For making rich candies, epic frostings, or even just homemade donuts better than any store provides, fresh, melted chocolate is key. Using a double boiler is the best way to ensure a gentle heat, perfect for achieving the best results when you want your chocolate chips to melt evenly without direct contact with a heat source.
So, what is the best double boiler for melting chocolate and where can you find it?
In today’s article, we’re going to strive to answer that question for you. While the best double boiler will need to be a good fit for your specific needs, we’ve gathered a collection of some of the best on the market today and we’re going to give you the scoop on each and every one.
We’ll share some tips along the way, as well as let you know which ones were our favorites to see if you agree or if another double boiler caught your eye. If you’re ready, then let’s begin our search for the best double boiler for melting chocolate!
Our top _ picks at a glance
For those folks in a hurry, we’ve got a ‘sneak preview’ of our 3 favorites from today’s list. We’ll tell you a little about what we liked with these models and you can also read their individual reviews and our ‘verdict’ later at the end of this article to learn more. These were our favorites:
- Best ‘personal use’ Double Boiler – Classic Cuisine Stainless Steel 6 Cup Double Boiler – 1.5 Quart Saucepan – With a 1.5 quart capacity and handy measurement markings inside, as well as a ‘single pizza’-sized price tag, this Classic Cuisine makes for a great person use double boiler for the casual user.
- Best ‘Petite but Powerful’ Double Boiler– KitchenCraft Stainless-steel 5-quart Induction Bain Marie/Double Boiler Porringer – Lightweight and well-fitted, this is a good looking yet petite double boiler that comes with a 5 quart capacity and a 15 year warranty – not bad at all!
- Best ‘Heavy Duty’ Double Boiler – Winware Stainless 8 Quart (6 quart melting capacity) Double Boiler with Cover – For folks who will be melting chocolate, making soaps, or whipping up their own candles, this heavy-duty WinWare is robust and capacious enough to get the job done right!
How does a double boiler work?
In a nutshell, you’ve got two pots, with one designed to fit in the top of the other. The beauty of a double boiler lies in its design – the top of the pot holds a heatproof bowl, usually made of glass or metal, which is ideal for delicacies like hollandaise sauce or hot chocolate.
It rather looks like two stacked saucepans, although there are some design variants depending on the brand.
Inside the pot that you have on the bottom, you’ll be boiling water to generate steam, and that will in turn heat the thin barrier of your melting slowly and evenly.
In the lower pan of the double boiler, you add an inch of water, ensuring there’s enough water to create steam but not so much that it touches the bottom of the bowl above, providing indirect heat.
Why are double boilers so good at melting chocolate?
The preferred method of pastry chefs for melting chocolate involves a double boiler as it avoids the burst of heat from direct contact with a cooking source.
The reason that you can’t just pop a chocolate bar into a pan and stick it on the stove is the chocolate’s melting point. For most chocolates, you’re going to see melting at temperatures between 86 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
Now, just because it’s melting doesn’t mean you can crank the heat – Milk chocolate, for instance, shouldn’t be heated over 115 degrees, while Dark chocolate tops out at 120 degrees before things can get problematic.
A double boiler works so well because it GENTLY heats the chocolate. Not only is steam providing the heat, but you’ve got that extra layer of protection from the melting pot itself. Gentle heating also means that you can work with your melted chocolate more to tweak a recipe of your own!
That’s why double boilers are the best for melting chocolate and making other melted goodies like soaps and candles. If you’ve never owned one, it’s well worth adding this lovely little tool to your kitchen arsenal!
The best double boilers for melting chocolate
Now that we’ve talked a little about double boilers, it’s time to take a look at some real examples of some of the best double boilers on the market today. For each listing, we’ll tell you a little about the materials, measurements, and also the features we liked and the ones we didn’t.
If you’re ready, then let’s bring on those double boilers and you can see which ones are up to the task for your own melting designs!
If you’ve got plenty of pots already, this Marsheepy 1 qt double boiler melting pot measures 12.09” x 7.17” x 3.19“ and will fit many saucepan style pots securely with the built-in hook. Made of 18/8 grade stainless steel, this sturdy pot features two pour spouts and also comes with a handy spatula that is heat resistant to 500 degrees! This is great as a replacement boiler pot or a brand-new one to use with a favorite saucepan – your call!
Pros:
This is a solid double boiler pot that is built to last and for personal use, 1 quart still gives you plenty of options of what you can do with it. It also hangs up easily by the u-shaped handle, so if you hang a lot of your pots and pans this one will fit right in.
