Having a good set of mixing bowls is an essential part of any kitchen. Mixing bowls are used for mixing, prepping, and serving a variety of foods. From baking to cooking, these versatile bowls can be used for many different tasks. When shopping for mixing bowl sets, there are a few key things to consider.
The most important factor is the material. Mixing bowls come in a range of materials including glass, stainless steel, ceramic, and plastic. Glass and stainless steel tend to be the most durable options. Plastic is budget-friendly but can absorb stains and odors over time. Ceramic is attractive but chips and breaks more easily.
You’ll also want to think about the size range. Look for a set that offers a variety of sizes, usually ranging from 1-5 quarts. This gives you bowls for mixing small amounts to large batches. Consider if you'll need very large bowls for mixing big recipes or small bowls for ingredients.
Shape is also important, some bowls have straight sides while others have a lip or pour spout for easy pouring. Spouted bowls are great for pouring batter into pans when baking. Straight-sided stainless steel bowls often nest for compact storage.
Other features like lids, non-slip bottoms, and soft grip handles provide added convenience. With some sets, you’ll get bonus utensils like whisks and spatulas.
Rottay Mixing Bowls Set
These nesting stainless steel mixing bowls from Rottay are perfect for all your baking and meal prepping needs. The set comes with bowls in 7 sizes ranging from 7 quarts down to just 1 quart, so you'll have the ideal bowl for mixing batters, prepping ingredients, storing leftovers, and more.
What really makes this mixing bowl set stand out are the airtight lids. They seal tightly to lock in freshness and prevent spills. The bowls also have handy features like measurement markings inside, non-slip silicone bottoms, and 3 grater attachments that slide onto the rims. With 20 total pieces, this set really equips your kitchen for cooking success.
Key features:
- Comes with 7 sizes of mixing bowls and lids
- Airtight lids keep contents sealed
- Non-slip bottoms prevent sliding
- Built-in graters for grating tasks
Pros:
- Many sizes meet different needs
- Lids are very effective at sealing in freshness
- Easy to store thanks to nesting design
- Lightweight yet durable stainless steel
Cons:
- Largest bowls may still be too small for some tasks
- Nesting bowls can sometimes stick together
Glad Mixing Bowls
Glad's mixing bowl set is designed to make all your baking and cooking projects easier. This simple 3-piece set includes bowls in small, medium, and large sizes that nest neatly together for compact storage. The bowls are made from BPA-free plastic that won't react with foods.
Handy pour spouts allow you to neatly transfer batters and mixtures into pans or dishes without making a mess. The bowls also have an integrated side handle that provides a secure grip when mixing and pouring. With Glad's trademark non-stick surface, ingredients slide right out of these bowls for quick and easy cleaning.
Key features:
- BPA-free plastic mixing bowls
- Non-stick surface prevents sticking
- Pour spouts for controlled pouring
- Side handles for secure holding
Pros:
- Lightweight but durable plastic
- Won't react with foods
- Non-stick inside prevents sticking
- Easy to store thanks to nesting sizes
Cons:
- Not recommended for high heat
- Only includes 3 sizes
- Integrated handle can get in the way
JoyJolt Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls
With this set of 6 stainless steel mixing bowls from JoyJolt, you'll have the right bowl for all your kitchen tasks. It includes a range of sizes from a generous 5-quart bowl down to a petite 1/2 quart one. The bowls neatly nest for compact storage and feature mirrored polished interiors that make cleanup quick and easy.
The bowls' stainless steel construction means they are durable and long-lasting. Steel is also naturally bacteria-resistant. Unlike plastic, these bowls can be used at high temperatures for jobs like melting chocolate. And they can go straight from the oven or freezer into the dishwasher for truly hassle-free use.
Key features:
- Set includes 6 sizes of stainless steel bowls
- Nesting design saves cabinet space
- Stainless steel is durable and neutral
- Mirrored interiors for fast cleanup
Pros:
- Works for hot and cold recipes
- Doesn't hold onto odors or stains
- More stylish look than plastic
- Lighter than ceramic mixing bowls
Cons:
- Shows fingerprints easily
- Metal conducts heat to hands
- Not as cheap as plastic bowls
- Prone to noisy clanging
BoxedHome Mixing Bowls Set
This affordable set from BoxedHome includes 8 stacking mixing bowls ideal for all your daily kitchen tasks. The bowls range in capacity from 1.3 quarts down to just over 1 cup, giving you a versatile range of sizes. Each bowl has handy features like integrated pour spouts to prevent drips and attached side handles for a secure grip.
