A cake is an incredibly complex item. A flawless cake recipe can be affected by factors such as creaming techniques and ingredient temperatures. Before I began working for a restaurant, I worked at a wedding-cake boutique in Greenwich, Connecticut, and I continue to make wedding and special-occasion cakes for the restaurants I worked at there. I know my way around the cake, so to speak.
The best cake pan is a crucial component of success, according to my experience. An even and flat cake requires a heating medium that can conduct heat evenly to the batter; one that’s large enough to allow the batter to expand, and light enough to keep a delicate crust. There’s no way you can find a pan like that at a grocery store, and you shouldn’t pay too much for one at a mall specialty store.
Fortunately, you can find great cake pans at a restaurant- and baking-supply store for a few dollars, or you can buy them online. Below you’ll find the winners, and you can scroll to the bottom to learn more about my testing methods and what I looked for in a cake pan in 2023.
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1. Chicago Metallic Professional Non-Stick Round Cake Pan
Features
- Brand: Chicago Metallic
- Model: 5233128
- Color: Gray
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Weight: 2.28 pounds
- Dimensions: 2.01 x 10.39 x 10.39 inches
Everything must be in order when you remove the hot, heavy pan from the oven. The Chicago Metallic Professional Dough Free Cake Pan has a rounded edge. This will give you a firm grip, while further improving the overall construction of the cake pan.
Chicago round cake pan has a circumference of nine centimeters, while it is two centimeters deep. It is also perfect for making double and triple cakes. The 8-inch version of this casserole works in the same style and is also part of the cooking set. The only minor objection was the name Chicago Metallic on the pan. Transfer to top of cake while baking. It will also be difficult to remove the cake from the mold.
The dark color of the dish makes it softer and more attractive. However, this does mean that the sides of the cake are reinforced for the center. Before removing it from the bowl, it’s important to make sure that half of your cake is completely firm.
The silent lifetime warranty that round cake pan offers, however, gives a lot of peace of mind. A thick non-stick coating on the inside ensures that your cake comes off quickly and becomes smooth. Although the cake pans are easy to clean thanks to the non-stick coating, they are also dishwasher safe.
2. Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Nonstick Bakeware Round Cake Pan
Features
- Brand: Cuisinart
- Model: AMB-9RCK
- Color: Silver/Black
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Weight: 1.25 pounds
- Dimensions: 10.1 x 9.6 x 2.2 inches
The Cuisinart nonstick, round cake pan is a fantastic, budget-friendly option for those looking for basic cake pans. For even heating, this grill is manufactured from heavy gauge aluminized steel with rolled edges that prevent warping. Available in either a champagne or silver color.
Reviews mention that the pan has straight sides as well as is heavy, which makes it ideal for baking a beautiful layer cake. Note that because these pans do not have tapered sides, multiples of them cannot be stacked, so store accordingly.
You’re best off washing the pan in hot, soapy water, but if you’re in a hurry, you can also toss the pan in the dishwasher. Since the Cuisinart cake pan is nonstick, the cake will release easily (be sure to lightly flour the pan before baking), so cleaning it won’t require long soaking or scrubbing.
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3. Nordic Ware Angel Food Cake Pan
Features
- Brand: Nordic Ware
- Model: 52537AMZM
- Color: Graphite
- Material: Aluminum
- Weight: 1.88 pounds
- Dimensions: 11.2 x 10 x 5 inches
If you like pies and angel food cake, you need a special cake pan. We hope that the True Angel Nordic Cake Pan will not disappoint you. The unique rim shape in the center of this cake pan is designed to create the perfect shape.
This cake pan has a capacity of 18 cups and is ideal for large parties. Thanks to the sturdy non-stick coating on the inside, the cakes flow easily and quickly. So you can be sure that the unique design of your cake will be perfectly preserved.
Galvanized steel construction generally heats your cake evenly. It works well when baking a yellow cake and a pound. Even though cleaning is difficult due to the special design, it saves meals and hassle.
We think they’re really in the top ten. The cake pan also has several side handles. Nordic Ware cake pan made it easier to get out of the oven. The side handles have an insulated surface for a good grip when wearing gloves in the oven.
However, due to the special design of the Nordic Ware angel food cake pan, a lot of storage space is required. This means that it can be bad if you have some dense cooking. The total size of this cake pan is 28cm and 25cm, and the cake pan is 15cm deep.
4. OXO Good Grips Non-Stick Pro Round Cake Pan
Features
- Brand: OXO
- Model: 11160100
- Material: Aluminized steel, ceramic-reinforced, 2-layercoating
- Weight: 1.08 pounds
- Dimensions: 9 x 2 x 9 inches
If you love to be in the kitchen, you are probably familiar with the OXO Good Grips brand. The company manufactures many kitchen appliances designed to make your life easier. The products of the company are known for the high quality and innovative appearance sought by customers.
The OXO Good Grips Pro Nonstick Round Cake is the perfect addition to the company’s brands. This classic pound cake is made of aluminized steel. This will help distribute the hot cake evenly and quickly.
