To Find the Best Mixing Bowls, I Made a Dozen Cakes and Whipped Quarts of Cream

Few cooking gear staples are as ubiquitous as the mighty mixing bowl. No matter what kitchen you go into around the globe, you’re guaranteed to find one (and likely more, in various shapes and sizes). Most are jacks of all trades, able to hold delicate whipped egg whites and big chopped salads, as readily as they are to act as a makeshift double boiler for tempering chocolate or line up next to other serving dishes at a potluck. The best mixing bowls can do it all, and then some.

Senior editor Grace Kelly originally tested a lineup of 12 stainless steel mixing bowls in 2023, and I recently retested her favorites alongside a new lineup of metal, glass, and ceramic models. My recommendations include two of her previous winners—the Vollrath and All-Clad bowls—plus a budget-friendly glass set, a colorful lidded option, a showstopping ceramic collection, and more.

The Winners, at a Glance

Think handles on mixing bowls are just a novelty? I did too—but I’m here to tell you they’re great. The handles gave me something to hold onto while whisking and kept my fingers away from the rim (and clean) while pouring. The handles weren’t the only thing that set these bowls apart. Their thin rims prevented drips, and their tall, sloped walls funneled ingredients together, minimizing splatters.

Vollrath is a well-known food service brand, and these bowls bring the efficiency of restaurant cooking to the home kitchen. They’re lightweight, come in a wide range of sizes, and have flared, mess-free rims.

Classic glass mixing bowls like these are some of the most adaptable options for home bakers, since they can go from freezer to microwave to double boiler, then into the dishwasher after they’re done. And for the cherry on top: This set of three bowls is under $20 at the time of writing.

These bowls were adaptable and easy to use, whether they were helping with baking prep, storing food in the fridge, or sitting on the table at dinnertime. It's also the only lidded set I recommend.

Mason Cash is a centuries-old English ceramics producer, and this set highlights its signature, enduring style. If you have an avid baker in your life (or if you just want to treat yourself), they are mixing and serving bowls worth treasuring.

If you’re tight on space but still want mixing bowls in a wide range of sizes, get these. They’re microwave- and dishwasher-safe, plus they come in several color combinations.

The Tests

• Vinaigrette Test: I whisked a basic vinaigrette of oil and vinegar in the smallest bowl from each set until it was emulsified, then poured it into a jar. I evaluated whether the vinaigrette splattered out of the bowl while whisking and if it poured cleanly from the bowl’s rim. 
• Cake Mix Test: I prepared a boxed cake mix according to the package directions in a medium-sized bowl from each set. After the batter was incorporated, I tipped it into cake pans and noted whether I had any trouble folding or pouring.
• Whipped Cream Test (Winners Only): I whipped a cup of heavy cream using a hand mixer in the largest bowl of the top-performing sets, then scraped the whipped cream into a storage container. Bowls lost points if they acquired scratches or marks from the beaters, or if they were a pain to hold and scrape at the same time.
• Durability Test (Winners Only): I dropped the large bowl from each winning set into my stainless steel sink, replicating a slip during washing, to see if any dented or broke.
• Cleaning and Usability Tests: Throughout testing, I evaluated how easy the bowls were to hold, lift, tip, and hand-wash. All the bowls I tested were dishwasher-safe, so I also ran the winning bowls on a normal washing cycle after the whipped cream test.

What We Learned 

Deep Versus Shallow Bowls: Each Had Pros and Cons

The height and shape of a mixing bowl affected its utilities and strengths. On one end of the spectrum were deep bowls with tall, relatively straight-sided walls (like the Zwilling Prep Stainless Steel Bowls) that contained splatters while whisking vigorously or beating with a hand mixer. They were often more compact and thus easier to store, since their rims didn’t extend out as widely from their bases. On the other side were shallow bowls whose sides noticeably flared out from the base, like the Vollrath set and the Pyrex Sculpted Tinted Glass Mixing Bowls. This build allowed for looser, more natural motions while stirring salads and folding meringue-lightened batters since they had wider rims and more space to move around in.

