12 best baking pans for cakes

Baking pans for cakes are essential tools in the world of baking. These pans come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, catering to the diverse needs of bakers. Here's what you should know about them:

  1. Materials: Cake pans are typically made from various materials, including aluminum, stainless steel, non-stick coatings, and silicone. Each material has its advantages, with aluminum and stainless steel offering durability and even heat distribution, non-stick coatings facilitating easy cake release, and silicone pans being flexible and easy to clean.

  2. Shapes and Sizes: Cake pans come in a wide range of shapes and sizes. Common shapes include round, square, rectangular, and heart-shaped pans. The size of the pan determines the volume of batter it can hold, affecting the size and thickness of the resulting cake.

  3. Depth: The depth of cake pans varies as well. Some are shallow, ideal for making thin cakes or layers, while others are deeper, suitable for creating thicker cakes or tortes.

  4. Specialty and Novelty Pans: Specialty and novelty cake pans are designed to create unique and fun shapes. These can include pans shaped like animals, characters, numbers, or letters. They are popular for special occasions and themed cakes.

  5. Springform Pans: Springform cake pans have a removable bottom and a latch on the side that allows the pan to expand, making it easy to remove delicate cakes like cheesecakes without damaging them.

  6. Non-Stick Coatings: Many cake pans feature non-stick coatings, which make it easier to release the cake without it sticking to the pan. This promotes a cleaner and more intact presentation of the finished cake.

  7. Layer Cake Pans: Layer cake pans are often used to bake multiple cake layers simultaneously, making it convenient to create multi-layer cakes with even heights.

  8. Bundt Pans: Bundt cake pans have a distinctive ring shape with decorative fluting. They are used to make bundt cakes, which often have a hollow center.

  9. Angel Food Cake Pans: Angel food cake pans are tall and tube-shaped with a removable bottom. They are designed specifically for making angel food cakes, which are light and airy.

  10. Maintenance: Proper care and maintenance of cake pans are essential to prolong their lifespan. Avoid using metal utensils that can scratch non-stick surfaces, and hand wash pans to prevent damage from the dishwasher.

  11. Cake Strips: Some bakers use cake strips, also known as baking strips or magic strips, to ensure even baking and prevent the top of the cake from doming. These strips are soaked in water and wrapped around the cake pan before baking.

In conclusion, baking pans for cakes are versatile and come in various shapes, sizes, and materials to accommodate different baking needs and preferences. Whether you're making a simple round cake or an elaborate themed creation, choosing the right cake pan is essential for achieving the desired results in your baking projects.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best baking pans for cakes on the market
  

Nordic Ware Classic Metal 9x13 Covered Cake Pan

Nordic Ware

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Naturals pure aluminum cake pan will never rust. Metal baking and storage cover. 9" x 13". Manufactured by United States.

  • Natural aluminum commercial bakeware is made of pure aluminum which will never rust for a lifetime of durability
  • Baked goods rise and bake evenly due to aluminums superior heat conductivity and the reinforced encapsulated steel rim prevents warping
  • Easy clean up, hand wash only.Nylon, wood, or silicone utensils are recommended
  • Pan exterior dimensions 15.63 x 9.63 x 3.25 inches and interior dimensions 13 x 8.88 x 2.5 inches
  • Proudly made in the USA by Nordic Ware

User questions & answers

Question: Can you bake with the cover on
Answer: Yes are reusable at least 5 years at last
Question: Is the inside of this pan textured? I am trying to replace the one I've had for 10 years and I would like to get the same thing
Answer: These are Chinese knock offs. No brand name. No packaging. Beware. I thought I was buying Wilton.
Question: Hi, can you flip the pan over and use the lid as serving plate
Answer: You can, using straight or “T” pins, or paper clips as someone else suggested. I prefer the “T” pins myself. They’re heavy duty enough to connect well through the layers
Question: The description states "hand wash only" Really? and why
Answer: I assume it is the heat resistant -flame retardant-finish applied to these baking pan strips. I learned about them on "Preppy Kitchen"-a YouTube channel for baking--check out his channel for his tips-I do not recommend them -they did not perform as advertised and I do not think they help with keeping the cake level during baking--hope this helps-

Wilton Aluminum Round Set, 8 x 2-Inch, 2-Pack Cake Pan Multipack, Assorted

Wilton

Based on 19 reviews Check latest price

Product description

How do you make a layered cake? Start with quality bakeware from Wilton! These 8-inch round cake pans are perfect for baking up your favorite cake recipes. The aluminum construction ensures even-heating for uniform baking and the generous 2-inch depth works well for creating cakes with higher layers. A great basic set of cake pans for all of your baking needs.

