Tips & Tricks


 Measure to Perfection
All ingredients should be measured in the most precise manner.  Scoop and scrape: scoop a hefty amount of flour into your measuring cup, and then scrape the excess off using the blunt edge of a butter knife.
 Another trick: sift all dry ingredients with a fork to ensure complete mixing.
Temperature of Ingredients
Allow any cold ingredients to reach room temperature before using.  As with any recipe that calls for "softened" butter, you should be able to make an impression in the butter with your finger.  Similarly, cookie dough, especially when making drop cookies, may work best when refrigerated for 10 minutes before preparing. 
Avoid Sticking
I'm an believer of parchment paper.  For cakes, cut circles out of parchment paper to place in the bottom of round pans (this avoids mess and reduces fat).  Some cakes will require greasing and flouring the pan: it is important to follow this rule if provided.  For cupcakes, use paper cupcake holders or grease the pan with butter (a ziplock bag will come in handy). 
Allow me to clarify parchment paper vs. wax paper: parchment paper is usually a better choice because it has a silicone coating that allows it to be used in high temperatures. Wax paper will begin to smoke. A nice (and convenient) alternative to parchment paper is silicone baking mats (I previously mentioned Silpat Baking Mats).
Baking Times
Every oven is different. Baking times will depend on oven type, altitude, and any ingredient substitutions.  To avoid burnt baked goods, start checking for doneness ten minutes early.  Use a toothpick: if it comes out dry, the cake is done.
 Get an Oven Thermometer
I'll admit it, I still don't have an oven thermometer (although it is on my shortlist of "things to buy for the kitchen").  I desperately need one, and here's why: ovens are notorious for being inaccurate and can differ by as much as 90 degrees.  By gauging the temperature of your oven you will be less likely to ruin that new recipe you're trying.  Two types of oven thermometers: dial face or glass bulb. Feel free to share your favorite.
Let it Cool
Befriend your cooling racks. By placing cakes and cookies on racks as soon as they are out of the oven, you allow a quick and even cooling process.  This will avoid your cake from becoming soggy, or overbaked.

 And above all, stay calm...relax...
In my apartment, we've seen burnt batches of cookies, sinking cakes, smoking lasagnas... you name it. It isn't the end of the world, and sometimes that's half the fun. Cheers!

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