How much do you love bread? Bread is enjoyed in almost all homes in the world. The aroma and taste of some freshly baked bread are enough to make anyone hungry. You can agree on that. You can enjoy bread any time of the day in a bunch of ways.
Making bread at home is not always easy, especially if the tools you are using are making it complicated. You may be here trying to find the right tools to make some professional-grade bread. To be honest, you are in the right place.
A baking cloche can indeed determine how good your bread comes out. That is why we went to the market to find the best bread cloche for you. We went through a couple of products and came up with a list of the baking cloche you would need to make some amazing bread for your bread.
This post contains a detailed buyer’s guide, detailed reviews of the eight best products, as well as their pros and cons. Pay close attention.
A Bread Cloche is…
What is a bread cloche? A cloche, traditionally, is a stoneware domed that is soaked in water, placed over some dough when baking, intending to get the same results as a professional oven.
A cloche makes use of steam trapped in it to give the bread a blistered, golden-brown, crackly crust. In the past, people relied on and loved cast iron bread cloches because they had adequate ability to capture adequate steam to produce professional-grade bread. It also had an amazing crust at the bottom.
However, we had an idea. Can this only be achieved by cast iron? To be honest, we were surprised by the results. It turns out that cast iron is not the only material that can make the best bread cloche.
In our reviews, we have included some great cast iron, clay, as well as silicone cloches that will blow your mind. We have included different cookware with different sizes, depths, construction materials, and much more. Let’s get into it.
Our Top Picks
Now let us look at the bread cloche reviews.
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Best Cast Iron Bread Cloche: Lodge Pre-Seasoned Double Dutch Oven
Everyone wants a cooking tool that will work to provide the best results. This specific Dutch oven is designed to give you the best when cooking in your kitchen. It has a lid that will turn into a skillet, increasing the oven’s versatility. This cover, in the shape of a dome, is the perfect tool for non-knead bread, as well as roasts.
When using this cloche, you can expect fast and even heat distribution. This is what you should expect from cast iron and this is a perfect specimen.
What should you hope to get from this product? First of all, you should expect that this will last for a very long time. It might go for generations with proper care. It is a versatile tool that you can use to bake, braise, simmer, sauté, sear, fry, and roast. It comes preseasoned so that you can have an easy release each time you finish cooking a meal.
This is the best bread cloche when it comes to retention of heat. You can also use it on a range of cooktops, on a grill, over a campfire, as well as on a stove and in an oven.
Lodge is an American company that has dominated the kitchen market. The quality of the products produced by Lodge will give you a nonstick interior for better results, durability, and versatility.
We can recommend this product without a second thought.
Pros
- + It is very durable due to the sturdy construction
- + This is a versatile Dutch oven
- + The results of baked bread are magnificent
- + The finish is simply beautiful
- + It features a non-stick oven for an easy release.
Cons
- – Some complaints of faulty products with rust.
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Best Ceramic Bread Cloche: Emile Henry
This is a bread cloche made in France. But why should you consider purchasing this product? There are several reasons.
We all know that the end-product of bread is somehow dependent on the shape of the cloche. A great cloche should have a dome shape that will set it apart from the alternative products.
This bread cloche has been recognized as one of the best cloches in the market by some professional bakers. It is a perfect replica of the traditional ovens used to bake some great bread. When you close this bread cloche, it will capture hot moisture so that the heat will flow properly in the interior. The result? You can expect evenly baked bread.
It is a cloche with amazing construction. You can therefore expect that it will not only provide high-quality bread but also give you these results for a very long time. Unlike most cast iron products, this one is made using natural ceramic material. The superior craftsmanship is proof of the amount of dedication put into producing this amazing cloche.
Unfortunately, cleaning this dome-shaped cloche is not the easiest, mainly because of the bottom grooves. Additionally, it has a construction that might limit your bread creativity. But it does not mean that you cannot experiment a lot. The instructions manual will prove that.
So, if what you want is a high-quality product, then you can expect some great results from Emile Henry Cloche.
Pros
- + You get a 10-year guarantee for ultimate satisfaction
- + It is made using clay, which is not only durable but also effective
- + The results you get from this bread cloche are perfect
- + It is an appealing cloche.
Cons
- – There is a risk that the cloche might break
- – Cleaning up is not so easy.
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Best Enameled Bread Cloche: Le Creuset
If you are a professional baker, or if you are looking to make some professional bread, you should consider this piece of art.
It is made using Enameled cast iron, which is an amazing material that works perfectly in meeting all your needs in regards to cooking as well as food preparation. You can do a range of things with this tool. You can slow cook, stir-fry, bake, or even sear. It is all up to you.
This cast iron construction ensures that you can use any source of heat, which includes induction cooktops, grills, or even an oven.
