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On my self-care journey, I’ve been prioritizing being more intentional with the foods that I consume (highly recommended I’m more focused, energetic, and even sleeping better). With that, comes being more intentional with how I’m preparing those foods. We’ve all known that the old nonstick pans are basically flaking off health problems, but the newer counterparts are potentially just as bad.
So, how is a girl supposed to make her signature mushroom and feta omelet without scrubbing a pan for a half hour afterward? Friends, I have found a fantastic, non-toxic (moderately) nonstick skillet that has me genuinely impressed. The Xtrema Signature Skillet.
Although Xtrema sent this Signature Skillet to me for review, all opinions here are my honest thoughts.
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What is Xtrema Cookware?
Xtrema is a unique ceramic cookware line in that it is not just ceramic coated – but is made from 100% ceramic. While I personally have no problem cooking on stainless steel or other metals, those wanting to avoid them (even in the pan’s core) will love Xtrema. The brand is known for its commitment to producing non-toxic, safe, and environmentally friendly cookware.
The Xtrema 11” Signature Skillet: Features
The Xtrema Signature Skillet is a popular choice for anyone looking for a non-toxic and durable cookware option. Here are some of the key features:
100% Pure Ceramic Construction: The skillet is made entirely of pure ceramic, meaning its free of harmful chemicals such as PTFE (Teflon) and PFOA, commonly found in nonstick coatings. This material choice means that no toxic substances release during cooking, even at high temperatures.
Even Heat Distribution: Ceramic has excellent heat distribution properties. The Xtrema 11” Skillet provides even heating across the surface, which helps in cooking food uniformly and efficiently.
Versatility in Cooking: This pan is versatile, working on a variety of heat sources including gas, electric, and glass top stoves. It’s also oven-safe, making it work for a wide range of cooking techniques from frying and sautéing to baking. It’s also microwave and freezer-safe, the Xtrema site says you can even use their products on a campfire.
Easy to Clean: The smooth ceramic surface is easy to clean by hand (recommended) and is dishwasher safe. It’s also stain-resistant and does not retain flavors or odors from previous meals.
Eco-Friendly: the Xtrema skillet is an environmentally friendly choice. Its production process is less harmful to the environment compared to traditional cookware manufacturing.
High Heat Capability: Ceramic cookware can withstand very high temperatures, making it great for searing and browning foods.
Stylish Design: The sleek and modern design of the Xtrema 11” Skillet makes it not only functional for cooking but also aesthetically pleasing, fitting in well with various kitchen decor styles.
Long-Lasting and Durable: While ceramic is more fragile than metal, with proper care, this pan can be a long-lasting addition to your kitchenware.
Healthier Cooking Option: Since it does not leach chemicals or metals into food, the Xtrema skillet is considered a healthier option for cooking, especially for those concerned about chemical exposure in their food.
Xtrema 11” Ceramic Skillet: The Specifications
Materials: All natural, 100% pure ceramic triple-fired and ultra-purified at 2,500 degrees. No synthetic glues, polymers, dyes or coatings.
| Length | 17.8” |
| Width | 11.0” |
| Height | 2.5” |
| Capacity | 3 qt |
| Weight | 4 lbs |
Xtrema Ceramic Skillet: Unboxing and First Thoughts
The skillet shipped to my front door in a pretty sizable Xtrema box. Inside, I was met with a very well-packaged pan.
The pan is wrapped in a plastic bag and then placed in a custom-formed foam base with a foam disc and topper to protect the pan from all angles. Important, since the skillet is fully ceramic and I’m pretty sure half of my packages are thrown from the back of a moving truck anymore (by the looks of the boxes).
However, as an ecologically-minded brand, I would like to see more sustainable packaging.
The skillet itself is beautiful. The photos online look nice, but in person, it shines. I love the almost obsidian properties. The skillet is all one piece, with no grommets or welded connections to deal with – making it even more sleek.
The handle seemed a bit short for the size of the skillet (more on that later) but has the Xtrema logo on the tip. It’s an elevated and clean design through and through.
In my hands, it feels high quality, if not a bit heavy. Now I’ve cooked with cast iron and this is not heavy when compared. But, you might get a bit of an arm workout if you are transitioning from a little nonstick pan,
The packaging told me that I did not need to season or prep anything in any way (nice!), just a quick hand wash before using. So I tossed the box and packaging into the garage where it magically disappears (totally random shout out of appreciation to my hubs) and got to cooking.
