How to Make a Double Boiler for Rendering Beeswax

Using a double boiler to render beeswax ensures the beeswax will not burn, but you don't have to buy a double boiler. You can make your own double boiler from items you probably already have in your kitchen.

Things You'll Need

• Large pot or saucepan
• Metal or glass mixing bowl or small saucepan
• Water
• Beeswax

Instructions

1. Find the base for a double boiler. Select a large pot or saucepan that a bowl or smaller saucepan can fit onto. Fill it with a few inches of water.

2. Make the top part of the double boiler. Find a metal or glass heatproof bowl (a mixing bowl works well). Or, choose a small saucepan. This will be the top part of the double boiler.

3. Put the double boiler together. The bowl or smaller pot can either "float" in the base, or fit snugly.

4. Test your double boiler. Bring the water to a simmer on the stove. Place some beeswax in the top of the double boiler. If the top of the double boiler is "floating" on the water, make sure that it does not tip over when simmering. If it does, choose a different bowl or saucepan.

Tips & Warnings

• If you use a metal bowl or saucepan for the top of the double boiler, stainless steel is best. Iron, aluminum or copper can cause the beeswax to color and become less golden.

• When you use the double boiler, check often to make sure the water doesn't boil away. If the top part of the double boiler comes into direct contact with heat, it can burn the beeswax.

• The top part of the double boiler should only be used to render beeswax from now on. It will become stained and difficult to clean.

References

• The Fannie Farmer Cookbook, 1996
• Choosing or making a double boiler

Resources

• The Bee Buzz
• Facts about Beeswax