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10 Heat-Seeking Copper Cookware Reviews – Cook Like a Chef in 2024

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What’s more comforting than a home-cooked meal? Whether you’re a chef like Julia Child, Emeril Lagasse, or a plain Jane everyday Joe putting food on the table, you need high-quality cookware. Learn about the best copper cookware for creating chow, from culinary masterpieces to simple dishes.

Research You Can Trust

We’re sure that after reading our in-depth reviews of different copper cookware, you’ll feel confident about choosing the right set that addresses your culinary concerns.

After researching over 30 of the most popular copper cookware sets, we narrowed the list down to these top picks.

We consulted industry leaders, professional chefs, and amateur cooks to choose the ten copper cookware sets that suit for your needs. We pored over customer reviews to find evidence from real-life experiences as well as to hear specific opinions.

But don’t too many cooks spoil the stew?

We don’t think so.

We believe the more feedback on specific cookware, the better.

Information directly from the mouths of users is always helpful to reaffirm impressions and highlight concerns.

But rest assured:

We also double-check these models’ specs with any information from manufacturers' websites for accuracy. In the end, we want to provide objective reviews useful to you the consumer.

10 Heat-Seeking Copper Cookware Reviews in 2024

What does that mean for you?

Copper heats up and cools off very quickly in reaction to rapid temperature changes. Thus, copper cookware:

  • warms up faster than stainless steel and aluminum pots do, which is perfect for when you need to heat ingredients in a hurry.
  • is efficient, both time- and energy-wise, because you don’t need to use a large flame or high burner setting to heat it up quickly.
  • is superb for precisely controlling temperature because it warms up and cools off so quickly. This control is especially handy when working with delicate ingredients and/or using electric stove coils.
  • has uniform heat transfer, which means it evenly spreads thermal energy across all parts of a pot or pan. Equal distribution of heat across the bottom of a pan reduces chances of uneven temperatures and hot spots occurring.
    • Uneven heating leads to uneven cooking of all the ingredients mixed in the pan.
    • Hot spots result in burning or sticking ingredients. For example, when steaming dairy products, you need to stir continuously to avoid scalded milk or gooey globs due to uneven heat along the pan’s bottom… which leads to the next benefit.
  • helps you multitask. If you have a few pots bubbling on the stove and can’t devote all your attention to just one, copper cookware frees you from constantly having to stir every pot to prevent hot spots due to uneven heating. We’re not saying that you can neglect your simmering ingredients while cooking; we just mean you don’t have to attend to every pot every second as long as you don’t crank up the fire up very high.
And who can’t deny the stylish yet cozy amber-auburn tinted look of copper cookware that adds glamor and warmth to any kitchen?
Best of the best T-fal Ultimate Stainless Steel Copper-Bottom Cookware Set
5/5

The T-fal Ultimate Stainless Steel Copper-Bottom Cookware Set contains 13 pieces, making it practical and versatile for everyday cooking.

Users describe this set as effective and heavy-duty, lasting years of use. They praise this cookware for heating up quickly, evenly, and efficiently.

In fact, several people happily report they use heat levels lower than they did in the past for other cookware, and without sacrificing performance.

They love the stainless steel sides and multi-layer base with a copper disc bottom containing and warming ingredients.

Don’t flip your lid!

Buyers of the T-fal Ultimate Stainless Steel Copper-Bottom Cookware Set like two things about the lids:

  1. They’re made out of glass, so you’re able to peek in and check on bubbling ingredients.
  2. And, the vent hole which lets steam escape and prevents liquids from boiling over.

However, many people also wish the fry pans came with lids or that one of the provided lids could fit at least one of the frying pans.

That was a bit of bummer, but still an easy fix as universal lids are easily attained.

We also found many complaints that the hollow handles become hot to the touch. This is common with a lot of professional level cookware, however. Luckily, pan handle sleeves are readily available at affordable prices.

Finally, some users find this cookware easy to clean while some don’t at all.

Stickler for detail?

Many consumers wanted to get away from using treated nonstick cooking surfaces and thus turned to the T-fal Ultimate Stainless Steel Copper-Bottom Cookware Set.

This is where it starts getting interesting:

Mostly because we uncovered some conflicting views.

Several reviewers report that if a person takes the time to read and follow directions for nonstick use, there should be no problem.

In other words, if you are willing to prep the stainless steel pans (e.g., heat, oil, and wash them) to make them “non-stick”, then great. Otherwise, avoid the hassle and steer clear of buying stainless steel.

Nonetheless, some users report they seasoned pans according to directions and still had issues with sticking food.

Our experts tend to agree with the first reviewer. When properly prepped and used, there were no issues. However, they also noted cooking on non-stick pans has a bit of a learning curve, which can be frustrating at first.

But what about the copper?

