Baking in a Gas Oven vs. Electric: Which Gives Better Results?

Last Updated: 03/13/2024

Author: James Zhao, Sr. Tech Specialist & Alex Park, Product Specialist

When it comes to baking in a gas oven vs. an electric oven, the choice can significantly impact the results of your baked goods. Gas ranges provide a moist heat that is perfect for certain types of baking, such as baking bread or roasting meat, as they tend to retain moisture better. On the other hand, electric ranges are known for their consistent and even heat distribution, which is essential for precision baking like cakes, cookies, and pastries.

In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between gas and electric ovens, from heat distribution to moisture levels, so you can make the best choice for your kitchen.

When you're ready to level up your baking, FOTILE’s electric ranges ensure consistent heat and faster preheating for better results every time. Learn more about our electric range and find out how effortless great baking can be.

How Gas and Electric Ovens Work

When deciding between baking in a gas oven vs. an electric oven, understanding how each type of oven affects your baked goods is essential for achieving perfect results. Gas and electric ovens both provide reliable baking performance, but their heating mechanisms are different, impacting the outcome of your baking.

Gas ovens rely on an open flame, creating a more humid environment that can impact the texture and moisture levels of baked goods. Electric ovens use heating elements to produce dry, consistent heat, resulting in even temperature distribution and more precise control.

Key Differences in Heating Methods

Choosing between gas and electric ranges depends on the types of baked goods you prioritize and how much control you need over oven temperature stability and moisture levels.

  • Gas Ovens: Baking in a gas oven uses an open flame to generate heat, creating a moist, humid environment. This moisture can affect the texture and rise of baked goods like bread and cakes, while uneven heat distribution might require rotating trays for consistent results. While gas ovens can be great for roasting or baking items that require a slight crisp, they may not be ideal for delicate pastries that need precise, even baking.
  • Electric Ovens: Baking in an electric oven offers more precise temperature control and even heat distribution, thanks to top and bottom heating elements. This creates a dry, stable environment that helps promote even browning, crisp crusts, and better texture in items like cookies, cakes, and pies. FOTILE’s electric ovens also feature convection fans, which circulate hot air, reducing temperature fluctuations and ensuring uniform results.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing an Oven for Baking

When it comes to baking in a gas oven vs. electric oven, the differences in heat distribution and moisture retention can impact the quality and texture of your baked goods. Choosing the right oven is crucial for achieving consistent, high-quality results in your baking.

Heat Distribution & Stability

Electric ovens offer more stable heat distribution, as their top and bottom heating elements provide even warmth throughout the cavity. Gas ovens generate heat from a burner at the bottom, leading to natural heat pockets that may require manual adjustments like tray rotation for uniform baking.

Temperature Control & Accuracy

Electric ovens maintain steady, precise temperatures, making them ideal for delicate baked goods, like loaves of bread, that require consistency. Gas ovens heat up quickly and adjust temperatures faster, but they may experience fluctuations that impact even cooking.

Moisture Levels

Gas ovens produce a naturally humid environment due to the combustion process, which helps prevent items like bread from drying out. Electric ovens provide a dry heat that promotes crisp textures, making them a better choice for pastries, cookies, and items that need a golden, well-browned finish.

Cost & Energy Efficiency

Gas ovens typically have lower operating costs due to the affordability of natural gas, while electric ovens may use more energy over time. However, modern electric ranges optimize heat circulation for efficiency, reducing overall cooking time and energy consumption.

Best Oven Type for Different Baked Goods

Not all ovens bake the same way, and using a gas vs. electric range can make or break your favorite recipes. Gas ranges create humidity, which can be helpful for bread and roasts, while electric ranges provide consistent heat—a must-have for delicate pastries, cakes, and cookies.

Best Baked Goods for a Gas Ranges:

  • Rustic Breads & Artisan Loaves: The natural humidity in a gas oven prevents bread from drying out, creating a softer, chewier crumb.
  • Casseroles & Roasts: Gas ovens retain moisture, keeping meats and layered dishes tender.
  • Soufflés & Custards: Moist heat reduces the risk of cracks or drying out.

Best Baked Goods for an Electric Ranges:

  • Cookies & Pastries: Even heat distribution ensures crispy edges and golden-brown tops every time.
  • Cakes & Cupcakes: Precise temperature control means no hot spots, no sinking centers—just perfect, fluffy bakes.
  • Pies & Tarts: Dry heat helps set flaky, buttery crusts while evenly cooking the filling.
  • Pizza & Flatbreads: Consistent high heat delivers a crispy, restaurant-style crust with just the right amount of chew.

FOTILE’s FreshBake™ Electric Range provides faster preheating, advanced convection for even baking, and precision heat control—so every recipe turns out just right. Plus, with Air Fry & True Convection, you can bake, roast, and crisp to perfection in one versatile oven.

Pros and Cons of Baking in a Gas Oven

Pros:

  • Fast Preheating & Quick Temperature Adjustments: Gas ovens heat up quickly and respond rapidly to temperature changes.
  • Moist Heat for Certain Baked Goods: The natural humidity helps prevent items like bread and casseroles from drying out.
  • Lower Operating Costs: Natural gas is often more affordable than electricity, reducing long-term energy expenses.

Cons:

  • Uneven Heat Distribution: Heat rises from the bottom burner, creating hot spots that may require tray rotation.
  • Temperature Fluctuations: The cycling of the gas burner can lead to inconsistent heat levels, impacting delicate bakes.
  • Requires Gas Hookup: Installation may be limited by kitchen infrastructure and access to a gas line.

Pros and Cons of Baking in an Electric Oven

Pros:

  • Consistent, Even Heat: Electric ovens distribute heat evenly, making them ideal for precision baking
  • Better Browning & Crisping: Dry heat ensures crisp exteriors for pastries, cookies, and roasted dishes.
  • Advanced Features in Modern Models: Many electric ovens offer convection settings for improved airflow and efficiency.

Cons:

  • Slower Preheating: Electric ovens take longer to reach the desired temperature compared to gas. Electric ovens take longer to reach the desired temperature compared to gas.
  • Higher Energy Costs: Electricity may be more expensive than natural gas, depending on the region.
  • Retains Heat Longer: Cooling down takes more time, which can impact baking flexibility.

Become a Better Baker with an Electric Range From Fotile

For precise temperatures, even baking, and perfectly golden results, FOTILE’s FreshBake™ Electric Range features True Convection, Air Fry, and Quick Preheat settings. Say goodbye to uneven bakes and hello to fluffy cakes, crispy cookies, and golden pies with our innovative electric ranges.

Upgrade your kitchen with an electric range from FOTILE and perfect your baked goods with our precise cooking technology.