Best Specialty & Novelty Cake Pans of 2026

Rebecca Cantu Avatar
Rebecca Cantu
Last Updated: Jan 18, 2026

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Specialty and novelty cake pans are a fun and creative way to add a unique touch to any celebration. From character-shaped pans to intricate designs, these pans offer endless possibilities for bakers looking to experiment with new shapes and styles. Whether you're looking to make a cake in the shape of your favorite animal or a tiered cake for a wedding, specialty and novelty cake pans are the perfect tool for the job. With a wide range of options available, including silicone and non-stick pans, bakers of all skill levels can easily create show-stopping cakes that are sure to impress.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Nordic Ware Swirl Bundt Pan Cover #TOP 1
Nordic Ware Swirl Bundt Pan
ftb score rating icon 9.9
SILIVO Silicone Heart Shaped Cake Pans Cover #TOP 2
SILIVO Silicone Heart Shaped Cake Pans
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Chicago Metallic Professional Slice Solutions Brownie Pan Cover #TOP 3
Chicago Metallic Professional Slice Solutions Brownie Pan
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Specialty & Novelty Cake Pans

#TOP 1

Nordic Ware Swirl Bundt Pan

53322
Twilight Blue Swirl
10 Cup
Nordic Ware Swirl Bundt Pan Cover
Nordic Ware Formed Swirl Bundt, 10 Cup, Twilight Blue

The Nordic Ware Bundt Pan features an elegant swirl design that is perfect for any celebration. With a generous 10-cup capacity, you can bake a range of delicious treats, from cakes to savory breads. The formed aluminum construction ensures even baking and browning, so your desserts come out just right every time. Plus, the nonstick coating makes it easy to release your baked goods and simplifies cleanup, allowing you to enjoy your creations without the hassle. This pan is lightweight and durable, ensuring it won’t rust or warp in the oven.

What We Like
Effortless cake release
Lightweight design
Easy to clean
Bundt pan and carrier combo
Attractive cake presentation
What We Don't Like
Thinner aluminum material
Minor packaging issues
#TOP 2

SILIVO Silicone Heart Shaped Cake Pans

HEARTCAKEPAN-2023-8IN
9 inch
SILIVO Silicone Heart Shaped Cake Pans Cover
SILIVO Silicone Heart Shaped Cake Pans (2 Pack) - 9 Inch Nonstick Heart Cake Molds for Cakes and Brownies

The SILIVO Heart Cake Pans are a set of two flexible silicone heart-shaped baking pans that make baking a breeze. With their non-stick surface, you can easily release your cakes, brownies, cheesecakes, and even soap without any hassle. Made from high-quality food-grade silicone, these pans are safe to use and conform to American quality standards. Cleaning up is a breeze as well, as these pans can be easily washed with warm soapy water or placed in the dishwasher. With a temperature range of -20℉ to 450℉, these pans are freezer, microwave, and oven safe, providing you with versatility in your baking needs. Whether you're a professional baker or a home cook, the SILIVO Heart Cake Pans are a must-have in your kitchen.

What We Like
Nonstick release
Easy to clean
Sturdy and durable
Perfect for special occasions
Cute heart shape
What We Don't Like
Slightly flimsy silicone
Faint smell initially
#TOP 3

Chicago Metallic Professional Slice Solutions Brownie Pan

26740
Dark Gray
9 x 13"
Chicago Metallic Professional Slice Solutions Brownie Pan Cover
Chicago Metallic Professional Slice Solutions Brownie Pan, 9-Inch-by-13-Inch - , Dark Gray

The Chicago Metallic Professional Slice Solutions Brownie Pan is designed to create flawless and uniformly sized brownies with no need to use a knife to cut every piece. With a removable divider, it can create 18 perfectly sliced brownies, each about 3 inch by 2 inch. Made of heavy-weight aluminized steel, it can offer superior heat conduction and even baking. Its non-stick coating ensures easy release and quick cleanup, and it is dishwasher safe, although hand washing is recommended to extend product life. You can customize each brownie with nuts, candies, or any other toppings to your liking.

