When Cake Is Not Cooked In The Middle: Are You Done Yet?
In my series of cake questions, another one of the top questions was, “When Cake Is Not Cooked In The Middle”.
When a cake is not cooked in the middle, it can be frustrating, but there are a few common reasons why it might happen:
Oven Temperature: If your oven temperature is too low, the cake may not cook evenly. Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature.
Pan Size: Using the wrong size pan can affect how the cake cooks. If the pan is too small, the cake may not cook in the middle. Use the pan size recommended in the recipe.
Over-mixing: Over-mixing the batter can incorporate too much air, which can cause the cake to rise too much and then collapse in the middle. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
Opening the Oven Door: Opening the oven door too early in the baking process can cause the cake to collapse in the middle. Try to avoid opening the door until the cake is close to being done.
Leavening Agent: Using too much baking powder or baking soda can cause the cake to rise too much and then collapse in the middle. Be sure to measure your leavening agents accurately.
To fix a cake that is not cooked in the middle, you can try covering the cake with aluminum foil and continue baking until the middle is cooked through. You can also insert a toothpick into the center of the cake to check for doneness – if it comes out clean, the cake is done.