What is a tube pan?

A tube pan, also known as an angel food pan or a bundt pan, is a type of baking pan specifically designed for making tube or ring-shaped cakes. It typically has a hollow center with a cylindrical tube that runs from the center of the pan to the outer edge, allowing heat to evenly distribute and cakes to bake more uniformly.

Tube pans are usually made of aluminum, stainless steel, or non-stick materials. The most common size is a 10-inch diameter pan, although smaller and larger sizes are also available.

The design of a tube pan helps the cake rise evenly, creating a light and fluffy texture. The hollow center and the tube allow the cake batter to cling to the sides of the pan, which provides structural support during the rising and baking process.

Tube pans are commonly used for baking angel food cakes, chiffon cakes, and sponge cakes, but can also be used for other types of cakes and desserts. They often have a decorative shape, which adds an attractive design to the cake.

To use a tube pan, it is important to properly grease and flour the pan to prevent the cake from sticking. After baking, the cake needs to cool upside down in the pan to prevent it from collapsing.

In summary, a tube pan is a specialized baking pan used for making tube-shaped cakes. Its unique design helps cakes bake evenly, resulting in a light and airy texture. It is a versatile tool for various cake recipes and can add an attractive shape to the finished product.