Baking FAQs & Troubleshooting Guide

Why Did My Cake Sink in the Middle?

There is nothing more frustrating than removing a cake from the oven, only to
have it collapse in the center! Here's why it happens:

Underbaking: If the cake is not fully set, it will sink when it cools. Always test
with a toothpick—if it comes out clean, your cake is done!

Too Much Leavening: Using too much baking soda or baking powder can cause the cake to rise too quickly and then fall.

Overmixing Batter: This adds too much air into the mixture, making the structure
unstable. Just mix until it's combined!

Opening Oven Door Too Early: Sudden change in temperature causes a cake to
fall. Resist the urge to sneak a peek!

Fix It Next Time: Bake at the proper temperature, use the proper amount
of ingredients, and resist opening the oven door too soon!

How Do I Prevent Cookies from Spreading Out Too Much?

Ever set out round balls of cookie dough on a sheet pan, to find yourself left with a vast puddle cookie afterwards? This is what is happening:

Butter Was Too Soft or Melted: If the butter is too warm, the dough will not
hold its shape. Refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes prior to baking.

Not Enough Flour: Flour gives cookies structure. When cookies spread too
much, add 1-2 more tablespoons of flour to the dough.

Too Much Sugar: Sugar melts when it is baked and makes cookies spread
out of shape.

Baking Sheet Was Warm: When baking in batches, allow your baking sheet
to cool off between batches.

Fix It Next Time: Refrigerate your dough, measure flour precisely, and begin
with a cold baking sheet!

What's the Best Method to Store Baked Goods?

It's hard to keep your cookies fresh, your bread fresh, and your cake
moist. Here's how to store various baked goods:

Cookies – Keep in an airtight container with a piece of bread to keep it soft.

Cakes & Cupcakes – Keep covered at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Bread & Muffins – Wrap in plastic wrap and keep in an airtight bag to
prevent drying out.

Frosted Treats – Store in the fridge if they contain dairy-based frosting
(like buttercream or cream cheese).

Bonus Tip: Freeze leftover cookies, muffins, or cake slices to save for
later! Just thaw at room temperature and enjoy.