A 9-by-13-inch pan is ideal for large birthday cakes. When deciding between glass and metal, keep in mind that glass bakes things a little faster and darker than most people like. Cakes benefit from a paler crust, so a light metal pan is your best bet. For brownies, cakes, and corn breads, you'll need a standard 8-inch square baking pan. Real Simple picks: 9-by-13-inch aluminum baking pan, $15; 8-inch square aluminum baking pan, $10.50: both from .