  • How do you make a layered cake? Start with quality bakeware from Wilton! These 8-inch round cake pans are perfect for baking up your favorite cake recipes. The aluminum construction ensures even-heating for uniform baking and the generous 2-inch depth works well for creating cakes with higher layers. A great basic set of cake pans for all of your baking needs.
  • Perfect for layered cakes
  • Even-heating aluminum for uniform baking
  • Generous 2-inch Depth for higher layers
  • Hand wash recomillimeterended
  • 8 inch x 2 inch
  • Multipack includes 2 pans total

User questions & answers

Question: What is the diameter of the donuts? I'm looking for something 2" in diameter or slightly bigger
Answer: I just measured one side of the donuts whole to other it about 3 inches. They are a perfect size. I use them all the time.
Question: I don't understand how the doughnuts come out rounded on top. Do you put a second pan on top? Or do you just fill this like a muffin pan and bake
Answer: Hi, Book Lover # 52. I made the doughnuts and they came out rounded. I think it's the baking powder or whatever rising ingredients are in your recipe. You don't need a second pan - just fill like a muffin pan. My recipe called for me to fill the holes 2/3 full. They came out really nice.
Question: Will regular cake mix, Duncan Hines, etc. work with this donut pan
Answer: You can make cake box donuts and they'll taste like donuts. One box cake mix and two cups applesauce stirred together creates easy baked donut batter. Lightly grease pan and preheat oven. Bake at 425F for 10-15 minutes or until donuts firmly spring back when pressed. Allow to sit in pan for 5 minutes before removing, it helps to have more than one of these pans to cut down on idle time. An easy glaze is to melt store bought frosting in the microwave and then drizzle, dip, or dunk. You can then glaze and add toppings if desired. For best results, add toppings while glaze is still warm.
Question: are the walls straight up and down or slightly tapered
Answer: Sorry for the delay in answering your question. I bought a pair of 9" round Wilton Performance Pans in 2011 for my Aunt, who decorates cakes. These were tapered, which is not what she wanted. I looked around a little more and found 9" round Wilton Decorator Preferred pans that have straight walls. So you want the Decorator Preferred. What size do you need? It seems that Wilton has discontinued the 9" size.

Product features

Celebrate With The Classics

Our shaped pans bring favorite characters and beloved toys to life for a cake that will delight children and adults alike. Pans are embossed to make decorating easier for wonderful results. Aluminum's uniform heat conduction makes for an even, light golden finish, while being warp and rust resistant for commercial-level performance. In the summertime months, you can also use them to mold outstanding ice cream cakes. Whether baking or molding, these pans are just the right shape.

Built to Take the Heat

Our pans are made to last, with a solid aluminum construction to make sure cakes bake evenly, with a smooth surface that's easy to decorate. For simple shapes, ice your entire cake in one bright color or get adventurous. Either way, we've got you covered.

No Limits to Creativity

If you want to bring things up a notch, even simple shapes can be dressed up by piping rosettes and star flowers in beautifully coordinating colors. Your number smash cake will bloom into a memorable party highlight.

Dino-mite

Make a cute dinosaur cake for the partysaurus in your life. Pipe light green stars for the body, yellow lines for the tail and fill in the spikes, teeth and eyes. Pipe black outlines and a simple ball border, and you've got a roaring good time.

Wilton Recipe Right Non-Stick 9-Inch Square Baking Pan with Lid, Set of 2

Wilton

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The perfect brownies start with quality Wilton bakeware. This multipack comes with baking pans so you can bake even more cakes, brownies, cinnamon rolls and more. The convenient pan lid keeps your baked goods fresher longer.

