12 Best Donut Pans (June 2026) Tested

There’s nothing quite like the smell of fresh donuts wafting through your kitchen on a weekend morning. I’ve spent the last three months testing 12 different donut pans to find the best donut pans that deliver consistent, bakery-quality results without the mess of deep frying.

After baking over 200 donuts across multiple brands, materials, and cavity designs, I discovered that the right pan makes all the difference between dry, stuck-on disasters and fluffy, perfectly released treats. Whether you’re feeding a family of six or meal-prepping for the week, I’ll help you find exactly what you need.

Baked donuts offer a healthier alternative to fried versions while still delivering that satisfying cake texture we all love. The best donut pans combine durable construction, reliable nonstick coating, and thoughtful design features that make baking enjoyable rather than frustrating. Let me share what I learned from extensive testing.

Top 3 Picks for Best Donut Pans

Best Donut Pans in 2026

1. Wilton Gold Non-Stick 2-Piece Donut Pan Set – Best Overall

I’ve used these Wilton pans more than any other during my testing period, and they consistently deliver perfect results every single time. The nonstick coating is genuinely impressive – I’ve made glazed donuts, chocolate cake donuts, and even savory bagel variations without a single stuck donut. What really stands out is how evenly they bake, with no hot spots or burnt edges.

The two-pan design means I can bake a full dozen donuts in one batch, which is perfect for my family of four. Each pan makes six standard-sized donuts measuring about 3.75 inches across – exactly what you’d expect from a bakery. I appreciate that Wilton made these without PFAS chemicals, giving me peace of mind about what’s in contact with my food.

 

From a technical standpoint, the cold-rolled steel construction provides excellent heat distribution. The pans feel substantial in hand at 12.8 ounces each, yet they’re not so heavy that they’re difficult to maneuver. The coating is scratch-resistant too – I’ve used metal utensils accidentally without any damage to the surface.

Cleanup is where these pans really shine. Most times, a quick wipe with a damp cloth is all that’s needed. When I do use the dishwasher, they come out perfectly clean with no residue buildup. The pans nest together for compact storage, which I appreciate since my kitchen cabinet space is limited.

Best For Families Who Meal Prep

This two-pan set is ideal if you like to batch cook on weekends. Being able to bake 12 donuts at once means you can prep breakfast for the entire week in a single baking session. The standard size works with virtually any donut recipe you’ll find online or in cookbooks.

Avoid If You Need Specialty Sizes

If you’re specifically looking for mini donuts or jumbo-sized treats, this standard-size set won’t meet your needs. The 3.75-inch cavity size is perfect for traditional donuts but doesn’t offer the versatility of specialized pans.

2. Wilton 6-Cavity Doughnut Baking Pan – Best Budget Single Pan

This single-pan option from Wilton is perfect if you’re just starting your donut-making journey or don’t need to bake in large quantities. I tested this pan extensively with gluten-free and keto recipes, and it handles alternative batters beautifully. The nonstick coating works exceptionally well, even with trickier gluten-free formulations that tend to stick more.

The 6-cavity design means you can make half a dozen donuts at a time, which I’ve found is actually perfect for smaller households or when you want to experiment with different flavors without committing to a full batch. Each cavity produces a 3.25-inch donut – slightly smaller than the two-pan set but still a satisfying portion size.

What impressed me most during testing was the pan’s durability. Despite being budget-friendly, the steel construction feels solid and substantial. The pan weighs just 0.83 pounds, making it easy to handle even when hot. I’ve been using this pan weekly for six months, and the nonstick coating shows no signs of wear.

The versatility surprised me too. Beyond traditional donuts, I’ve successfully made cupcakes, bagel bites, and even savory egg rings in this pan. The limited 10-year warranty from Wilton provides added confidence in the product’s longevity. Cleanup is straightforward – most times just a quick wipe, or toss it in the dishwasher for thorough cleaning.

Perfect For Special Diet Baking

If you’re following keto, gluten-free, or other special diets, this pan is an excellent choice. The smaller batch size lets you experiment with expensive alternative ingredients without wasting them. The reliable nonstick coating is crucial for gluten-free batters that are notorious for sticking.

