Thanks PJ, lots of excellent tips. I'd like to add an alternative to using a spatula (tip no.6). The blade of a spatula or knife is often wider than the groove you're trying to release and its edges can sometimes scratch the pan, damage the cake, or do both at the same time. If you have this problem (or fear for your non-stick coating) try using a spudger instead. Spudgers are carbon-fibre flat-bladed and, best of all, thin tools used in computer repairs. Easy to find, especially online, and cheap. I keep one handy to use when my almond powder coating fails.

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