radial gradient [ps 21]

Hello, 

Since the Photoshop 21.0.2 release I am now unable to make and transform a simple radial gradient as I used to (to make custom drop shadows). It has become a much more complicated process with the new presets panel and I haven't been able to understand how to make this process simpler.

Can you please tell me what am I missing? 

Before the update, I would simply:
• create a new layer

• select gradient tool in the tool panel

• select radial gradient

• draw my gradient on the new layer

• command T to transform my gradient however I wished

Now the only way I have figured out how to do this same thing involves many more steps:

• create new layer

• draw a shape with marquee

• select gradient tool

• select a preset from gradient presets (or make a new preset)

• the shape becomes filled with linear gradient

• click on layers panel to open up gradient fill options

• select radial gradient

• convert to smart object (or rasterize layer) since I am unable tranform it without flattening the gradient fill 

• command T to transform

Thank you for any insight to helping me make this process easier as it once was.