How To Cook On A Xtrema Ceramic Skillet
Cooking with an Xtrema ceramic skillet can be a bit different from using traditional metal or nonstick cookware. Here are some tips for cooking effectively with Xtrema to get you over that learning curve a bit quicker:
- Start with a low or medium heat setting to gradually warm up the skillet. Ceramic conducts heat efficiently but differently from metal pans, so it’s important to allow it to heat up slowly to avoid thermal shock. Set the pan on an appropriate-sized burner to get the best heat distribution.
- Allow the skillet to preheat for about 3-5 minutes before adding food. You can test the temperature by sprinkling a few drops of water on the surface. If the water droplets dance or sizzle, the pan is ready.
- Since Xtrema is not nonstick in the traditional sense, using oil or butter can help prevent food from sticking.
- Avoid cooking on high heat. Ceramic retains heat well, and excessive temperatures can cause food to burn. Medium or low heat is often sufficient for most cooking tasks – I seared chicken breasts on medium-low heat when testing out this pan.
- You may need to adjust cooking times and temperatures from what you’re used to with metal cookware, as ceramic handles heat differently.
- To protect the surface of the skillet, use silicone, wood, or nylon utensils instead of metal, which can be harsh on the ceramic surface.
- Allow the pan to cool before cleaning. Avoid plunging a hot ceramic skillet into cold water, this can cause thermal shock and cracking. Wash it with a soft sponge or cloth using warm, soapy water.
- Handle it with care, as ceramic can crack or chip if dropped or knocked against hard surfaces. Store it safely, where it won’t be easily knocked over or stacked under heavy items.
What Is Cooking With Xtrema Ceramic Skillets Like?
I’ve cooked with skillets and saute pans of a variety of materials, each with its own characteristics. But the Xtrema skillet is the first true ceramic piece I’ve cooked with. I first did the fried egg test. Frying an egg is a great test of many aspects from heat distribution to nonstickiness levels – one of the top traits people look for in their cookware.
Eggs are notoriously sticky for three reasons: they’re liquid, they’re cold, and they are high in protein. Without getting into the science of it all, just know they are a triple threat for possibly sticking to your pan. Perfect for testing out new skillets.
I like an over-medium egg, or as my momma calls them ‘dippy-toast eggs’.
(Remind me to tell you about the one and only time I tried to order dippy-toast-eggs in a restaurant as a preteen. That’s a core memory my brain chooses to hold onto rather than things like the name of the person I just met, or where I last set down my phone.)
The Xtrema Ceramic Skillet Fried Eggs Test
I set the pan on my gas stove and turned my burner to medium-low to let the pan warm up. Then I rounded up my supplies: avocado oil spray and eggs. Whew. In total transparency, there’s also toast involved here but it’s not relevant to the Xtrema skillet, which is what you’re here for.
I sprayed the skillet with avocado oil, cracked a few eggs, and let the magic happen.
The eggs did take a bit longer to cook than when I’ve made them in, say, stainless steel cookware. Now that may be a ‘con’ for my impatience, but it is a solid ‘pro’ for the control I had over getting the yolks *just right*. Something I struggle with to this day on stainless steel.
The eggs flipped easily with a silicone spatula: a very good sign. After a few minutes, the yolks were at the perfect dippy-toast over medium level so I tipped the pan, and the first egg slid right out onto the plate waiting below.
The second egg hung on a bit, but with a little shake, it too joined the other on my plate.
Anti-stickiness score: 9/10. While not a true nonstick pan, this skillet can absolutely achieve nonstick properties.
I let the pan cool a bit while enjoying my breakfast and then with a few swishes of warm soapy water on a sponge it was perfectly clean. You can put this pan in the dishwasher (and I’d be the first to do it) but the cleanup was impossibly easy by hand.
The Xtrema Ceramic Skillet Seared Chicken Test
Next was the sear test. Some materials, like nonstick pans, have a difficult time searing due to their nonstick properties. On medium heat, I achieved this gorgeous sear on a chicken breast with no problems. Just look at it! I actually felt that I had more control over the sear with the signature skillet vs other options I’ve used. Sear score: 10/10
How to Clean an Xtrema Ceramic Skillet
I was very brave and cleaned the Xtrema Ceramic Skillet by hand (gasp) specifically for this review. If you don’t know, I loathe hand-washing anything, so gold star for me.
I was actually surprised at how easily this pan cleaned up. It was a 20-second job at max.
A little dish soap on my nonabrasive sponge and a few swipes and the pan was pristine. I wasn’t expecting it to be bad, because I didn’t have a bunch of sticky gunk on the pan – but I was still impressed.
Xtrema Ceramic Skillet Pros:
Every piece of cookware will have pros and cons, Xtrema is a solid choice with impressive perks:
- Xtrema skillets are made from 100% pure ceramic, free from harmful chemicals like PTFE (Teflon) and PFOA, which are found in some nonstick coatings. This makes them a safe option, especially at high cooking temperatures where other coatings might degrade.
