaming and double-boiling purposes. The handles and lid get hot, but handling them with a cloth seems to resolve the issue altogether. I find it a perfect choice for gently cooking vegetables and rice."
Trivia7. Best Reliable:Nordic Ware Double Boiler
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
About 1,102 reviewers on Amazon have given their seal of approval to the product.
Are you looking for something smaller and portable? You are in luck, for this small double boiler by the brand, Nordic Ware can easily fit in any cabinet, or you can also hang it on a pot rack. Apart from being space-saving, this non-stick double boiler allows the cooking surface to evenly distribute heat and melt chocolate and cheese like a dream. And if you haven’t noticed already, it has a unique conical design with concentric circles that can hold up to 8 cups of liquid. Ideal for heating and melting in small quantities, the Nordic Ware Double Boiler can fit in 2 to 4-quart saucepans.
Pros
- Small, durable, and reliable
- Ideal for heating and melting
- Non-stick
- Easy-to-clean
- Doubles up as a regular pan
- Space-efficient
Cons
- Does not have a flat bottom
- Does not have handles
"Melting chocolate and cheese is now hassle-free, thanks to this boiler cup. It does not come with a dedicated pan but that’s not an issue. The cup easily fits all my existing two- and four-quart pans, and it is easy to clean as it features a non-stick interior."
8. Best Rust-Resistant:Sysmie Double Boiler With Silicone Spatula
For melting something in small quantities, why haul out those bulky double boilers? Here’s a large but handy double boiler that can do the job. It is lightweight, easy-to-use, and rust-resistant. Made of high-quality 304 stainless steel, it is designed with a flat bottom to prevent toppling and double-pour spouts for added convenience. As per reviews, what makes it special from other regular boilers is the silicone covering on the handle, which means it is heat-resistant and you needn’t worry about putting on oven mittens. Besides this, you get a silicone spatula for all your stirring, scraping, and spreading needs thus making it a useful add-on.
Pros
- Ideal for gentle cooking
- Durable and rust-resistant
- The handle has a heat-resistant covering
- Topple-proof and spill-proof
- Recommended for melting and heating
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Not dishwasher-safe
"After having tried numerous options, I have finally found my favorite. This boiler helps me prepare my handmade lotions and other beauty care products sans the fear of overheating. The silicone handle could be better, but the overall utility of the product makes it a noteworthy option."
Do remember9. Best Dishwasher Safe:RSVP International Double Boiler
This cute and compact double boiler is all you need to quickly melt some chocolate, butter, or cheese. Since it has double-pour spouts and a flat bottom it is highly convenient too. Though a lot of people worry that steel may warp, this one is made of 18/8 stainless steel and will easily fit in any small-sized pan because of the attached front hook. A must-try for all those who always end up with last minute melting or steaming, the RSVP International Double Boiler for chocolate could be a great option to add in your kitchen.
Pros
- Small-sized and quick
- Durable and reliable
- Highly convenient
- Dishwasher-safe double boiler
- Ideal for steaming, melting, and mixing
Cons
- Not topple-proof
"Making caramel-based recipes is now a lot easier with the help of this convenient double boiler. Its size limits me to preparing food items in small batches; however, it still is a solid choice for its efficiency. Also, its hangable design makes it easy to store."
10. Best Warp-Free:Winware Double Boiler
For all those who like classic double boilers, the Winware induction double boiler is made of heavy-duty stainless steel and has a sturdy construction. This means it is warp-free! Larger than most of the boilers online, it is efficient and a great option for preparing big family meals. The tried-and-tested pot is extremely convenient and keeps the food warm for a long time too. This chocolate melting double boiler is also non-stick, which makes it an ideal to-go utensil to prepare melted cheese or chocolate in large batches.
Pros
- Ideal for cooking grand meals
- 16 quart pot
- Sturdy and durable
- Induction-safe
- Keeps the food warm for longer
- NSF-certified
Cons
- Might be a little heavy
"I use this boiler for preparing large batches of soup, cheese sauces, and chowders. The lack of calibration makes it a bit difficult to gauge the water level accurately. Nevertheless, the product is a worthy contender for its heavy bottom structure and durability."
11. Best Versatile:Norpro Universal Stainless-Steel Double Boiler
Versatility is the secret of this stainless-steel, robust, and durable double boiler because it guarantees to be your to-go, whether you want to melt chocolate or wax or concoct a luscious lip balm! With spouts on each side for convenient pouring, it also has a flat bottom so you don’t have to worry about spillovers. And did you notice the long handle? They may be steel but they are heat-resistant! Ideal for making custard, yogurt, and candy, this double boiler is easy to clean and will fit in any steaming pan.
Pros
- Perfect size for melting chocolate, cheese, butter, etc
- Multipurpose boiler
- Sturdy, durable
- Heat-resistant handle
- Convenient to use
- Handy and space-efficient
Cons
- May topple
"Thanks to this innovative product, preparing delicate sauces has never been simpler. It is a bit heavier than expected, but its ability to accommodate larger batches seamlessly makes that a minor trade-off. Also, its deep design allows me to use my cooking thermometer more efficiently."
