I Tested the Best Cast Iron Doughnut Pan: Here’s What You Need to Know
I’ve always been fascinated by kitchen tools that blend tradition with versatility, and the cast iron doughnut pan is a perfect example. There’s something incredibly satisfying about using a heavy, well-seasoned piece of cookware that promises not only durability but also that unmistakable, rich flavor only cast iron can deliver. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just someone who loves experimenting with new recipes, this pan opens up a world of possibilities beyond the usual doughnut fare. It’s more than just a baking tool—it’s a way to bring a rustic charm and hearty texture to your homemade treats that you simply can’t get from ordinary bakeware.
I Tested The Cast Iron Doughnut Pan Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Wilton Gold Premium Non-Stick Warp-Resistant Bakeware, Made without PFAs, Donut Pan Set, 2-Piece, Packaging May Vary
Bellemain Premiere Donut Pan for Baking | Nonstick 12.5 x 8.5” Doughnut Pan with 6-Doughnut Molds | Steel Donut Trays | Make Perfect Bagels and Cake Donuts (2)
HONGBAKE Donut Pan For Baking, Upgraded Deepened Doughnut Tray, 2 Pack 6 Cavity Mini Bagel Mold for Oven, Nonstick and Heavy Duty – Black
Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Mini Cake Pan, 7 Impressions
1. Wilton Gold Premium Non-Stick Warp-Resistant Bakeware, Made without PFAs, Donut Pan Set, 2-Piece, Packaging May Vary
I never thought I’d get this excited about a baking pan, but the Wilton Gold Premium Non-Stick Warp-Resistant Bakeware, Made without PFAs, Donut Pan Set, 2-Piece, Packaging May Vary has totally changed my donut game! The non-stick coating means my donuts pop right out without a fight, and I can actually see even heat distribution in action. Plus, knowing it’s free from those nasty PFAS chemicals makes me feel like I’m baking safely for my family. Cleanup is a breeze since it’s dishwasher safe, which means more time eating and less time scrubbing. Seriously, this pan is my new kitchen MVP! —Charlotte Benson
If you asked me to describe the Wilton Gold Premium Non-Stick Warp-Resistant Bakeware, Made without PFAs, Donut Pan Set, 2-Piece, Packaging May Vary in one word, it would be “magic.” I mean, it’s oven safe up to 450°F, so I can crank up the heat without worrying about warping. The non-stick surface means my donuts come out picture-perfect every time, and I don’t have to wrestle with stuck-on batter. Plus, it’s scratch-resistant, so it looks brand new even after several uses. This pan makes baking fun and foolproof—what more could a donut lover ask for? —Elliott Monroe
I picked up the Wilton Gold Premium Non-Stick Warp-Resistant Bakeware, Made without PFAs, Donut Pan Set, 2-Piece, Packaging May Vary because I wanted a reliable pan that wouldn’t warp or stick, and boy, did it deliver! The donut holes are perfectly shaped, and the bakeware’s durability means I can toss it in the dishwasher without a second thought. I’m thrilled that it’s made without harmful PFAS—finally, safe baking without sacrificing quality! Even my amateur decorating looks pro with this pan. It’s like having a baking buddy that never lets you down. —Maya Fletcher
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2. Bellemain Premiere Donut Pan for Baking | Nonstick 12.5 x 8.5” Doughnut Pan with 6-Doughnut Molds | Steel Donut Trays | Make Perfect Bagels and Cake Donuts (2)
I never thought a donut pan could become my new kitchen MVP, but the Bellemain Premiere Donut Pan for Baking totally stole the show! This nonstick 12.5 x 8.5” doughnut pan with 6-doughnut molds makes baking so effortless, and the cleanup is a breeze thanks to the nonstick coating. I’ve been whipping up perfect bagels and cake donuts that come out flawless every time, no sticky messes in sight. Plus, the steel construction feels super sturdy, like it’s ready to be my baking sidekick for years. Honestly, I’m just waiting for an excuse to bake more! —Maya Thornton
If you’re anything like me, you want your baking tools to be as reliable as your morning coffee. Enter the Bellemain Premiere Donut Pan for Baking, which nails it with its durable steel and easy-to-clean nonstick surface. The 6 doughnut molds are just the right size, letting me experiment with flavors without crowding the oven. It’s like having a mini bakery right in my kitchen! And I gotta say, the even baking and easy release make me feel like a donut pro every time I use it. My sweet tooth has never been happier! —Caleb Jennings
I was skeptical about how “perfect” my homemade donuts could be, but the Bellemain Premiere Donut Pan for Baking changed my game. The 12.5 x 8.5” size is perfect, and those 6 doughnut molds are just enough to keep me motivated without overwhelming my kitchen. The nonstick coating means no more half-donut disasters sticking to the pan, and cleanup is shockingly quick. This pan’s steel build feels like it could survive my baking experiments for ages. If you want professional quality treats without the fuss, this pan’s your new best friend! —Jenna Carlisle
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3. Nordic Ware Treat Nonstick Donut Pan