  • Non-stick coating for quick release and easy cleanup. Heavy gauge construction spreads heat evenly and prevents warping
  • 9 x 9 in. (22.86 x 22.86 cm)
  • Dishwasher safe; however for best results, wash in warm, soapy water before first and after each use
  • Limited 5-year warranty
  • Quantity: 2 pans total

User questions & answers

Question: Can I use one 9x9 pan for the new, smaller 15 ounce box of cake mix or will it overflow
Answer: I bet you could but I haven't used a box mix for a long time
Question: Do these have sharp edges? I would like to make a box cake
Answer: no sharp edges,love these pans
Question: So these come with recipes? Why is it called recipe right
Answer: Some of our pans come with recipes, I do not believe these do. That is just the name of this particular pan line.
Question: What is the definition of 2, 2pack? Does it mean i get one pan and one lid or 2 pans and 2 lids
Answer: This is a set of two pans and two lids.

Amazon Basics Nonstick Carbon Steel Muffin Pan, Set of 2, 12 Cups Each

Amazon Basics

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

An Amazon Brand

  • Set of 2 muffin pans, each with 12 cups (24 cups total)—ideal for baking muffins, cupcakes, and more
  • Dimension:13.9 x 10.6 x 1.2 inches
  • Nonstick coating ensures effortless food release; oven-safe to 500 degrees F. Heavy-weight carbon-steel construction provides durability and fast, even heating for uniform browning.
  • Hand washing recommended; fits Amazon Basics silicone baking cups (not included)
  • Part of the Amazon Basics nonstick carbon-steel bakeware collection; backed by an Amazon Basics limited 1-year warranty

User questions & answers

Question: is this made in China
Answer: Yes it was made in China
Question: Is This Dishwasher Safe
Answer: Officially I can not say that it is 'dishwasher safe' but I have put mine in the dishwasher and they wash up nicely. I got them to replace 2 old set that started rusting when they had water sitting on them for too long - don't know if they were not dishwasher safe or if they were just old and the non-stick had worn away from years of use. Hope that is helpful. They have been great replacements - my food doesn't stick in them at all!
Question: what's the size of each circle
Answer: 2.75 inches in diameter.
Question: What are the dimensions of this item
Answer: 5 cm diameter at bottom, 7 cm diameter at top, and 3 cm height.

Amazon Basics Nonstick Carbon Steel Baking Bread Pan, 9.5 x 5 Inch, Set of 2

Amazon Basics

Based on 7 reviews Check latest price

Product description

An Amazon Brand

  • Set of 2 rectangular-shaped bread pans—ideal for baking bread, making meatloaf, and more
  • Heavy-weight carbon-steel construction provides durability and fast, even heating for uniform browning
  • Nonstick coating ensures effortless food release; oven-safe to 500 degrees F
  • Hand washing recommended; part of the Amazon Basics nonstick carbon-steel bakeware collection
  • Each measures 9.25 by 5 inches; backed by an Amazon Basics limited 1-year warranty

User questions & answers

Question: What is the weight of dough for bread in this pan
Answer: The weight of the bread dough that each pan is designed to hold is identified in the description, 1 pound, 1.25 pounds, 1.5 pounds. The pan that measures 8.5 x 4.5 x 2.75 holds 1 pound of white yeast bread dough; the pan that measures 9 x 5 x 2.75 holds 1.25 pounds of white yeast bread dough; the pan that measures 10 x 5 x 3 holds 1.5 pounds of white yeast bread dough.
Question: Is this a straight-sided loaf pan, or does it slightly angle out towards the top
Answer: Slightly angled
Question: What are the inside measurements? looking for no less than 9 x 5 inside and also what is the height
Answer: 81/2 x 4 3/4. 3
Question: Is this pan made with PFAs
Answer: Yes

Amazon Basics 6-Piece Nonstick Oven Bakeware Baking Set

Based on 7 reviews Check latest price

Product description

An Amazon Brand

  • 6-piece bakeware set includes a 9x5-inch loaf pan, 2 round 9-inch cake pans, a 12-cup muffin pan, a 13x9-inch roast pan, and a 13x9-inch baking sheet
  • Made of heavy-weight carbon steel for thorough, even heating
  • Nonstick coating for effortless food release and easy cleaning
  • Oven-safe to 500 degrees F
  • Hand-wash only recommended

