There are 10 basic rules for baking that every baker should know. By following these simple tips, you’ll be on your way to becoming a master baker in no time!
1. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before beginning to bake. Room temperature ingredients mix together more easily and produce a more consistent final product.
2. Preheat your oven before getting started. This will help ensure that your baked goods cook evenly throughout.
3. When measuring flour, be sure to use the spoon and level method. This means using a spoon to lightly scoop the flour into your measuring cup, then leveling it off with the back of a knife. Do not pack the flour into the cup or you’ll end up with too much.
4. Sugar can be measured by weight or volume, but because sugar crystals vary in size, it’s best to measure by weight if you want accurate results.5
5 Be careful not to overmix batter – this can result in tough, rubbery baked goods. Mix just until all ingredients are combined – no more!
6 Eggs should also be at room temperature before mixing them in – this helps prevent them from curdling the batter.7
7 When adding liquids to dry ingredients, mix until just moistened – don’t overdo it or your baked goods will be dense and heavy8
8 Baked goods will continue to cook slightly as they cool down after coming out of the oven, so don’t overcook them or they’ll end up dry and crumbly9 9 To test if cakes are done baking, insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the cake – if it comes out clean, it’s finished baking10 Follow recipe instructions carefully – even small deviations can result in less-than-perfect results