I’ve a confession to make. My last name is Baker, and I own stores that focus on cooking, dining and entertaining - and I cannot bake. But I do love cookies!!! My dessert island cookie is a simple chocolate chip. Crispy on the edges, chewy in the middle.
It’s not that I can’t bake, it’s more that I love cooking. Playing with flavors, changing times to get different consistencies, and all the chaos that makes someone a great cook. In baking, you have to focus on the details. Precise measurements. Perfection with timing.
Jenn’s Note: I added one additional tip at the end. While I was making the cookies you see above, I forgot to add an egg. So…lesson learned!
For the baking reluctant out there…Here are a few tips to help you on your baking (or cooking) journey! It’s all about organization.
1. **Invest in Quality Bakeware**
Choose high-quality bakeware for consistent results. Opt for heavy-duty pans made from materials like aluminized steel or cast iron, which distribute heat more evenly. Silicone mats or parchment paper can also help ensure your baked goods don’t stick. We highly recommend Nordic Ware bakeware. It’s made in the USA and highly durable
Why it matters: The right bakeware ensures even heat distribution, preventing over-baking or under-baking, and promotes easy removal of delicate items like cakes and cookies.
2. **Use Accurate Measuring Tools**
Invest in a good kitchen scale and measuring cups/spoons. Baking is a science, and accurate measurements make all the difference. When measuring flour, spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off, rather than scooping directly from the bag, to avoid packing it down.
Why it matters: Proper measurements ensure the right balance of ingredients, helping achieve the desired texture and taste in your final product.
Always preheat your oven fully before baking. It’s essential that your oven is at the right temperature before you put your goods in. If you’re unsure of your oven’s accuracy, consider getting an oven thermometer.
Why it matters: Starting with a fully heated oven helps baked goods rise properly, leading to better texture and even cooking. An underheated oven can result in uneven baking.
4. **Understand Ingredient Temperatures**
Make sure ingredients like butter, eggs, and milk are at the right temperature for your recipe. For example, softening butter ensures it blends more easily with other ingredients, and room-temperature eggs help incorporate air into your batter for better rise.
Why it matters: The wrong ingredient temperature can affect how ingredients combine, which can alter the texture and structure of your baked goods.
5. **Don’t Overmix Your Batter**
Mix just until the ingredients are combined, especially when making cakes, muffins, and quick breads. Overmixing can lead to dense, tough textures because it develops too much gluten.
Why it matters: Proper mixing helps maintain a light, airy texture, while overmixing results in baked goods that are dense and heavy.
AND - because I like to always toss in, “but one more ingredient…” here’s another…
6. Read the Recipe Thoroughly and Gather All Ingredients First
Tip: Before you begin baking, carefully read through the entire recipe to ensure you understand each step and gather all ingredients ahead of time. This includes measuring out everything you’ll need, so you’re not scrambling mid-recipe.
Why it matters: Reading the recipe fully helps prevent mistakes, like missing steps or forgetting key ingredients. Having everything prepped and ready (a practice known as “mise en place”) allows for a smoother, more organized baking process, ensuring you don’t run into any surprises.
By adding this step, bakers can avoid confusion, save time, and ensure that their baking process goes as smoothly as possible.
These tips, paired with the right tools, can help any baker improve their skills and enjoy better results every time!