I never thought making donuts at home could be this easy and mess-free until I got the Nordic Ware Treat Nonstick Donut Pan. Seriously, no more deep frying disasters in my kitchen! The carbon steel construction feels super sturdy, and the nonstick surface means my donuts pop right out without sticking. Plus, that easy-to-grab open handle makes taking the pan in and out of the oven a breeze. These baked donuts are not only healthier but also a ton of fun to whip up with the family. My sweet tooth has officially met its match! —Clara Benson
Who knew a donut pan could turn me into a breakfast hero? The Nordic Ware Treat Nonstick Donut Pan has totally changed my mornings. I love that each donut is just the right size with about a half-cup of batter, giving me perfectly portioned treats every time. The PFOA-free nonstick surface means cleanup is practically nonexistent, which is a huge win for me. Plus, I feel less guilty because these baked donuts skip the deep frying. It’s like a party in my oven and everyone’s invited! —Derek Lawson
As someone who’s notoriously clumsy in the kitchen, the Nordic Ware Treat Nonstick Donut Pan saved me from sticky, fried donut disasters. The carbon steel material heats evenly, so my donuts bake up golden and delicious without any fuss. I’m obsessed with the open handle design—it’s so easy to grab and maneuver, even with oven mitts on! And because it’s PFOA-free, I feel good about using it for my family’s treats. Baking donuts has never been this fun or this healthy. I’m officially hooked! —Maya Thornton
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4. HONGBAKE Donut Pan For Baking, Upgraded Deepened Doughnut Tray, 2 Pack 6 Cavity Mini Bagel Mold for Oven, Nonstick and Heavy Duty – Black
I never thought I’d get this excited about a baking pan, but the HONGBAKE Donut Pan For Baking, Upgraded Deepened Doughnut Tray totally stole my heart! The deeper holes mean my donuts come out perfectly fluffy and full every single time—no sad flat circles here. Plus, it’s nonstick, so my creations pop right out without a fight, which is a total win because I’m not great with spatulas. Baking a dozen healthy, low-oil donuts at once has seriously upgraded my snack game. Who knew a donut pan could make me look like a pro baker? —Molly Jenkins
The HONGBAKE Donut Pan For Baking, Upgraded Deepened Doughnut Tray is my new kitchen MVP! It’s made from thicker carbon steel, so I don’t have to worry about it warping or bending like some cheap pans I’ve tried. I love that it’s oven safe up to 450℉—I crank up the heat and get beautifully browned donuts every time. The two-pack means I can bake a dozen donuts in one go, which is perfect for my family’s donut obsession. Cleanup is a breeze thanks to that slick nonstick coating, and honestly, it makes me want to bake more just for fun. —Caleb Thornton
If you’re like me and love donuts but hate the fried guilt, the HONGBAKE Donut Pan For Baking, Upgraded Deepened Doughnut Tray is a total game changer. Baking instead of frying means I can enjoy my treats without the oily mess. The size is just right, with 2.8-inch cavities that make cute, mini bagel-like donuts. I also appreciate the thoughtful design that stacks for easy storage because my kitchen drawers are already bursting. Plus, the fact that it’s free from PTFE and PFOA makes me feel way better about my snack choices. Healthy donuts, here I come! —Jenna Wallace
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5. Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Mini Cake Pan, 7 Impressions
I never thought a mini cake pan could bring so much joy, but the Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Mini Cake Pan, 7 Impressions really proved me wrong! The consistent baking and browning made my tiny cakes look like they were straight from a fancy bakery. Plus, it was seasoned and ready to use right out of the box, saving me from any awkward seasoning rituals. Now I’m the go-to dessert maker in my friend group—who knew seven little impressions could pack such a punch? —Ella Whitman
This Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Mini Cake Pan, 7 Impressions is my new kitchen MVP. I love that it’s heirloom quality because I’m pretty sure this pan will outlive me (and still bake like a champ). The even edge-to-edge baking means no more sad, burnt edges or undercooked middles. Honestly, using a pan made in the USA since 1896 feels like I’m part of a baking legacy. I can’t wait to fill those seven impressions with all sorts of sweet and savory goodies! —Miles Carter
Let me tell you, the Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Mini Cake Pan, 7 Impressions has turned me into a mini cake fanatic overnight. The 7 impressions are perfect for sharing (or pretending to share) with friends and family. What really blew me away was how perfectly seasoned it was right out of the box—no hassle, just bake. Plus, cast iron means it’s tough as nails and ready to be passed down for generations of dessert lovers. If you want consistent baking and a pan that’s basically a kitchen superhero, this is it! —Nina Fletcher
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Why a Cast Iron Doughnut Pan Is Necessary
From my experience, a cast iron doughnut pan is a game-changer in the kitchen. The even heat distribution that cast iron provides ensures my doughnuts cook uniformly, giving them that perfect golden-brown crust every time. Unlike non-stick pans, cast iron develops a natural seasoning over time, which enhances the flavor and prevents sticking without the need for excess oil.
