Even when using a non-stick pan, there are some precautions and steps you can take to ensure your cake doesn't stick to the bottom:
Prep the pan properly: Before adding the cake batter, grease the bottom of the pan lightly. You can use a cooking spray specifically designed for baking or brush a thin layer of softened butter or vegetable oil onto the pan's bottom and sides.
Use parchment paper: Cut a piece of parchment paper to fit the bottom of the pan and place it after greasing. The parchment paper acts as an extra layer of protection and makes it easier to remove the cake once it's baked.
Choose the right pan: Ensure you are using a good quality non-stick pan. Over time, the non-stick coating on cheaper pans may wear off, leading to sticking issues.
Properly prepare the batter: Make sure your cake batter has the right consistency and is thoroughly mixed. Unevenly mixed or dense batters can stick more easily to the pan.
Avoid excessive sugar: If your cake recipe calls for a lot of sugar or uses a sugary glaze, there's a chance it can stick more readily. In such cases, using parchment paper can be especially helpful.
Do not over-bake: If the cake is over-baked, it may dry out and stick to the pan. Follow the recommended baking time in the recipe and use a toothpick or cake tester to check for doneness.
Let it cool before removing: After taking the cake out of the oven, let it cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the cake to set and shrink slightly, making it easier to release from the pan.
Invert the pan: Once the cooling time is up, place a plate or a cooling rack on top of the cake pan. Carefully invert the pan, so the cake comes out onto the plate or rack. Remove the pan gently and peel off the parchment paper.
By following these tips, you can significantly reduce the chances of your cake sticking to the bottom of the non-stick pan, ensuring that it comes out in perfect shape and without any hassle.