Another area of conflict where the negative reviews stood out was the copper bottom.

While the copper was very effective for many, many people were irritated by the ease with which the copper discolors or comes off.

The manufacturer’s stickers over the bottom peeled off some copper. For some users, the copper washed off the bottom even after the first wash or within a month or so, leading them to question veracity or thickness of copper used.

And…

The third area of conflict was on stains.

Some reviewers complained of (and even submitted photos of) interior spotting and discoloration of the stainless-steel pots.

Luckily, many others found cleaning the stains with Bar Keeper’s Friend very successful and suggest it strongly.

Use and cleaning directions are detailed in the T-fal Ultimate Stainless Steel Copper-Bottom Cookware Set’s manual.

Features

  • Includes 8” frying pan, 10.5” frying pan; 12” covered frying pan; 1-, 2-, and 3-quart sauce pans; and 5-quart covered stew pot
  • Glass lids with vent holes
  • Stainless steel body with copper disc bottom
  • Riveted stainless steel handles
  • Oven safe up to 500℉
  • Compatible with induction stoves
  • Dishwasher safe
  • PFOA Free
  • Limited lifetime warranty
pros

    Good price

    Rapid and even heating

    Vented lids

cons

    No lids for frying pans

    Copper discolors or comes off easily

    Stainless steel stains but can be cleaned

Mauviel M’heritage M205B 9-piece 2.5mm Copper Cookware Set
5/5

Owners use words like “magnificent”, “heirloom quality”, “visually stunning” and “beautiful” to describe the Mauviel M'heritage M250B 9-piece 2.5mm Copper Cookware Set.

This sleek cookware constructed of a stainless steel interior and a smooth copper exterior earns positive marks not only for appearance, but also for functionality.

Why?

First, the 18/10 stainless steel interior is nonreactive, preserves foods’ tastes and nutrition, and is easy to clean.

Second, the copper bottom heats up ingredients quickly and evenly but creates none of the issues with sticking or burning made against some of the other models we tested.

But, that’s only if used over a low-to-medium fire.

Third, the sturdy and heavy construction is great for confidence in cooking. Some users like the heft of the Mauviel M'heritage Copper Cookware Set, while others think the pots and pans are a bit too heavy.

A few caveats

Speaking of heavy, a couple of reviewers feel the lids are a bit light and cheap.

Especially compared to the solid pot and pan bodies.

At least two people accidentally dropped the lids on their kitchen floors and dented or bent them.

Yikes!

Also, heat transfers to the “attractive” bronze handles, so be sure to have pot holders handy.

Luckily, it’s not all bad. There are many good things about these pots and pans as well.

You might not believe it at first, but…

Nearly every consumer we spoke with praises this set.

One reviewer encourages readers to “spoil yourself” with the Mauviel M'heritage Copper Cookware Set.

If you want to some visual proof to attest to that…

Take a peek at this cookware in action!

Features

  • Includes 1.9-quart saucepan with lid, 2.7-quart saucepan with lid, 3.2-quart sauté pan with lid, 6.4-quart stock pot with lid, and 10” inch skillet
  • 2.5mm thick copper
  • 90% copper and 10% stainless steel (18/10)
  • Bronze handles
  • Oven safe
  • Compatible with gas, electric, and halogen stovetops
  • Can be used on induction stovetops with Mauviel's Interface Disc for Induction Cooking (sold separately)
  • Made in France
  • Lifetime warranty
pros

    Beautiful appearance

    Rapid and even heating

    Solid construction (lids excluded)

cons

    Lids a bit thin

    Heavy for some

    Handles become hot

Best for the money Copper Pan 10-Piece Set Luxury Induction Cookware Set
4.5/5

People like the Copper Pan 10-Piece Set Luxury Induction Cookware Set because it looks “beautiful,” cooks food evenly, and “cleanup is a breeze”.

As with many nonstick products, in the beginning this set’s nonstick cooking surface works well, with eggs and potatoes sliding right off. However, after a few months, some users frustratingly report whatever they cook sticks to the interior.

Also,

We found mixed reviews on the set’s efficacy on induction stoves.

While some people successfully use this cookware on induction cooktops, a handful of others have had poor luck with it working on induction stoves and hotplates.

Two customers note the pots are warped so:

  1. The lids don’t fit, and
  2. The pans don’t sit evenly on induction surfaces, which prevents complete direct contact between the pot and induction stove… which thus impedes the induction heat process.

Questions, questions, questions…

Finally, many users reported the nonstick surface, described as “ceramic coating infused with copper”, scratches easily and peels. We couldn’t find an actual manufacturer for this product, just that its primary seller is TV Direct LLC.

Therefore, we couldn’t verify its copper content or any warranty information.

