Here is probably a simple question - but one that has plagued me often. How is the easiest way to get a cheesecake or other type of cake off of the bottom of the springform pan without destroying the cake. I would really appreciate the help. I usually just give the friends the bottom of the pan and tell them to return it to me when they are done.

Line the bottom of the cake pan withe a circle of parchment paper.

Insert the bottom of the pan upside down, then close the clamp. You'll find that this way the spatula can easily get under the crust and lift the cheesecake right off the pan.

Another way is to cover a cake circle (the same size as the pan) with aluminum foil. Secure that in the bottom of the pan and bake. When your cheesecake is ready to be served, you never have to lift it off the the cake circle.