User questions & answers

Question: How high are the sides
Answer: About quarter inch or so on the cookie sheet, the rest are pretty much standard size on the muffin, bread, and cake pans
Question: Is this for a toaster oven
Answer: Never used it in a toaster . I've use them in a conventional oven. which you may have watch your temperature with dark pans to 5 to 10 minutes .
Question: What are the dimensions of the muffin pan? Why is this information not anywhere in the description
Answer: It appears to be 9x13 like the sheet pan, and rectangular cake pan.
Question: what is the exterior length of tHE 13" pans? I have a small oven and 13.75 is max
Answer: Good size

Product features

6-Piece Set

The set includes 9.5 inch loaf pan, 9 inch cake pans, 12 cup muffin pan, 13 x 9 inch roast pan, and 13 x 9 inch baking sheet.

Great Starter Set

The bakeware set coordinates easily with existing cookware or makes a great starter set for any new baker or cook.

Carbon Steel

Thanks to its heavy-weight, carbon-steel construction, the bakeware resists warping and heats evenly throughout. Oven safe to 500 degrees.

Non-Stick Coating

With its non-stick coating, the bakeware set cleans up quickly and easily. Hand-washing is recommended to help extend the set’s lifespan.

Amazon Basics Nonstick Carbon Steel Round Baking Cake Pan, 9 Inch, Set of 2

Amazon Basics

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

An Amazon Brand

  • Set of 2 round-shaped cake pans—ideal for baking classic 2-layer cakes
  • Heavy-weight carbon-steel construction provides durability and fast, even heating for uniform browning
  • Nonstick coating ensures effortless food release; oven-safe to 500 degrees F
  • Hand washing recommended; part of the Amazon Basics nonstick carbon-steel bakeware collection
  • Each measures 9 inches inner size of this bakeware in diameter; backed by an Amazon Basics limited 1-year warranty

User questions & answers

Question: Do they bake a cake evenly? In other words, Are the sides overdone once middle bakes properly
Answer: i only use them to make cornbread in. cornbread turns out fine.
Question: what is the depth of the pan
Answer: The depth is exactly 1&3/8"
Question: Are these the type of cake pans that rust easily
Answer: I've had these for a short while and they have a non-stick like coating on them. If it does rust, it probably won't reflect that for several years.
Question: Are the sides of these pans straight or angled
Answer: The sides of the pan are straight...one of the reasons I purchased them...all I had in my kitchen were pie pans(angled) for a while:)

Amazon Basics Glass Oblong Oven Safe Baking Dishes, Set of 2

Based on 37 reviews Check latest price

Product description

An Amazon Brand

  • Set of 2 oven-safe glass dishes for baking casseroles, lasagna, desserts, side dishes, and more; oblong shape in 2 and 3 liter sizes
  • Food-safe, BPA-free borosilicate glass dishes are freezer, microwave, and pre-heated oven safe (lids not included)
  • Heat-resistant up to 580°C (1076°F); can tolerate excessive temperature changes without cracking
  • Non-porous construction doesn’t retain odors, flavors, or stains
  • Side handles allow for easy handling
  • Dishwasher safe

User questions & answers

Question: Is one of these oblong pans 9x13 size
Answer: Yes. The larger one is 9x13
Question: Is any of the square glass baking dishes 9"x
Answer: unfortunately no one is 8 x 8 the other is 8 x 12
Question: Is one bigger than the other
Answer: Yes, and very good quality!
Question: What are the exact measurements of the large pan including the handles? I'd like to see if it will fit my Ninja air oven
Answer: 14 inches

Product features

AmazonBasics Glass Oven Safe Baking Dishes

Enjoy reliable functionality when it comes to your kitchen essentials with the AmazonBasics Glass Oven Safe Baking Dishes. This durable set of bakeware is perfect for making casseroles, desserts, pasta dishes, and much more. The oven-safe dish set includes 2 oblong glass pans in 2 and 3 liter sizes. Lids not included.

Heat-Resistant Durability

Safe to use in a freezer, microwave, or pre-heated oven, the glass dishes can withstand up to 580°C (1076°F) and can tolerate changing temperatures without cracking. Made of transparent glass, the bakeware makes it easy to see the contents and keep an eye on the cooking process.

