Le Creuset is known for its enamel cast-iron pots and pans and other kitchen goods. While they’re a treasured piece in anyone’s kitchen, their price tag simply doesn’t always vibe with each cook’s pocketbook. That’s why we love a good Aldi dupe when we see one.
Aldi’s Crofton brand Cast-Iron Bread Dome is back on shelves next week. It must have been a popular Find because it’s back from year’s past, and according to social media posts, it goes quickly once they stock it. Especially given the iconic Le Creuset version is 12-times more expensive than the Aldi copycat, which retails for just $26.99 (comparably, the Le Creuset one retails for $300).
If you’re not familiar with a bread dome, it’s a two-piece, heavy-duty cast-iron, enamel-coated pot that is used to bake artisan bread. The top is a tall dome that fits perfectly atop a loaf of sourdough, while the bottom is a shallow, handled dish made out of the same material to rest the bread on for baking.
If you’re new to bread baking, you’ll preheat both pieces in a hot oven, place the dough on the base, secure the dome on top, which will form a seal, trapping steam inside while it bakes, allowing the bread to rise and expand. You’ll lift the dough lid, then continue baking to allow the bread to achieve that classic golden crust. The entire unit will help you execute that tender, spongy crumb and trademark sourdough ‘ear’.
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While a Dutch oven can achieve the same results, some folks enjoy using a bread dome because the base is easier to move around than a full Dutch oven. Aldi hasn’t released the details yet on this year’s bread dome, but according to last year’s posts, it is oven safe up to 482 degrees and dishwasher safe. You can grab one in navy blue or cream, both with silver hardware.
Both colors drop in the Finds aisle on September 17, along with a host of other cast-iron goodies, like a 2.5-quart and 4-quart French Dutch oven, a mini skillet, a square skillet and a mini cast-iron casserole dish. You may want to plan a trip next Wednesday if you’re in the market.