The bowls are made from shatter-resistant BPA-free plastic, so they are lightweight yet durable enough for frequent use. And the nesting design means the entire set takes up the space of just one bowl in your cupboard. As an added bonus, this set includes 4 plastic measuring cups too for easily measuring your ingredients.
Key features:
- Set includes 8 mixing bowls and 4 measuring cups
- Bowls range from 1.3 quarts to 1 cup
- Pour spouts prevent drips when pouring
- Stackable nesting design saves space
Pros:
- Very affordable price point
- Lightweight unbreakable plastic
- Handles provide a secure grip
- Measuring cups included as bonus
Cons:
- Not designed for high heat
- Plastic can absorb stains/odors
- Bowls lack a non-slip base
Gourmet Home Mixing Bowls
These colorful mixing bowls from Gourmet Home are perfect for prepping ingredients, making batters, storing leftovers, and everything in between. The set contains 4 BPA-free plastic bowls in gradually smaller sizes that all stack together. Lids are included to allow you to refrigerate or freeze foods while retaining freshness.
The bowls feature a lightweight yet sturdy design that is still comfortable to hold and pour from. And while plastic is prone to absorbing odors and stains over time, this set can simply be popped in the dishwasher occasionally to keep them fresh and like new.
Key features:
- Set of 4 plastic mixing bowls with lids
- BPA-free and dishwasher safe
- Nesting sizes for space-saving storage
- Lids allow you to store and freeze foods
Pros:
- Very affordable price point
- Lightweight but still durable
- Lids help preserve freshness
- Vibrant colors to brighten your kitchen
Cons:
- Bowls lack handles or pour spouts
- Not designed for high heat
- Bottoms lack non-slip feet
- Plastic can absorb stains over time
DOWAN Mixing Bowls
You will love the beautiful and eye-catching colors of these DOWAN ceramic mixing bowls. The vibrant glazes are fade and chip resistant, so they will maintain their pop of color even after years of use.
These durable bowls come in 3 convenient sizes - small, medium and large - so you can mix, bake and serve with ease. The rounded lip on each bowl makes them easy to grip and pour from. They are crafted from high-quality ceramic that can withstand high temperatures, so feel free to use them for marinating, baking batters, prepping ingredients, and more.
The bowls neatly nest for compact storage when not in use. And since ceramic is non-reactive, you won't have to worry about flavors leaching from one food to the next. These bowls can go straight from oven or fridge to microwave or dishwasher for fast and easy cleanup.
Key features:
- Vibrant, fade resistant colors
- Durable ceramic material
- Nesting sizes for compact storage
Pros:
- Eye catching design
- Withstand high temps
- Non-reactive material
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Ceramic can chip if dropped
YIHONG Plastic Mixing Bowls
With this set of 6 colorful plastic mixing bowls from YIHONG, you'll have a size for every task. The bowls range from 0.29 quarts up to 5.28 quarts, so you can use them for everything from dipping sauces to mixing up cakes. Their vibrant rainbow colors will add a fun pop to your kitchen.
The lightweight bowls easily nest for space-saving storage. And since they are BPA-free plastic, you can use them for cold and room temperature foods without worries. Their durable construction means these bowls can withstand the rigors of everyday kitchen use.
The bowls have pour spouts that make it easy to transfer batters to pans or dressings over salads without making a mess. Cleaning up is a breeze too - just pop them in the dishwasher after use.
Key features:
- 6 sizes from 0.29 to 5.28 quarts
- Vibrant rainbow colors
- Nesting design
Pros:
- Lightweight and durable
- BPA-free plastic
- Dishwasher safe
- Fun colors
Cons:
- Not suitable for hot foods
REGILLER Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls
With this 5-piece set of stainless steel mixing bowls from REGILLER, you'll be ready to take on any recipe. The bowls range in size from 1.5 quarts up to 7 quarts, providing you with a versatile range of options.
The interiors have a polished mirror finish that will stay shiny even after lots of use. The rounded lips make it easy to grip the bowls while pouring. Each bowl has a non-slip silicone bottom in a different bright color, which keeps them stable while mixing and adds a pop of color to your kitchen.
