A cake pan is a kitchen tool used for baking cakes. It typically has a flat bottom and raised sides, allowing the batter to rise and hold its shape while baking. Cake pans come in various shapes and sizes, including round, square, and rectangular, to create different cake designs. They are usually made from materials like metal, glass, or silicone, which can affect the baking time and texture of the cake. To use a cake pan, bakers often grease the surface or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. After pouring in the batter, the pan is placed in an oven, where the heat cooks the cake evenly. Once baked, the cake can be cooled and removed from the pan for decorating or serving. Proper care and cleaning of cake pans can extend their lifespan and maintain their performance.