Looking to switch to copper cookware? Read this before you start shopping.
The best cookware copper will have some unique characteristics, and the right choice will depend on your taste, budget, and cooking needs. For example, you might prefer a set from Made In that allows for higher temperatures and offers a nonstick surface.
Or you might prefer a set from Mauviel 1830 that has a more classic, old world look. Of course, copper is more expensive than other materials, so it’s important to consider this before buying a set.
Best Cookware Copper
The most obvious reason to buy copper cookware is its brilliance. It elevates the look of any kitchen, and it’s very easy to understand why.
Although the color may not have a major effect on cooking performance, the real benefit of copper cookware is its thermal efficiency, which translates to ease of heat transfer.
Read on to learn how copper can make your cooking experience even better. Listed below are some other reasons why copper cookware is the best choice for your kitchen.
- BEST OVERALLAll-Clad Copper Core 5-ply Bonded Cookware
RUNNER UPMade In The Copper Set
BEST BUDGETLagostina Martellata Tri-Ply Copper Cookware Set
MOST ATTRACTIVERuffoni Historia Copper Cookware Set 
BEST FAUX COPPERGotham Steel Hammered Collection Premium Cookware Set
- Viking Culinary 3-Ply Stainless Steel Hammered Copper Clad Cookware Set
Cuisinart Stainless Steel Copper Band Cookware Set
When shopping for new pots and pans, copper isn’t often on home cooks’ list, with fears that the pricey cookware will be impossible to keep clean or challenging to work with. But copper is a mainstay in high-end restaurants for a reason: The metal is ideal for conducting heat, giving chefs and home cooks alike precision to create the perfect sear on a steak or piece of fish.
But the world of copper cookware can be a smidge intimidating. Before you jump in, read our guide to the best copper cookware sets. We tested seven of the top-rated copper cookware sets on the market, and we’ve determined which ones are the best.
Best Copper Cookware Sets at a Glance
- Best Overall Copper Cookware Set: All-Clad Copper Core 5-ply Bonded Cookware Set
- Runner Up: Made In The Copper Set
- Best Budget Copper Cookware Set: Lagostina Martellata Tri-Ply Copper Cookware Set
- Most Attractive Copper Cookware Set: Ruffoni Historia Copper Cookware Set with Acorn Knobs
- Best Faux Copper Cookware Set: Gotham Steel Hammered Collection Premium Cookware Set
How to Choose the Best Copper Cookware Set
Construction
Because copper is a highly reactive metal that can react poorly to acidic foods and even leach into the food itself, copper cookware is usually lined or constructed with some other type of non-reactive metal. You’ll find most modern day copper pots and pans constructed one of four ways:
- Tin- or Stainless Steel-Lined: This is the most traditional type of copper cookware and the most expensive. In this case, the entire pan is constructed from copper, but the interior is lined with a thin layer of tin or stainless steel. This provides optimal conduction thanks to the copper, while the lining keeps the copper from leaching into your food.
- Cladding/Ply: When cookware is described as having a “copper core,” this means that a thick layer of copper has been sandwiched between layers of non-reactive metals (usually stainless steel) and then bonded to create a new, single sheet of metal. In some cases, copper is sandwiched between layers of conductive aluminum and then bonded together with a stainless steel exterior. The term “ply” describes the numbers of layers of metal in a pan’s cladding — popular varieties include tri-ply, 5-ply, and 7-ply. Sometimes these pans may have a thin copper finish for aesthetic purposes.
- Copper Bottom: This refers to cookware in which the interior and sides are made with a non-copper metal, while the base of the pan features a layer of copper for conduction.
- Faux Copper Cookware: For those who want the look of copper without the upkeep or price tag, there are many cookware sets available with a copper-esque finish that don’t actually contain any genuine copper. Oftentimes these pots and pans are ceramic nonstick, meaning they are made from more inexpensive metals such as aluminum and coated in a nonstick finish. However, you lose the signature conductivity that copper is famous for. But if you’re just here for aesthetics, this is a great way to get the copper look without shelling out the copper money.
Thickness
When it comes to copper, thickness is key. A pan that’s not thick enough won’t perform well and won’t hold up over time. But a pan that’s too thick will make the copper less conductive. The sweet spot is right between 2.5 millimeters and 3 millimeters thick.
Finish
Copper cookware generally comes in two finishes: hammered or smooth. Hammered copper cookware is a classic look, but really makes no difference in the performance of the pan. And while hammered copper cookware is usually shiny, smooth copper cookware may have a matte or shiny finish.
