What Is a Bundt Cake Pan?

H. David Dalquist invented the bundt cake pan in 1950. A bundt pan has a hole in the middle, producing a ring-shaped cake. Fancier versions create a texture on the cake that is beautiful when left unfrosted with just a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

Introduction

In 1950, the Hadassah Society chapter in Minneapolis asked Dalquist to design an aluminum cake pan based on the traditional ceramic ones they were using in a similar shape.

New Pan

The aluminum pan Dalquist created was slightly different in shape and had built-in ridges to make it easier to cut the cake evenly.

Name

The ladies of the Hadassah Society called it a "bund" pan, which means "a gathering" in German. Dalquist added a "t" to the end and patented the name.

Popularity

After a woman in Texas won the Pillsbury Bake-Off in 1966 with a bundt pan cake recipe, the new pan took the nation by storm.

NordicWare

NordicWare, founded by Dalquist after he returned from World War II, is the exclusive producer of the original bundt cake pan. The company sells over 1 million each year.

References

• The Washington Post: Obituary of H. David Dalquist