How to Grease a Pan: 3 Tips for Greasing Pans

Applying a thin layer of grease to a baking pan helps baked goods release easily without sticking to the bottom or sides of the pan.

1. 1. Choose your grease. Before greasing your pan, check to see if the recipe calls for a specific type of grease. There are several different types of grease that are suitable for greasing cookware, including shortening, nonstick cooking spray, olive oil, canola oil, vegetable oil, coconut oil, bacon fat, and butter. Be aware that a little bit of the grease's flavor is likely to make its way into your baked goods.
2. 2. Choose your cookware. Greasing the pan is a necessary step even when using a nonstick pan. Whether you're using a bundt pan, cake pan, cupcake pan, or cookie sheet, applying a thin layer of grease to the sides and bottom of the pan will help your baked goods release with ease.
3. 3. Apply your grease evenly. Nonstick baking spray is great for covering every crevice of your baking pan. If using a nonstick spray, hold the can several inches away from the pan and spray in a back-and-forth motion to apply an even coating to the inside of the pan. You can also use a pastry brush or paper towel to evenly apply melted butter or oil by hand. Take extra care to grease the inner corners of your pan in addition to the sides and bottom.
4. 4. Add your baking mix. Once you've applied your baking grease, slowly pour your prepared baking mix into the greased pan. Gently shake the pan to ensure that the mix settles in an even layer.

Consider these additional tips to help you successfully grease your baking pan.

1. 1. Apply parchment paper first. Some recipes may call for you to use both parchment paper and grease. In this case, cut your piece of parchment paper to size and place it in the pan first. Then apply your grease. The same steps apply when using a silicone baking mat.
2. 2. Consider using cocoa powder or flour. When baking foods that don't include many leavening agents—such as sponge cake or angel food—the recipe may call for using all-purpose flour or cocoa powder instead of grease. In this case, simply sprinkle a thin layer of flour or cocoa powder on the bottom of the pan. Invert the pan and gently tap out excess flour before filling it with your baking mix.
3. 3. Allow the grease to reach room temperature. Certain greases, such as butter and vegetable shortening, are easier to apply when allowed to reach room temperature. Leave them out on the counter to soften while you prepare your recipe.

Butter and oil are both effective at creating a non-stick baking surface. However, be aware that butter contains water and milk. The added moisture found in butter can impact the end result of your recipe in some cases. On the other hand, butter helps form a delicious, golden-brown crust on the bottoms of cookies, cakes, and brownies.

Vegetable oil or shortening is your best bet at ensuring your baked goods don't stick to the pan; however, they do little to flavor your recipe. If you use butter, the key is to use it sparingly, preferably along with a nonstick pan. Drop a pat of butter in your pan and using a paper towel or your hands, rub it all over the surface of the pan before filling in your baking mix.

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