Another thing to keep in mind when it comes to the look of copper is that exposed copper will patina with age, meaning it will form a brown or green film, causing the pan to darken overall. For copper aficionados, this is actually desirable because it’s the sign of a truly well-loved pan — and it even improves its performance.
However, at-home polishing (this top-rated copper polish is just $9 on Amazon) can be done if you’d prefer to get back to that glossy shine (although it may not remove all the patina). Our advice? If you decide to convert to copper cookware, you have to learn to embrace the patina.
Versatility
Since we are talking about cookware sets here, it’s important to consider the number of pieces you need and/or want. Are you looking to do a full cookware overhaul or just add some luxurious new copper pieces to your cookware collection for special occasions? We tested a variety of sets ranging from six pieces to 11 pieces in total.
How We Tested Each Copper Cookware Set
Allrecipes product tester Alexandra Emanuelli rounded up top-rated copper cookware sets from reputable brands including All-Clad, Cuisinart, Ruffoni, and more. Each set was tested with four distinct recipes: caramel, turkey gravy, pan-fried salmon, and crepes. Alexandra paid close attention to the following metrics:
- Performance/Ease of Use: How evenly do the pans cook foods? How quickly do they gain and lose heat? Are the pans heavy or clunky? Do the handles get hot to the touch?
- Value: Would an average person use each piece on a regular basis? Is the set worth the money?
- Maintenance: How easy are the pans to clean by hand? Do they scratch, burn, or dent easily?
- Overall Look: Are the pans attractive? Would you want to display them in your kitchen?
To hear Alexandra’s thoughts on each set (including those that were edged out by the competition), keep reading.
The Best Cookware Copper Sets of 2024
Best Overall: All-Clad Copper Core 5-ply Bonded Cookware Set
Made with a stainless-steel body and a copper core, the All-Clad set provides the advantages of both types of metals. The stainless steel offers an easy-to-care-for body, and the copper ensures a precise and uniform cooking surface.
With a higher price tag, you would expect this set to deliver both on style and function, and it certainly does. The 10-piece set includes two fry pans, two saucepans, one saute pan, and one covered stockpot.
The copper is concealed in the cookware’s core, only visible as a golden-hued ring directly above the pan’s bottom, while the body is made from five-ply bonded stainless steel and aluminum.
Alexandra found the flared edges especially useful when testing caramel, preventing a sticky mess from coating the top of her stove. She also appreciated the thoughtfully designed side handles, which helped to grip the pan when frying.
Durably built, versatile, and beautifully designed, this is the cookware set for someone who wants style and substance. “The pans look like professional restaurant grade pans,” Alexandra notes.
Buy it: All-Clad Copper Core 5-ply Bonded 10-Piece Cookware Set
Runner Up: Made In The Copper Set
The Made In set has an ultra-sleek, modern design that immediately elevates your kitchen with its clean aesthetic. This smaller, more tailored collection includes a saucepan, rondeau pan, and saucier, ideal for making soups, stews, stocks, and pasta dishes.
Constructed with 90 percent copper and lined with stainless steel to ensure safe cooking, these pots are an exact means of controlling your temperature, perfect for searing and then simmering. While this cookware isn’t dishwasher safe, it is relatively easy to wash up by hand. Alexandra found the rondeau pan a usefully shaped pan as she noted, “The copper provided a great base for quickly and evenly searing meats on the stove top, and then easily retaining the heat when transfering to the oven to stew.”
The only cons Alexandra found were that the copper discolored after use, creating a type of patina, which some might find not as attractive as the original mirror finish. With a copper cleaner or baking soda solution, the exterior can be restored to its original luster.
Buy it: Made In The Copper Set
Best Budget Set: Lagostina Martellata Tri-Ply Copper Cookware Set
Another top cookware brand, Lagostina, is well known for constructing quality products at an affordable price, and this set is a demonstration of just that. Including two skillets, two covered saucepans, one stockpot, and one covered saute pan, this is quite a comprehensive set.
On the lower end of the price spectrum, these pots were reasonably similar in many of their characteristics to other models on our list, from heat conduction to cleaning and care. Lagostina was notable in its ergonomic design, which was felt in its longer, thicker handles and holders, providing a more comfortable grip when handling the pots and pans. They were a fraction of the price of the similarly designed Viking set, making these a win in our books. The saute pans perfectly cooked fish during testing without overcooking, and the pan’s edges are high enough to prevent splatters from butter or sauce.
“This is the type of cookware I feel comfortable using everyday,” says Alexandra. “It’s durable and thoughtfully built, but not so pretty that I would worried about dinging it up if I used metal instead of plastic in it.”