Features

  • Includes 8” frying pan with lid, 1.5-quart saucepan with lid, 2.5-quart saucepan with lid, 6-quart casserole pan with lid, and stainless steel steamer
  • Non-stick ceramic coating infused with copper
  • Induction base
  • PFOA free and PTFE-free
  • Pans: oven safe up to 550°F
  • Glass lids: oven safe up to 350°F
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Compatible with gas, electric, ceramic, and induction stoves
  • Manual included
pros

    Nonstick

    Easy to clean

cons

    Nonstick quality lasts only a few months for some

    Copper content unclear

    Doesn’t always work on induction stoves as advertised

Lagostina Martellata Hammered Stainless Steel Copper Cookware Set
4.5/5

People who love copper and expect its normal color changes due to oxidation from exposure to natural elements appreciate the Lagostina Martellata Hammered Stainless Steel Copper Cookware Set.

Most consumers admire its “gorgeous” hue and hammered appearance when new, and some also like the copper’s “rainbow” hues due to heat and patina caused by weathering.

And, on that note…

Those who want the cookware to retain its original auburn sheen should be willing to polish it regularly.

Or, possibly keep shopping for a different set…

You see, users who either dislike copper’s color changing qualities routinely reported they didn’t appreciate this set.

Likewise, people who think copper cookware isn’t practical because it requires routine care and maintenance may want to steer clear of this or any copper cookware.

Are you ready for the TLC these pots require?

Most people are.

Almost all users agree that the Lagostina Martellata Set is sturdy, easy to clean, and excellent at regulating and distributing temperature consistently.

This set has a stainless-steel interior, and aluminum core, and a copper exterior.

Our team of experts remarked it heats up quickly and evenly.

Here’s what we didn’t like about these pots:

The stainless steel lids are lighter than the pots and pans themselves. At least one tester wished the lids were more heavy-duty.

Some also prefer glass lids so they can check on what’s cooking easily.

Also, we found several reviewers who experienced the copper “disappearing” or “vanishing” and exposing the aluminum core after they washed the cookware by hand.

What could that mean?

Perhaps the layer of copper is thinner than expected.

For an introduction to this collection, watch this descriptive video from the manufacturer, Lagostina.

Features

  • Includes 8” skillet, 10” skillet, 2-quart saucepan with lid, 3-quart saucepan with lid, 3-quart deep sauté pan with lid, and 6-quart stockpot with lid
  • Stainless steel interior
  • Aluminum core
  • Hammered copper exterior
  • Smooth handles
  • Oven safe
  • Compatible with gas, electric, and ceramic stoves
  • Made in Italy
pros

    Beautiful hammered copper finish

    Great heat regulation and distribution

    Sturdy

    Easy to clean

cons

    Light lids

    Exterior layer of copper seems very thin and sometimes comes off

Matfer 8-Piece Bourgeat Copper Cookware Set
4/5

“Top of the line,” “finest cookware made”, “the very, very best”, “nothing can compare”, and “total bliss” are some praises we found that describe the Matfer 8-Piece Bourgeat Copper Cookware Set.

Longtime users (including a few who’ve owned this set for more than a decade) recommend this cookware line over other high-end brands. They love its simple and elegant design, fine craftsmanship, and sturdiness.

What’s even better than that?

One reviewer notes that this great-looking cookware cooks even better!

Heating up quickly and evenly, the Matfer 8-Piece Bourgeat Copper Cookware Set is like a set of professional cooking tools that actually helps people improve their culinary skills.

However, because the copper reacts immediately to any temperature input, you need to pay close attention to what’s cooking in the pan.

Another person compared cooking with Bourgeat cookware to racing a Ferrari.

But here’s the best part:

This set also is easy to wash and polish.

Guess what?

The only criticism we could find about the Matfer Copper Cookware Set is the pans are a bit heavy.

But that’s more of a matter of personal preference.

Learn about this set’s warranty and care instructions here.

Features

  • Includes casserole with lid, saucepan with lid, flared saute pan with lid, and heavy sauté pan with lid
  • Interior layer of .1mm-thick 18/10 polished stainless steel
  • Exterior layer of smooth 2.5mm-thick copper
  • Cast iron handle
  • Compatible with all types of stoves except induction stoves
  • Total weight: 38 pounds
  • Warranty from date of purchase
pros

    Simple, elegant design

    Superb performance

    Excellent response to changes in temperature

    Like professional culinary tools

cons

    Expensive but worth it

    Pans are heavy for some

Cuisinart Copper Stainless Steel 11-Piece Cookware Set
4/5

Many reviewers gush “gorgeous” to characterize the Cuisinart Copper Stainless Steel 11-Piece Cookware Set.

Expert chefs to novice cook will love using this cookware.

We could tell why:

This cookware elevates the craftwork of culinary experts and improves the skills of newbies. People genuinely enjoy preparing meals with this set–it makes cooking fun!

