Review: Emerson Creek Pottery

I love reviewing products. But I love reviewing products with a purpose. Even better? I love reviewing products made just a stones throw from my front door.

Okay, they’re not literally a stones throw, but they are only about thirty minutes away.

Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, Emerson Creek Pottery artisans are continuing the American tradition of pottery making in a contemporary way. Influenced by the energy of Early American cobalt decoration, owners Priscilla Palmer and Jim Leavitt founded Emerson Creek Pottery in 1977. Each piece is hand made, hand painted and fired in a gas kiln. Each pattern is a series of carefully planned strokes. No templates or stencils are used. The patterns are practiced and committed to memory.

Honestly, I’m not sure what was more exciting: getting to bake in artisan stoneware and feel all homey or knowing this item was sent to me from someone so close to home. Really, I want to go check out their factory outlet and just gush.

I received a small loaf pan to bake with, love, and review.

I baked a rather large cupcake (well, it’s what I wanted to make) and cornbread with my loaf pan. Both came out rather good, but I would suggest baking actual bread in it and not mixes. The cornbread made in the artisan loaf pan versus that made in cupcake form was better, hands down. It was moist and tasty. I’m not big on cornbread because it’s so dry. And, no, I don’t make homemade cornbread. Again, not my thing. The loaf shaped cupcake was delicious as well.

On to the actual bread making.

That is what I should have done in the first place, really!

Something about the stoneware really adds to your bread. It’s just fluffier. I don’t know about you, but my bread tends to go the way of a rock. It’s just so… dense. Well, no more! I am definitely going to have to get a larger loaf pan.

The loaf pan was easy to clean, too. I was nervous about cleaning since it is stoneware and I haven’t used stoneware in the past, but I needn’t have worried. Some hot soapy water and a washcloth and your stoneware is good as new.

Price Point – $11.00 plus shipping for the small loaf pan (3″ x 5″ x 3″).

Deal Alert

Save 15% off any purchase over $25 through 2/12/11 at Emerson Creek Pottery with coupon code: atb32

Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. Tomoson Product review & giveaway Disclosure.