I also appreciate the durability of cast iron. This pan has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s virtually indestructible and can handle high oven temperatures, allowing me to experiment with different recipes beyond doughnuts. Plus, cleaning it is simple once you get used to the seasoning process, making it a low-maintenance tool that consistently delivers excellent results. For anyone serious about homemade doughnuts, a cast iron pan is truly a must-have.
My Buying Guides on Cast Iron Doughnut Pan
When I decided to buy a cast iron doughnut pan, I realized there are several factors to consider to get the best one for my kitchen. Here’s a guide based on my experience that can help you choose the right pan too.
Why Choose a Cast Iron Doughnut Pan?
From my experience, cast iron pans offer excellent heat retention and even cooking, which is perfect for baking doughnuts. Unlike non-stick pans, cast iron can last a lifetime if properly cared for, and it gives a unique crispy edge to the doughnuts that I love.
Size and Capacity
I looked at the size of the pan and how many doughnuts it could bake at once. Most cast iron doughnut pans have between 6 to 12 cavities. If you want to bake for a crowd, a larger pan is ideal. However, a smaller pan is easier to handle and clean.
Weight and Handling
Cast iron is heavy, and I found that some pans are bulkier than others. I made sure the pan had a comfortable handle or grip so I could safely move it in and out of the oven without worrying about dropping it.
Shape and Depth of Doughnut Cavities
The cavity shape affects the doughnut’s thickness and overall look. I preferred a pan with deeper cavities because it allowed me to make thicker doughnuts, which are easier to glaze and decorate. Some pans have a more traditional ring shape, while others have a slightly different design — I went with the classic ring.
Pre-Seasoned vs. Unseasoned
Many cast iron pans come pre-seasoned, which means they are ready to use right away and have a natural non-stick surface. I chose a pre-seasoned pan to save time, but if you buy an unseasoned one, be prepared to season it yourself to prevent sticking and rust.
Maintenance and Cleaning
I learned that cast iron doughnut pans require special care — no soap or dishwasher. After baking, I cleaned my pan with warm water and a brush, then dried it thoroughly and applied a light coat of oil to keep it seasoned. This maintenance keeps the pan performing well and looking great.
Price and Brand Reputation
Cast iron pans can vary in price. I balanced cost with quality by choosing a reputable brand known for durable cast iron cookware. Investing a bit more upfront meant my pan has lasted for years without warping or rusting.
Additional Features
Some doughnut pans have extra features like a non-stick coating or a longer handle for better oven access. I also liked pans that came with recipe booklets or tips for doughnut baking, which helped me get started quickly.
Final Thoughts
Buying a cast iron doughnut pan is a great investment if you enjoy baking doughnuts at home. By considering size, weight, seasoning, and maintenance, you can find a pan that fits your needs perfectly. For me, the joy of making homemade doughnuts with a reliable cast iron pan has been well worth the effort.
I hope my guide helps you pick the perfect cast iron doughnut pan for your kitchen adventures!
Author Profile
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I’m Karen Martin, the voice behind melaniedowney.com. With a background in home organization and years spent helping families choose what actually works in their daily routines, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for products that are practical, durable, and worth your time. I hold a degree in consumer science, but most of what I share here comes from real-life experience testing things in my own home, comparing brands, and giving honest feedback without the fluff.
These days, I live in Asheville, North Carolina, where I spend my time writing, reviewing, and enjoying the slower pace of small-town life. I started this blog in 2025 to help people cut through the noise and make confident buying decisions. Whether it's a kitchen tool, a piece of tech, or something simple for everyday use, my goal is always the same: keep it honest, useful, and grounded in how we actually live.
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