The edges of the cake on the cake are rounded squares to improve strength and durability. The thick rolled edges also stay nice when you take the cake out of the oven. The pan is five inches deep and is perfect for baking cupcakes and cheesecakes.
The inside of this cake pan is designed in such a way that it will not stick. The coating contains PFOA and other harmful substances. The top of this baking dish has a unique pattern with a micro-texture. This pattern will reduce the contact between the mold and the bottom of the cake. It can be cooked much faster and more evenly.
The micro text sample is the most difficult to clean for cake pans. You may find leftover cake there. Therefore, it is better to wash the cake pan by hand and gently rub the surface.
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5. SAVEUR SELECTS Round Cake Pan
Features
- Brand: SAVEUR SELECTS
- Model: T19-010-3
- Color: Clear
- Material: Carbon Steel
- Dimensions: 11.4 x 10 x 2 inches
With the SAVEUR Selects round cake pan, you get a nonstick pan that’s well insulated and easy to clean with a tight seal and reverse hinge on the side so it’s easy to open. Solid carbon steel makes the SAVEUR Selects Round Cake Pan heat evenly and quickly. A cake pan like this can be used for celebrations such as birthdays and small gatherings.
It is made of a sturdy, heavy-gauge metal, which resists twisting and warming, and will maintain its shape for years. With its broad rolled rims and non-slip milled textured surface, the pan ensures a secure grip. The person who has ever made a cheesecake and then discovered the springform has leaked deserves a well-made, solid pan that seals tightly.
There are many springforms on the market, but not all of them deliver. In the testing, the nonstick finish of this pan was highly regarded because it allowed cakes to come out easily after cooling and being refrigerated. A truly game-changing hinge, this hinge provides a tight seal. The manufacturer recommends that this pan be placed in the dishwasher, but testers believe it is the best to hand washed. Testers also rave about how well this cake pan works for tortes, tarts, and layer cakes.
6. Simply Calphalon Nonstick Bakeware Cake Pan
Features
- Brand: Calphalon
- Model: 1758082
- Color: Toffee
- Material: Carbon Steel
- Weight: 1.05 pounds
- Dimensions: 9.5 x 2.25 x 13.5 inches
Calphalon is known for its many quality kitchen appliances and oven products. The company is known for its innovative materials and uncoated materials. These functions are used to make a rectangular Calphalon Bakeware non-stick cake. The interior of this cake pan consists of a self-adhesive adhesive layer. It will make your cake more beautiful.
This makes the cake pan easy to clean by hand and in the dishwasher. Calphalon cake pan is specially designed for making single-layer cakes. However, it has a larger capacity than usual, so your cakes will be thicker and smoother. The cake pan measures 13 inches long and nine inches wide and 2.25 inches deep.
The heavy-duty steel core heats up and ensures the cake is evenly at 500 ° F. The overall design of this model is much more sturdy and durable. In addition, it has a lifetime warranty.
However, all this energy and force make the cake pan very heavy. At just under two pounds, it’s not the easiest pie. Although it is valid to wind the wire, it is difficult to take it out of the oven.
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7. USA Bakeware Round Cake Pan
Features
- Brand: USA Pan
- Model: 1070LC
- Color: Aluminized Steel
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Weight: 1 pounds
- Dimensions: 9 x 9 x 2 inches
If you like thick and plentiful cakes, you will definitely like the cake pan. The USA pan bakeware is 2.25 inches deep. The cake pan is nine inches in circumference, while the top has a pattern designed to dissolve easily.
The cookware is made of thick aluminized steel, which of course can transfer heat quickly and easily. It helps make your cakes perfect every time. The thick edges of the cake pans are rolled up for added strength and can be easily removed from the oven.
Like all USA Pan products, the inside of the cake is decorated with a company patented coating. This layer is made of silicone and does not contain any chemicals that can be completely toxic. These include PTFE, PFOA, and BPA.
USA round cake pan can remove rust if left untreated. Therefore, it is important to wash the cake and dry it after use. You can also put it in the oven for a few minutes to make sure there aren’t any wet hooks on the pan.
Fortunately, the non-stick coating cleans up the cake pan quickly and easily. All you need to work is a little lukewarm water and a bucket of soap. In addition, this model has a long warranty during protection.
8. Wilton Recipe Right Non-Stick Cake Pans
Features
- Brand: Wilton
- Model: 2109-6836
- Color: Assorted
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Weight: 2.77 pounds
- Dimensions: 2 x 5 x 9 inches
If you prefer to bake rectangular cakes or cookies, these cake molds will definitely be a challenge for you. The Wilton Sticky Cake Pan is made of cold-rolled Multipack steel. The construction has more accessible edges.
This cake pans material is heated, which is an advantage when making snacks or other cupcakes. You can make sure each piece is cooked evenly with no burnt or uncooked edges. The non-stick coating is designed for easy cleaning of cake pans and is dishwasher safe. With Wilton non-stick cake pan, you have the right cake lids. The overall size is 13 inches long, nine inches wide, and two inches deep. These are the bowls for licking cakes and other stuff.
