Removing Cheesecake From A Regular Pan: A Step-By-Step Guide

Removing a cheesecake from a regular pan can be a challenging task. Many people struggle with this step, but with the right techniques, it can be done successfully. The key is to ensure that the cheesecake is properly chilled and firm before attempting to remove it. This will help prevent cracks and make it easier to handle. One popular method is to use a butter knife to loosen the sides of the cheesecake after it has been chilled. Another option is to use spatulas to lift the cheesecake out of the pan, which requires coordination and at least two people. Using parchment paper to line the pan before baking is also recommended, as it makes removing the cheesecake much simpler.

Use parchment paper

Using parchment paper is a great way to make removing your cheesecake from a regular pan a cinch. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Cut Out a Circle of Parchment Paper

You want to cut out a circle of parchment paper that is slightly larger than the base of your springform pan. This will make it easier to slide the cheesecake off the pan later. If you only have square parchment paper, you can fold it into a triangle and then trim it to create a circle.

Step 2: Line the Pan with Parchment Paper

Place the parchment paper circle into the bottom of your assembled springform pan. You can also line the sides of the pan with parchment paper if you want to, although it is not necessary. Some chefs like to use a cardboard cutout for extra support. Cut out a piece of cardboard the same size as the base of the springform pan and press a piece of parchment paper over it.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

Go ahead and bake your cheesecake as usual. The presence of parchment paper won't change anything about the baking process.

Step 4: Chill the Cheesecake

Even if you use parchment paper, it is important to let your cheesecake chill completely before attempting to remove it from the pan. This will help ensure that your cheesecake stays intact and doesn't crack.

Step 5: Remove the Sides of the Pan

Once your cheesecake is chilled, you can remove the sides of the springform pan. If you didn't line the sides with parchment paper, you may need to run a knife dipped in hot water around the edges of the cake to loosen it first. If you did line the sides, simply remove the sides of the pan.

Step 6: Slide the Cheesecake Off the Base

Gently grasp the edge of the parchment paper and slide the cheesecake onto a serving plate. The parchment paper should lift easily from the bottom of the springform pan. And that's it! Your cheesecake is now ready to be served and enjoyed.

Slide the cake off

Sliding the cake off is one of the most popular methods for removing a cheesecake from a pan. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Allow the cheesecake to cool

Let the cheesecake cool naturally on top of the stove until it is at room temperature. Then, put it in the refrigerator to chill overnight. If you don't allow the cheesecake to cool properly before attempting to slide it out of the pan, then you're very likely going to end up with cracks in your cheesecake.

Step 2: Loosen the sides

Before placing the cheesecake in the fridge, loosen the sides of your cheesecake using a butter knife. Run your butter knife under some hot water and then use it to loosen the sides of the cheesecake. This will help keep the sides of the cheesecake looking smooth and presentable.

Step 3: Heat the bottom of the pan (optional)

Removing the cake from the pan might be a bit tough if the bottom of the cake isn't hot. You can use a cook's blowtorch to slightly heat the bottom of the pan to make things easier. If you don't have a blowtorch, you can use your gas burner to heat up just the bottom of the pan.

Step 4: Remove the sides of the pan

Generally, when baking cheesecakes, you'll be using a springform pan, which has latches on the sides. Unlatch the sides and get ready to slide the cheesecake onto a platter.

Step 5: Slide the cheesecake onto a platter

Gently slide your cheesecake onto a platter. If you have trouble removing the cake from the base, gently push it with the flat side of a large knife to encourage it to move off the base. Push the crust, not the soft cheese filling, as it is easily dented.

Troubleshooting

If you happen to cause any cracks in your cheesecake during this process, you can try to smooth them out using a butter knife.

Use spatulas to lift the cheesecake

Using spatulas to lift a cheesecake out of a regular pan is a delicate operation that requires two people and at least three spatulas. It is one of several methods to remove a cheesecake from a pan, the others being sliding the cake off and using parchment paper.

To use the spatula lifting method, first, allow the cheesecake to cool in the refrigerator overnight. Then, loosen the sides of the cheesecake with a butter knife or offset spatula. If the bottom of the cake is not hot, you can use a cook's blowtorch to heat it up slightly, or use your gas burner to heat up just the bottom of the pan.

Next, unlatch the sides of the pan. You will need to coordinate with another person to carefully slide the spatulas under the crust of the cheesecake. Go as deep as you can and then count to three before lifting the cheesecake. It is important that both people lift the cheesecake at the same time to avoid any mishaps.

Prepare the pan with non-stick spray and parchment paper

Preparing your pan with non-stick spray and parchment paper is a great way to ensure your cheesecake doesn't stick to the pan. This is especially important if you want to avoid damaging the appearance of your cheesecake when removing it from the pan.

To prepare your pan with non-stick spray and parchment paper, start by unlocking your springform pan and removing the base. Cut a piece of parchment paper that is at least one inch bigger than the base. Place the parchment paper above the base and then secure the base back into the pan. You can also cut a smaller circle than the base of the pan and place it inside without removing the base. However, it is generally easier to place the parchment paper before securing the base.

If you want to be extra cautious, you can also line the sides of the pan with strips of parchment paper. This is not always necessary, as greasing the pan is usually sufficient. However, using parchment paper on the base will make it easier to remove your cheesecake later.

Once you have lined your pan with parchment paper, be sure to grease the paper and the sides of the pan with butter or cooking spray. This will create an extra layer of protection against sticking.

After baking your cheesecake, allow it to cool completely before attempting to remove it from the pan. This will help prevent cracks in your cheesecake. Once it has cooled, you can use a butter knife or offset spatula to loosen the sides of the cheesecake before removing it from the pan.

By following these steps and using non-stick spray and parchment paper, you can help ensure that your cheesecake releases easily from the pan and maintains its beautiful presentation.

Chill the cheesecake before removing from the pan

Chilling the cheesecake is a crucial step in the removal process. It ensures the cake is firm and less likely to crack or break when you attempt to transfer it from the pan to a platter. Ideally, you should let the cheesecake cool naturally to room temperature before placing it in the fridge to chill overnight. This process can take several hours, so it's important to be patient.

Once the cheesecake is thoroughly chilled, you can start preparing to remove it from the pan. Begin by loosening the sides of the cheesecake with a butter knife. Run the knife under hot water first to ensure a smooth release. This step will help prevent cracks and keep the sides of your cheesecake looking neat and presentable.

If your cheesecake has been baked in a springform pan, the next step is to unlatch the sides of the pan gently. Now you're ready to slide the cheesecake onto a platter. If the bottom of the cake is not at room temperature, you may need to slightly heat the base of the pan to loosen the cake. You can use a cook's blowtorch or hold the pan over a gas burner for a few moments. Just be careful not to overheat it!

With the pan sides removed and the base slightly warmed, gently slide the cheesecake onto your waiting platter. If you encounter any resistance, use a flat knife to gently encourage the cake to move off the base. Be sure to push against the crust, not the soft cheese filling, to avoid denting your cheesecake.

Alternatively, you can use spatulas to lift the chilled cheesecake out of the pan and onto a platter. For this method, you'll need three large, thin spatulas and a friend to help you. Carefully slide the spatulas between the crust and the pan, covering as much area under the cake as possible. Lift the cake quickly and carefully, using a coordinated motion, and place it on your platter.

Frequently asked questions