Baking can feel tricky because it needs exact measurements. But you do not need to be an expert to get good results. By following a few simple steps, you can bake easily and enjoy making your favourite treats.
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1. Read the recipe first
Always read the recipe from start to finish before you begin. Knowing what to do ahead of time helps you stay calm. You will know if you need to soften your butter, preheat the oven, or prepare your trays before you start mixing.
2. Measure your ingredients carefully
Baking works best when your ingredients are balanced, so measure carefully.
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Use a kitchen scale: Weighing ingredients like flour and sugar in grams gives you the most accurate results.
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Level your spoons: When measuring baking powder or bicarbonate of soda, scrape the top of the spoon flat with a butter knife.
3. Use room-temperature ingredients
If a recipe asks for room-temperature eggs, butter, or milk, take them out of the fridge a bit earlier. Ingredients at room temperature mix together much better. This makes your cake batter smooth and light instead of lumpy.
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Quick tip: If you forget to take your eggs out early, put them in a bowl of warm water for five minutes.
4. Mix gently when needed
When adding flour or whipped egg whites to a mix, you want to fold them in gently so you do not lose the air in the batter.
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First, use a soft spatula.
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Next, cut down through the middle of the mixture.
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Then sweep around the bottom of the bowl and bring the mix up and over itself.
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Finally, turn the bowl slightly and repeat until combined.
5. Check when it is done
Ovens can be slightly different, so use your eyes and touch to see if your bake is ready:
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Cakes: Press gently in the middle. If it springs back, or if a skewer inserted in the centre comes out clean, it is done.
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Biscuits and scones: Look for a light golden-brown colour on top.
Easy rules to remember
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Keep the oven door closed: Try not to open the oven in the first 20 minutes, as cold air can make your cake sink.
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Line your trays: Always grease your baking trays or use baking paper so your bakes come out easily.
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Let it cool: Let your bakes sit for 10 minutes before moving them to a rack to cool down fully.
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