How to start your baking journey: Tips for new bakers

Watching baking shows, one is often left wondering how the contestants started their baking journey.

While they make it look so easy, one needs to know exactly what you’re doing.

Unlike cooking up a pot of stew, where you can simply throw things together, baking is more of an exact science.

Baking is a rewarding and enjoyable skill that anyone can learn with a little patience and practice.

Whether you want to bake cookies, cakes, or bread, starting with the right approach can make all the difference.

Here are some tips to help beginners get started on their baking journey.

Start with simple recipes

As a beginner, it's best to start with easy recipes.

Choose recipes that require minimal ingredients and steps, such as chocolate chip cookies, banana bread, or muffins.

As you gain confidence, you can move on to more complex bakes.

Before you begin baking, read the entire recipe from start to finish.

This will help you understand the steps, ingredients, and tools needed.

It will also prevent surprises or mistakes during the process.

Baking is a science, and accurate measurements are crucial for successful results.

Use measuring cups for dry ingredients and a kitchen scale for precise measurements.

For liquids, use a liquid measuring cup to ensure accuracy.

Having everything prepared before you start mixing will make the process smoother.

This technique, called mise en place, ensures that you don’t forget any ingredients and keeps you organised.

Different recipes require different types of bakeware, such as metal pans, glass dishes, or silicone molds.

Always check the recipe for the recommended type of pan and adjust baking times accordingly.

Preheating the oven to the correct temperature before baking ensures even cooking.

Many baked goods require a precise temperature to rise and develop the right texture.

Overmixing can result in dense or tough baked goods.

When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined.

A few lumps in the batter are okay for items like muffins and pancakes.

Many recipes call for room-temperature butter, eggs, and dairy products.

This helps the ingredients blend more easily and creates a smoother batter or dough.

If you forget to take them out ahead of time, you can warm eggs in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes.

Every oven is different, so check your baked goods a few minutes before the recommended baking time is up.

Use a toothpick or cake tester. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your bake is done.

Cooling is an important step in baking.

Allow cakes and cookies to cool on a wire rack before slicing or decorating.

This prevents soggy textures and helps flavours develop fully.

IOL Lifestyle