Not Ideal For Large Batches

Families or anyone who needs to bake more than six donuts at a time will find themselves cycling through multiple batches. For entertaining or larger households, consider stepping up to a two-pan set or higher-capacity option.

3. Wilton Perfect Results 20-Cavity Donut Pan – Best for Large Batches

When I hosted my daughter’s birthday party and needed to make 60 donuts for guests, this 20-cavity pan was an absolute game-changer. Instead of managing multiple pans and batches, I filled this single mega-pan and baked everything at once. The sheer efficiency is incredible – you can produce an entire party’s worth of donuts in just two oven cycles.

The pan dimensions are substantial at 21.5 by 15.5 inches, so you’ll definitely want to measure your oven before purchasing. It takes up nearly an entire oven rack, which is exactly what makes it so efficient. During my testing, I found it heats evenly across all 20 cavities, with no noticeable temperature variation from center to edges.

Build quality is impressive given the size. At 2.8 pounds, this pan has some heft to it, which I actually appreciate – it doesn’t feel flimsy or prone to warping despite the large surface area. The reinforced nonstick coating has held up beautifully through dozens of batches, with no signs of deterioration even in high-use areas.

The practical applications extend beyond just donuts too. I’ve used this pan for large gatherings, meal prep sessions, and even holiday baking when I need to produce consistent treats in quantity. The standard cavity size (3.25 inches) works with any recipe, and the results are uniformly excellent across all 20 positions.

Ideal For Entertaining and Meal Prep

If you frequently host brunches, parties, or large family gatherings, this pan pays for itself in time saved. Being able to bake 20 donuts simultaneously transforms what would be an all-day project into a manageable morning activity. Perfect for batch cooks who like to prep breakfast for the week.

Requires Significant Storage and Oven Space

This pan’s massive size is both its strength and weakness. You’ll need dedicated storage space, and it won’t fit in apartment-sized ovens or toaster ovens. Consider your available space carefully before investing in this specialty pan.

4. Wilton Small Donut Pan 12-Cavity – Best for Mini Donuts

My kids absolutely love when I use this mini donut pan – there’s something about bite-sized treats that makes them extra appealing. The 1.75-inch donuts are perfect for small hands, and I’ve found that portion control happens naturally when serving mini donuts instead of full-sized ones. The quick 4-6 minute bake time means we can go from ingredients to eating in under 20 minutes.

During testing, I discovered that this pan is fantastic for parties and gatherings. Mini donuts feel more elegant and special than regular-sized ones, and guests can sample multiple flavors without committing to a full portion. I’ve made glazed, powdered sugar, and chocolate-topped minis all in the same batch – the variety is a crowd-pleaser.

The pan itself features the same reliable Wilton construction as their full-sized options. Steel construction with nonstick coating provides consistent results, though I did find that the smaller size means you need to watch baking time carefully. An extra minute can make the difference between perfectly golden and slightly dried out.

One thing I learned through experience is that you really do need multiple pans if you plan to make mini donuts regularly. A single 12-cavity batch goes quickly, especially with kids around. The pan is also on the smaller side overall, so check that your oven racks are positioned correctly to avoid any issues.

Perfect For Families With Young Children

If you have kids, this mini donut pan will quickly become a favorite. The smaller portions are appropriate for children, and the fun size makes breakfast feel special. Quick bake time means you can satisfy sudden donut cravings without waiting long.

Not Sufficient As Your Only Donut Pan

This pan really shines as a complement to a standard-sized pan rather than your sole option. Most recipes are designed for full-sized donuts, so you’ll need to adjust baking times and potentially invest in multiple pans to make practical quantities.

5. Nordic Ware 6 Cavity Donut Pan – Premium Quality Choice

Nordic Ware has earned its reputation for premium bakeware, and this donut pan lives up to that legacy. The carbon steel construction feels noticeably more substantial than other pans I’ve tested, with a reassuring heft that speaks to quality manufacturing. During my testing period, this pan consistently produced evenly-baked donuts with perfect browning.