I generally preferred the shallower bowls, as their sloped walls helped funnel components together (I particularly noticed this while emulsifying the dressing in the vinaigrette test) and made it easier to see when their contents were uniformly incorporated. Deep bowls like the Cuisinart Mixing Bowl Set and the Great Jones Stir Crazy Mixing Bowls restricted whisking movements and left room for pockets of flour to hide if I missed a spot when scraping the bottom with my spatula. Plus, I could still minimize splatters by choosing a wide bowl that had plenty of headspace for the task. (The largest Vollrath option, for example, effortlessly contained all the cream in the whipping test.) The broader rims also gave me more room to grab the bowl while pouring without accidentally dipping my fingers in whatever was inside. 

Thin, Flared Rims Helped When Pouring

One of my biggest pet peeves in the kitchen is when I try to pour out of a mixing bowl (or measuring cup), only to see the liquid dribble down its side and onto the counter inches away from my waiting vessel. I found the design of a bowl’s rim had the most influence on whether my vinaigrette flowed nicely into the jar or needed to be wiped up. Non-metal bowls, like the Luvan, Bamboozle, and Great Jones sets, were the worst offenders because they were more likely to have smooth, rounded edges that encouraged liquid to cling and run down the exterior of the bowl. They were also hard to grasp while pouring, without any points of leverage to hold onto except the potentially slippery edge. Broad, flat rims that extended straight out from the side, like those on the Pyrex Essentials Glass Mixing Bowls Set, were a little better, as they would propel liquid forward when tipped (and gave me something to hold), though any remaining drips had a straight path to fall to the counter afterward.

The bowls that had the cleanest and most controlled pours were all stainless steel, because their edges could be stamped thin without making them vulnerable to breaking. The Vollrath and All-Clad sets both had narrow rims that flared slightly out and up, which allowed vinaigrette to flow out smoothly while the bowls were tilted and encouraged drips to fall back inside when they were set upright again. The All-Clad bowls made pouring particularly snappy since they had a secure handle and kept my fingers out of the way of any messy edges.

Great Lid and Bowl Combinations Were Hard to Find

I only found one lidded set worthy of recommendation: the sculpted Pyrex bowls. It’s not for a lack of lid appreciation; rather, it was the only grouping that had both wide, easy-to-mix-in bowls and sturdy, tight-fitting lids. The HexClad set, for example, had decent bowls, but its vacuum seal lids required pushing down hard to seal and were domed, preventing them from stacking in the fridge. They didn’t always stay sealed, either. The Cuisinart Mixing Bowls’ small and medium lids fit snugly, but the largest lid was loose and easily jostled on its bowl. Conversely, the Luvan set had firmly fitting coverings, but the bowls were too deep to whisk comfortably in.

The Criteria: What to Look for in a Mixing Bowl

To decide which mixing bowls are right for you, first decide which material you prefer. Stainless steel bowls are lightweight and pour more cleanly if they have thin, flared rims, but glass and ceramic are microwave-safe. Consider the sizes you’ll need, too; smaller households would be fine with a three- or four-quart maximum capacity, while those who frequently cook for a crowd should buy a set with a large bowl that can hold five quarts or more. Shallower models make whisking and folding easier, and are generally more adaptable than deeper bowls. Mixing bowl sets with lids are handy; alternatively, you can buy lids separately for some sets or use beeswax wraps, silicone covers, or single-use solutions like aluminum foil or plastic wrap.

Our Favorite Mixing Bowls

What we liked: When I first saw the overhanging handles on these bowls, I thought I would find them awkward, unhelpful, and in the way. Wow, was I wrong! The handles turned “You hold the bowl and I’ll scrape” into “I got it!” They provided more control and kept my hands clean since I wasn’t touching the rim while stirring or pouring. Speaking of the rims, they were thin and narrow, which prevented drips and kept liquid flowing out smoothly. The bowls’ tall walls contained splatters, but were still open enough that I could whisk and fold freely. Grace, who first tested these bowls and named them winners in 2023, has been using them since and attests to their longevity (even after multiple drops on the floor). All in all, this is a fantastic set of mixing bowls for most home cooks.

