Yes, it is possible to bake a cake in the oven without using a traditional baking pan. While using a pan is the most common method, there are alternatives you can try if you don't have one available. Here are a few creative ways to bake a cake without a pan:
Oven-Safe Dish: You can use an oven-safe dish, such as a Pyrex glass dish or a ceramic dish, to bake your cake. Grease the dish well with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Muffin or Cupcake Liners: If you have muffin liners or cupcake liners, you can pour the cake batter directly into them and place them on a baking sheet. This method will create individual cupcakes rather than a whole cake.
Bundt Cake Pan Alternative: If you want to make a bundt cake but don't have a bundt pan, you can use a heatproof glass or ceramic bowl. Grease it thoroughly and pour the batter into it. Keep in mind that the cake will take longer to bake since it's a denser shape.
Parchment Paper: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and pour the cake batter onto it. You can shape it into a rectangular or circular form, depending on your preference.
Cast Iron Skillet: A cast iron skillet can also work as a makeshift cake pan. Make sure to grease it well before adding the cake batter.
Regardless of the method you choose, it's crucial to adjust the baking time and temperature accordingly, as baking without a traditional pan may impact the cooking process. Keep a close eye on the cake while it's baking to ensure it doesn't overcook or burn.
Additionally, note that the shape and size of the alternative container you use may affect the baking time and the appearance of the final cake. So, be prepared for some variation in the results compared to using a standard cake pan.