Note: When you are using a glass cooktop, you should lift the Dutch oven instead of dragging it to avoid messing up the stovetop or the pan’s base.
What’s more, its ability to retain heat is amazing. That means that you can use low heat levels when you are cooking. Once you finish cooking, your food will be kept at a constant temperature until you are ready to serve. In the same manner, it can keep food cold. When you place cold food on it, even on a summer day, you can expect it to remain cold.
When using gas flames to cook, you should ensure that the flames do not extend to the sides of the pan. There are chances that this might damage the exterior or the handles.
It is important to let the pan cool before you wash it. Do not put it in cold water because it might be damaged by the thermal shock.
Pros
- + This is among the most durable products in the market
- + You will appreciate how appealing it is
- + The Dutch oven is versatile, adequate for different meals
- + Adequate size for meals for the entire family
- + Perfect heat retention and distribution.
Cons
- – It might not be a good idea to expose it to high-temperature levels all of a sudden because it might break.
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Another Favorite Cast Iron Bread Cloche: LoafNest
Baking bread at home has never been easier than this. This is a revolutionary method of making bread that will leave you proud of the results. It features a nonstick interior that prevents your food from sticking to the surface. It is perfectly shaped to give you the bread shape you will enjoy.
Using this cloche is not hard. You will not need to shape your bread. Additionally, there are no messes. That means you will be able to clean up in a very short time. You can expect to have an awesome time when you are baking bread with the LoafNest cast iron Dutch oven.
Healthy and tasty is what we are looking for. That means using less butter or oil when making food. With this product, you can expect a soft airy crumb and crunchy crust. You should start with flour, salt, some water, as well as yeast. You can continue to add more ingredients to make the loaves flavorful.
This is a reliable product because it provides you with amazing results each time you bake with this cloche. You will not need to use any guesswork when baking. To be honest, most people have improved their baking skills by using this bread baking pot.
Pros
- + It is versatile. You can use it for cooking different meals with different cooking methods
- + You can expect to use this appliance for a very long time
- + Using it is very easy, even for beginners
- + It has a very effective nonstick coating
- + The price and the quality match
- + It is a reliable pot.
Cons
- – Even though the cost is proportional to the quality, that price is too high.
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Best Clay Bread Cloche: Romertopf Classic
This is a perfect product for anyone who loves the traditional types of bakeware and cookware. The main reason behind that is the fact that it is made using natural cay. It features a great design and exterior that provides that appearance you will love and appreciate. This is a perfect addition to your kitchen.
The pot’s clay construction makes it possible to absorb moisture so that the bread can be chewy and crispy. It also features an elongated, deep design that is adequate for making the traditional-type loaves of bread. This bread baking pot features adequate space to allow your bread to rise.
The base of the cloche is naturally glazed so that the bread can be released smoothly and quickly after the bread finishes baking. This model is not only oven-safe but also good for microwaves.
After you finish baking, you can simply put the cloche in a dishwasher for easier cleaning.
Unfortunately, this cloche’s design limits the types of bread you can make. Nevertheless, you can use it to do more than bake bread. The lid also allows it to work as a Dutch oven so you can prepare different dishes using different cooking methods.
You will get a cookbook when you purchase this model. This cookbook has many recipes, more than 450 of them from all over the world.
Pros
- + The heat retention is perfect
- + It is completely versatile, allowing you to do more than just bake
- + The glazed base prevents food from sticking to the interior
- + It is made using 100% natural clay
- + It is oven, microwave, and dishwasher safe
- + It has a beautiful design
- + The construction is sturdy so it is durable.
Cons
- – Unfortunately, it only works for certain bread types.
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Best Crown Loaf Bread Cloche: Emile Henry 11.2”
This crown bread baker makes it possible to form a classical loaf of bread without a challenge. The bread you bake will not only have an amazing flavor, but also a classic shape that makes it great for any special occasion with friends and family.
After you shape your dough, you simply have to place the lid on it and place it in an oven.
It features cavities that make it easy to give your dough a specific shape. The ceramic lid, shaped like a dome, will create just the adequate amount of humidity when baking to get a professional-grade loaf.
This dome-shaped baker, just like other Emile Henry products, is made in France using 100% natural materials. It also features high resistance ceramic that will diffuse all the heat evenly and gently.
It is oven safe to a temperature of 515 degrees Fahrenheit. You can also use it in a microwave and broiler. After all that, simply put it in a dishwasher for easier cleaning.
Pros
- + Cleaning up is very easy
- + It is an amazingly beautiful baker
- + The results after baking are magnificent
- + This baker is made of high-quality products.
Cons
- – There are different complaints of defects in the products.