But wait, there’s more…

The Cuisinart Copper Stainless Steel 11-Piece Cookware Set is sturdy and long-lasting.

Some consumers reported to have had this set for more than a decade.

Its triple-ply construction of a stainless-steel interior, an aluminum core, and a copper exterior produces even and rapid heating and prevents scorching.

You should know…

As with other copper cookware, we encountered conflicting views.

Some people love and expect the metal’s changing colors due to age and exposure while others want the copper to remain pristine (and realize they must put in the work to maintain it).

Some users find pieces in the Cuisinart Copper Stainless Steel 11-Piece Cookware Set easy to clean while others don’t.

This set’s lids are thin for some and just fine for others.

A few negatives

The handles can get warm. A couple of people followed the product’s cleaning directions but still can’t remove stains.

To a few users, the copper exterior seems to come off during regular use (e.g., cooking and washing). A common complaint when dealing with copper cookware.

Finally, several people note when the set arrived new, it was already warped, scratched, and/or even appeared used.

Luckily…

The set comes with a lifetime warranty.

Features

  • Includes 1.5-quart saucepan with lid, 2.5-quart saucepan with lid, 5-quart sauté pan with helper handle and lid, 8-quart stockpot with lid, 8-inch skillet, 10-inch skillet, and 18-centimeter steamer insert
  • Stainless interior
  • Aluminum core
  • Copper exterior
  • Oven safe up to 500℉
  • Broiler and freezer safe
  • Solid stainless handles
  • Lifetime warranty

Here’s Where Things Get A Little Murky…

The next five items are highly rated on Amazon, but in our research, we couldn’t find specific details about their copper content.

The manufacturers of these five non-stick cookware sets aren’t clear on exactly how copper is used in their structures.

Is it a layer within the core or on the bottom?

It’s just too unclear to be sure.

Terms like “copper-infused” are vague and raise questions about the amount of copper used and how it’s incorporated in the cookware’s body.

With that in mind, we rated these sets below the copper cookware sets listed above because we don’t know how much copper they actually contain.

We advise caveat emptor:

Let the buyer beware.

If making sure your pots and pans have all the copper properties you’re looking for is a priority for you, we recommend you limit your search to the selections above, as they have been tested and proven to contain copper.

That being said, we’re contacting the manufacturers to clarify their products copper content and will update this as we learn more.

Stay tuned!

pros

    Worth the price

    Sturdy and long-lasting

    Makes cooking fun

cons

    Handles get warm

    Staining

    Shoddy quality upon arrival for some

Copper Chef Cookware 9-Piece Round Pan Set
3.5/5

Consumers love the Copper Chef Cookware 9-Piece Round Pan Set’s appearance and performance. People have purchased this set in the past for themselves or given it as a gift because the pieces are “beautiful”, lightweight, and efficient. They also cook food quickly and efficiently as well as clean up easily.

We have good news!

Best of all, users (except one) find the Copper Chef Cookware 9-Piece Round Pan Set is truly nonstick, even after months of use. One person reports food like scrambled eggs and grilled cheese just slides off the pan after cooking.

But…

Only two of the five pots and pans come with a lid.

The smallest pot doesn’t work well on an induction stove like the larger pieces do.

And, although it is lightweight, the cookware seems thin and easily warps.

The nonstick coating scratches easily with metal utensils; a few owners were surprised that even silicon utensils scratched the coating. A few others report the coating wore off or chipped around the rims, even with hand washing.

What’s the deal?

We spotted this question on the Copper Chef website: “Are the Copper Chef Round Pans actual copper?”.

The answer was simply that these pans are aluminum with copper-colored Cerami-Tech Non-Stick coating.

To us, this reply doesn’t explain how much copper (if any) is contained in the coating.

One thoughtful Amazon customer mulled over this interesting issue and concluded the cookware’s low price probably meant it doesn’t contain actual copper. The reason for the Copper Chef name may simply come from the copper-colored enamel exterior coating, which doesn’t tarnish like real copper does.

Features

  • Includes 5.8-quart casserole pan with 10" lid, 2.8-quart saucepan with lid, 1-quart saucepan, 10” frying pan, 8" frying pan, 9” x 3.5” frying basket, 9" round steamer tray
  • Cerami-Tech non-stick outer coating
  • Aluminum core
  • Built-in stainless steel induction plate on bottom
  • PTFE-free and PFOA-free
  • Heat proof up to 850°F
  • Oven safe up to 850°F
  • Limited lifetime warranty
pros

    Nonstick

    Quick and even heating

    Easy cleanup

cons

    Copper content unclear

    Too few lids

    Nonstick surface scratches

BulbHead RedCopper 10-Piece Copper-Infused Ceramic Non-Stick Cookware Set
3/5

The BulbHead Red Copper 10-Piece Copper-Infused Ceramic Non-Stick Cookware Set wins points for heating food quickly and evenly and being strong, thick and durable.