These bowls neatly nest together in any order for convenient, compact storage. And since they are stainless steel, you can use them for hot or cold recipes without worries. Just pop them in the fridge or dishwasher after use for fast, easy cleanup.
Key features:
- 5 sizes from 1.5 to 7 quarts
- Non-slip silicone bottoms
- Nesting design
Pros:
- Durable stainless steel
- Stay shiny interior
- Easy to grip and pour
- Nest for compact storage
Cons:
- Can show light scratches over time
Wildone Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls
With this premium set of 5 stainless steel mixing bowls from Wildone, you'll have the perfect vessel for all your cooking and baking tasks. The set includes sizes ranging from 0.63 quarts up to 5 quarts.
Each bowl has convenient volume markings inside to help you measure out ingredients precisely. The bowls neatly nest together for compact storage, and the airtight BPA-free lids keep food fresh between uses.
The bowls have a non-slip silicone bottom to keep them stable while you mix. Even better, the lid of the 5 quart bowl has a removable center that allows you to insert one of the included grater attachments, streamlining your prep work!
Key features:
- Sizes from 0.63 to 5 quarts
- Non-slip bottoms
- Airtight lids
- Graters included
Pros:
- Premium stainless steel
- Volume markings inside
- Nesting design
- Keeps food fresh
Cons:
- Plastic lids aren't microwave safe
YIHONG Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls
This versatile set of 7 stainless steel mixing bowls from YIHONG provides a wide range of sizes for all your cooking and prep tasks. The set includes bowls ranging from 0.7 quarts up to 4.5 quarts.
The bowls have a lightweight yet durable construction. Each one includes a matching plastic lid to keep food fresh in the fridge between uses. The bowls neatly nest together to conserve cabinet space when stored.
Their stainless steel material allows these bowls to transition seamlessly from oven to table. Feel free to use them for hot or cold recipes. Cleaning up is easy too - just pop them in the dishwasher after use.
Key features:
- 7 sizes from 0.7 to 4.5 quarts
- Matching lids included
- Nesting design
Pros:
- Durable stainless steel
- Keep food fresh
- Oven to table versatility
- Dishwasher safe
Cons:
- Plastic lids aren't microwave safe
Mixing Bowl Set Buying Guide
When equipping your kitchen with mixing bowls, consider the following factors:
Materials
Glass - Glass mixing bowls have a sleek look and easily go from oven to table for serving. Glass doesn’t retain stains or odors. The downside is they chip and break more easily. Look for durable tempered glass.
Stainless Steel - Mixing bowls made of stainless steel are extremely durable and won't chip. Stainless steel has good temperature resistance and many sets have bowls that nest for compact storage. But stainless steel can discolor over time.
Ceramic - Ceramic mixing bowls offer stylish good looks and stay cool when mixing hot ingredients. But ceramic is prone to chipping and cracking.
Plastic - Plastic mixing bowls are lightweight, inexpensive, and come in many colors. But plastic can stain, crack, or warp over time. Look for durable melamine or polypropylene plastic.
Silicone - Silicone mixing bowls are flexible, stain resistant, and good for hot temperatures. The downside is they can absorb odors and flavors.
Sizes
Having a range of sizes allows you to mix small and large batches. Here are common mixing bowl sizes:
- Small - 1 to 3 cups capacity. Good for whisking eggs, making dressings, mixing dips.
- Medium - 3 to 5 cups capacity. For mixing pancake batter, cookie dough, muffins, etc.
- Large - 5 to 8 cups capacity. For mixing cakes, breads, large salads, and more.
- Extra Large - 8 to 12 cups capacity. For doubling recipes, mixing lasagna, blending large salads.
Make sure your set has the range of sizes your recipes call for. Some extra small and extra large bowls can be handy.
Shape
Straight Sided - Bowls with straight, vertical sides are good all-purpose bowls. Stainless steel bowls often nest for storage.
Spouted - Bowls with a pouring spout or lip make it easy to transfer batter to pans without spilling. Nice for baking.
Rounded Bottom - Rounded bottom bowls are suited to mixing egg whites or whipping cream. Provides more aeration.
Footed - Footed bowls have a base that lifts them off the counter. Helps when using stand mixers.
Consider the shape that works best for your mixing tasks. Spouted bowls are great for batters while rounded bowls excel at whipping.
Features
Non-Slip Base - A non-slip base prevents the bowl from sliding around on the counter while mixing. Silicone or rubber rings help keep it in place.
