Baking is a science, and even the slightest mistake can result in an over-baked cake. An over-baked cake is dry, crumbly, and generally unpleasant to eat. It can cause your cake to become a sunken mess, and it’s a waste of all the good ingredients you used.

So, how can you tell if your cake is in danger of being over-baked? There are a few telltale signs to look out for. Here are the 3 most common signs of an over-baked cake – and how to avoid them!

Signs of an Over-baked Cake:

1. A Hollow Thump Sound The first sign of an over-baked cake is a hollow thump sound when you tap the outside of it. It typically produces a dead, hollow sound, rather than a deeper, full sound. If you hear a hollow thump sound, your cake is likely over-baked.

2. Dry Texture The second sign of an over-baked cake is a dry texture. An over-baked cake will be dry and crumbly, and will not have a moist texture. It should feel like you’re eating a piece of dried-out bread, rather than a moist, delicious cake.

Tips on How to Avoid an Over-baked Cake:

1. Avoid Over mixing Your Batter The first tip for avoiding an over-baked cake is to avoid over mixing your batter. When you mix your cake batter, you should mix it until just combined, and no longer. Over mixing your batter can result in a tough, dry cake.

2. Use an Oven Thermometer The second tip for avoiding an over-baked cake is to use an oven thermometer. An oven thermometer will help you ensure that your oven is set to the correct temperature and that it is not too hot. It is also a good idea to invest in a good oven thermometer.

Conclusion

No matter how experienced you are in the kitchen, over-baked cakes are a common mistake. But if you know the signs of an over-baked cake, and follow the steps above to avoid it, you should be able to bake a delicious cake every time!