What we didn’t like: There’s no getting around it—they’re pricey. Also, the bottom of the large bowl acquired some scratches from my hand mixer’s metal beaters, but the marks didn’t affect its usability.

Key Specs

• Number of bowls in set: 3
• Stated bowl capacities: 1.5, 3, and 5 quarts
• Material: Stainless steel
• Total set weight: 3.7 pounds
• Set diameter when nested: 10 inches
• Set height when nested: 5 inches
• Care: Dishwasher-safe and freezer-safe; use fine powder cleanser like Bar Keepers Friend for stains

What we liked: Vollrath’s main business is making equipment for restaurants, and this mixing bowl set will make you feel like the head chef of your home kitchen. Their wide shape makes mixing and folding easy, and their thin, flared edges set the standard for cleanly pouring rims. The bowls can hold a little or a lot, from three cups up to eight quarts—the biggest range of the lineup. When nested, the whole lightweight collection only weighs about two pounds. Oh, and this mixing bowl set is less than $40 at the time of writing, making it an affordable stainless steel pick.

What we didn’t like: The largest bowl is just that—large. It may be overkill for smaller households. At almost 14 inches in diameter, it was too wide to fit in my overhead cabinets (which are a standard 12 inches deep). They fit just fine in my base cabinets and pantry, though; just make sure to measure your planned storage spot before buying. Like the All-Clad bowls, they showed some scratches along the bottom from the hand mixer. 

Key Specs 

• Number of bowls in set: 5
• Stated bowl capacities: 0.75, 1.5, 3, 5, and 8 quarts
• Material: Stainless steel
• Total set weight: 2.3 pounds
• Set diameter when nested: 13.75 inches
• Set height when nested: 5 inches
• Care: Dishwasher-safe

What we liked: If any mixing bowls could be called iconic, it’s these from Pyrex. They’re affordable and can go in the microwave for melting butter and chocolate (something stainless steel bowls can’t do). The flat rim allowed me to pour without any dribbles down the side of the bowl (although they did drip a bit afterwards).

What we didn’t like: This set was on the smaller side, capacity-wise. The medium bowl was just big enough for the cake mix (it would have been more comfortable in the 2.5-quart bowl), and the largest bowl didn’t have enough headspace to contain all the whipped cream splatters. I happen to own the matching four-quart bowl and can affirm it rounds out the grouping for most everyday needs. (It’s also worth noting that there is a lidded version of the four-bowl set, but I didn’t test it, specifically.) 

Key Specs 

• Number of bowls in set: 3
• Stated bowl capacities: 1, 1.5, and 2.5 quarts
• Material: Glass
• Total set weight: 5.5 pounds
• Set diameter when nested: 10 inches
• Set height when nested: 4 inches
• Care: Dishwasher-, freezer-, and microwave-safe

What we liked: Looking for a set of mixing bowls that can go from prep to storage to dinner table? Here they are! These joyfully colored, fluted bowls were as delightful to look at as they were to whisk, stir, and mix in. Though I liked the vintage-looking hues of the tinted set, these bowls also come in clear glass (the latter is typically a little cheaper, too). They had tight-fitting lids that allowed them to stack in the fridge. Unlike the other winning Pyrex bowls, this set went up to 4.5 quarts, making it better for a wider range of tasks.

What we didn’t like: The lids fit securely, but I wouldn’t count on them to be watertight for transporting. Like with many of the non-metal bowls, the vinaigrette dripped and dribbled down the side if I tried to pour slowly.

