Do you grease the stoneware bunt pan for cakes?

Here's why:

* Stoneware is naturally non-stick: Stoneware is a porous material that naturally resists sticking, especially after it's been seasoned a few times.

* Grease can interfere with the browning: Greasing the pan can create a barrier between the cake batter and the pan, preventing the cake from achieving a nice, golden brown crust.

However, there are a few exceptions:

* First-time use: For a brand new stoneware bunt pan, it's a good idea to lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray the first couple of times you use it to help prevent sticking.

* Delicate cakes: If you are baking a delicate cake, like a chiffon cake, you might want to lightly grease the pan to ensure easy release.

* Recipes that call for it: Some recipes specifically instruct you to grease the pan. Always follow the recipe's instructions.

Instead of greasing, you can:

* Dust the pan with flour: This helps the cake release easily.

* Use parchment paper: Cut a piece of parchment paper to fit the bottom of the pan, and grease that instead of the pan itself.

Remember, it's always best to experiment and find what works best for you and your recipe.