A double saucepan is a cooking tool that consists of two stacked pots, which enables even and gentle heating of the ingredients inside. This kitchen item is commonly known as a double boiler, bain-marie, or water bath. The term bain-marie translates to "Mary's bath" in French and describes the process of cooking by placing a container of food in a large, shallow pan of water. Another synonym for double saucepan is a steam bath, which also involves cooking food in a pot that is suspended above simmering water. These methods of cooking are commonly used for cooking delicate sauces, melting chocolate, or making custards, as it prevents food from overheating or burning.