What We Like
Even heat distribution
Perfectly uniform portions
Non-stick performance
Accessibility for hand pain
Versatile for various desserts
What We Don't Like
Minor batter seepage
Tray can bend slightly
#TOP 4

Sakolla 3 Pack Flower Silicone Cake Molds

Blue, Pink, Gray
Sakolla 3 Pack Flower Silicone Cake Molds Cover
Sakolla 3 Pack Flower Shape Silicone Cake Molds, Large Round Silicone Molds for Baking Cake, Breads, Pies, Tarts, Jello (Rose, Chrysanthemum, Sunflower)

The Sakolla Flower Silicone Molds are designed to make baking easier and more enjoyable for you. Made from high-quality, BPA-free silicone that meets European safety standards, these molds ensure your food is safe and nonstick, allowing for quick cleanup and easy maintenance. They come in three different flower shapes and sizes, perfect for creating beautiful cakes, breads, pies, and more. Plus, their wide heat resistance means you can safely use them in the oven, microwave, refrigerator, or dishwasher, giving you great flexibility in how you prepare and store your treats. These molds offer convenience and versatility for your kitchen adventures.

What We Like
High-quality, food-safe silicone
Varied flower-shaped sizes
Wide temperature resistance
Nonstick and easy cleanup
What We Don't Like
Some sticking for certain foods
Smaller size than expected
#TOP 5

Nordic Ware Holiday Teacakes Cakelet Pan

93748
Silver
3 Cup Capacity
Nordic Ware Holiday Teacakes Cakelet Pan Cover
Nordic Ware Holiday Teacakes Cakelet, 3 Cup Capacity, Silver

The Nordic Ware Cakelet Pan is made from sturdy cast aluminum, which helps you bake cakes with sharp, detailed edges. This material also spreads heat evenly, so your treats brown just right without burning. The pan features a premium silicone nonstick coating that’s free from harmful chemicals, making it safer for your family and easier to clean up. Plus, it’s made in the USA with both local and imported parts, promising a durable pan that can last for years in your kitchen. This pan is perfect for baking small, intricate cakes with ease and confidence.

What We Like
Sturdy construction
High quality material
Adorable cake shapes
Easy cake release
Long-lasting durability
What We Don't Like
Some sticking with certain shapes
Cleaning can be challenging
#TOP 6

Wilton Dinosaur Cake Pan

2105-1022
Silver
One Size
Wilton Dinosaur Cake Pan Cover
Wilton Dinosaur Cake Pan, Kids 3D Birthday Cake Pan, Silver, Aluminum

Your dinosaur birthday cake will be the hit of the party with the Wilton Dinosaur Cake Pan. This 3D cake pan allows you to easily bake a T-Rex shaped cake that is sure to impress. The aluminum construction of this cake pan ensures even heat distribution for a light golden finish. It is also warp and rust resistant, making it perfect for commercial-level performance. The sturdy construction and wide rim of the pan make it easy to transport and flip the cake without any mishaps. To clean, simply hand wash with warm, soapy water. Get ready to create a prehistoric masterpiece with the Wilton Dinosaur Cake Pan!

What We Like
Beginner-friendly decorating instructions
Excellent cake release
Durable and sturdy material
Fun for kids and families
Detailed cake designs
What We Don't Like
Sticker difficult to remove
Occasional sticking if not greased well
#TOP 7

Nordic Ware Pineapple Upside Down Cake Pan

30346AMZ
Golden Hour
8 Cup
Nordic Ware Pineapple Upside Down Cake Pan Cover
Nordic Ware Formed Pineapple Upside Down Cake Pan, 8 Cup, Golden Hour

The Nordic Ware Cake Pan is perfect for baking the classic pineapple upside down cake. Made from aluminum, it ensures even heat distribution, so your cake comes out perfectly baked every time. Its lightweight design and premium nonstick surface make it easy for you to release your cake without any mess, simplifying your cleanup process. With a diameter of 9.9 inches and a height of 2.2 inches, this pan holds up to 8 cups of batter, making it ideal for gatherings. Plus, it's proudly made in the USA, ensuring quality craftsmanship.

What We Like
Beautiful cake results
Easy cake release
Nonstick and easy cleaning
Perfect for pineapple upside down cake
Lightweight design
What We Don't Like
Pan material somewhat thin
Not very deep

Wilton Non-Stick Mini Fluted Tube Pan

191002424
Gray
Wilton Non-Stick Mini Fluted Tube Pan Cover
Wilton Gold Non-Stick 12-Cavity Mini Fluted Cake Pan, Stainless Steel Bakeware, Made Without PFAS, Packaging May Vary

The Wilton Non-Stick Mini Fluted Tube Pan is a versatile and durable baking pan that is perfect for making mini fluted tube cakes, ice cubes, gelatin or ice cream molds, and mini pound cakes. It is made of alloy steel and features a non-stick and scratch-resistant coating for easy release and quick cleanup. The pan measures 17 x 11.25 inches and has 12 cavities with 1.5 in. dia. x 2.5 in. dimensions.