After following instructions to season the nonstick pans, users find them great for cooking without oil.

Trying to cook healthy?

Our experts suggests those trying to reduce or eliminate fats in their diet could benefit from this nonstick cookware.

Wait, there’s more!

The BulbHead Red Copper 10-Piece Set also saves time through easy cleanup. In the case of any accidentally burnt-on food, several testers state simply soaking the pan in water and then wiping it clean is enough.

However, one expert chef recommends:

That, although advertised as dishwasher-safe, this set should be hand washed to preserve the nonstick surface.

Also…

We found a few complaints about the BulbHead Red Copper-Infused Cookware Set. Some users state the side and lid handles get hot, and the lightweight pieces seem cheap and prone to warping. A few people complained the nonstick finish chips, the exterior scratches easily, and its red paint rubs or melts off.

Truth in advertising?

Watch this television commercial for Red Copper cookware.

While many users support this ad’s claims, some other discerning consumers don’t.

First, metal utensils and a metal mixer do scratch the nonstick surface. Second, several people find they still need to use oil or nonstick spray after the nonstick coating stopped working after a month or so.

What does that mean?

We tried to figure out what the term “copper-infused ceramic” means.

Does that mean the ceramic nonstick coating contains copper?

If so, then copper comes into contact and can react with food, which is unhealthy.

The manufacturer’s website yields no concrete explanation on how much and in what manner the copper is “infused” or used in the cookware.

Features

  • Includes 8-inch fry pan, 10-inch fry pan with lid, 1.5-quart sauce pot with lid, 2.5-quart sauce pot with lid, 6-quart sauce pot with lid, and aluminum steamer insert.
  • Copper-infused ceramic nonstick and scratch-resistant cooking surface
  • Aluminum body
  • PTFE-free and PFOA-free
  • Oven safe up to 800°F
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Guarantee and return information
pros

    Nonstick

    Cook without oil

    Easy to clean

cons

    Handles get hot

    Not scratch-resistant as advertised

    Still need oil after nonstick quality wears off

Concord 8-Piece Ceramic-Coated Copper Cookware
3/5

The stylish and smooth-looking Concord Copper Cookware is described as “gorgeous” and “beautiful”.

But, it’s not just a pretty face!

This lightweight yet sturdy set heats food fast and evenly. This cookware offers ease of cooking without additional oils or cooking spray as well as ease of cleanup.

Nevertheless…

Many users state the smallest piece, the 1.5-quart saucepan, doesn’t work on an induction stove.

Several others report the nonstick surface scratches after few weeks and chips easily even when they use silicone utensils or wash the cookware with a soft cloth.

A few people received the Concord Copper Cookware in packaging in poor condition (e.g., dented boxes) which resulted in scratched or dented new items.

But what’s the real deal?

How much copper does the CONCORD 8-Piece Ceramic-Coated Copper Cookware actually contain?

It has a ceramic coating, but what metals make up the cookware?

The manufacturer Concord Cookware states, “The base material of the body is made of cast aluminum. The handles are stainless steel.” and “These are copper ceramic coated.”

Unfortunately,

Neither of these statements really answers our question.

Features

  • Includes 1.5-quart saucepan (3” x 7”), 4-quart saucepan (3.75” x 9”), 8.5-quart Dutch oven (7” x 10”), one frying pan (2” x 9.5”), and four lids
  • “Copperamic” all-natural ceramic-based non-stick coating
  • Oven safe
  • Compatible with all types of stovetops
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Made in China
  • Refund policy: return within 30 days in new condition in the original packaging
pros

    Good value

    Nonstick

    Heats food fast and evenly

cons

    Small saucepan doesn’t work on well on induction stove

    Nonstick surface easily scratched

    Copper content unclear

Gotham Steel Ultimate 15-Piece Kitchen Set with Non-Stick Ti-Cerama Copper Coating
3/5

Like Batman in Gotham City, the Gotham Steel Ultimate 15-Piece Kitchen Set with Non-Stick Ti-Cerama Copper Coating has impressive strength and prowess–heating and culinary art in this case.

This cookware distributes heat evenly and quickly. Easy to clean and lightweight, it impresses most users with its nonstick surface, especially in the beginning.

A few people report the cookware’s nonstick ability lasted only a month (or even a week!) or so. Many suggest cooking only with low heat and hand washing the cookware so as to maintain its nonstick coating.

Speaking of nonstick surfaces…

This set boasts a “Ti-Cerama” coating, which is ceramic reinforced with titanium.

We checked the website of the manufacturer Gotham Steel and found no mention of copper.

Any other negatives?

Users also report the interior coating flakes off, the side and lid handles get hot, and the cookware doesn’t always work on induction stoves.

