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How do you prepare a pan for a cake to ensure it doesn't stick? Compare the 'grease and flour' method with using parchment paper.
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To prevent cake sticking, grease and flour your pan thoroughly, or line it with parchment paper. Parchment offers the most reliable non-stick surface, especially for delicate cakes.

Detailed Explanation:

There are two primary methods for preparing a cake pan to prevent sticking: greasing and flouring, and using parchment paper. Each has its advantages and disadvantages.

Greasing and Flouring:

  1. Grease the pan: Use softened butter, shortening, or cooking spray to coat the entire inside surface of the pan. Ensure you reach all corners and crevices.
  2. Flour the pan: Add a tablespoon or two of all-purpose flour to the greased pan.
  3. Coat the pan: Tilt and tap the pan to distribute the flour evenly, coating all greased surfaces.
  4. Remove excess flour: Turn the pan upside down and gently tap out any excess flour. This prevents a thick, unsightly layer of flour on your cake.

Parchment Paper:

  1. Cut the parchment: Place the cake pan on a sheet of parchment paper. Trace the bottom of the pan. Cut out the circle, cutting slightly inside the traced line for a perfect fit. For round pans, this is sufficient. For square or rectangular pans, cut strips of parchment to fit the sides, ensuring they extend slightly above the rim.
  2. Grease the pan: Lightly grease the bottom and sides of the pan. This helps the parchment adhere.
  3. Line the pan: Place the parchment circle in the bottom of the pan. Press it gently to ensure it adheres to the grease. If using strips for the sides, press them into place.

Parchment paper is generally considered the more foolproof method, especially for cakes that are prone to sticking or are delicate in texture. It creates a barrier between the cake and the pan, ensuring easy release.

Pro Tip:

For chocolate cakes, use cocoa powder instead of flour to dust the pan after greasing. This prevents a white flour residue from showing on the dark cake surface.

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