- The manufacturing process of Xtrema cookware is more eco-friendly compared to traditional metal cookware. Additionally, pure ceramic is a naturally occurring material, which adds to its environmental appeal.
- Ceramic is known for its excellent heat distribution properties. This helps in cooking food evenly, reducing the likelihood of hot spots that can burn food.
- Xtrema can be used anywhere. They are oven-safe, and can also be used for stove-top cooking, including gas, electric, and glass cooktops. The signature skillet is freezer, microwave, and dishwasher safe.
- The smooth ceramic surface is resistant to staining or capturing odors and is easy to clean by hand (recommended)
- Pure ceramic is resistant to scratching and chipping when properly cared for, and it doesn’t wear down or lose effectiveness over time as coated nonstick pans can. Xtrema can last a lifetime if well cared for – pretty impressive since nonstick pans max out at 5 years.
- Ceramic does not react with acidic or alkaline foods.
- Xtrema has a stylish and modern look.
Xtrema Ceramic Skillet Cons:
This is honestly a great skillet, but I would suggest a few improvements. The handle is my main concern, for a few reasons.
- The handle is a bit short, making handling the pan somewhat awkward. I do have small hands so I may just not fit the pan. That handle design also traps heat, meaning it gets pretty warm when cooking, similar to cast iron cookware.
- The skillet can crack or break if not treated with proper care. Try not to drop it on a hard surface and don’t place frozen items directly on a hot skillet.
- Even though it can go in the dishwasher – hand washing (a personal ick) is recommended.
- While the Xtrema site says their products are lightweight, I personally found it a bit cumbersome, similar to cast iron (but not as heavy).
- If you’re an impatient cook, you may not like the longer heat-up time of ceramic cookware, however, I didn’t mind it as I prep food while it heats up – we are looking at 3-5 minutes so it’s really not going to slow you down.
How Does The Xtrema Signature Skillet Rate Online?
The signature skillet has over 200 reviews with a rating of 4.6/5 stars. Most reviews that I read are very positive. People that the pan is non-toxic, that it cleans up easily with just soap and water, and the aesthetic design.
“After a learning curve on how to heat these pans, I must say that I love using them every day. And the bonus is they’re non-toxic!” – Joan
The negatives I read came mostly from people who are frustrated that the skillet can’t compete with a nonstick pan or that they’ve broken their pan. In my opinion, both issues are workable with proper cooking and handling methods and the Forever Replacement program.
How Long Will Xtrema Cookware Last?
Xtrema stands by their products, saying that with proper care they can last a lifetime. They offer both a 10-year warranty and a Forever Replacement program for all of their ceramic cookware offering a no-questions-asked replacement for any one item. After the first replacement, each following replacement can be ordered at a 30% discount off the retail price.
Is Ceramic Cookware Safe?
Ceramic cookware is considered very safe, especially when compared to some other types of cookware that might contain harmful chemicals. It’s made from natural materials and doesn’t contain harmful chemicals like PTFE (Teflon) or PFOA, common in some nonstick coatings.
Ceramic can withstand high temperatures without releasing harmful fumes. It’s nonreactive, meaning it doesn’t leach chemicals or alter the taste of food, even with acidic ingredients.
Is Xtrema Ceramic Cookware Really Nontoxic?
Yes! Xtrema products are free from Teflon, PFOA, PFAS, and other hazardous nonstick coating materials meaning it has a 0% chance of leaching dangerous chemicals into your dinner.
Xtrema also regularly tests its products for lead and cadmium. Xtrema cookware even passes California Prop 65 testing and third-party leach testing, which I find impressive considering that California Prop 65 warning is on just about everything anymore (which is that concerning to anyone else?)
Is Xtrema Cookware Nonstick?
Knowing that a ceramic pan is not nonstick in the traditional sense, especially when compared to cookware coated with materials like Teflon.
While not nonstick in the conventional sense, the ceramic surface of Xtrema cookware does offer some degree of stick resistance. This means that with proper cooking techniques and care, food is less likely to stick compared to other uncoated cookware.
To enhance its stick-resistant properties, it’s often necessary to use oil or butter while cooking with Xtrema cookware. Using lower heat settings and allowing the pan to heat up before adding food also helps prevent sticking. Both are standard practice for most cookware that doesn’t have a chemical nonstick coating.
Does Xtrema Cookware Contain Aluminum?
No, Xtrema cookware does not contain aluminum. Xtrema’s products are made from 100% pure ceramic. This is a key feature of their cookware and a major selling point for those looking for non-toxic and safe cooking options.
