A METHOD OF SIMULTANEOUSLY MICROWAVE HEATING OR BAKING PLURAL ARTICLES, AND CONCOMITANT PACKAGE

A method of simultaneously microwave heating or baking a plurality of articles such as comestible articles: for example, brownies, cupcakes, muffins or cookies or the like. The method comprises the steps of arranging the plurality of articles in a predetermined, vacant-center array within an ovenable container, non-sealingly enclosing the array of articles in the container so that the articles share a common headspace in the container, and applying microwave energy for a sufficient period of time to effect the heating or baking. In a preferred embodiment, the predetermined plurality is eight, and the array is a three-by-three orthogonal pattern with a vacant center position or zone. The method may further comprise preparing a bakeable batter, subdividing the batter into a plurality of equal portions with one portion in each of a plurality of like receptacles so that, upon being baked, each of the portions becomes one of the articles. A package is also provided to facilitate practicing the method. A preferred package comprises a mix for preparing a bakeable batter, a plurality of receptacles into which the batter may be subdivided, and a container or enclosure such as a carton which is sized and configured to accommodate an array of articles or batter laden receptacles, and to provide a common headspace above the articles. The package may also comprise selectively patterned and/or positioned microwave susceptors or reflective materials to further ensure uniform heating or baking of the articles. A package embodiment of the invention is also disclosed in which plural articles are arranged, when packaged, in a predetermined, open-center array.