Truth in advertising, take 2…

Check out this infomercial, where an agile chef demonstrates cooking different recipes with easy-to-burn ingredients in pieces from the Gotham Steel Ultimate Kitchen Set with Non-Stick Ti-Cerama Copper Coating.

Some of this informercial’s claims were disputed by users.

For example, the presenter and then the chef state Gotham cookware is scratch-proof, even with metal utensils and metal mixer blades.

Many people say this is not true.

Also, the chef boasts no oil or no butter is needed during cooking with the nonstick surface. Whereas several of our testers begrudgingly returned to using oil and butter to keep food (like eggs) from sticking.

Features

  • Includes 8.5” frying pan,10.25” frying pan with lid,1.5-quart pot with lid, 2.5-quart pot with lid, 5-quart pot with lid, aluminum steamer insert, 9.5" deep square pan with lid, fry basket, steam rack, and 9.5" shallow square pan
  • Non-stick Ti-Cerama (ceramic reinforced with titanium) surface
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Oven safe up to 500°F
  • PTFE-free, PFOA-free, and PFOS (perfluorooctyl sulfonate)-free
  • Return policy: 90-day money-back guarantee
pros

    Nonstick

    Strong

    Easy to clean

cons

    Not scratch-proof

    Nonstick surface stops working for some after a short time

    Copper content unclear

The 30-Second Review

Chefs know copper cookware pieces make excellent tools for creating gastronomic delights.

Home cooks and fledgling amateur culinary artists–you too can enjoy copper’s benefits: excellent thermal conductivity; rapid, even, and efficient heating; no hot spots; strict temperature control; a beautiful and professional appearance, and more.

So why not treat yourself?

You deserve the best in copper cookware and can seek it out if you pay attention to various factors, including copper content and structure, durability, versatility in use with different appliances, thickness, appearance, and cost.

THE WINNERS

Here’s the thing…

Copper requires care and work to maintain.

As long as you’re prepared to clean, dry, and polish it in a timely fashion, you’ll be happy with your copper cookware.

  • Yes, copper pots and pans more cost more than those made from other metals, but you can weigh your needs and desires against your wallet to decide what to purchase.

Buyer’s Guide to Copper Cookware

Copper cookware tends to be expensive.

But, it’s well worth the money for culinary tasks whether you’re simply boiling water or precisely following complex recipes.

What’s So Special About Copper Cookware?

Skeptical consumers are wise to ask.

Naturally occurring in soil, rock, water, and air, copper is an essential element (symbol Cu) in plants, animals, and humans.

They were used for pennies in the United States until 1982 (ones made after 1982 are copper plated).

But that’s not all…

Copper is also present in wire, plumbing pipes, sheet metal, and other household items.

However…

Copper cookware is especially valuable because it’s an excellent conductor or transmitter of heat.

So what are the downsides?

A valued metal (as of June 14, 2018, worth about 3.26 U.S. cents per pound), copper does have a few negatives when used in cookware.

For example, copper cookware:

  • can be expensive–but the investment and savings in heat, time, and convenience may be worth it.
  • will chemically react with acidic (e.g., tomato sauce, lemon juice, wine) and alkaline (whole fruits and vegetables, beans, nuts) ingredients, resulting in tarnishing of the cookware and a metallic taste in the food.
  • can be high maintenance in cleaning. You can’t just throw copper cookware in the dishwasher. For specific cleaning tips, see How to Clean Copper Cookware Properly.
  • must be dried after right after washing and before storing. Any water drops can lead to spotting or discoloration.
  • needs regular polishing to stave off corrosion and maintain its beautiful sheen.

If, after weighing the pros and cons of copper cookware, you’ve decided to forge ahead and investigate various sets, then read on.

Features to Look for in Copper Cookware

Lots of different cookware sets have “copper” in their name.

Why is that important?

Simple.

Not all copper cookware sets are created equal.

By any means.

Carefully read each item’s features and look for:

    1. Type of construction

Copper Core (also known as clad bonded): describes pots and pans with a thick layer of copper sandwiched between different metals, like aluminum and steel. The copper core facilitates rapid and even heating. The other harder metals protect the soft copper and make the pot’s exterior strong, resilient, and easier to clean and maintain.

 

Copper Bottom: describes pots and pans composed of a different metal (e.g., aluminum or stainless steel) but with a bottom made of a thin layer of copper to help heat conduction.

 

 

100% copper: describes cookware comprised completely of 100% copper–usually used for making jam and candy, cooking syrups and caramel, and melting sugar and chocolate.

 

 

  1. Durability: read purchasers’ and our reviews to see how a specific product lasts under use.
  2. Compatibility with appliances: Make sure you’re able to use the cookware how you wish with your kitchen appliances, like the oven or an induction stovetop.

How Does Induction Stovetop Work?