Cons:
If you prefer a full, dedicated double boiler set, then this may not be a good fit, and some folks may want a larger quart capacity.
2. Sysmie Double Boiler Pot Set (.5 and 1 quart capacity) for Melting Chocolate, Butter, Cheese, Caramel, and Candy
We have another double boiler pan set to show you and this one comes from Sysmie. Designed to fit most pots, what you get is a set of two double boiler pans – one which is 5.5 inches wide and 2.5 inches deep and has a half-quart capacity, and another pot that is 7.5 inches wide, 3.1 inches deep with a 1 quart capacity. This way, you’ve got a small pan for more control, and a bigger one for melting more chocolate when you need it.
Different sizes in melting pots make it a great option for home bakers who need flexibility in their cooking process.
The hook on the pots will keep them from slipping and as they are made of 18/8 stainless steel and dishwasher safe, cleanup is a breeze when you are done. Just remember these are just the actual pots – they MUST be used with a separate boiling pot of your own and NOT on their own.
Pros:
Some of us already have a big collection of pots and pans at home, so you can save a lot of space with the easy-to-hand and durably built double boiler pots. Having two sizes also comes in handy.
Cons:
We would have liked a little more capacity in the larger bowl – 1 quart is nice but if you’re doing a lot of chocolate work or if you also make soaps or candles, then a larger pot set might be a better fit for you.
The HIC Kitchen Rose Levey Berenbaum’s 1.5 quart Baking Bowl and Double boiler is made of European-grade silicone, which is heat resistant to 500 degrees Fahrenheit and cold-resistant to -92 degrees! Unlike the metal double boilers that are limited to use in a pot, you can use this for ‘quick’ melting in your microwave by heating and stirring approximately every 15 seconds.
While some folks may feel that is ‘cheating’ a little, we thought this was an interesting double boiler and that some folks out there might like the emergency ‘quick melted chocolate’ option!
Pros:
The European silicone is super durable and with its heat and cold resistance, you’ll find plenty of ‘outside of the box’ uses for it – always a huge perk for kitchen creatives. The option to quickly melt in the microwave is also kind of nice for upgrading store donuts into chocolate donuts and other tasty tasks.
Cons:
You can fit it into a saucepan and use it like a standard double boiler, but without a handle or hook you’ll need to be careful.
With its satin mirror finish, this Farberware Classic Stainless steel series 1 quart double boiler looks quite sharp in your kitchen. Measuring in at 7.75″D x 11.5″W x 6.75″H and weighing just shy of 3 pounds, this double boiler features an aluminum core and stainless steel body, saucepot-style handles, and a rounded grip stainless steel lid. That aluminum core lets it heat your water a little faster than stainless steel would alone and it will work with all kinds of stove surfaces, so it’s compatible with whatever you have at home.
Add in that if you want to put it in the oven to keep your cheese or chocolate warm, it’s also heat-resistant to 350 degrees! It’s a solid set and you’ll love having it at your beck and call in the kitchen.
Pros:
Farberware was originally established in 1900 in New York City and they’ve earned a good reputation along the way. This double boiler set is a good example of that. It has a classic look to it, without being overly fancy, and it performs wonderfully in the kitchen. The aluminum core ensures reliable, quick, and even heating, and since it’s dishwasher-safe the cleanup is a piece of cake.
Cons:
You’ll note the ad lists it as a 2 quart and the bottom pan DOES have a 2 quart capacity, but the upper pot has a 1-quart capacity total – we wanted to make sure that this was clarified. For some, 1 quart may not be sufficient, but if 1 quart capacity is all that you need then you will definitely like this double boiler. Also, the stainless-steel lid may be a dealbreaker for those who prefer tempered glass.
Our next double boiler is a little more personal sized and comes from Classic Cuisine. This stainless-steel double boiler has a 1.5 quart capacity, measures at 7.75″D x 14″W x 5″H, and weighs in at about 3.5 pounds.
Inside the pot you’ll find quart and liter measurements so that you’ll know exactly how much liquid you’ve added and it also features a tempered glass lid with a handy steam vent so that you can keep an eye on your melting chocolate. It also works with all cooking surfaces, so what’s not to like?!
