Understanding Glass

• Old glass bakeware was made out of borosilicate glass, a type of glass that is resistant to large temperature fluctuations. In recent times, most bakeware companies have switched to a type of glass called soda lime glass because it's cheaper. Soda lime glass is the exact same type of glass that martini glasses and other household glassware are made of. The difference between bakeware and drinkware is that drinkware is often thinner and is not tempered. Tempering glass involves heating it to a very high temperature and cooling it back down, which makes the glass physically harder. Tempered glass will still break with the same temperature fluctuations as non-tempered glass, but the pieces are blunt instead of sharp.

Baking Safely

• Successful baking in martini glasses can be done, but be aware that you are taking a risk. The number one thing to keep in mind is that stemware is more delicate and easy to shatter, regardless of temperature. Exercise caution with fragile lips and stems, and be careful with sharp pieces if one does break. Prior to baking, make sure all glasses and ingredients are at room temperature -- not chilled -- to lower the chances of breaking from temperature changes. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit and place glasses on a baking sheet. Fill glasses one-third to one-half full and bake for 18 minutes. The centers should spring back to the touch -- if not, bake for another two to four minutes, or until springy. Let cool completely on the baking sheet before removing and decorating.

Microwave "Baking"

• Cooking cupcakes in glassware can also be accomplished in the microwave. Not all glass is microwave safe, but you can test yours by putting it in the microwave for one minute. If it's hot, it's not safe to microwave in, but if it's cool to the touch, you are good to go. Mix up any cupcake recipe and microwave one at a time for one-and-a-half to two minutes each, or until the middle is firm. Remove to a towel on the countertop and let cool completely before decorating.

Alternative Methods

• If you don't want to risk breakage, there are some good alternatives for creating cute martini cupcakes without baking them in the glass. Use a martini glass as a mold to create tinfoil cones. Stand each cone up in a cupcake pan, pour the batter into these buttered, martini-shaped cups and bake at 325 F for 18 to 22 minutes. Another good option is to create a martini parfait, layering chunks of already-baked cake with fruit and frosting or whipped cream.