We all have baked cakes for once in our lives and there are times when they do not turn out how we exactly want them to be. While there are a lot of baking recipes, tips and tracks available online, somehow, our cakes do not taste or look the way we want them to. It is believed that baking is all about measurements and to some extent this is also true, however baking is not all about perfect measurements but also about the process and steps involved in it. To bake the perfect cake, one needs to take care of every simple step from sifting the ingredients to mixing them properly, each step has its own significance and importance. Here is the guide to baking the perfect cake that highlights some of the major steps involved in the process.
Measuring: The difference between a light, moist and gummy cake is the accurate measurement of ingredients. Three types of measuring tools are required while baking a cake which includes a spout for wet ingredients, cups with flat rims and a set of measuring spoons. However, if you are truly passionate about baking, one of the best methods to bake the perfect cake is to invest in a scale.
Sifting: One of the most important steps while baking a cake is sifting and it may seem subtle, and a fine mesh strainer is adequate for sifting. Sifting the ingredients helps separating them evenly and also helps in better mixing while making the cake. Sifting, though a small step while baking a cake is an important one and contributes to making a moist and fluffy cake.
Folding: Mixing is yet another important step in cake baking where you need to ensure that when incorporating dry ingredients into the batter you must avoid overmixing. One of the best methods is to use the broad side of a silicone spatula, and drag it like an oar moving through water to suspend the dry ingredients in the batter. This technique helps in better folding of ingredients and helps in making a fluffier cake.
Lining A Cake Pan: Lining a cake pan is an important and essential step when preparing a cake. This helps in easily removing cake from the pan aiding in reducing waste. Coat the sides and bottom of the pan with softened butter and swap in flour. This is one of the easiest and best methods to lining a pan while baking.
Creaming: The texture and structure of cake depends entirely on the creaming and beating butter with sugar. This step may tempt you to cut short but it is important that you adhere to it as air is a vital ingredient in cake and it takes time to properly incorporate it into the batter. As you beat the butter it eventually lightens in color and increases in volume.
Baking: Preheating is an important step in baking and it is best to turn the oven on before you start working on your recipe. Every oven is different and some powerful ones may not need preheating but if you have a normal oven, then make sure to preheat it. Also, check for its readiness from the window and avoid opening the door for longer durations.
Cooling: Cooling is yet another important and essential step which must be followed once your cake is baked. Leave the cake in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes before unmolding and then place on a rack and allow it to cool completely. Angel, chiffon and sponge cakes should be left in the pan to prevent collapsing.
Storing: To be able to store a cake is equally important as baking it and making sure that you store every cake the right way. Unfrosted cakes should be well-wrapped in plastic and at room temperature for 24 hours. Frosted cakes should be kept at room temperature under a cake dome or large bowl unless the recipe specifies refrigeration. For cut cakes, press a piece of plastic wrap against the exposed surface to keep in moisture.
While baking can be enjoyed, there are a lot of things that you need to keep in mind for baking the perfect cake. You can also order cake online in Bhopal if you wish not to bake one and enjoy this delicacy in the comfort of your rooms.
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