woman making cookies
A springform baking pan is a piece of baking pan with removable sides, allowing people to easily remove cakes and other baked goods without the risk of damaging them. Many recipes call for springform pans, especially for delicate foods like cheesecakes, and a springform pan is extremely handy for kitchen storage. Many kitchen supply stores sell springform pans in a variety of sizes, and sometimes a few shape variations are also available.
A classic pan has two parts: the sides and the bottom. The sides are mounted on a hinge, with a clasp to bring the sides together and close them. The pan is usually round, as this shape works well with a variety of baking projects. The bottom fits into the sides once in place, usually supported by a small rim of material. In some cases, the bottom must be placed in the pan before it is placed, which creates a seal that allows bakers to use the pan in a double boiler.
Many spring-style pans come with a bottom that has a scalloped base that looks like a waffle. This type is ideal for crumb doughs, such as those used to make cheesecakes. You can also find spring-form pans with flat bottoms, reversible bottoms, or interchangeable bottom sets, depending on the type of cooking you’re doing. If you can, buy a springform pan with waffle options and a flat bottom.
To use a baking sheet flexibly, bakers simply snap in and pour in the batter, or press a crust onto the baking sheet and pour in the filling. The food is cooked according to the recipe instructions and allowed to cool before opening the pan slightly, allowing the sides to open up for removal. Depending on the food being prepared, some people leave the bottom of the pan on, providing a firm base, while others gently remove it.
Many of these pans are made from non-stick materials, although untreated pans are also available and in some cases it is recommended to line the pan with parchment before baking, regardless of whether the pan is non-stick or not. When shopping for a springform pan, look for one that can be easily cleaned, as the hinge and latch tend to collect grime, and keep in mind that pans of different weights can affect cook times; heavier, darker metals take longer, while lighter pans require less time in the oven. Baking pan and cooking time can also have an impact on the texture of finished baked goods, so be prepared to experiment a bit with a pan before you find your niche.