The Problem: An oven’s natural hot spots can make pastries rise at odd angles, browned in one place but uncooked in another.
The Solution: The Kaiser Bakeware Extraordinaire (16 by 14 inches) counteracts hot spots with a layer of insulation. The commercial-weight steel is dark and heavier than aluminum, so it absorbs and retains more heat, but a cushion of air between the steel layers softens the intensity, so dough rises steadily and evenly. The nonstick coating makes lift-off a cinch.
To Buy: $22, www.kaiserbakeware.com.