Could you cook a cake in stainless steel?

* Heat Distribution: Stainless steel is a good conductor of heat, but it can be uneven. This can result in a cake that is cooked unevenly, with some parts being burnt and others still raw.

* Stickiness: Stainless steel is not as non-stick as other materials like silicone or nonstick cookware. Your cake might stick to the pan, making it difficult to remove.

* No browning: Unlike dark metal pans, stainless steel doesn't promote browning as effectively. This can result in a pale cake.

Here's what you can do to improve your chances of success:

* Grease and flour the pan thoroughly: This will help prevent sticking.

* Use parchment paper: Lining the pan with parchment paper will further prevent sticking and help you remove the cake easily.

* Monitor the cake closely: Check the cake frequently during baking to ensure it's not burning.

* Consider a dark-colored stainless steel pan: These pans will heat up faster and more evenly, leading to a better result.

Alternatives:

* Dark metal pans: These are the traditional choice for cake baking due to their even heat distribution and browning capabilities.

* Silicone baking pans: These are non-stick and flexible, making them perfect for removing cakes easily.

* Nonstick baking pans: These are widely available and provide good non-stick properties.

Ultimately, while you can bake a cake in a stainless steel pan, it's not the best option. Using a dedicated baking pan will likely result in a better-looking and more evenly baked cake.