Key Specs

• Number of bowls in set: 3
• Stated bowl capacities: 1.3, 2.3, and 4.5 quarts
• Material: Glass
• Total set weight: 7.6 pounds
• Set diameter when nested: 11 inches
• Set height when nested: 4.5 inches
• Care: Dishwasher-, freezer-, and microwave-safe

What we liked: The online pictures don’t do these bowls justice. They are downright darling, like modern heirlooms. Mason Cash has been making its classic mixing bowls for over a hundred years (and ceramic cookware in general for over two centuries), and the craftsmanship clearly shows. They didn’t break when dropped in the sink, nor did they acquire any marks from my whisk or hand mixer. The bowls’ wide and sturdy stance made them easy to fold and mix in, though (as I note below) they aren’t the most convenient for frequent use. While I don’t recommend them as everyday go-tos, the bowls are more than charming enough to use as serving dishes, and the set would surely make for a cherished gift.

What we didn’t like: The Mason Cash mixing bowls were heavy to lift and tip, they could be hard to hold onto (especially if the rim was wet or oily), and their thick, rounded edges didn’t pour cleanly. It was also a pretty pricey set.

Key Specs

• Number of bowls in set: 4
• Stated bowl capacities: 1.25, 2.15, 2.85, and 4.25 quarts
• Material: Chip-resistant earthenware ceramic
• Total set weight: 10.6 pounds
• Set diameter when nested: 11.8 inches
• Set height when nested: 5.3 inches
• Care: Dishwasher-, microwave-, freezer-, and oven-safe up to 320°F

What we liked: The playful Bamboozle set is a favorite of Serious Eats editor Rochelle Bilow and brings a pop of color to baking prep. It has the widest range of sizes other than the Vollrath set, and can still fit easily in upper cabinets. They’re lightweight, and I found myself reaching for them over heavier bowls when I wanted to mix up quick marinades or lunchtime salads. Since the biodegradable material these bowls are made from is microwave- and dishwasher-safe, they’re convenient for most daily tasks.

What we didn’t like: Their bulbous edges dripped and dribbled unless fully tipped when pouring. Since the bowls didn’t have much of a rim and the sides were smooth, they were hard to hold onto without smudging my fingers in batter while portioning the prepared cake mix. Given the mixing bowls’ tall, narrow walls, I also had to take extra care when mixing to make sure there weren’t pockets of unincorporated ingredients at the bottom.

Key Specs

• Number of bowls in set: 5
• Stated bowl capacities: 0.5, 1.25, 2, 3, and 5 quarts
• Material: Astrik, a biodegradable thermoplastic made from plants
• Total set weight: 2.7 pounds
• Set diameter when nested: 9.4 inches
• Set height when nested: 5.6 inches
• Care: Dishwasher- and microwave-safe