Pros:
Sweet, petite, and priced to go – this is a good-looking double boiler set and just the right size for a personal fondue, making chocolate-dipped strawberries, and many other creative, tasty endeavors. We also like the interior measurement markings – saves a bit of guesswork and paranoia when you can see exactly what you’ve poured in.
Cons:
Pan fit is nice and tight but if you aren’t careful, you can stack them in the wrong way. Not a huge problem, but something to be aware of.
Our first double boiler is this Songziming Double Boiler Pot set that comes with a silicone spatula to help you stir your chocolate, cheese, wax, or anything else that you feel like melting. The larger pot has a 1.7 quart capacity, while the smaller one will hold .6 quarts and features dual pour spouts for easy emptying.
The pots are made from 18/8 stainless steel and your melting pot is equipped with a no-slide hook to keep it firmly in place while you are using it. It is also good for gas, electric, and induction style stoves.
Pros:
This is a very competitively priced set that can take the heat and make short work of your melting requirements. Cleaning the stainless steel is a piece of cake and we liked that they threw in the spatula as well.
Cons:
This pot has no side handles, so you’ll need to wait for it to cool down or put on some thick kitchen gloves if you need to move it quickly when you’re done. The melting bowl is also on the small side – if you are looking to melt a lot of chocolate, a bigger double boiler will be a better fit.
Next up we have this ExcelSteel Stainless-Steel 3-Piece 2.5 quart double boiler that measures in at 13.75 x 7.75 x 7.25, weighs about 2 pounds, and holds a 2.5 quart capacity. Those two handles are both riveted solidly in place and it also features a handy glass top so that you can cover and peek in on your chocolate. When you add in that it’s easy to clean and dishwasher safe, it’s a fine little set that you’ll enjoy and which definitely won’t break the bank!
Pros:
This is a great little set. The stainless steel aesthetic looks good in the kitchen, it has a useful capacity, and it will heat your chocolate quickly so that you can transform it into whatever delicious dessert you have in mind.
Cons:
Speaking of heating fast, while the stainless steel is durable, it is not as thick as you will see with some higher end options. It still works wonderfully for melting chocolate — but you don’t have the kind of time window that you get with thicker steel.
This T-Fal -quart Specialty Stainless Steel Double Boiler features a glass top, heat-resistant handles, and boasts a 3 quart capacity. It measures in at 8.5″D x 15.5″W x 9″H and is made with stainless steel and aluminum, so it’s durable and quick to heat. Dishwasher safe and also safe for temperatures up to 350 degrees in your oven, it’s a nice little set, and good for gas, induction, and electric stoves.
Pros:
This is a nice, big set that can melt a good amount of chocolate in (the top pan has about a 2 liter capacity), and you can also use it for cheeses, wax, or making soaps. It’s priced to go as well – you’re getting quality pans for a pittance that look great and perform well.
Cons:
Only the bottom pot has a non-stick coating – not the top pot. While many folks actually prefer this, it’s not everyone’s cup of tea and so we wanted to bring this to your attention.
Our next double boiler is this Kitchencraft Induction Bain Marie with a double boiler porringer insert and it has a 5 liter/just over 5 quart capacity, so it’s ready to make chocolate, cheese, or even soap or candles! The bottom pot is ceramic lined and the two-piece set measures an overall 4.72″D x 6.69″W x 8.66″H and weighs 1.76 pounds.
You’ve also got a glass lid for watching your chocolate or if you fancy a perfect porridge, this KitchenCraft can help you to make one! Add in that you get a 15-year guarantee on the pot set and we have a very good feeling that you’ll be enjoying these pots for many years down the line!
Pros:
The set is well-made and fits together nicely. You get a lot of space from the depth, but it’s more compact than many bulkier sets so you can save a bit of space and still melt quite a lot of chocolate. The encapsulated steel base also has an aluminum core, so you get smooth, even heating, and that’s exactly what you need with chocolate, candies, cheeses, or even soaps.
Cons:
The riveted handles can be a little tricky to clean if your pan has been in the sink in contact with some messier dishes. We would have liked those handles to be a little thicker too, but as the pots are quite lightweight, the handle design seems adequate for the task at hand.
This large-capacity double boiler is called the Winware 8 quart double boiler (4 quart/1 gallon melting capacity) and it features a stainless steel cover and if you’ve got a lot of melting to do, this double boiler has got you covered. Measuring in at 14″ x 10″ x 11.75″, it’s large and solidly built, so if you want to create desserts for gatherings or make your own soaps or candles, this robust double boiler will do the job right1
Pros:
The metal is thick and durable and for larger melting tasks, it’s a great fit. You’ve got a huge capacity to work with and cleanup of the stainless steel is quick and easy.
