Is it Worth the Investment?
Alright, let’s talk about cookware. I recently got my hands on the Circulon Premier Professional Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set, and after spending some serious time in the kitchen with these, I’ve got plenty of thoughts to share. This set includes 12 pieces, all designed for induction cooking, and comes in a bronze finish that definitely adds a touch of style to the kitchen. If you’re in the market for cookware that looks good, performs well, and is built to last, this set might just be what you’re looking for.
Cooking Performance That Stands Out
Let’s dive into the performance of these pots and pans. Right off the bat, I noticed how quickly they heat up. The hard anodized aluminum construction really makes a difference when it comes to even heat distribution. Whether I’m sautéing vegetables or simmering a sauce, the heat spreads evenly across the surface, which means fewer hot spots and more consistent cooking. That’s a huge plus, especially if you’re like me and cook a variety of meals regularly.
The nonstick coating is where things get really interesting. Circulon’s TOTAL® Nonstick System is legit—it uses raised circles and three layers of premium nonstick coating. I’ve used this set to make everything from stir-fry to pancakes, and nothing sticks. I’m not kidding—eggs slide right off the pan with barely any oil. This makes cleanup ridiculously easy, which is always a bonus when you don’t want to spend forever scrubbing.
I’ve also tested these on a variety of cooktops, including induction, and they perform equally well across the board. The fact that they’re induction-compatible adds a layer of versatility that a lot of cookware sets don’t have. If you’ve got an induction stovetop, you know how crucial it is to find cookware that’s up to the task, and this set handles it without any issues.
Durability: Built to Last
Durability is always a big question mark with cookware, but after putting these through their paces, I can say they’re built to last. The hard anodized construction makes them tougher than stainless steel. They can take a beating without warping, scratching, or losing their nonstick properties. I’ve used metal utensils on these (though I wouldn’t recommend doing that regularly), and they haven’t scratched at all.
Another thing I like is that the set is oven-safe up to 400°F. So if you’re finishing a dish in the oven or just need to keep something warm, you don’t have to transfer it to another pan. I’ve made some baked pasta dishes in the sauté pan, and it came out beautifully without sticking to the sides.
One minor downside here is the weight. These pans are on the heavier side, which is a testament to their quality, but it might take some getting used to if you’re used to lightweight cookware. That said, I’d rather deal with a bit of heft knowing they’ll last longer than some flimsy alternative.
Design: Aesthetic Meets Functionality
Let’s not pretend that looks don’t matter in the kitchen. The bronze finish on this set is a real eye-catcher. I’ve got them hanging up in my kitchen, and they look pretty sleek. But beyond looks, the design is functional. The handles are made of stainless steel and coated with silicone, which means they stay cool to the touch even when the pots and pans are blazing hot. This is a small detail that makes a big difference, especially if you tend to multitask in the kitchen and forget to grab a potholder.
The lids are made of shatter-resistant glass, which is awesome because I like to see how my food is cooking without lifting the lid and losing heat. They fit snugly, keeping moisture and flavor locked in, which is essential for slow-cooked dishes or soups.
I will say, though, that the bronze finish, while attractive, does need a little more care. If you’re particular about keeping them looking pristine, you might find yourself wiping them down more than usual to maintain that shine. But, if you’re more about performance than keeping them spotless, this won’t be a big deal.
What’s Included in the Set
This 12-piece set gives you pretty much everything you need for daily cooking. Here’s what’s inside:
- 1-quart saucepan with lid
- 2-quart saucepan with lid
- 3-quart saucepan with lid
- 8-quart stockpot with lid
- 8.5-inch frying pan
- 10-inch frying pan
- 12-inch frying pan
- 3-quart sauté pan with lid
I’ve used pretty much every piece in this set, and they all serve different purposes. The stockpot is perfect for soups or pasta, the frying pans are my go-to for quick meals, and the sauté pan is ideal for one-pot dishes or anything that requires a little more depth.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
One of the best things about this set is how easy it is to clean. The nonstick surface really does its job, and I’ve never had to deal with any stubborn, stuck-on food. A little soap, water, and a sponge are all it takes to get them looking like new. They’re dishwasher-safe, but I usually hand wash them because it’s so quick and easy.
That said, the nonstick coating will last longer if you avoid using metal utensils and stick to wooden or silicone tools. Also, while they are technically dishwasher-safe, I always find that handwashing helps maintain the nonstick surface better over time.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Even heating: The hard anodized construction ensures heat is distributed evenly across the pan surface.
- Excellent nonstick coating: Food slides right off, making cooking and cleanup a breeze.
- Induction-compatible: Works on all cooktops, including induction, which isn’t always the case with cookware.
- Durable and oven-safe: Withstands high heat and heavy use without warping.
- Stylish design: The bronze finish looks great in the kitchen, and the shatter-resistant glass lids are practical.
Cons:
- Weight: These are heavier than your typical nonstick cookware, which can be a bit of a challenge if you prefer something lighter.
- Requires some care: The bronze finish may need extra attention to keep it looking nice.Circulon Premier Professional Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Induction Pots and Pans Set, 12 Piece, Bronze4.8We may earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Final Thoughts
If you’re in the market for a high-quality cookware set that looks as good as it performs, the Circulon Premier Professional Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set is an excellent choice. The nonstick performance is top-notch, the pots and pans are built to last, and the fact that they’re induction-compatible gives them an edge over a lot of other sets out there.
The bronze finish is a nice touch if aesthetics matter to you, but even if you’re just after solid cookware that’ll stand the test of time, you can’t go wrong with this set. The only real downside is the weight, but that’s a trade-off for durability. If you’re willing to deal with that, you’ll get a set that’ll last for years without showing signs of wear.
All in all, this set checks a lot of boxes for both casual home cooks and those who spend a lot of time in the kitchen. I’d definitely recommend it if you’re ready to upgrade your current cookware and want something that offers a great balance of style, performance, and durability.
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