A springform pan is a type of cake pan that’s made in two parts. It has a base and a removable ring that serves as the sides of the pan. When you attach the ring to the base, you have a complete cake pan that functions like any other cake pan.

It’s nothing special at all. But when you take it apart, that’s when it shines. If you have a fragile cake, like cheesecake, you can make it in this pan. Then, take the sides off when you’re done, so that the cake is still sitting on the base of the pan. This makes it easy for you to slice and serve your cake, and completely eliminates the need to transfer it from the pan.

Springform pans make it easy to get cheesecake and other delicate cakes out of the pan without damaging them, but they aren't a necessity. If you don't have a springform pan, use these alternatives to bake your cake and serve it intact.

Four Alternatives to a Springform Pan

1. Serve Your Cake from the Pan

Do you really need to remove the cake from the pan? If you're willing to skip posting a photo of the finished product, and you don't care about presentation, just serve the finished cake from the pan.

As long as it's tasty, no one will care.

2. Line a Cake Pan with Parchment Paper or Aluminum Foil

Any cake pan or pie plate will do just fine as a substitute for a springform pan. Line the pan with foil or parchment paper, so you can gently lift the cake out when it’s done. Leave a good length hanging out of the pan to make it easier to lift.

You might even think of using a square pan so that you can line it with two layers, one in each direction. This will give you a sling that you can use to lift the cake, without breaking it. Sometimes it helps to have a second person to help with the lifting.

3. Bake the Cake in a Silicone Cake Pan

If your cake can be inverted to remove from the pan, silicone cake pans are marvels for releasing the cake intact, and they're available in every shape imaginable. This won't work well for cheesecake, but it's a good alternative for sturdier cakes. Be sure to spray and flour the mold well to help with the release.

4. Bake the Cake in a Disposable Foil Pan

Buy a single-use foil pan, and cut away the sides after the cake has cooled. To get the best release, cool the cake in the refrigerator, and run a sharp knife around the edge before cutting away the foil. This will serve the same purpose as a springform pan, without requiring you to buy (and store) yet another pan.

Adjusting Recipes for Springform Pan Substitutes

Because springform pans tend to be fairly tall, you'll probably need to split your cake filling between two pans or use a large pan, like a 9"x13”. In either case, plan to adjust your baking time.

Cakes in shallower pans will bake faster. Just watch your cake closely, and pull it out of the oven when it’s done.