Pyrex Grip-Rite 8-Inch Square Baking Dish, Clearbest

In case you haven't read the January issue of Consumer Reports yet, let me summarize: The American makers of Pyrex have changed the formula for their glass, substituting cheaper ingredients which make it more likely to shatter from heat. The European Pyrex still uses the traditional Pyrex formula and is as heat-resistant as always. "We baked at least five samples of each brand in a 450-degree oven. All of the U.S. Pyrex and Anchor dishes shattered when placed on the wet countertop. None of the European dishes ... broke" Amazon sells the European product: [ASIN:B002KHNQ3E Arcuisine Elegance Glass 2.8 Quart Rectangular Baker]

I love pyrex but I don't know what they were thinking with this re-design. The new Grip Rite has wider handles which to me were unnecessary and only create more baked-on surface to clean. The dish itself is now tapered, unlike the old model. It may measure 8x8 at the top but it measures only 7x7 on the bottom. Not ideal for even baking, especially if one were going to create layers for a cake. I want a pan that is truly 8x8 and will now look at other brands instead. Disappointing.

This is one of the basic kitchen elements. This is the official brownie and small casserole pan. If you don't believe in cast iron for cornbread, this is the next best thing. It is so handy and almost indestructible. It is your oven's best friend.

Cleans up easy, if you butter the dish before adding your ingredients. It's also dishwasher safe.