The best double boilers to melt cheese and chocolate

Looking to melt chocolate or steam vegetables? A double boiler is just what you're looking for.
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Double boiling is a process of gentle cooking often used for melting chocolate, candle wax, or cheese, cooking certain sauces, and more. Water is simmered in the bottom pot, and will delicately cook or melt the contents of the top pot without burning. When choosing a double boiler, size is key, and that depends on what you’re planning to make.

Looking for the best double boiler for your own kitchen needs? We’ve got you! We’ve researched the best double boilers out there, and included different sizes for different recipes and budgets.

How do I choose the best double boiler?

Choosing the right double boiler really comes down to what you plan on using your new kitchen tool for. Do you want something that’ll allow you to precisely boil chocolate and cheese—or do you want something that will work for steamed vegetables and other larger items? If you plan to use it for a little of everything, a 1.5 quart boiler is a great mid-sized option that should work for most households.

How much do double boilers cost?

Double boilers are not as expensive as you might think. Unlike larger kitchenware, which can easily range into the hundreds, a great name brand double boiler will run you anywhere from $30 to $100.

The Good & The Bad

  • Dishwasher-safe
  • Lightweight design
  • Great price for the quality
  • Not as heavy-duty as others on the list

Why We Like It

Looking for something easy to use—and even easier to clean? This double boiler by T-fal is it. The nonstick interior and exterior make this a great option for easy cooking and cleanup. The  boiler insert itself is made of stainless steel—and the product only weighs a total of two pounds, which makes it easy to use and store.

Details

The Good & The Bad

  • Tempered glass lid allows food to be monitored while cooking
  • Stay-cool handles
  • Lightweight
  • Some reviewers say this boiler may rust if it’s not dried properly

Why We Like It

Looking for something that’ll last for the long run? This 1.5-quart pot with a glass lid is great for melting chocolate or cheese, without worry of burning it. The handsome product is made of highly-polished stainless steel that’ll last for years. It’s also safe for the dishwasher and compatible with induction burners.

Details

The Good & The Bad

  • Dishwasher-safe design
  • Features stay-cool handles
  • Crafted from tri-ply stainless steel
  • Some reviewers noted that the handles are quite heavy

Why We Like It

This classic Cuisinart set is a great option for those who might need a slightly larger double boiler. It boasts stay-cool stainless steel handles, a three quart sauce pot, a double boiling pot, and a tight-fitting top for added ease of use. The product employs Heat Surround Technology for even heating—a huge plus for precision cooking.

Details

The Good & The Bad

  • Riveted handles for comfort and durability
  • Works on all stove types
  • Safe for the dishwasher
  • The screw for the top handle may rust over time

Why We Like It

Not only is this a double boiler, but it includes a steamer insert as well, which is great for larger households that might be cooking up more than one meal at a time. The stockpot is four quarts, with an aluminum disc-layered bottom for even heat distribution. The top is tempered glass for easy monitoring.

Details

The Good & The Bad

  • Dishwasher-safe
  • Oven safe up to 350 degrees
  • Includes a lifetime warranty
  • Handles and knobs may loosen over time

Why We Like It

This double boiler has that iconic kitchenware look we all love—but it’s also extremely practical and easy to use. There’s a reason the classics stick around after all! At two quarts, this mid-sized, stainless steel device is suitable for most families but won’t be too big to store.

Details

Topics Kitchen


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