When muffins need a little extra incentive to leave the pan, the tempting thing to do is grab a butter knife and go around the edges to loosen them.
This usually does the trick, but it also leaves scratches on the pan.
My tip is to use a rubber spatula instead. Make sure it is heat-proof, or it can melt.
I even have a small rubber spatula to loosen goodies from my mini muffin pan.
While I am at it, I have to recommend the cooking spray with flour (Pam for Baking). It works like a charm for baked goods. They come right out of the pan.
That works for me. I hope you find it useful, too.
For more Works-for-Me Wednesday tips, head on over to Rocks in My Dryer, where Shannon is recovering from her trip to Africa.

1:11 pm on February 20th, 2008
I’ve never thought of that. Great idea!
1:30 pm on February 20th, 2008
Good idea! That’s one of those ideas where you think, “Now why didn’t I think of that?”
Thanks!
7:20 pm on February 20th, 2008
Somtimes the simplest ideas are the best! ThanX for the tip. PS - Great “action figures in noodles” piX in your header. Too funny!