I bake mine in an iron skillet and have never used anything else. I wipe the sides with butter and of course the melted butter is in the bottom. I use the pineapple rings always have. I let it cool in the pan for about 5-7 minutes then turn it upside down on a plate or small pizza pan. My husband doesn't care if any of it sticks. He says it's like licking the bowl. One extra step I do is in between the rings is add chunk pineapple and maybe some extra maraschino cherries. Have also used strawberries! Aw geez I'm getting in the mood to make one. he'll be pleasantly surprised.