baking trials Posts

Finger pressing into one of three sticks of softened butter

Baking trials: What's the best way to soften butter quickly?

And does it involve your microwave?

Oct 5, 2023
Two boules of baked bread next to each other, one with more even browning

Baking trials: Does a baking stone really make a difference in your bread?

We tested how a baking stone can impact your breads' rise, color, and more.

Jul 25, 2023
Stand mixer bowl of whipped cream next to Instant Clearjel

Baking trials: What’s the best way to stabilize whipped cream?

From cornstarch to crème fraîche, here’s how to keep your whipped cream from weeping and deflating.

Jun 8, 2023
Muffin pan full of different liners

The baking trials: What's the best way to line cupcake pans?

From paper liners to silicone baking cups to nonstick spray, here are our results.

Apr 10, 2023
A matrix of chocolate chip cookies made with different kinds of fats

Butter? Oil? Shortening? Which fat makes the best chocolate chip cookies?

Find your favorite flavor and texture combination.

Mar 31, 2023
Baker stirring bowl of melted chocolate with a spatula

We tried every method: This is the best way to melt chocolate

Microwave, double boiler, hair dryer (!), and more — here's what came out on top.

Feb 8, 2023
Sugar cookies on parchment-lined baking sheet

Cookies spreading? It might be your pan lining.

From parchment to silicone, the material you use to line your pans affects how your cookies spread.

Dec 1, 2022
Different pie plates next to each other

The baking trials: From metal to glass to ceramic, how does your pie pan affect your crust?

Choosing the best pan for the best pie.

Nov 4, 2022
Cake being depanned.

The baking trials: What's the best way to prep your cake pan to prevent sticking?

We tested a dozen options. Here’s the best one.

Aug 29, 2022
Packages of butter

The baking trials: butter vs. vegan butter

How well does vegan butter stack up to dairy butter in baking?

Jul 19, 2021