Handmade Copper & Black Iron Luxury Baking Cloche

For bakers who want something exceptional, this handmade cloche combines a spun copper dome with a black iron base for a rare balance of beauty and performance. Made in the UK by Netherton Foundry, it is designed not only to bake superb bread, but to become one of those treasured kitchen pieces you keep for life.

The pre-seasoned black iron base stores and delivers heat beautifully, helping to create strong oven spring, a crisp crust and an even bake. The copper dome adds warmth, refinement and visual drama, making this cloche feel far more special than an everyday piece of bakeware.

Ideal for up to a 1.5kg round boule or a 1kg bâtard, it is a remarkable choice for serious home bakers and a memorable gift for anyone who values craftsmanship, beautiful materials and the pleasures of artisan bread making.

Key features

• Handmade in the UK by Netherton Foundry
• Spun copper dome with black iron base
• Pre-seasoned black iron for excellent heat retention
• Helps create strong oven spring, crisp crust and even baking
• Naturally non-stick when seasoned
• Ideal for up to a 1.5kg round boule or a 1kg bâtard
• A luxury cloche to bake with, keep and admire

Use: Pre-heat the cloche to the desired baking temperature, usually around 220C. Use a BreadMat or some baking paper and transfer your dough onto the hot base. Score the dough, replace the lid and slide into the oven to bake for about 30 minutes after which time remove the lid and continue to bake the loaf until it is done, and with a dark, crusty crust.

Maintenance 

Using for the first time.
You can use the cloche immediately.

Just rinse in hot water - don’t use soap or detergent and dry thoroughly.

Re-seasoning at home.
This is easy to do and quickly returns your cloche base to a smooth, black, easy to clean finish. Important, if the base has any rust spots simply remove these with fine sand paper or steel wool. Wash the base in very hot soapy water, you may need to scrub with a scouring pad or stiff brush and dry thoroughly. Cover the base of the cloche with a very thin coating of flax oil using kitchen towel. A thin coating gives best results. Place the cloche base in the oven. Place a baking tray under the base to catch any dripping oil. Heat oven to MAX (approx. 250ºC/400F,  Gas Mark 8). Once the oven is up to temperature, maintain for one hour. Then switch off the oven, allow the tin to cool slowly and store in an airy dry place.

The Copper dome does not need to be re-seasoned.

Which oils can I use for re-seasoning?
For best results use flax oil (edible linseed oil). Olive and nut oils are not effective seasoning oils.

Do not use boiled linseed oil, this is not edible.

Baking every day
In order to get your bread to release perfectly every time we recommend using a BreadMat for ease of use and safety.

Cleaning the pre-seasoned cloche
After most baking uses your cloche will not require washing, just dust it off as this preserves the seasoning.

If you do need to wash, never clean the cloche in a dishwasher.

Don't ever place a hot cloche into very cold water, this will cause it to warp!

After use, clean the base of the cloche with a stiff natural bristle brush and hot water. Do not use soap or detergents.

Never allow the cloche base to stand damp or wet as this will encourage rusting.

The copper dome just needs to be hand washed in hot soapy water using a soft cloth and then dried thoroughly with a soft, clean cloth. Any water spots left to dry naturally may leave visible marks.

The copper dome will evolve a natural patina with use. If you want to keep the outside of the copper cloche shiny then just use a copper polish when needed.

Storing the cloche.
Store in a dry airy place. Don't cover as this can trap moisture and encourage rust (which will then require re-seasoning).

Warning

Remember that hot iron and copper retain heat, so always pick up the cloche using oven gloves