Introduction
Every baker has experienced a cake that didn’t turn out as expected. Sometimes it sinks, other times it comes out dry or dense. Most often, the problem lies in small mistakes that are easy to overlook. In this article, I’ve gathered the 10 most common baking mistakes and tips on how to avoid them so your cakes will always come out perfect.
1. Under-whipped egg whites
Egg whites should be whipped until stiff and glossy. If they’re under-whipped, your cake won’t be fluffy.
👉 Tip: always use a clean, dry bowl, preferably metal or glass.
2. Cold ingredients
Cold butter, eggs, or milk can make the batter heavy and prevent the cake from rising.
👉 Tip: bring ingredients to room temperature at least one hour before baking.
3. Too much baking powder
Adding extra baking powder or soda doesn’t help – it makes the cake rise quickly and then collapse.👉 Tip: stick to the exact measurements in the recipe.
4. Poorly mixed ingredients
Lumps of flour or sugar in the batter can cause uneven texture or a soggy center.👉 Tip: sift the flour and mix until fully combined.
5. Low oven temperature
A cold oven is the fastest way to end up with a dense cake.👉 Tip: always preheat your oven and bake at the temperature specified in the recipe.
6.Opening the oven too often
Every time you open the door, the temperature drops dramatically. Your cake may sink.
👉 Tip: check your cake only near the end of the baking time.
7. Wrong ingredient ratios
Too much sugar, fat, or flour makes cakes heavy and chewy.👉 Tip: follow reliable recipes and measure carefully.
8. Expired yeast or baking powder
Inactive yeast or old baking powder won’t work, leaving your cake flat.
👉 Tip: always check expiration dates.
9. Not sifting the flour
Flour straight from the bag can be compact and heavy.
👉 Tip: sift to aerate it and give your cake a lighter texture.
10. Rushing the process
Some doughs, especially yeast-based ones, need proper resting time. Cutting it short ruins the result.
👉 Tip: patience is key – let the dough rise and rest as required.
Conclusion
Most baking problems come down to small details. By paying attention to temperature, proportions, and mixing, you’ll avoid common pitfalls and enjoy perfect cakes every time.What about you – which mistakes have you made most often? Share your tips and experiences in the comments! 🍰