Baking Basics

Over the years I have picked up a few tips and tricks to make things easier whilst baking. Once again a lot of these tips have come from my Mum and a few I've picked up myself from various places.

I am always learning new things so I will keep adding to this page as I pick up new things.

 

Tips & Tricks

·         Always wear an apron! It's more fun when you're not worrying about making a mess.

·         Measure out all your ingredients before you start - this helps to avoid any inaccurate measurements or adding ingredients incorrectly for instance.

·         Always pre-heat your oven - this means the oven will have reached the correct temperature when you place in your baking meaning the timings will be more accurate.

·         Never break eggs directly into a mixture. My Mum always told me to do this in case the eggs are 'off' I don't think I've ever come across a bad egg but it is helpful if you get any shell in the egg and allows you to beat the eggs before adding them.

·         If you do get any egg shell in the egg after cracking it (something I seem unable to avoid) the best way to get it out is to use another bit of shell. Break off a large bit of shell and use it to fish out the bit in the egg. This works so much better than a spoon (or your finger) - I couldn't tell you why, but it does!

·         To make sure a cake is cooked right through, insert a sharp knife down through the top of the cake - if it comes out clean the cake is done, if not put it back in the oven for a few minutes.

·         When baking scones or biscuits (anything that goes directly onto a tray) always line the tray with baking paper/parchment paper. It stops the baking sticking and saves on the washing up!