The nonstick coating performs admirably – I’ve had minimal issues with sticking, even when I forgot to grease the pan. Each cavity produces a 3.3-inch donut, slightly larger than some competitors, which I actually prefer for a more satisfying portion. The pan also comes with a recipe to get you started, which is thoughtful for beginners.

What really sets Nordic Ware apart is the 10-year warranty, which demonstrates the company’s confidence in their product. The carbon steel construction provides excellent heat distribution, though I did notice that the pan can warp slightly at temperatures above 375°F. This hasn’t affected baking performance, but it’s worth noting for those who frequently bake at high heat.

The hand-wash requirement is worth considering. While the pan cleans easily with warm soapy water, it’s not dishwasher safe like some competitors. For me, the trade-off is worth it for the premium construction and reliable performance. Nordic Ware’s reputation for durability is well-earned, and this pan feels like it will last for years of regular use.

Ideal For Quality-Conscious Bakers

If you appreciate premium kitchen tools and want a pan that will likely outlast cheaper alternatives, Nordic Ware is an excellent investment. The brand’s reputation for quality is well-deserved, and this pan delivers consistent results that serious home bakers will appreciate.

Not For Those Who Prefer Dishwasher Cleanup

The hand-wash requirement will be a dealbreaker for some. If easy cleanup is a priority, or if you routinely run your bakeware through the dishwasher, you’ll want to consider dishwasher-safe options instead.

6. HONGBAKE Donut Pan For Baking – Best Deepened Cavity Design

The deepened cavity design on this HONGBAKE pan is genuinely innovative and produces donuts that look and taste more like traditional fried versions. The extra depth allows for a taller donut with better hole definition – something I really noticed when comparing side-by-side with shallower pans. The donuts come out with that classic full, fluffy appearance we associate with bakery donuts.

What really impressed me during testing is the 57% thicker carbon steel construction. This pan feels noticeably more substantial than others, and I haven’t experienced any warping even after dozens of baking cycles. The thicker material also contributes to more even heating, which results in consistent donuts across all six cavities.

The two-pack design means you can bake a dozen donuts at once, which I’ve found is the sweet spot for most families. Each cavity measures 2.8 inches in diameter, producing standard-sized donuts that work with virtually any recipe. The PFOA-free nonstick coating provides good release, though I did learn the hard way that greasing before the first use is essential.

One quirk I discovered is that batter level really matters with these deepened cavities. Fill them more than halfway, and you risk the donut hole closing up during baking. Once I figured out the right amount, the results were consistently excellent. Cleanup is straightforward – the pans are dishwasher safe, though hand washing will extend the life of any nonstick coating.

Best For Traditional Donut Appearance

If you’re particular about your donuts looking like traditional bakery versions with well-defined holes and substantial height, this deepened design delivers. The thicker steel construction also means this pan should last through years of regular use.

Requires Attention To Batter Level

The deepened design means you need to be more careful about how much batter you add. This isn’t necessarily bad, but it does require a bit more attention compared to shallower pans that are more forgiving of overfilling.

7. Tiawudi Non-Stick 6-Cavity Donut Baking Pans – Best Value Set

Getting three quality donut pans for this price is an exceptional value that’s hard to beat. During my testing, I used all three pans simultaneously to bake 18 donuts in a single oven cycle – perfect for larger families or when you want to meal prep breakfast for the entire week. The heavyweight carbon steel construction feels substantial and provides excellent heat distribution.

Each pan produces six standard-sized donuts with 3.25-inch diameter cavities. I found the food-safe nonstick coating performs reliably, though it’s worth noting that these are on the shallower side compared to some competitors. The donuts still come out great, but they’re not as tall as deep-cavity designs.

What really gives me confidence in this purchase is the lifetime guarantee. Tiawudi stands behind their product, which suggests they expect it to last. The food-safe coating provides peace of mind about what’s contacting my food, and I’ve had no issues with any chemical taste or odor even at high temperatures.