Handles - Side handles provide a secure grip for lifting full mixing bowls. Look for stay-cool handles for hot tasks.
Lids - Lids allow you to cover unused ingredient bowls or store prepped foods in the fridge.
Pour Spouts - Integrated pour spouts make it easy to transfer liquid ingredients without spilling. Helpful when blending wet and dry ingredients.
Measurement Marks - Printed measurement markings on the inside make it easy to measure out ingredients by cup or ounce.
Utensils - Some sets include handy utensils like silicone spatulas, whisks, or spoonulas for mixing and scraping batter.
Nested Storage - Mixing bowls that stack inside each other take up less storage space. Common with stainless steel sets.
Microwave-Safe - Durable glass and plastic bowls can go right in the microwave for heating foods. Not for metal bowls.
Number of Bowls
Basic sets contain 3 to 5 bowls in essential sizes like 1, 2, and 3 quarts. Deluxe sets may have up to 8 or more bowls in many sizes. Consider the number of bowls your recipes require. More bowls mean less washing between tasks.
Brand
Look for mixing bowls from trusted brands known for quality and durability:
- Pyrex - Tempered glass bowls good for oven and microwave.
- Anchor Hocking - Affordable glass bowls made in the USA.
- OXO - Sturdy stainless steel and plastic bowls with great features.
- Cuisinart - Respected kitchenware maker offering many materials.
- Corelle - Known for their break-resistant glass kitchenware.
Buying a quality brand means your mixing bowls will last for many years. Avoid cheaply made sets that chip or warp quickly.
FAQs
What are the most useful sizes for mixing bowls?
The most versatile and commonly used sizes are 1-quart, 3-quart, and 5-quart. The 1-quart is good for whisking eggs, making dressings, and mixing dips. The 3-quart is ideal for most baking tasks like cookie dough and cake batter. Use the 5-quart for mixing large batches, bread doughs, pasta salads etc.
Should I get glass or stainless steel mixing bowls?
Both glass and stainless steel bowls have pros and cons. Glass looks stylish but chips more easily. Stainless is extremely durable but can show stains over time. Glass goes from oven to table but stainless nests more compactly. For all-purpose use, stainless steel provides the best durability.
Are plastic mixing bowls ok to use?
Quality plastic mixing bowls are fine for occasional use. Look for durable melamine or polypropylene plastic. Avoid thin, cheap plastic bowls that stain and warp easily in hot water or the dishwasher. For frequent kitchen use, glass or stainless steel bowls are best.
What’s the benefit of spouted mixing bowls?
Mixing bowls with poured spouts and lips make it easy to transfer batters and mixtures into pans or containers without making a mess. The spout lets you neatly guide wet ingredients into the pan. Spouted bowls are especially useful for mixing and pouring cake batters, muffins, and quick breads.
Should mixing bowls have lids?
Lids are a nice optional feature for mixing bowls. They allow you to cover bowls of prepped ingredients or store leftovers. Airtight lids keep foods fresh in the fridge. Some glass and plastic bowls come with snap-on plastic lids. Stainless steel sets may include universal lids that fit multiple sizes.
Conclusion
With a quality set of mixing bowls on hand, you'll be ready to mix, prepare, and serve all kinds of recipes. Be sure to get a versatile range of sizes from 1-quart up to 5-quarts or more.
Consider useful features like spouts, non-slip bases, and included utensils. With bowls made of durable materials like glass or stainless steel, your set can handle even everyday use.
Investing in a good mixing bowl set will make all your baking and cooking tasks easier.
Resources:
- Epicurious: This website provides information on the best mixing bowls for 2023. They tested and reviewed glass, plastic, and stainless-steel mixing bowls to find the most useful set.
- HelpAtMyHome: This website provides a list of the best mixing bowls for a home kitchen. They recommend Duralex Lys Mixing Bowl Set, Emile Henry Ceramic Mixing Bowl Set, and Oxo Good Grips Stainless.
- Wayfair: Wayfair offers a wide range of mixing bowls with lids. They have a variety of sizes and materials to choose from.
- Kohl's: Kohl's has a great selection of mixing bowls made of glass, stainless steel, and plastic. They offer great deals on mixing bowls, and you can find a variety of brands and sizes.
- Vollrath Foodservice: Vollrath Foodservice offers economy stainless steel mixing bowls that are lightweight yet sturdy. They are easy to clean and dishwasher safe.