What We Like
Nonstick surface
High quality construction
Perfect mini cake size
Easy to clean
Works well with thick batters
What We Don't Like
Some sticking with thin batters
Cakes smaller than expected
#TOP 9

HUAKENER 2 Pcs Mini Fluted Silicone Cake Pan

Fluted Tube Cake Pan 183-2
Confetti
2 Pcs
HUAKENER 2 Pcs Mini Fluted Silicone Cake Pan Cover
HUAKENER 2 Pcs Mini Fluted Cake Pan, 6-Cavity Fluted Tube Cake Pan, Non-stick Silicone Baking Mold for Cupcakes, Donuts, Muffins, Cornbread, Brownies, Jellies

The HUAKENER Mini Fluted Pan is made from high-quality, food-safe silicone that is BPA-free and eco-friendly, ensuring your treats are safe to enjoy. You can use it in the oven, microwave, fridge, or dishwasher without worry, thanks to its wide temperature range from -40℉ to 446℉. This pan’s non-stick surface makes releasing your cupcakes, muffins, or brownies easy and cleanup a breeze. With 6 cavities in one pan, you can bake multiple mini cakes at once, saving you time and effort. It’s perfect for making a variety of desserts, from cornbread to individual cheesecakes, giving you more baking options at home.

What We Like
Easy cake release
Simple to clean
Perfect mini size
Fun, cute design
Great value
What We Don't Like
Thin silicone material
Requires baking sheet support
#TOP 10

Nordic Ware Skull Cakelet Halloween Bakeware

89448
Bronze
Nordic Ware Skull Cakelet Halloween Bakeware Cover
Nordic Ware Halloween Bakeware, Haunted Skull Cakelet Pan, Bronze

The Nordic Ware Skull Cakelet Halloween Bakeware is perfect for adding some ghoulish delight to your Halloween table. This spooky design can be used to make little skull shaped cakes, pizzas, ice molds, lava cakes, jello and more. The cast bakeware has six cavities with a 5 cup capacity, and is oven safe to 400F. The nonstick coating makes for easy food release and cleanup. Made in USA.

What We Like
Heavy-duty construction
Highly detailed skull molds
Excellent nonstick performance
Great conversation starter
Easy release of baked goods
What We Don't Like
Challenging to clean crevices
Higher price point
Buying Guide Image

Deciding which Specialty & Novelty Cake Pans is Best for Your House

If you like designable cakes, one of the key accessories that cannot be missing in your kitchen is a good speciality and novelty cake pan, with good quality materials, with a nonstick finish and easy to remove from the pan.

If you are thinking of starting in the world of home baking or simply want to renew your baking utensils, one of the essentials that you cannot miss is a good cake pan, which allows you to make baked goods such as apple cakes, cakes, brownies, etc., to cold or no-bake cakes like cheesecake. A speciality and novelty cake pan is best for birthday parties, Christmas, weddings, and other occasions.

Size and shape

When choosing the cake pans, the first thing to be clear about is the size we need. In the market, we find from pans for small cakes or individual tartlets to large molds for families and suitable events that require large and heavy cakes. We can also find a wide range of pans with endless designs and special shapes, such as animals, animated characters, everyday objects, Christmas.

The size of the pan is measured in centimeters. If the pan is round, the size will be measured according to the diameter of the lower disk or the pan. If the pan, on the other hand, is square, rectangular, or with another shape, this size is normally expressed by its length and width.

The most popular pans are those that measure between 18 and 24 cm, but if you need a smaller one or, on the contrary, with a greater capacity, you can find the most suitable one with just a little searching.

To know the measure you need to find for your pan, think about how many people you will have at the table or how many servings or portions of cake you want to cook. Depending on this, you will have to choose one type and size of the pan. Another option is to choose individual pans, which allow you to cook "small versions" of your favorite cake to offer to your family or guests.

Materials

One of the main and most important aspects when buying a good cake pan is to take into account its manufacturing materials, as well as its finishes. And it is that, although we can indeed find a cheap and good product, depending mainly on how much it costs, we can see pans of higher or lower quality. Some of them are not very recommended if you want to obtain good results.

