A bundt pan is a ring-shaped baking pan with a fluted interior and a hole through the center, used mainly for cakes. It was developed by Nordic Ware founder H. David Dalquist, who trademarked the design and name in 1950; the shape, inspired by the traditional European gugelhupf mold, promotes even heat distribution, producing a moist, evenly baked crumb and an easier release. The pan gained wide popularity after the Tunnel of Fudge cake placed second in the 1966 Pillsbury Bake-Off. Beyond bundt cakes, it's sometimes used for savory breads, casseroles, or molded dishes like gelatin rings.