Cake Tins for Baking - Round, Deep & Square

Choosing the right cake tin

The right cake tin helps control the shape, depth and bake of your cake. Round tins are the everyday choice for sponges, layer cakes and celebration cakes, while square and rectangular tins are useful for traybakes, brownies, fruit cakes and neat portioning.

Round, deep and square cake tins

Round cake tins are often used for classic sponge recipes, with 20cm and 23cm tins among the most common sizes. Deep tins are useful for taller cakes, fruit cakes and recipes that need more room to rise. Square and rectangular tins are especially useful for brownies, traybakes, fruit cakes and bakes that need to be cut into neat portions.

Getting a better release

Even with non-stick tins, lining the base with baking parchment is usually worthwhile. For deeper cakes, line the sides too, especially for fruit cakes or longer bakes. Greasing and lining well helps prevent sticking and makes it easier to remove the cake cleanly.

Matching tin size to your recipe

Always check the recipe tin size before baking, as changing the diameter or depth can affect baking time and texture. A smaller tin gives a deeper cake that may need longer in the oven, while a larger tin gives a shallower cake that can bake more quickly.

Cake Tins - FAQs

What size cake tin do most recipes use?

Many cake recipes use 20cm or 23cm round tins, but it depends on the recipe. Always check the specified tin size, as changing the diameter or depth can affect the baking time and final texture.

What type of cake tin should I choose?

Choose a round tin for sponges, layer cakes and celebration cakes, a deep tin for fruit cakes or taller bakes, and a square or rectangular tin for brownies, traybakes and neat portioning.

When should I use a deep cake tin?

Use a deep cake tin for taller sponges, fruit cakes, celebration cakes and recipes that need more depth. Deeper cakes usually need careful baking and may take longer than shallow cakes.

Should I line a cake tin with parchment?

Yes, lining the base with baking parchment is usually a good idea, even with non-stick tins. For deep or longer-baked cakes, lining the sides as well can help prevent sticking and protect the edges.

Can I use a different size tin from the recipe?

You can, but the cake will bake differently. A smaller tin makes a deeper cake and may need more time, while a larger tin makes a shallower cake and may bake more quickly. Watch the bake rather than relying only on the stated time.

What is the difference between round and square cake tins?

Round tins are common for sponges, layer cakes and celebration cakes. Square and rectangular tins are useful for traybakes, brownies, fruit cakes and bakes that need to be cut into neat portions.