Among the most prominent materials currently, we find food-grade silicone, with all the safety guarantees for your health and which has the advantage that you can use it for both cold and baked cakes. You will be able to get more out of the product. Besides, this material is flexible, so that the molds made of this material are very easy to unmold.

Another of the most used materials in confectionery is aluminum. On the one hand, we find disposable aluminum foil pans, fragile, but that will offer us a good use. On the other hand, we have those made of anodized aluminum, which is resistant and durable and distributes the heat well.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a novelty cake pan used for?

Novelty cake pans are specifically designed for baking creative and unique cakes. They eliminate the need for complex cake sculpting, saving time and reducing waste. With novelty cake pans, you can easily create fun and imaginative cake designs without the added difficulty.

2. Is it better to bake cake in glass or metal?

When it comes to baking cakes, muffins, cupcakes, and other baked goods, it is generally recommended to use metal pans. Metal pans conduct heat more efficiently than glass pans, resulting in more even baking. Most baking recipes for cakes and other treats call for metal bakeware.

3. What is best to grease a cake pan?

There are various options for greasing a cake pan. You can use a canola oil or olive oil spray, coconut oil, or butter. While olive oil can be used, it may be a little harder to get it to stick to the sides of the pan if applied too heavily.

4. What are the types of baking pans?

There are several types of baking pans: sheet pan, muffin pan, loaf pan, Bundt pan, tube pan, 9" round cake pans, 9-by-13-inch baking pan, and 8" square baking pan. Each type of pan is suited for specific baking purposes and can be used to create a variety of delicious treats.

Editor's Notes

During our specialty & novelty cake pans research, we found 24 specialty & novelty cake pans products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 145,230 customer reviews through our big data system to write the specialty & novelty cake pans list. We found that most customers choose specialty & novelty cake pans with an average price of $16.24.

The specialty & novelty cake pans are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of specialty & novelty cake pans, including Nordic Ware, SILIVO, Chicago Metallic, Sakolla, Wilton. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Rebecca Cantu Avatar

Rebecca Cantu grew up in a family-owned retail store for home and kitchen products. She worked online and gave assistance to people to buy ideal products for their sweet home after graduating from Northwestern University with a marketing degree. She has been writing content for online shopping guides since 2011 with her professional knowledge and natural sensitivity of appliances.

Specialty & Novelty Cake Pans Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Nordic Ware SILIVO Chicago Metallic Sakolla Nordic Ware Wilton Nordic Ware Wilton HUAKENER Nordic Ware
Material Aluminum Silicone Aluminum Silicone Aluminum Aluminum Aluminum Alloy Steel Silicone Aluminum
Color Twilight Blue Swirl Red Dark Gray Blue, Pink, Gray Silver Silver Golden Hour Gray Confetti Bronze
Shape Round Heart Rectangular Round Rectangular Assorted Round Round Fluted Tube Skull
Special Feature Nonstick, Oven Safe Heat Resistant, Microwave Safe, Nonstick, Oven Safe Dishwasher safe, Oven Safe Nonstick, Oven safe, Dishwasher safe, Freezer safe, Microwave safe Oven Safe Oven Safe Nonstick, Oven Safe Heat Resistant, Nonstick, Oven Safe, Scratch Resistant Microwave Safe, Nonstick, Oven Safe Oven Safe
Specific Uses For Product Kitchen Brownie, Cake, Pie Dishwasher safe, Oven-safe Cake Brownie Bread Pie Cake, Muffin, Pastry, Tart Cake Cake Cake Bread, Brownie, Cake, Muffin Baking
Product Care Instructions Hand Wash Dishwasher Safe Dishwasher Safe, Hand Wash Dishwasher Safe, Hand Wash Hand Wash Hand Wash Hand Wash Dishwasher Safe Dishwasher Safe, Hand Wash Hand Wash
Item Weight 6.4 ounces 0.57 Pounds 2.89 Pounds 0.38 Pounds 454 Grams 6.24 ounces 8.1 ounces 1.35 Pounds 0.5 Pounds 0.01 Ounces
Is Oven Safe
Is Dishwasher Safe
Occasion Thanksgiving Birthday, Christmas, Valentine's Day, Wedding Birthday, Christmas, Valentine's Day, Wedding Universal Holiday Birthday Everyday Thanksgiving Universal Halloween
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
Where to Buy