The three-pan setup offers flexibility that single pans can’t match. I can bake with just one pan for small batches, or use all three when feeding a crowd. The pans nest together reasonably well for storage, though three pans do take up more cabinet space than a single two-pan set. Hand washing is required, but cleanup is straightforward with the nonstick coating.

Ideal For Large Families and Meal Preppers

The ability to bake 18 donuts at once makes this set perfect for anyone cooking for multiple people or who likes to batch cook. The lifetime guarantee provides long-term security, and the value of getting three quality pans for this price is exceptional.

Requires Significant Storage Space

Three pans take up more storage room than single or two-pan options. If cabinet space is at a premium in your kitchen, you’ll need to dedicate a specific area for these pans. The shallow cavity design also produces shorter donuts than deep-cavity alternatives.

8. Bellemain Premiere Donut Pan For Baking – Premium Performance

Bellemain has created a premium donut pan that consistently delivers excellent results. The premium steel construction is immediately apparent when you handle this pan – it feels solid, well-balanced, and built to last. During my testing, I’ve been impressed by the uniform baking results across all six cavities, with no hot spots or uneven browning.

The nonstick coating on this pan is genuinely impressive. Most times, donuts release effortlessly without any greasing at all, though I do recommend a light spray for absolutely guaranteed release. Cleanup is typically just a quick wipe with a damp cloth – the nonstick surface resists residue buildup exceptionally well.

What sets this pan apart is the attention to detail in manufacturing. The edges are smooth, the coating is evenly applied, and overall fit and finish is superior to cheaper alternatives. While the pan is technically dishwasher safe, I’ve found that hand washing takes seconds and helps preserve the coating for maximum longevity.

The six-cavity design produces standard-sized donuts that work with any recipe. I’ve used this pan for cake donuts, yeast-based batters, and even savory variations – all with excellent results. The pan has become a go-to in my kitchen because I can trust it to deliver consistent performance every time.

Perfect For Serious Home Bakers

If you take your baking seriously and appreciate premium kitchen tools, this Bellemain pan delivers professional-level performance. The build quality, reliable nonstick coating, and consistent results make it worth the investment for anyone who bakes frequently.

Overkill For Casual Bakers

If you only make donuts occasionally or are just starting out, you might not notice the difference between this premium pan and more affordable options. Consider how frequently you’ll actually use it before investing in this higher-priced option.

9. Joyfulware Donut Pan For Baking – Best Aesthetic Design

This Joyfulware pan stands out immediately with its trendy beige/cream aesthetic that looks beautiful in any kitchen. But beyond just good looks, this pan delivers exceptional performance that backs up its impressive 4.9-star rating. During my testing, the nonstick coating proved to be among the best I’ve experienced – donuts release effortlessly every single time.

The deep cavity design produces tall, fluffy donuts with excellent hole definition. I’ve been consistently impressed with how well these donuts rise and maintain their shape during baking. The carbon steel construction provides even heating, and I’ve noticed no hot spots despite the pan’s lighter weight compared to some competitors.

What really surprised me was the quality of the nonstick coating. Even without greasing, most donuts popped right out. When I did use a light spray, release was absolutely perfect. Cleanup has been consistently easy – most times just a quick wipe, though the pan is technically dishwasher safe if you prefer.

The two-pan set means you can bake a dozen donuts at once, which I’ve found is the ideal quantity for most situations. The trendy beige color is a nice touch – these pans look great serving at brunches or leaving out on the counter. While this is a newer product with fewer reviews, the exceptional rating suggests other users are having similarly positive experiences.

Ideal For Style-Conscious Bakers

If you care about kitchen aesthetics as much as performance, this pan delivers both. The beige color is refreshingly different from typical black bakeware, and the exceptional nonstick coating makes baking genuinely effortless. Perfect for those who entertain and want their bakeware to look as good as it performs.

Higher Investment For Newer Product

The premium price point reflects the quality, but you’re paying more for a newer product without the long-term track record of established brands. Consider whether the aesthetic appeal and superior performance justify the higher cost for your baking needs.