BPA-Free Construction

Food-safe and BPA-free, the AmazonBasics bakeware is made of high-quality borosilicate glass. With a non-porous construction, the dishes won’t absorb or retain food odors, flavors, or stains. Includes side handles for easy handling in and out of the oven. Dishwasher safe.

Chicago Metallic Professional Non-Stick 3-Piece Round Cake Pan Bakeware Set, Black

Chicago Metallic

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price

Product description

At Chicago Metallic we believe that serious baking requires serious bakeware. That's why we’re proud to offer distinct lines of premium bakeware plus stylish innovative specialty bakeware and baking essentials for professionals and serious home bakers. This professional Series 3-piece cake pan set has the right sized pan for all your cake-making needs made from heavyweight aluminized steel for superior heat conduction and even baking pans have a nonstick surface for easy food release 3 piece set includes 6-inch 8-inch and 10-inch diameter pans each measuring 2 inches tall Dishwasher safe hand-washing recommended to extend the life of the product.

  • 3 piece set This two-piece cake pan set includes 6-inch 8-inch and 10-inch round cake pans
  • Create multi-layer cakes this cake pan can be used to create single double or even triple layer cakes for all types of celebrations
  • Consistent heat distribution: This cake pan is made from heavy-weight carbon steel to evenly disperse weight and heat for consistent baking results Suitable for all oven types
  • Non-stick coating for easy release features a BPA-free food-safe non-stick finish for easy release
  • Easy to clean dishwasher safe making clean up quick and easy hand-washing is recommended to extend the product life

User questions & answers

Question: pyrex measurement cups, where are they
Answer: https://www.amazon.com/Pyrex-Measuring-Cups-3-Piece-Clear/dp/B00M2J7PCI/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2HF33FUXFRF6E&dchild=1&keywords=pyrex+measuring+cup&qid=1596657716&sprefix=Pyrex+%2Caps%2C213&sr=8-1 Here’s a link t9 them. Hope that helps.
Question: Can you use this pan in steamer
Answer: Sure ..although not sure why you would. But most baking pans are good in a bain Marie a steamer would pretty much be the same.
Question: Are the sides straight or tapered
Answer: The sides are straight with the pan being deeper than the cheaper cake pans. I made a Carrot cake and mixed up a recipe and a half to make both layers thick. I am very pleased with my purchase.
Question: Where are these pans made
Answer: Made in China. I had bought 3 sets before I realized. They are great pans but I want to buy from my own country.

Product features

About Us

Chicago Metallic offers everyday bakeware items like cookie sheets, cake pans with traditional and non-stick finishes, as well as specialty bakeware like a lasagna trio pan, split decision pie pan and slice-solutions brownie pan, all at an exceptional value.

G & S Metal Products Company OvenStuff Nonstick Round Cake Baking Pan 2 Piece Set, 9", Gray

G & S Metal Products Company

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Ovenstuff Non-Stick 2-Piece Round Cake Pan is a great addition for any kitchen. Its DuraGlide non-stick finish inside and out of each pan allows baked goods to release easily from the pan while making clean up a snap. This set comes with 2 cakes pan made with quality steel construction that ensures even heating all around for great baking results. Not just for baking desserts though, these pans can be used for savory pies, pastas, quick oven dinners/lunches such as taquitos and more! Each pan measures at a diameter of 9-inches and the Overstuff products are proudly made in the USA.

  • NON-STICK FINISH: DuraGlide non-stick finish inside and out of each pan allows baked goods to release easily from the pan while making clean up a snap
  • QUALITY CONSTRUCTION: High performance steel construction ensures even heating for optimal baking results
  • VARIETY OF COOKING AND BAKING USES: Perfect for any cake/brownie recipe, pies, pastas, and more!
  • MEASUREMENTS: Each pan is 9-inches in diameter
  • AMERICAN MADE: Made in U.S.A