Buy it: Lagostina Martellata Tri-Ply 10-Piece Copper Cookware Set
Most Attractive: Ruffoni Historia Copper Cookware Set with Acorn Knobs
While not a key component of copper cookware, the tool is undoubtedly prized for its beauty, and the Ruffino set combines beauty with a solid build. Bright gold-colored brass handles and lid knobs adorn these already sumptuous copper pots and pans to make for a stunning display when presented at the dinner table or on the stovetop. Unfortunately, the set is relatively limited, including one fry pan, one covered saucepan, one covered chef pan, and a stockpot with a lid.
During testing, the saucepan worked wonderfully to heat and cool as needed while making caramel a notoriously tricky candy. Alexandra recommends caution when cooking for extended periods, as the brass handles heat up when cooking, making it difficult to stir or hold the pan without an oven mitt.
Their acclaim was also to their detriment, as Alexandra found that she was a bit hesitant to take these precious pots out to cook with them for everyday use. “I was concerned that I would damage them or get them messed up.” Indeed, these were the only pots that got scratched when used.
Clean and care are two other issues worth noting. Hand washing and drying are vital in keeping these pots and pans looking their loveliest. Perhaps these are best used for special occasions and decorative serving, or if you have the time to give this cookware extra love and attention.
Buy it: Ruffoni Historia Seven-Piece Copper Cookware Set
Best Faux Copper Cookware Set: Gotham Steel Hammered Collection Premium Cookware Set
This 10-piece set from Gotham Steel includes two covered saucepans, two frying pans (one covered), and one stock pot with stainless steel insert. Alexandra says, “This set would be great for a newbie, with many of the basic cookware pieces included.”
Boasting an “award-winning coating,” the pans don’t require any additional fats to prevent sticking, a real win for those looking to be more health-conscious. It’s important to note that this set does not contain any genuine copper — it’s made primarily from aluminum and coated with a nonstick coating and a copper-colored finish, all of which makes it ideal for the cook who wants the copper look without the tedious maintenance and hefty price tag. However, this set will not provide the same heat-conductivity benefits that are signature to genuine copper cookware.
This set is dishwasher safe and easy to maintain, a huge bonus, especially in a category that requires extra attention to keep looking shiny and new. Alexandra liked that this set balanced value with quality, on the lower end of cost but equal to some higher-end models.
Lighter weight than some of the other sets, Alexandra found that these were more comfortable to handle and less clunky than some fully copper models. These were ideal for getting a quick breakfast prepared or leaving on the stove for pan-fried salmon for dinner with even and fast heating.
Buy it: Gotham Steel Hammered Collection Premium 10-Piece Cookware Set
Other Copper Cookware Sets We Tested
Viking Culinary 3-Ply Stainless Steel Hammered Copper Clad Cookware Set
With an attractive copper hammered exterior and a solid stainless-steel interior, this high-quality set is durable and highly conductive, heating up quickly and without hot spots. It missed the mark as it seems relatively similar to the Lagostina set, which is significantly cheaper. If you’re a Viking fan, the set is a solid choice. It includes two fry pans, two covered saucepans, a covered saute pan and a stockpot with a lid. The lids are vented, which makes these ideal for being able to watch for boiling or cooking ingredients.
This cookware does require your full attention, as Alexandra found that “the difference between cooking and burning is a very fine point.”
Buy it: Viking Culinary 3-Ply Stainless Steel Hammered Copper Clad 10-Piece Cookware Set
Cuisinart Stainless Steel Copper Band Cookware Set
Cuisinart is known for high-quality kitchen tools, and this set is no exception. These professional-looking pots were quick to heat and were comfortable to cook with; the handles stayed cool and lids provided an excellent seal on the pots. The set comes with three covered saucepans, one Dutch oven, one skillet and one saucier. While Alexandra loved the versatility of pots and pans that this set provided, one issue was some wear on the pans’ bottom following use, causing it to be just edged out by the competition.
Buy it: Cuisinart Stainless Steel Copper Band 11-Piece Cookware Set
Note: The tested Cuisinart set is only available in Canada. For U.S. customers, Cuisinart offers a comparable set on Amazon for $295.
Best Copper Cookware Set
A great set of copper cookware offers many benefits, ranging from a historical look to exceptional performance. This tri-ply design features two layers of stainless steel and a durable aluminum core clad for exceptional heat conductivity and even distribution of heat.
The high thermal conductivity makes copper an excellent choice for cooking multiple dishes with similar ingredients. Moreover, the beautiful copper finish keeps food flavors intact. You can also find a variety of recipes on one pot to maximize your cooking experience.
