By Emma Lawson,
If you are thinking that you are absolutely incapable of making an absolutely delicious and aesthetically perfect cake – think again! We know that it seems more like a rocket science class to some people, and if you are one of them, stay with us. Here are five useful tips on how to make the finest cake ever. See more here
1. Choose the Right Recipe
If you want great results, it is essential that you start with the recipe you trust. Your grandma’s baking recipes are usually the most appropriate ones, especially if these have been used dozens of times. When it comes to those found on the internet, they usually haven’t been tried or tested, so try to avoid them – especially if you are making a cake for a special occasion.
2. Use Appropriate Baking Pans and Appliances
Simple but strong aluminum pan, with or without non-stick coating, is a perfect cake pan. If you need a delicate, golden crust, make sure that it is shiny as well. Its colour is important, too, since dark non-stick ones often require a reduction in baking temperature, as opposed to silver ones made of aluminum. When it comes to kitchen appliances, a good mixer and blender are always a must, so you should better get high-quality ones. Check out what Kenwood has to offer.
3. Know Your Oven
Get an oven thermometer in order to prevent over- or under-baked cake. It will help ensure you that your oven is calibrated correctly. You also have to know that cake should be baked in the middle of it – not close to the top or to the bottom, since that can cause over browning. If you want to check whether it is ready to be taken out of the oven, you should lightly press the centre of the cake. If it springs back, it is done. You can check this with a fork, too – insert it into the cake, and if it comes out clean, it is ready.
4. Be Accurate With Weights and Ingredients
Using measuring spoons rather than regular tableware is very important, since it will ensure accuracy. This is crucial simply because you should use the exact measurements that are stated in the recipe you decided to follow. Besides that, many of them require some ingredients, such as eggs and butter, to stand at room temperature for a specified time. That allows them to blend easily with other ingredients. However, never melt the butter when it needs to be softened – it will ruin the texture of the cake.
5. Let It Cool
Recipes usually give instructions for cooling, but the general rule is the following: sponge cakes should be left for a few minutes, and then turned onto a cooling rack. You will avoid wet edges that way. As for the cakes that are richer in texture, they should be left in the pan to cool down. When that is done, place a plate on top, invert the pan and gently tap in order to release the cake.
As you may see, making a perfect cake doesn’t have to be such a trouble, especially when you have an ace up your sleeve. We are sure that our tips will help you overcome the fear of failure, because you can definitely do it. Just follow these basic rules and success is guaranteed!