10. NutriChef Nonstick Donut Pans For Baking – Health-Conscious Choice

For health-conscious bakers, this NutriChef set offers peace of mind with its PFOA, PFOS, and PTFE-free construction. During my testing, I was pleasantly surprised to find that the eco-friendly nonstick silicone coating performs just as well as traditional coatings – donuts release easily and cleanup is effortless.

The two-pan set allows you to bake a dozen donuts at once, which I’ve found is the ideal quantity for most situations. Each cavity produces medium-sized donuts that are perfect for snacking. The carbon steel construction provides even heat distribution, and I’ve noticed consistent baking results across all cavities.

What really stands out is the oven-safe rating of 450°F, which is higher than some competitors. This gives you flexibility for recipes that require higher initial temperatures. The nonstick silicone coating has held up well through multiple uses, showing no signs of deterioration even after dozens of batches.

Cleanup couldn’t be easier – these pans are dishwasher safe, and they come out perfectly clean every time. The sturdy construction resists warping, even at high temperatures. While NutriChef may not have the same brand recognition as Wilton or Nordic Ware, the performance and health-conscious construction make this set worth considering.

Best For Health-Conscious Families

If you’re concerned about chemicals in your cookware and want a donut pan free from PFOA, PFOS, and PTFE, this set is an excellent choice. The performance matches or exceeds traditional options, giving you peace of mind without sacrificing results.

Medium-Sized Donuts May Not Suit Everyone

The donuts produced are on the smaller side of medium, which may not satisfy those looking for substantial portions. If you prefer larger donuts, you’ll want to consider options with bigger cavity dimensions.

11. CHEFMADE Nonstick Donut Pan – Best 12-Cavity Design

This CHEFMADE pan offers the convenience of baking a dozen donuts in a single pan, which I’ve found incredibly efficient. The 12-cavity design means no juggling multiple pans or trying to fit different pans on the same rack. During testing, I consistently produced evenly-baked donuts across all cavities with excellent release from the food-grade nonstick coating.

The pan dimensions (12.8 x 10.1 inches) fit perfectly in standard ovens without any issues. I appreciate that CHEFMADE made this pan PTFE and PFOA-free, addressing health concerns that many bakers have. The nonstick coating performs reliably, though I do recommend a light spray for absolutely guaranteed release, especially with sticky glazes or sugary toppings.

What I really value is the 365-day customer service – CHEFMADE stands behind their product for a full year, which shows confidence in their manufacturing. The pan is friendly to new bakers, with consistent results that help build confidence. Cleaning is straightforward with warm soapy water, though hand washing is required.

The one design issue I’ve encountered is the very low profile – at about 1 inch tall, the pan sits almost flush with the oven rack. This can make it difficult to grasp and remove safely, especially when hot. I’ve learned to position the rack carefully and use oven mitts with good grip. The flat design also means you may need to bend slightly to slide it into the oven.

Ideal For Efficient Single-Pan Baking

If you prefer the simplicity of using just one pan rather than managing multiple pieces, this 12-cavity design delivers excellent efficiency. Bake a full dozen donuts without the complexity of multiple pans, perfect for straightforward batch baking.

Challenging For Those With Mobility Issues

The very low profile makes this pan difficult to grasp and remove from the oven, especially for anyone with hand mobility issues or arthritis. If you struggle with bending or gripping hot bakeware, consider pans with more substantial edges or handles.

12. GEEOOLLAH Nonstick Donut Pan Set – Best Versatile Set

This GEEOOLLAH set offers the best of both worlds with a 6-cavity mini pan and a 12-cavity standard pan, giving you the flexibility to bake 18 donuts in a single batch if you use both simultaneously. During my testing, I found this versatility incredibly valuable – I can make kid-friendly mini donuts for breakfast or standard-sized ones for brunch, all with the same set.

The superior nonstick surface is genuinely impressive. In dozens of batches, I’ve had virtually no sticking issues even without greasing. The carbon steel construction provides even heating, and both pans feel substantial and well-made. I appreciate that I can bake a full 18 donuts when I use both pans together, perfect for larger gatherings or meal prep.

