These pretty little ramekins are a bit different in style than the traditional vertically rippled cups that look like miniature soufflé dishes. The tall, smooth sides are only interrupted by three horizontal ridges--it"s a clean look, and actually makes them more practical. They"re easier to grab from under the hot broiler and also easier to scrub clean after use--no more caramelized sugar trapped in the ripples! The smooth interior flares just slightly at the top to provide a broader surface area for that tasty top layer. Each ramekin holds up to 8 ounces when filled to the very brim, and goes easily from freezer to oven or microwave--terrific for make-ahead fruit crisps or cobblers. --Jill Lightner