Induction heating occurs when electromagnetic waves “stimulate the electrical currents within a metal, causing them to heat up.

With an induction stove, magnetic energy inside the cooktop’s coils generate electromagnetic fields to create a warming reaction with the cookware’s metal (such as steel or iron).

This reaction then causes the cookware–not the cooktop’s coils–to heat up. Therefore, the pot or pan itself actually cooks the food, not the stove.

Throughout the induction heating process, the cookware’s metal and the stovetop’s coil must have direct contact.

04Thickness:

    1.  Look for copper cookware that’s between two millimeters (2.0mm) and two-and-a-half millimeters (2.5mm) thick.

Thinner copper cookware is less expensive than thicker copper cookware, but you want to balance price with performance.

A copper base at least two millimeters (2.0mm) thick won’t warp and is strong and durable enough to use on electric, glass, and ceramic stoves.

Thicknesses greater than two-and-a-half millimeters (2.5mm) are not necessary. In fact, copper thicker than three millimeters (3mm) take more time to heat and cool.

Expert Tip

Cookware with a rolled edge is made from very thin copper–after all, it has to be thin enough to roll. Copper thin enough to roll may be too thin to form a secure cooking platform.

Have any loose change?

A fun way to measure the thickness of copper cookware is to hold U.S. coins up to the cookware’s sides, cross-section-wise. Do you know how thick U.S. coins are?

  • a dime is 1.4mm
  • a nickel: 1.95mm
  • a quarter: 1.75mm
  • a penny: 1.52mm

Take out any loose change and use the coins to measure copper cookware’s thickness.

Hopefully a cookware piece is at least slightly thicker than a nickel but slightly thinner than two dimes.

05Appearance: new copper cookware should be lustrous and look luxurious. A rich and shiny–not dark and drab–surface usually indicates high quality. You also can decide between a smooth finish and a hammered finished. That’s just a question of style and what fits with your décor better, if desired.

06Price: of course this is the sticking point for many. If a price seems high, just be aware of how many pieces the copper cookware set contains (and if that makes it worth it). And don’t forget the potential savings in energy and time copper cookware offers. If the price seems quite low, question how much copper is actually used in or the quality of the pieces.

Let’s get cooking!

Now that you’re armed with nuts and bolts about copper cookware, you’re ready to dive into examining different sets.

Reviews of the Best Copper Cookware Sets

Now that you’ve seen the different types of copper cookware out there, you’re ready to choose what you need.

Copper Cookware Care

Copper cookware is an investment of money (and space when you purchase a set with many pieces). Take care of your copper cookware well and reap its benefits for many years.

Here are some tips on:

How to Use Copper Cookware Properly

  1. Before you even start cooking, prepare everything you need. Like a surgeon, gather and line up all ingredients and tools before starting the actual culinary operation–in this case, turning on the stove and diving into actual cooking. Because copper cookware heats so quickly, you won’t have much time to search for needed ingredients and utensils. Measure ingredients and have them and utensils ready to dive into cooking right away. You don’t want to overheat or burn your gastronomic creations before you even start cooking.
  2. Speaking of utensils, use wooden, nylon, or silicone utensils to avoid scratching the pan or pot’s interior.
  3. Don’t pre-heat an empty copper pot or pan. Since it heats up so quickly, you don’t need to pre-heat it and want to avoid melting or burning it. At the very least, pour cooking oil, a liquid, or a fat into the pot or pan before putting it on a hot stove.
  4. Take advantage of copper’s efficiency and use only about half the heat level you’d use for an average pot or pan.
  5. Don’t use badly scratched and–if possible, uncoated–copper pot and pans to cook or store food. Here’s why:

Health Notes

Copper is an essential mineral that our body needs for to help form red blood cells, aid iron absorption, and keep blood vessels, nerves, the immune system, and bones healthy. Because our bodies don’t produce copper, we need to obtain copper from other sources, like dark leafy greens, dried fruits, nuts, beans, whole grains, potatoes, organ meats (e.g., kidneys, liver), oysters, other shellfish and more. However, “large amounts of copper from unlined cookware can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.” Copper from cookware with scratched linings (i.e., coatings of metals like stainless steel to form a barrier between copper and ingredients) also can leach into foods. Don’t use copper cookware coated with tin or nickel coatings. Finally, “high levels of copper leaching that can occur when acidic foods are prepared in copper [cookware and] cooking utensils, which can cause chemical toxicity and illness.”

How to Clean Copper Cookware Properly

o maintain your copper cookware’s shiny and burnished appearance, clean it carefully. Copper is soft and scratches easily, so don’t use any scrubbing tools or abrasive cleaners. Don’t put copper cookware in the dishwasher and don’t use detergents with bleach, which can corrode copper. In order to clean and polish:

a lined interior: apply gentle soap with a soft rag or sponge, rinse, and dry thoroughly.

an unlined copper interior or copper exterior:

  • apply a mixture of vinegar and salt with a soft rag or sponge, leave the mixture on for about ten minutes, rinse, and then dry the piece thoroughly.