Cons:
The brushed stainless steel means you’ll spend a little more time during cleanup than you would with polished stainless steel, but otherwise it’s a pretty solid double boiler set.
FAQs
It’s time to start ‘closing down the shop’, so to speak, but we’ve got a few frequently asked questions about double boilers and chocolate to share with you before we do. After these, we’ll tell you our ‘verdict’ for our favorite boilers and we’ll get things wrapped up properly!
Do you really need a double boiler for chocolate?
While you can create a makeshift double boiler it’s really much better to use an actual one. From a makeshift perspective, let’s say you got a saucepan and a smaller pot to stick in it.
Well, in such a scenario, you’ve got to consider the thickness of the bottom of your melting pot as this will factor into the heating speed and efficiency. You’ll also have to hold that little pot in place until it heats up enough to get your chocolate all melted… it’s really not very convenient at all.
With a double boiler, however, you just need to heat the water and keep an eye on your pot. This simple method is why a double boiler is an essential tool in the kitchen of any home cook, especially for tasks requiring low heat, like melting small pieces of chocolate for a creamy hot liquid.
It will either fit in the matching saucepan or might just hook into place, and will typically be made of something like aluminum that will heat up quickly and well. No muss, no fuss – a double boiler is the right tool for the job.
Can you overheat chocolate in a double boiler?
Yes, you can, so it pays to know a little about your chocolates and their melting points. White chocolate, for instance, shouldn’t be heated above 110 degrees, while dark chocolate shouldn’t be heated over 120. You can see a great article on that subject from the Webstaurant store here and that should help to clear things up.
Why won’t my melted chocolate harden?
Chocolate will typically harden well at a temperature range between 65 to 68 degrees. If it’s hotter, then it’s going to take a little longer. Another factor can be the chocolate brand that you are using. If it is not properly tempered (which refers to the original heating and cooling when making it) then it can take a little longer to fully harden.
The Verdict
As we’ve seen, there are different methods to melt chocolate, but the list of the best double boilers shows that this kitchen tool is a great addition for any chocolate lover.
Whether you’re making a couple of inches of water simmer in the bottom pan for delicate sauces or using a microwave-safe bowl for a quick fix, the right double boiler can make all the difference.
From stainless steel material to ergonomic handles, these models showcase the best in European craftsmanship and design, making them a high-quality choice for every home baker.
It’s time to wrap things up, but first things first – we need to tell you about our favorites and what we liked about them. If a different set caught your eye, however, be sure to go with it – kitchen tools are very personal things, and all of the double boilers we’ve shared today have great perks.
With that said, these were our favorites and we’ll share the reasoning behind each.
Best personal-use Double Boiler – Classic Cuisine Stainless Steel 6 Cup Double Boiler – 1.5 Quart Saucepan
The Classic Cuisine Stainless Steel 6 cup double boiler gives you enough capacity to whip up a nice fondue or a chocolate-covered strawberries snack, and the polished finish and glass lid ensure that it looks nice doing it. It’s a good little set for someone who wants a double boiler on a budget and well-worth a closer look.
Best ‘Petite but Powerful’ Double Boiler – KitchenCraft Stainless-steel 5-quart Induction Bain Marie/Double Boiler Porringer –
This KitchenCraft Stainless-steel 5 quart induction Bain Marie & Porringer doesn’t take up a lot of space, but gives you 5 quart capacity for melting in a pretty and lightweight stainless steel package. When you’re not making chocolate, you can also use it to make a mean porridge, and it doesn’t hurt that they throw in a 15 year warranty to go with your Bain Marie!
Best ‘Heavy Duty’ Double Boiler – Winware Stainless 8 Quart (4 quart melting capacity) Double Boiler with Cover –
This WinWare Stainless 8 quart is one great, big boiler. The insert has up to a 6 quart capacity, and while that’s a lot of chocolate, that also means that making soap, candles, and other melting projects will be quite a bit easier – it’s got the capacity, after all. If you’ll be doing a lot of double boiling, then the WinWare might just be a great fit for you!
We’d like to thank you so much for reading today and if you want to share some comments and recommendations of your own – please do! Feedback is probably our favorite part of this process, so we hope you’ll keep it coming. Thanks again and we hope to see you again soon!
