What is a stemmed cake pan?

A stemmed cake pan is a type of cake pan with a removable base that allows the cake to be easily unmolded. It consists of a round pan with a removable central tube, or "stem", that supports the cake while baking. The stem of the pan creates a hollow center in the cake, which makes it ideal for creating Bundt cakes, pound cakes, and other moist cakes.

Unlike traditional cake pans, where the cake is baked in a solid pan and then inverted onto a plate to unmold, stemmed cake pans allow the cake to be removed easily by simply sliding it off the stem. This helps to prevent the cake from breaking or crumbling during unmolding, especially for delicate cakes or those with intricate designs.

Stemmed cake pans are typically made of metal, with aluminum and stainless steel being common materials. They come in various sizes and shapes, allowing bakers to create different types of cakes depending on their desired outcome. Some stemmed cake pans also feature non-stick coatings, which make it easier to remove the cake without it sticking to the pan.

Care and maintenance of stemmed cake pans are similar to other types of cake pans. They should be washed with warm water and dish soap after each use and dried thoroughly to prevent rust. To ensure even baking and prevent sticking, it is recommended to grease and flour the pan before adding the batter.