Buying a cookware set can be an investment in your cooking career. A good set can be an excellent investment. If you can afford it, choose a six- or eight-piece set. However, if you’re a beginner, consider buying a smaller set and purchasing a larger one for use in your kitchen. For beginners, look for sets that have six or eight pieces. If you’re more experienced, buy a set with more pieces – you’ll have plenty of cookwares for every task.
If you can’t afford the highest-quality cookware, choose one with a reasonable price tag. Although copper cookware sets tend to be expensive, they are highly durable and are the perfect choice for everyday use. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, copper cookware is the ideal choice. Compared to other materials, it lasts longer and is more durable. You can also choose a set that has a large collection of pieces for ease of cleaning.
Best Copper Cookware Brand
The Best Copper Cookware Brand is guaranteeing safe to use. When you buy a piece of copper cookware, you should feel confident that you’ll be able to enjoy it safely. Manufacturers offer warranties that protect your investment. In addition to ensuring the safety of your new copper pans, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your money is protected. Purchasing from a reputable manufacturer will also ensure that your products are of high quality and have the best warranties in the industry.
Before making a purchase, make sure you know the brand’s reputation for quality and safety. You don’t want to purchase a piece of cookware that won’t live up to your expectations. You also want to make sure that the company you’re buying from has a long history. This will ensure that they are reliable and will provide you with the best customer service and guarantee the quality of their goods. Some of the best brands have even offered expert advice and customer service to help you find the best copper cookware for your kitchen.
The Best Copper Cookware Brand is one that guarantees the safety of its products. A high-quality product can last you years. To choose the best copper cookware, look for a manufacturer with an established reputation in the industry. They’ll have spent years building a solid reputation and are sure to stand behind their products. They’ll offer you excellent customer service and warranties on all goods that they sell. Lastly, they’ll give you expert advice on how to use your new copper cookware to maximize your kitchen efficiency.
Best Cookware Copper Set
The most important thing to consider when choosing a copper cookware set is the type of cooking it will be used for. The best copper cookware is durable, which will make it a great choice for a large number of recipes. Some copper sets have a copper bottom, which will keep food from sticking to the bottom and allow you to avoid greasy splatters. The most durable and beautiful sets are made of pure copper and are very easy to clean.
The best sets for beginners are those that have as many as six or eight pieces. If you are a beginner, a six- or eight-piece set is enough for the average kitchen. The best sets are durable and come in a variety of sizes. Choose the one that fits your style and your budget the best. Depending on the size of the family, you can expand your set as you get more comfortable cooking.
The best sets come with dedicated lids for easy cleanup. These are dishwasher-safe, but they aren’t dishwasher-safe. Keeping copper cookware looking shiny is essential if you want it to last a long time. It’s also important to note that copper cookware tends to scratch easily, so you’ll need to maintain them properly. Fortunately, there are plenty of affordable sets with copper construction.
Best Copper Cookware Australia
Copper cookware is not only beautiful, it’s also an investment that will last for many years. The material is well-known for its durability, quality, and reliability. Located in Australia, The Essential Ingredient sells an array of different copper cookware from the world’s most respected brands.
You’ll love how complete control you have over the heat and the way your food turns out. The material is also a natural heat conductor, so it’s perfect for cooking delicate dishes like fish and vegetables.
If you’re looking for the best copper cookware in Australia, there are a few companies you should consider. Some of the leading brands are Mauviel, Hestan, and Matfer Bourgeat. Made in France, Mauviel was founded in 1830.
The copper cookware is 2.5 millimeters thick, and its lids are made of copper with a stainless steel lining. The handles are made of cast iron, which means they can get hot when you’re using them on the stovetop, but they’re sturdy and comfortable.
If you’re looking for an up-and-coming brand in copper cookware, you may want to check out Made In. This new company was founded in 2016, but its co-founder has over 100 years of experience in the kitchen supply industry. The company partners with multi-generational French manufacturers to create the highest-quality cookware. While it’s not the cheapest option in the world, it’s also one of the most affordable.
Best Copper Cookware Sets 2024
The best copper cookware sets will last you a lifetime and can be passed down for generations. These plans come in many different styles and are made of copper or stainless steel.
You can find a complete set or purchase individual pieces if you don’t want to spend as much money. Some brands are known for being high-quality while others are less expensive. The best copper cookware sets are made by manufacturers that have been around for more than a century.
The best copper cookware sets are made of high-quality copper. Some sets are dishwasher-safe while others are oven-safe. This gives you the freedom to choose which features you want. Often, these sets will have ever-cool handles that make them comfortable to hold and provide safety. Some models will be compatible with all types of stovetops, but you should always check the manufacturer’s website before making a purchase.
