A survey showed that 26% of Americans have been craving baked goods more since the outbreak of COVID-19, and 28% have been eating them more often. With the restrictions brought on by the pandemic, many have turned to bake their cookies and other sweet treats. Baking has helped many find comfort and positive distraction during these difficult times. But baking a delicious batch of cookies can be easier said than done. With people baking more, it is easy to make common cookie-baking mistakes.
There is a difference between professionals and those who bake cookies at home. The good news is, with some tricks, you can bake delicious cookies in the comfort of one’s kitchen. To help ensure your cookies come out perfect both on the outside and inside, here are five common mistakes to avoid when baking cookies:
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Having an uneven bake
The dilemma will begin as soon as you take the time to bake your cookies. Unevenly baked cookies are something that happens a lot when baking at home. It happens because of the temperature difference between different parts of the oven. To solve this issue, try rotating the cookie sheet halfway through baking so that each cookie gets equal heat from all sides. In addition, try to put the cookie sheet in the middle of the oven. It will help ensure that your cookies bake evenly.
It’s too thinly spread
To avoid crispy, burnt cookies, make each dough ball the same size using a cookie scoop or spoon. You can also ensure evenly-baked cookies by cooling them in batches, so they have time to spread out and hold their shape. Another tip is to refrigerate the dough for half an hour before baking if it gets too warm.
Wrong choice of baking sheet
Many people need to realize that the type of baking sheet they use can make or break their cookie-baking experience. Darker pans absorb more heat, resulting in burnt bottoms on your cookies, while lighter pans won’t absorb as much heat. To prevent sticking, try using parchment paper and greasing it with butter before putting the dough on it. It will give your cookies a nice, evenly-baked texture.
A tough and dry dough
The last mistake to avoid when baking cookies is using a dry and tough dough. It usually happens when too much flour is added to the mix, creating a dry texture. To prevent this issue with dough, you should only add the necessary flour and use cold butter or margarine. Another tip is to use an electric mixer when combining the ingredients. It will help ensure that all ingredients are well incorporated and evenly mixed.
Underbaked or Overbaked
The next common error is underbaking or overbaking your cookies. It usually happens because individuals become too anxious and take them out of the oven before they have completed baking. Among the best ways to avoid this error is to set your timer and check the cookies around a minute before the time suggests. It is also important to follow the instructions on the ingredients package correctly. Another helpful tip is to buy an oven thermometer and check the temperature in your oven. Cooking your food evenly will be easier with it.
With some practice and patience, you’ll be baking delicious cookies in no time. Baking cookies should be fun, not stressful.
source: https://www.chocolateshippedcookies.com/avoid-these-5-common-cookie-baking-mistakes/
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