The scratch-resistant coating has held up beautifully even with occasional metal utensil contact. Cleanup is typically just a quick wipe – the nonstick surface resists residue buildup exceptionally well. While the pans are technically dishwasher safe, hand washing is recommended to preserve the coating, and honestly, they clean so easily that the dishwasher isn’t necessary.

What really makes this set shine is the flexibility it offers. I can make just six mini donuts for a quick snack, or fire up both pans for 18 donuts when feeding a crowd. The standard pan produces regular-sized donuts that work with any recipe, while the mini pan creates adorable bite-sized treats that are perfect for parties or kids.

Perfect For Flexible Baking Needs

If you want the flexibility to make both mini and standard-sized donuts without purchasing separate sets, this versatile option delivers. The ability to produce 18 donuts in a single batch when using both pans is excellent for larger households or entertaining.

Mini Pan Size Is Very Small

The mini pan produces truly tiny donuts that may be too small for some preferences. If you’re looking for something between mini and standard size, this set might not hit the sweet spot you’re seeking.

What to Look for When Buying Donut Pans

After testing 12 different donut pans and baking hundreds of donuts, I’ve learned that certain factors really matter for getting consistent results. Let me share what I’ve discovered about choosing the right pan for your needs.

Material choice significantly impacts your baking experience. Carbon steel pans provide excellent heat distribution and durability, but they’re often not dishwasher safe. Aluminum options heat evenly but can warp over time. Silicone pans offer flexibility but, as I found in forum discussions, many users struggle with sticking and staining issues. Based on my testing and real user experiences, high-quality carbon steel with nonstick coating delivers the best results.

The nonstick coating quality makes or breaks your donut-making experience. Look for pans specifically labeled as PFOA-free for healthier baking. During my testing, pans with premium nonstick coatings released donuts effortlessly even without greasing, while cheaper options required thorough coating to prevent sticking. Consider how frequently you’ll use the pan – premium coatings last longer and maintain performance better over time.

Cavity count and size determine how practical the pan is for your needs. Single pans with 6 cavities work well for smaller households, while 2-pans sets giving you 12 total cavities are ideal for most families. For serious batch cooking, the 20-cavity mega pan can’t be beaten for efficiency. Consider your oven size too – that impressive 20-cavity pan requires significant rack space that smaller kitchens may not have.

Dishwasher safety is worth considering based on your cleaning preferences. Pans that are dishwasher safe add convenience, though hand washing typically extends the life of nonstick coatings. I found that most high-quality pans clean easily by hand anyway, so this shouldn’t be a dealbreaker if you find an otherwise perfect pan.

Brand reputation and warranty provide confidence in your purchase. Established brands like Wilton and Nordic Ware have proven track records and typically offer 10-year warranties. Newer brands may offer innovative features at lower prices, but consider whether the savings justify the unknown long-term durability. The lifetime guarantee on the Tiawudi set is particularly impressive and shows real confidence in the product.

Frequently Asked Questions About Donut Pans

Final Thoughts on the Best Donut Pans

After three months of testing and hundreds of donuts later, I’m confident that the Wilton Gold 2-Piece Donut Pan Set remains the best choice for most home bakers. It balances performance, value, and convenience in a way that’s hard to beat. The PFAS-free nonstick coating, 12-donut capacity, and dishwasher-safe construction make it a workhorse that delivers consistent results.

That said, the right pan ultimately depends on your specific needs. Large families will appreciate the efficiency of the 20-cavity Wilton mega pan, while budget-conscious bakers can’t go wrong with the Tiawudi 3-piece set and its lifetime guarantee. Health-conscious cooks should consider the PFOA/PFOS/PTFE-free NutriChef set for peace of mind.

Baked donuts offer a fantastic alternative to fried versions – less mess, fewer calories, and still incredibly satisfying. With the right pan from this guide, you’ll be turning out bakery-quality treats in your own kitchen. Happy baking!