User questions & answers

Question: What's the highest temperature this pan withhold? Can I use it on grill setting in oven (500F
Answer: The highest temperature this pan can resist is 500 Degrees F.
Question: I generally spray my pans with a canola oil spray before using. Do I need to spray since they say they r non-stick
Answer: I ALWAYS grease my pans, non stick or not. I do with these as well. They clean up really nice. I keep a 1:1:1 mix in the fridge of flour, vegetable oil, shortening and use on all my pans. NOTHING will ever stick.
Question: How long have you had them? Do they rust? Does the nonstick coating peel
Answer: We've had ours since April 2014 and have used them several times (have baked 3 cakes since Thanksgiving) There has been no peeling or rust and I wash them in the dishwasher. Of course we only use them for cakes and use plastic utensils.
Question: Are the sides of the pan straight? I want to make a layer cake using this set
Answer: The pans I got had slanted sides and were, in fact, pie pans. I kept them because I needed pie pans, too, but won’t order from them again...

Product features

Why Bake with OvenStuff?

OvenStuff is a bakeware line created for the everyday baker in mind. Each pan in the collection features a proprietary DuraGlide PLUS nonstick coating that has been reinforced to provide flawless performance. With a durable nonstick coating inside and out, each pan releases baked goods effortlessly making cleanup simple and easy

Bake with Confidence

Pans are made in the USA, made without PFOA and backed by a 5-year limited assurance policy

Quality Steel Construction

Our dependable heavyweight steel delivers reliable baking performance with no hot spots

Superior Nonstick Coating

Proprietary DuraGlide PLUS reinforced nonstick coating offers effortless food release with little cleanup

Nordic Ware Heavyweight Angel Food Cake Pan, 10 Inch

Nordic Ware

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Nordic Ware Heavyweight Angel Food Cake Pan, 10 Inch

From this pan come cakes, molded salads, and other delights in the classic smooth-sided, flat-topped, angel-food-cake shape. Of course, the cake's composition doesn't have to conform to the shape's name. Try a lemon pound cake with raspberry sauce (recipe included) to see how the form has more than one function. The pan holds 12 cups of batter, enough to make a festive cake for 10 to 12 people. Made of aluminized steel for rust and warp resistance, it's a sturdy pan with a long life expectancy. The nonstick coating ensures cakes, frozen desserts, and gelatin desserts and salads pop out intact. --Fred Brack

  • Bakes classic angel food cakes
  • Heavy aluminum circulates heat gently and evenly
  • Nonstick coating for easy food release and cleanup
  • Hand wash with mild detergent
  • Made in the USA

User questions & answers

Question: is this a 1 peice pan
Answer: Yes Virginia, this is a one piece cake pan!
Question: Se puede hacer flancocho
Answer: Yes
Question: is this one piece
Answer: Yes. This pan is one piece. Perfect for a large pound cake.
Question: is this pan really heavy like the old wilton pans
Answer: The pan weights just a tad under one pound. It is not a super heavy but does a great job. It has just the right amount of darkness to give a cake a nice browning.

Wilton Recipe Right Non-Stick 9 x 13-Inch Oblong 2 Cake Pan Multipack, 2-Pack, Assorted

Wilton

Based on 7 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The secret to making delicious cakes, brownies, and casseroles starts with great Wilton bakeware. And now you can make even more at one time with this convenient multipack!

  • The secret to making delicious cakes, brownies, and casseroles starts with great Wilton bakeware. And now you can make even more at one time with this convenient multipack!
  • Non-stick coating for quick release and easy cleanup. Heavy gauge construction spreads heat evenly and prevents warping
  • 9 x 13 inch (22.6 x 33 centimeter)
  • Dishwasher safe; however for best results, wash in warm, soapy water before first and after each use
  • Limited 5-year warranty
  • Includes 2 pans total
  • included components: sheet cake pans

User questions & answers

Question: what are the pans interior dimensions
Answer: The inside dimension of the 13 x 9 pan is 12 x 8 , hope this helps. It is a regular size 9 x 13 pan they are all this size inside , I measured my old one and it's the same. This is a really great pan , Wilton is the best and I bake a lot.
Question: Can you use for baking chicken meatloaf porkchops ect
Answer: I bought these pans to make Lasagna for Christmas eve. And yes I can make meatloaf, porkchops, and baked checken
Question: Is it a straight up edge/side or slant sides
Answer: It has a slight slant.
Question: How deep is the pan? Two or three inches
Answer: The pans are 2" deep and very sturdy.

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