OR

  • cut a lemon in half, sprinkle it with a little table salt, rub the lemon half against the copper (especially discolored spots), rinse, and dry.

OR

  • mix equal parts baking soda and lemon juice (or vinegar) into a paste, rub with a soft cloth, then rinse, and dry.

OR

  • spread on a medium layer of ketchup, leave it on for ten minutes (the ketchup’s acidity attacks tarnish), scrub off with soft sponge or pad, then rinse, and dry. This process sounds a bit implausible and gross, but works! Watch this fun video to see for yourself.

To prevent tarnishing, regularly polish and shine your copper cookware with a lightly acidic solution (e.g., vinegar or lemon juice) or a commercial copper cleaner cream.

Aging with grace

In contrast, if you want to let your copper cookware age naturally, just skip all the polishing. In fact, a copper surface that develops a patina actually becomes harder and more thermally efficient.

Repurposing Copper Cookware

Let’s not overlook one of the best aspects of copper cookware–its luxurious tawny hue. As we discovered in our research, some people love (and work hard to maintain through constant buffing) copper’s luminous shine. Others prefer the naturally colorful patina that forms as copper is exposed to the elements. In either case, copper cookware is perfect for brightening up your culinary workspace.

Décor and more

Copper cookware is multifunctional: use it for cooking and for decorating. Hang copper pots and pans to create an atmosphere with homey yet glamorous undertones. Suspend them from a ceiling rack above an island counter, dangle them from a wall rack or attach them directly to the wall with hooks.

Some consumers skipped over functionality and went straight for appearance–they either purchased cheap copper cookware or repurposed old pots and pans they no longer use just to hang them up!

Looking for some inspiration?

Be inspired by this video of interior designer Marie-Eve Best using copper cookware to create two contrasting spaces: a dramatic pantry and a romantic, farmhouse breakfast nook.

Ever wanted to travel back in time?

The Arizona Copper Art Museum devotes an entire exhibit to copper kitchenware.

So cool!

Click here and here to view lovely displays of kitchens adorned with all different types of copper cookware pieces.

Read about the copper cookware collection donated by famed chef Julia Child to the National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C.

Then take a virtual tour of Bon Appétit! Julia Child’s Kitchen at the Smithsonian for further inspiration and trip back in time to learn about this funny and down-to-earth culinary artist.

Want even more ideas?

Don’t throw away your old copper pots and pans–at least recycle the copper for scrap metal.

Even better, refashion them into lamps, bird feeders, candy caddies, planters, and more!

Click here to see many clever and cool DIY crafts made from repurposed cookware.

One note: make a surface on which moisture or food (for kids, animals, or plants) sits is protected from pure copper, as you don’t want to make any critters ill.

But wait, there’s even more…

Finally, to spruce up your kitchen and enhance your cooking even more, why add a few more conveniences?

Maybe you could use a stylish yet powerful new faucet for washing your copper cookware. Adeptly slice and dice ingredients with a knife to fry in a copper pan or boil in a copper pot.

Do your current knives need sharpening?

Use a quality electric knife sharpener to grind them back in shape.

So, What’s The Best Copper Cookware?

What everyone can agree on is this:

The necessary investment of time and elbow-grease that goes into maintaining a set of quality copper cookware is worth it.

So, what’s the best set?

We have a couple in mind we think you’ll love just as much as we did…

T-fal Ultimate Copper-Bottom Cookware Set

If you love the look of copper cookware, you’re going to really love the benefits the best copper cookware can give you in the kitchen. Read our full reviews and find your perfect set.

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Mauviel M'heritage M205B Copper Cookware Set

If you love the look of copper cookware, you’re going to really love the benefits the best copper cookware can give you in the kitchen. Read our full reviews and find your perfect set.

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Copper Pan 10-Piece Luxury Induction Cookware Set

If you love the look of copper cookware, you’re going to really love the benefits the best copper cookware can give you in the kitchen. Read our full reviews and find your perfect set.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I use a scrubbing pad to clean copper cookware?

Stick with softer material, like a sponge or a soft cloth. Don’t use anything abrasive, like steel wool or a copper scouring pad.

Is it safe to cook in copper pots and pans?

Yes, if the copper pot is lined with another metal to keep it from coming in contact with food. No, if the lining is scratched or the pot is not lined.

Copper reacts with acidic ingredients, dissolving and entering whatever food is being cooked, resulting in copper toxicity poisoning.

The few safe uses of unlined copper pots include whipping eggs or making sugar-rich jams. Both recipes aren’t acidic.

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