You’ve got a few workarounds for ring-shaped treats, even without a donut pan. Results can vary by recipe and oven, but these ideas can help:

• Muffin pan hack: Line each cup with a small, tightly rolled foil ball in the center and pipe batter around it. Avoid scraping foil against nonstick surfaces.
• Sheet pan rings: Pipe batter into circles on a parchment-lined baking sheet. They’ll be flatter but still tasty.
• Mini fluted or bundt molds: If you have them, they create a similar ring and hold shape well.

For consistent size and easier release, a dedicated donut (doughnut) pan can be helpful. You can browse a range of options at Walmart, including different sizes and materials.

A donut pan can make home baking easier, tidier, and more consistent compared to free-form methods. It’s not required, but it offers useful benefits:

• Uniform shape: Wells help you bake evenly sized rings for decorating and sharing.
• Less mess: Batter stays contained, which can simplify cleanup.
• Versatility: Many pans also work for mini bagels, muffins, brownies, or gelatin desserts, depending on the recipe.
• Batch baking: Multiple cavities let you bake several at once.
• Kid-friendly projects: Controlled portions and simple filling can be more approachable for beginners.

If you’re planning to bake donuts more than occasionally, a pan can be a convenient addition. Walmart offers a variety of sizes and materials to fit different kitchens.

Think about how you’ll bake and how many you want per batch. These points can guide your pick:

• Size: Standard wells are often around 3–3.5 inches; mini wells are closer to 2–2.5 inches. Choose based on portion and presentation.
• Cavity count: 6-cavity pans suit small batches; 12- or 20-cavity pans help when baking for a crowd.
• Material: Carbon steel with nonstick coating tends to brown well and holds shape firmly. Silicone can offer easy release and may be dishwasher- or microwave-safe if labeled.
• Depth & rim: Deeper wells create taller rings; a sturdy rim or handles can make transfers steadier.
• Care: Check oven-temp ratings and cleaning guidance to match your routine.

Both can work nicely, but they behave differently. Consider your priorities:

• Metal (carbon steel/aluminum): Often heats quickly for good browning and defined edges. It’s sturdy and easy to load, though many nonstick coatings do best with gentle hand-washing. Metal isn’t microwave-safe.
• Silicone: Flexible for easy release and usually simple to clean; some are dishwasher- and microwave-safe when labeled. Silicone may brown more gently and can benefit from a baking sheet underneath for stability. Pans with a reinforced frame add support.

If you love crisp edges and a firm pan, metal may suit you. If effortless release and simpler cleanup are key, silicone is a strong option. Either can perform well with the right recipe and care.

A few small steps can improve release without overworking the batter. Results vary by recipe and oven, but these tips often help:

1. Prep the pan: Lightly grease or spray, even if it’s nonstick, unless the manufacturer advises otherwise.
2. Pipe the batter: Use a piping bag or zip bag to fill wells about two-thirds full for cleaner edges.
3. Settle the batter: Tap the pan gently to release air bubbles.
4. Cool briefly: Let baked donuts rest 5–10 minutes, then loosen edges with a silicone or plastic tool.
5. Unmold carefully: For silicone, peel the pan away from the donut; for metal, invert and nudge gently.
6. Clean well: Remove residue after baking and dry metal thoroughly to help maintain nonstick performance.