12. Best Drip-Free:Cuisinart Universal Double Boiler
Other than melting, this dishwasher-safe double boiler is a great option for people who enjoy eating healthy meals, as it keeps the nutrients of vegetables intact. TheCuisinart Universal heat-resistant double boiler, for instance, is safe to use, made of top-quality stainless steel material, and guarantees no discoloration or reaction with the food. It has a concave design with riveted handles and a drip-free rim. And as for a tight-grip lid, it seals in moisture and flavors beautifully!
Pros
- Seals in nutrients and flavors
- Does not discolor or alter the flavor
- Heat-resistant handles
- Quick and sturdy
- Drip-free pouring
Cons
- May topple
"What makes this double boiler stand out is its versatility. It fits most of my standard-sized saucepans snugly. Placing it on the countertop is a challenge due to its rounded bottom. However, using an appropriate trivet solves this issue."
13. Best Sturdy:JKsmart Double Boilers
Manufactured with three layers of high-quality aluminum and stainless steel, this double boiler is quick, efficient, and durable enough to be passed down through generations. The construction may be heavy-duty but it is anti-hot with insulation and the handles are heat-resistant. The clear glass double boiler lid helps to monitor food, and the upper unit has a thin base to ensure uniform heating. This double boiler is compatible with different types of cooktops, including induction, gas, or ceramic, and is also dishwasher-safe.
Pros
- Quick and effective cooking
- Heat-resistant handles
- Sturdy, durable, and reliable
- Uniform heat distribution
- Compatible with all kitchen tops
- Anti-hot with insulation
Cons
- Upper unit may be flimsy
"With the help of this option, I am now able to carry out my cooking experiments in a hassle-free manner. It has a robust build, and the anti-heat handles offer convenience. It took me a while to learn the art of stirring in the shallow upper pot without spilling though."
How To Choose The Right Double Boiler?
Here are some pointers, popular among home experts, that you must keep in mind when choosing a double boiler.
- Consider premium stainless-steel double boilers, as they are robust and warp-proof and can withstand the test of time and high temperatures.
- Make sure the double boiler you choose fits the capacity and quart requirements.
- Purchasing one with a tempered glass lid helps monitor rising steam, melting, and
- It should have an aluminum base for precise heating
- The handle should be heat-resistant to prevent burns.
- Ensure the double boiler is compatible with your kitchen top i.e. it is safe to use on gas, halogen, induction, etc.
- Also, it should be easy to clean and dishwasher-safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a double boiler insert?
A double boiler insert is an upper unit that may have a rounded base to fit on top of the bottom boiler. The pan is mainly used for gentle and delicate cooking methods and melting purposes.
2. Should a double boiler touch water?
The double boiler pan (upper unit) should not touch the water. A double boiler is used for gentle cooking, such as melting chocolate and cheese, which requires constant heat, and touching warm water could lead to overheating.
3. Can I use two pots as a double boiler?
Yes, you can, but using a makeshift double boiler will require constant monitoring and take longer to cook your food.
You would need a large pan and a slightly smaller one that fits perfectly on top of the large pan without touching the water inside.
4. Can I reheat my food in a double boiler?
Yes, you can reheat your food in a double boiler. Here are a few steps for reheating your food. Pour water into the bottom heat-safe bowl and place it on a stove. Then, put your food inside the upper bowl, and set the upper bowl on top of the bottom one. Switch on the stove, reheat your food on gentle heat, and stir your food in between to prevent burning.
5. Is it safe to use a double boiler?
Yes, it is safe to use a double boiler. However, ensure the double boiler handles are heat-resistant to prevent burns. You can also wear heat-resistant gloves.
6. What temperature does a double boiler reach?
Since the double boiler uses steam to cook food or melt chocolates or cheese, the temperature must reach the boiling point of water, that is 100 °C, to generate steam.
7. Will sugar melt in a double boiler?
Yes, a double boiler will quickly melt the sugar by generating steam. Stir the sugar to prevent burning.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Sakshi John writes and reviews about several topics, including furniture and kitchen categories. She focuses on helping readers have a seamless and hassle-free shopping experience. In her article about the best double boilers, she reviews each product so her readers can make an informed decision. The article also comes with an informative buying guide section to help readers pick a product best suited to their needs. The products listed in this article are of high quality and long-lasting.
The Bottom Line
With the right double boiler in your kitchen, you’d never have to worry about burning the chocolate or cheese or losing the flavors while cooking! The above list contains some of the best double boilers available online. We have also provided a brief description and listed the pros and cons of each product. Our top choices include the T-Fal Stainless Steel Double Boiler for its robust construction and ergonomic handles and the Farberware Stainless Steel Double Boiler for its quick and uniform heat distribution. We also like the Sysmie Double Boiler, which is rust-resistant and spill-proof. Double boilers also make wonderful gifts for home chefs and foodies. The purchasing guide will help you categorize your preferences and select the best product for your kitchen.
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