The Competition 

• Brabantia Matte Steel Mixing Bowl Set: These were winning bowls (Grace liked their thin, flared edges and grippy bottoms), but their availability is spotty.
• Great Jones Stir Crazy Mixing Bowls: The trendy Great Jones bowls are undeniably stylish, but they were too small and deep to stir comfortably in; they acquired marks on the bottom from my whisk; and their broad, rounded rims were slippery to hold and a pain to pour from (even at the spouts).
• Zwilling Prep Brushed Stainless Steel Nesting Bowls: Rather than walls that sloped gently into a narrower base (like the rest of the bowls in the lineup), these bowls had a broad, flat base that transitioned quickly into tall, straight walls. Whisking the vinaigrette in one bowl felt like whisking straight down on a plate or in a pasta bowl, and it took extra attention to incorporate the dry mix along the bottom into the cake batter.
• Luvan Glass Mixing Bowls: The ratio of the Luvan bowls was off—their sides were too tall, while their bases were too narrow, which made whisking awkward. The rims were also thick, drippy, and slippery to hold onto while tipping them over cake pans.
• HexClad Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls: The “vacuum” lids were the undoing of the HexClad bowls. They were a hassle to put on and didn’t stay reliably sealed, plus the date dials were hard to set and read (I questioned their usefulness to begin with). The bowls were fine on their own, but didn’t beat out the other metal winners.
• KitchenAid Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls: I liked the grippy bottoms and capacity labels, but the thickly rolled rims caused less control and more dripping while pouring.
• Cuisinart Mixing Bowl with Non-Slip Bases: While the higher sides prevented ingredients from flinging out, they also constricted motion.
• Cuisinart Mixing Bowl Set with Lids: Like the other Cuisinart set, these bowls’ height made it harder to stir and incorporate batter, and their flat rims made pouring messy. While the small and medium lids fit tightly on their bowls, the large lid was loose and easily jostled.
• Viking 10-Piece Stainless Steel Mixing Bowl Set: This taller set made stirring and whisking feel cramped, and the big, flat rim made pouring messy. 
• OXO Good Grips 3-Piece Stainless-Steel Mixing Bowl Set: This set was just too tall and cramped to whisk or stir organically. 
• Tramontina Covered Mixing Bowls Stainless Steel 14 Pc: While a set of 14 bowls might tempt, don’t be hoodwinked by the sheer number. It’s too many bowls, and the smaller ones' utility was questionable; they were too small to whisk much of anything in. Plus, all the bowls featured flat, wide rims, which made for messy pouring. 
• Tovolo 3-Piece Stainless Steel Mixing Bowl Set: While the lids on this set snapped on nice and tight, I didn’t love how high and cramped the bowls were. The hanging loops on the bowls’ sides just got in the way. 
• Winco Set of 6 Mixing Bowls: Like many other bowls, this set sported flat rims, making for messy pours.
• Williams Sonoma Stainless-Steel Nesting Mixing Bowls, Set of 5: While I liked the width and shallowness of these bowls, the other stainless steel winners edged them out with less messy pouring. 
• Joseph Joseph Nest Prep & Store Mixing Bowls: This set was a nice width and height, and it featured thin rims that made for fewer drips while pouring. But there was a downside: The bowls were oddly unstable and felt like they might fling over when I whisked vigorously.
• WHYSKO Meal Prep Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls Set: If this set had curved, thin rims, it would have made the winners' list. As it was, the flat rims made for messy pouring. 

FAQs

What is the best material for mixing bowls?

Glass, ceramic, bioplastic, and stainless steel can all make great mixing bowls, and each has its pros and cons. Metal bowls are lightweight and can have thin rims for easy pouring, but they aren’t microwave-safe. Glass bowls and ceramic bowls, on the other hand, can typically go in the microwave, freezer, dishwasher, and sometimes even the oven, but are heavy and hard to pour from. The only type of mixing bowls I don’t recommend are plastic, as they can absorb smells and stains and aren’t as heat-safe.

What is a mixing bowl used for?

A mixing bowl is used for, well, mixing! They’re all-purpose large bowls for anything you want to combine in the kitchen. You can use them to whisk sauces, toss salads, whip cream, fold meringue, and stir cake batters together—and that’s just scratching the surface. You can also use heat-safe stainless steel and glass bowls on top of a pot of boiling water to create a double boiler or use them with a hand mixer as a substitute for a stand mixer.

How do you keep a mixing bowl in place while you’re stirring?

For times when both hands are busy, like when you’re drizzling oil and whisking the vinaigrette together at the same time, it can be hard to keep a lightweight mixing bowl from wobbling and sliding around. A handy culinary school hack is to lightly dampen a kitchen towel, twist it to form a “rope,” then lay it on your counter in a doughnut shape. Nestle the bowl into the center hole, then whisk away! Moistening the towel a little helps create grip between the towel, counter, and bowl, keeping the setup steady while you stir.

Why We're the Experts

• Ashlee Redger is a writer at Serious Eats. She’s been testing and reviewing cooking gear, including kitchen scales, tongs, and bread knives, for the site since 2022.
• Grace Kelly had previously tested 12 sets of stainless steel mixing bowls in 2023. Ashlee re-tested Grace’s favorites (including the Vollrath and All-Clad sets) alongside a new lineup of metal, glass, and ceramic mixing bowls.
• Ashlee evaluated the mixing bowl sets using the same tests used previously—whisking vinaigrette, mixing cake mixes, whipping cream, and dropping them to determine their durability—and found four more sets to recommend.