Does Xtrema Contain Any Heavy Toxic Metals Like Lead?
Xtrema cookware is known for being free from lead and other heavy toxic metals. The company emphasizes the use of 100% pure ceramic material in their products, which inherently does not contain lead, cadmium, or other heavy metals often associated with health concerns in cookware.
Xtrema cookware undergoes regular testing to ensure it meets or exceeds safety regulations for lead and cadmium. This includes both U.S. FDA standards and California Proposition 65 regulations, which are among the most stringent in the world regarding lead and cadmium in consumer products.
Why Use Pure Ceramic Cookware?
Pure ceramic cookware offers several benefits, making it a popular choice among health-conscious home cooks. Here are some of the key reasons to use pure ceramic cookware:
- Pure ceramic cookware is made entirely from natural materials without harmful chemicals like PTFE and PFOA, found in some nonstick coatings.
- Ceramic doesn’t react with acidic or alkaline foods, meaning your meals won’t acquire metallic tastes, and the cookware won’t degrade with use.
- High-quality ceramic cookware can provide excellent heat distribution, which helps in cooking food evenly. This can improve the quality of your cooking and help avoid hot spots that burn food.
- Pure ceramic cookware is typically oven-safe and can be used for a variety of cooking methods, including baking, frying, and stewing.
- Ceramic surfaces are generally easy to clean and are often dishwasher-safe. The smooth surface helps in releasing food easily, reducing the need for excessive scrubbing.
- Ceramic cookware is made from abundant, natural materials and often has a lower environmental impact in production compared to metal cookware, which involves mining and extensive processing.
- When properly cared for, pure ceramic cookware can be incredibly durable, lasting for many years without the scratching, peeling, or chipping that can occur with coated nonstick surfaces.
- Ceramic cookware often comes in a variety of colors and designs, adding a decorative touch to your kitchen.
For those prioritizing health, safety, and versatile cooking options, pure ceramic cookware is an excellent choice.
Where Is Xtrema Cookware Made? Is Xtrema Made In China?
Yes, Xtrema cookware is made in China. The brand, while based in the United States, manufactures its products in China. This is a common practice in the cookware industry, where many companies choose to produce their products overseas due to various factors, like cost efficiency and specialized manufacturing processes.
Xtrema emphasizes that their cookware is made using high-quality, pure ceramic material and adheres to strict manufacturing and quality control processes.
Can I Use Xtrema Cookware in a Microwave?
Yes, you can use Xtrema cookware in a microwave. One of the advantages of Xtrema’s 100% pure ceramic construction is its versatility across various cooking methods.
Is Xtrema Cookware Dishwasher Safe?
Yes! The cookware is 100% dishwasher safe, although I’ve had no problem hand washing it. And that comes from someone who loathes hand-washing dishes.
Is Xtrema Cookware Heavy?
Xtrema cookware strikes a balance in weight – it’s solidly made of ceramic, yet not as hefty as something like cast iron. The perception of its weight can vary; some people (like myself) have noted in their reviews that they found the cookware heavier than expected upon purchase.
Where to Buy Xtrema Cookware?
The best place to buy Xtrema cookware is directly from their official website. Purchasing from their site ensures that you are getting authentic products and can take advantage of any warranties or guarantees offered by the company. The Xtrema site often has exclusive promotions that may not be available elsewhere.
What Is the Xtrema Warranty?
Xtrema cookware offers both a 10-year warranty and a Forever Replacement program, ensuring its durability and quality. The warranty includes a 10-year protection against thermal shock breaking during cooking, which is a testament to its robustness, especially given that it’s among the top choices for non-toxic cookware.
Is Xtrema Ceramic Cookware Worth It?
I think Xtrema is well worth the investment. You should go with Xtrema if you want:
- natural, non-toxic cookware
- cookware that can last a long time
- a sturdy, but maybe a bit heavy pan
However, this might not be the right cookware for you if you want:
- unbreakable cookware that you can kill a man with (for legal reasons, that is a joke)
- to use the cookware on an induction cooktop
- lightweight pots and pans
- something truly chemically nonstick
Xtrema pans are designed to be a lasting addition to your kitchen, potentially serving you for a lifetime. The main challenge when transitioning to Xtrema lies in mastering their use. Since they differ from conventional nonstick pans, adapting to them involves a bit of a learning curve.
What sets these pans apart is their exceptional cooking quality, as they don’t release harmful substances into your food – a claim not many cookware brands can confidently make. For anyone seeking the safest, most non-toxic cookware available, Xtrema stands out as a top choice.
