Baking Tips and Tricks
Baking is a skill that can always be improved upon. If you are looking to produce higher quality baked goods, consider tweaking your recipes and methods. We have compiled a small list of tips and tricks for creating delicious and high quality baked goods.
Quality of the Flour
Don’t skimp on the quality of the flour that you purchase. You might think that choosing flour that is a few dollars cheaper might affect the overall quality of your baked goods, but it actually can. Less expensive flour brands have a higher amount of ash that comes from the bran component of wheat. When there is a lower amount of ash in flour, this means the flour is purer and of higher quality.
Measure with Caution
You should consider the way that you change the way you measure your flour. Too much flour will definitely change the flavor and texture of your baked good. Rather than scooping and patting your flour, use a spoon to measure the flour. Scoop the flour from the container into the measuring cup for a more exact amount of flour.
Butter Brand
Choose your butter brand wisely. Most recipes call for salted butter, but there is a discrepancy in amounts of salt in each brand of butter and too much salt can overpower your other ingredient flavors. You can still add salt after the fact but it is not a bad idea to choose an unsalted butter rather than the salted type.
Oven Placement
Oven placement does matter and will change how your oven works. In an oven the heat radiates off of the oven walls and this causes anything, whether a cookie sheet or pie dish, to bake faster. It is always recommended to place baking dishes in the center of the oven for a more even heat.
Keep Oven Closed
Avoid opening the oven door as much as possible while your products are baking. When you want to check on your baking cake, open the door, feel the top, or stick a toothpick in. Opening the door too often allows heat to escape and changes the oven temperature, resulting in uneven products. You want to wait until the baked good has had time to set before opening the door, which usually happens in the first 20 minutes.
Whether you are just starting out in the baking industry or you have been established for years, Empire Bakery Equipment can provide you with quality baking equipment and advice.