The rectangular design makes the cake pans even more versatile. You can cook vegetables, crisps, and other foods with it. This is perfect if you have limited storage space for a large collection of different pans. You will notice that these dishes start to work a bit with the oven. Even if they lose their shape a bit, they are safe to use. A five-year warranty gives you peace of mind.
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Buying Guide: Best Cake Pans
It is evident that even top-of-the-range cake pans can come in a variety of styles. Consequently, you will need to think about your specific needs before purchasing. You should consider the following factors when selecting a top cake pan.
Size
You should consider the size of the cake pan when baking a cake because the quality of the cake depends upon its type and recipe. As a result, you must choose carefully your cake pan based on its size and design, according to the type of cake you want to make.
Unique Design
Select a pan with a unique shape, such as a heart, hexagon, or star. Kids will love to eat these shapes especially since they are interesting and fun. This type of cake pan is often used by baking experts to make a place look more unique during baking contests or celebrations.
Material
The cake pan should be made of durable, safe materials, contains no toxic ingredients, and is coated with a powerful anti-stick coating. Steel, an aluminized material, is now available as a quality material for cake pans that conduct heat evenly and reach the baking temperature quicker. Moreover, you can remove the cake easily from the pan after baking, as well as clean it more effectively, thanks to the non-stick coating.
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The Construction
For a tight seal on the edges of the cake pan, make sure that no batter will leak through. A cake pan should ideally also have rolled edges. This will increase your strength and provide a better grip.
Heat Conductivity
Heat conductivity is crucial to even cake rise, or else your cake may have a slanted or sunken top that will be difficult to decorate or layer. The best conductor of heat is aluminum, making it an ideal material for cake pans. A cake pan made of anodized aluminum or aluminum steel will ensure even heat distribution and a perfectly shaped cake.
The heat conduction of aluminum cake pans is better than that of carbon steel pans, which are usually coated with a dark nonstick coating. Aluminum cake pans reflect heat, but these pans absorb it, which results in the edges of the cake baking much quicker than the center. Carbon steel pans bake cakes with a somewhat rounded top.
Versatility
Rectangular pans are ideal if you want to be able to make many different kinds of desserts. You can use a pan like this to make brownies, layered sponge cakes, and even roast vegetables. The cake pan should be at least two inches deep in order for these cake bites to be moist.
Durability
You will want your cake pan to serve as your constant baking companion once you’ve picked the perfect one. So, it is advisable to look for a model offering a long warranty. You will have peace of mind knowing that this will last for a long time.
Final Thoughts
In all of these cases, we’re looking at well-formulated recipes that are meant to bake up fluffy, light, and level. With a little bit of good baking technique and a good oven thermometer, I can accomplish decent results even with less-than-ideal pans. In a crummy pan, the more negative effects will be magnified as more variables are thrown into play.
With hot ovens, using a nonstick, nonreflective pan will only exasperate the problem of tough, dark bottom crusts. By using a too-large pan without sufficient creaming, the volume of the cake will be further reduced, making the cake flat and gummi. When using a wonky recipe and batter that is too thick, nesting pans will result in even more severe doming.
Using an inferior set of pans isn’t an option, so you will have to minimize the risk in other areas. Make sure you cream the batter properly, confirm your oven temperature, use the right ingredients, and monitor the cakes as they bake through their suggested bake times. When it comes to baking, there are a lot of variables to keep in mind, so you should consider making sure your pan is working for you, rather than against you.
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Frequently Asked Questions
You can ensure that your cake comes out of the baking pan in one piece by lining your baking pan with parchment paper. Nowadays, you don’t need to line a cake pan with nonstick. Baking goods will easily release from nonstick surfaces.
Still, there are some people who prefer greased or lined baking pans regardless of whether they are using nonstick bakeware. Get to know your cake pan to find the one that works best for you.
Generally, you must let cakes cool before attempting to remove them from a baking pan, as a still-warm cake is prone to falling apart. You should wait how long your recipe says, but if it doesn’t, wait at least 15 to 20 minutes. Next, gently flip your cake over onto a wire rack (using your hands or a plate to do this) to allow it to cool completely.
Use warm soapy water to rinse the cake pan before and after use. Some manufacturers allow you to wash cake pans in your dishwasher, but we still recommend hand washing. To avoid scratching and peeling nonstick coating on the cake pan, pick soft materials when washing the pan and use a mild detergent.
When using the microwave, metals are often advised not to be put in. Even so, there are a few high-quality cake pan companies that promise microwave-safe products. It is important to read the user manual and features of the cake pan so that you can determine if it is microwave-safe and what temperature to bake at.
Sure. The FDA has approved the use of food-grade silicone and the material can generally be used at temperatures between freezing and 500 degrees. Make sure to read the manufacturer’s specifications before using silicone bakeware to find out the exact temperature thresholds.