Buying guide
Bun and Muffin Tins: For Fairy Cakes, Mince Pies and More
Shallow bun tins versus deep muffin tins, how many holes to buy, and which works for mince pies and Yorkshire puddings.
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A bun tin has shallow, rounded holes for fairy cakes and mince pies. A muffin tin has deeper, straighter holes. They look alike, but they are not interchangeable for every bake.
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Which tin for which bake?
| Bake | Best tin |
|---|---|
| Fairy cakes and butterfly cakes | Shallow bun tin with paper cases |
| Mince pies and jam tarts | Shallow, rounded bun (patty) tin |
| Muffins and cupcakes | Deep muffin tin |
| Yorkshire puddings | Deep muffin tin, or a dedicated Yorkshire pudding tin |
What to check
- Number of holes: 12 is standard; 24-hole tins suit big batches.
- Material: heavy carbon steel heats evenly; a non-stick coating helps release tarts.
- Size: check that it fits your oven with room for air to circulate.
Mince pies need a fluted cutter too: see scone and pastry cutters.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a bun tin and a muffin tin?
A bun tin has shallow, rounded holes for fairy cakes and mince pies; a muffin tin has deeper, straighter holes for muffins, cupcakes and Yorkshire puddings.
Do I need paper cases?
For sponge fairy cakes and muffins, cases make removal and serving easy. Pastry tarts and mince pies go straight into a greased tin.
Can I make Yorkshire puddings in a muffin tin?
Yes. Heat the fat in the holes until very hot before adding the batter.
How we choose
BeneRecipes compares tools using manufacturer specifications and retailer listings. We have not tested these products ourselves and don't publish star ratings. We explain which type suits which cook and why.
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