The best copper cookware comes with a non-stick coating that ensures easy food release and makes cleaning easier. These sets are also made with scratch-resistant hard-anodized aluminum that is guaranteed to last a lifetime. Some sets also come with glass lids to lock in flavors. A lifetime warranty is another benefit of copper cookware. Just be sure to check the brand before you buy a set.
Best Copper Cookware Cleaner
The Best Copper Cookware Cleaner contains citric acid, the strongest chemical available for cleaning copper. You can purchase a cleaner with citric acid or make your own at home. The salt works as abrasive, scrubbing off stubborn stains.
A lemon and table salt paste will also do the trick. Just scrub the cookware with a clean cloth to remove the paste. If you want to clean the interior of your copper pots and pans without using harsh chemicals, you can simply apply baking soda, lemon juice, and baking soda.
It’s important to remember that copper is thermally efficient, so you should never heat copper cookware without food in it. When the heat source is high, the metal will melt the tin lining, destroying the copper exterior. It’s also important to dry the pots and pans after cooking. Using the best Copper Cookware Cleaner is essential for maintaining the attractive sheen of your cookware.
Despite its reactivity, copper cookware can be difficult to clean. The lining is made of an inert metal, which prevents food from coming into contact with the copper itself. However, different types of lining require different cleaning methods. To get the most out of your copper cookware, you should avoid using chemicals with high pH. If you’re not sure about what to use, you can use Bar Keeper’s Friend and ketchup. But be sure to read the instructions carefully. You should always follow the instructions on the bottle.
Best Copper Cookware Wirecutter
If you’re looking for a new cookware set for your kitchen, copper is the way to go. This metal is known for its superior heating properties and striking appearance, but it can also be a bit pricey. However, copper is highly durable and lasts much longer than other materials, such as cast iron. In this review, we’ll look at some of the best brands of copper cookware, including Williams Sonoma and Mauviel.
The brand Mauviel was founded by a French craftsman, Charles Kohler, in 1830. It produces top-quality copper cookware that is both high-performing and classy. This cookware brand is well-known for its superior performance, and it’s a great choice if you want a copper pan for your kitchen. The cookware is made by hand, and it is a piece of art.
Mauviel cookware was established in 1830 by a craftsman named Charles Mauviel. It’s a high-performance brand of copper cookware, made in France. While the company offers a small range of pans in stainless steel, it is best known for its copper frying pans. The cookware is made in France, and the quality of their products is second-to-none.
The wirecutter’s review is comprehensive, based on extensive testing. It ranked the best copper skillets in six categories. This prestigious reviewer’s list is compiled from a variety of sources. To find the best copper skillet, simply check the reviews online. These websites will make the process simple for you. If you’re considering purchasing a new set of cookware, you should consider all these factors.
FAQs
Is copper cookware any good?
There are many benefits to cooking with copper cookware. These include efficient heating and a striking appearance. While it can be pricey, copper cookware tends to last a long time, which is good news for home chefs who are trying to stretch their budget. The top brands for copper cookware include Williams Sonoma, which is known for its diverse and functional range of pieces. You can also find great deals if you shop vintage.
What cookware should be copper?
What cookware should be copper? The answer depends on what you want to use it for. If you’re preparing a fancy dinner for your dinner party, copper cookware may be your best choice. It will heat up quickly and evenly, so you won’t need to add as much heat as you would with other metals. However, if you’re using a non-stick pan, you should avoid using medium-high heat, which could melt the lining.
Is copper cookware bad for your health?
The first question that comes to most people’s mind is, “Is copper cookware bad for your health?” It is not necessarily true, but you should avoid it. Copper is toxic when ingested and can break down easily if left in contact with acidic foods. The FDA recommends using copper-coated pans only for low-acidic foods. This article will explain the best ways to cook with copper.
What are the disadvantages of copper cookware?
When cooking acidic and alkaline foods, copper cookware will react. The result is a metallic flavor. There are many different kinds of copper cookware available in the market. Choosing one for your kitchen should depend on your taste and budget. Remember, the more expensive the cookware, the more expensive it will be. Also, it is important to prep your ingredients beforehand so that they do not get burned.
Final Thoughts
Copper cookware is one of the most popular types of cookware. It is easy to clean and conduct heat evenly. It is also very durable and will last for a very long time. In addition, if it is well-cared for, copper cookware can be passed down for generations. If you’re looking for the best cookware, copper is a great choice. Read on to learn more about copper and its benefits.
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