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Best Oblong-shape Bread Cloche: Sassafras Superstone Unglazed Baker
This is an amazing company that provides high-quality clay products, which is why this is part of our top picks. It is made using high-grade, safe materials.
Do you like bread loaves that have a certain shine? Well, with this amazing baker, you can simply make them at home. The shape of this bread makes it possible to experiment with a couple of bread types and shapes. It is not unique, but also versatile. It is possible to roast some meals as well.
The narrow design on this baker will allow perfect heat distribution and air circulation. The results are simply perfect. You will get chewy and crunchy bread each time you make bread.
It is made using natural and unglazed material. You can therefore expect a unique taste from the bread that you will simply appreciate.
Pros
- + The handle remains cool so that you can hold it even when hot
- + It produces an authentic aroma and taste
- + The shape of the dome makes it great for experimentation
- + You do not need to preheat it because it gains heat fast
- + The results from this baker are professional
- + It is extremely durable.
Cons
- – You might need to use parchment paper to prevent the bread from sticking to the interior.
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Best Silicone Bread Cloche: Lekue Bread Maker
This is the last bread cloche review on our list. It features a very versatile design that allows you to make some great bread in one container from the comfort of your home.
It has the shape of a bowl that is partially closed. It is designed so that the steam circulates inside so that the dough becomes moist and the bread is prevented from drying out.
It also features some amazing side openings so that the air can circulate in the cloche. The results are bread with a golden, crusty texture. You will surely be proud of the results you get from this bread.
When you purchase this bread maker, you will get recipes that will help you get some tasty bread with an amazing aroma. Make some traditional bread right from the comfort of your house.
This bread baking pot is not only microwave safe, but also dishwasher safe. The platinum silicone used to make this bread maker makes it possible for the bread maker to withstand up to 428 degrees Fahrenheit.
Pros
- + The nonstick coating prevents the bread from sticking to the sides and makes cleaning easier
- + This amazing baker makes perfect bread that will not burn
- + You can make no-knead brad easily
- + It is microwave and dishwasher safe
- + In one bowl, you can proof, mix, and bake.
Cons
- – Not designed for use on a stove burner, under a broiler, on a hot plate, or over open flames.
A Buyer’s Guide
There is a range of shapes, sizes, and functions when it comes to bread cloches. That is why making a choice is not always so easy. The bread cloche you purchase will determine your bread’s quality.
We aim to help you make a good choice, which is why we have created a list of the things that you need to consider before you make a choice. Consider all of the following before you make a purchase.
Shape
There are two bread cloche shapes you will find in the market. You can choose from an oblong and a round cloche. The shape you have will determine the shape of the bread, as well as the distribution of moisture and heat. If a cloche is deep, it is better because it will circulate the moisture perfectly throughout the bread.
The truth is that there is no bad shape. You should know that the round ones are traditional but at the same time, it does not mean that they are better than those with an oblong shape.
Your choice should be based on the types of bread you want. Choose a shape that will get you the type of bread you want.
Material
Why does the material matter? To be honest, the material used to make a cloche affects the distribution of heat, which in turn affects how the bread is baked. At the same time, the material will affect the aroma and taste of the bread.
Cloches with the best results are usually made using ceramic or clay material. Nevertheless, maintaining these might be a bit challenging because they are also delicate. Iron pans are also available but only for those who have confidence that their skills are professional-level.
Retention of Heat and Moisture
This might be the biggest factor you need to have in mind. You need a cloche that can retain an adequate amount of moisture from your bread. Soggy bread is not pleasant at all. We can all agree on that.
The retention of heat will affect the crust. If it can retain heat better, it will make a crunchy crust, which is what you need.
Ability to withstand high Levels of Heat
You need to heat your cloche to bake bread. You need a cloche that can handle high-temperature levels without breaking apart. Some can take up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit but will usually bread because of higher temperature levels. Ability to withstand around 350 degrees Fahrenheit should be adequate.
Cleaning
The dough can be very sticky. A good loaf should not leave some sticky dough. Nevertheless, you will find that some experiments might go sideways and you will have to clean.
A dishwasher-safe cloche would be the best option. Additionally, if it has a certain glaze, cleaning should be easier. You will save more effort and time.
Wrapping Up
The baking cloche you choose will determine the type of bread you make and how good it is. You need professional cloches to get professional results. Therefore, we advise that you consider the list we have provided and decide if they are suited to get you the results you need.
Also, read:
- Best Bread Machine Made in the USA
- Panasonic SD-YD250 Automatic Bread Maker Review
- Best Bread Machine Under $100
Now I’d like to hear from you.
Did I miss one of your favorite baking cloches?
Or maybe you have a question about something.
Either way, let me know by leaving a comment below right now.
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