What is a doughnut pan?
If you ever wanted to make doughnuts at home while not dealing with a messy deep fryer, then a doughnut pan is for you. They allow you to bake those tasty, ring-shaped treats in your oven, which is not only easy but healthier too.
Though doughnut pans may seem like a simple item, there are a few things to consider when buying one, and we cover it all in this guide. The Wilton 6-Cavity Nonstick Donut Pans are our favorite pan to use both for their durability and effective nonstick properties.
Doughnut pan or deep fryer
Donuts can be either baked or fried. While taste is subjective, we can unequivocally state that baking them does offer some benefits for the average person. There is no question that doughnuts will never be considered a healthy food, but baking them allows you to avoid the extra calories that frying adds.
Using a baking pan is easier, safer and less messy for the home consumer than a deep fryer. You won’t have to worry about hot grease splattering everywhere during the cooking process or finding an easy way to dispose of the oil that frying requires. Additionally, baking pans are smaller and more convenient to store than deep fryers, especially in small kitchens.
What to know before you buy a doughnut pan
Size
Before you buy a doughnut pan, you should decide what size doughnuts you want to make. Most doughnut pans have roughly 3-inch molds. However, you can also find options that make 2-inch mini doughnuts, large 4-inch ones and doughnut holes. Mini doughnuts and doughnut holes are ideal for kids’ birthday parties or adult gatherings with dessert buffets where you want your guests to try several kinds of treats.
Capacity
Doughnut pans come in different capacities ranging from four to 24 molds. If you are generally making small batches of doughnuts, you should choose a small pan with four to six molds since they will be the easiest to store when not in use.
Construction material
The most common materials for doughnut pans are silicone and metal, though you can also find some ceramic-coated models. Silicone is often the most convenient as it is nonstick, highly durable and the flexible nature makes it easy to remove your doughnuts without damaging them. However, that same flexibility also means you have to be very careful not to spill the batter when moving them from the prep area to the oven.
Metal is also very durable but more prone to scratches. If it has a nonstick coating, it may wear off over time. However, metal is a better conductor of heat than silicone, which is important when trying to get a nice, even browning on your doughnuts.
Features to look for in a quality doughnut pan
Nonstick coating
It’s critical to note that not all doughnut pans are nonstick. If buying a silicone pan, you don’t have to worry about this as the material is naturally nonstick, but if purchasing a metal pan, choosing one with a nonstick coating can make your life significantly easier.
Dishwasher safe
When it comes time to clean up, a dishwasher-safe pan makes the process more convenient. Nearly all silicone pans will be dishwasher safe, but some metal ones may require hand washing. Make sure to read the manufacturer’s guidelines to avoid accidentally damaging or warping your pan due to improper use or cleaning.
Decorative molds
If you want to make doughnuts with a bit of extra flair, you may want to consider a decorative mold. They are available in hearts, fluted, twists and other options.
How much can you expect to spend on a doughnut pan?
Depending on the capacity and build materials, doughnut pans range from $7-$30. Silicone molds usually fall toward the lower end of the spectrum and metal options toward the higher end.
Doughnut pan FAQ
How do I stop my doughnuts from sticking to the pan?
A. If you are using a nonstick pan and your doughnuts are still sticking, you may want to try greasing it before adding the batter. This should always be done with butter, as cooking sprays can damage the nonstick coating if cooked at too high of a temperature. On that note, cooking at too high of a temperature can also cause sticking.
Why are my doughnuts doughy?
A. If your doughnuts are coming out doughy, this is an indication that they are undercooked. If the outside is already very brown, but the interior is still doughy, you are likely cooking them at too high of a temperature.
What is the difference between a yeast doughnut and a cake doughnut?
A. Yeast doughnuts use yeast, which makes them light and fluffy. Cake doughnuts use baking powder, which results in a denser, cake-like consistency.
What is the best doughnut pan to buy?
Top doughnut pan
Wilton 6-Cavity Nonstick Donut Pans
What you need to know: This set of two nonstick metal pans, sturdy enough to withstand regular use, is an ideal option for avid bakers.
What you’ll love: Although they’ll last the longest if hand-washed, they are safe to put in the dishwasher on those occasions when you want a quick and easy cleanup process.
What you should consider: Some may find them a bit too shallow.
Top doughnut pan for the money
Nordic Ware 6-Cavity Nonstick Steel Donut Pan
What you need to know: This affordable doughnut pan is made of durable carbon steel.
What you’ll love: It has handles, making it easy to lift out of the oven. It also features a nonstick coating, making it easy to remove the doughnuts from the pan.
What you should consider: It is hand-wash only, so you can’t put it in the dishwasher.
Worth checking out
ABAM Premium Silicone 3.5-inch Donut Pan
What you need to know: This silicone doughnut pan’s design makes the doughnuts easy to remove.
What you’ll love: It’s freezer- and dishwasher-safe. It’s nonstick and very easy to clean. The doughnuts are always uniform in shape every time this pan is used.
What you should consider: It takes some practice to figure out how to remove the doughnuts from this silicone mold successfully.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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