Tips and Techniques Posts

Golden Spice Cake

Things bakers know: A cake frosting secret

A cookie scoop makes even fillings — and a more striking cake — possible.

Nov 3, 2023
Collage on tan background depicting Erin holding a pie surrounded by various pie tools

Pie expert Erin Jeanne McDowell's must-have pie tools

Including old favorites and a few surprises.

Oct 26, 2023
Baker removing proofed bread dough from bread machine bucket

You know one way to use a bread machine. Here are even more.

A bread machine is way more versatile than you think.

Oct 23, 2023
Glass sourdough crock on digital scale next to measuring cup full of flour

What if I forgot to feed my starter?

Don’t worry — everything will be just fine.

Oct 18, 2023
Scale with bowl of dry ingredients on top

How (and why) to measure flour the right way

It’s arguably the biggest key to baking success.

Oct 13, 2023
Decorated gingerbread houses

How to make a gingerbread house — and cute gingerbread people, too

The right cookie, icing, and cutters for whimsical and well-built confections.

Oct 12, 2023
Piloncillo next to puerquitos

What is piloncillo? This sweetener makes great cookies, pan dulce, and more

Use this traditional Mexican unrefined sugar for a dash of flavor and history.

Oct 10, 2023
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
A baker cooking down pumpkin puree in a saucepan on the stovetop

Things bakers know: The simple trick for better pumpkin bakes

Cook your purée for boosted flavor and better texture.

Oct 4, 2023
Chocolate chip cookies on a baking sheet

Make your best cookies with these 10 tips

Cream correctly, scoop seamlessly, and whatever you do, weigh your flour. 

Sep 27, 2023
Bag of bread flour next to flatbread

Protein percentage in flour: Why it matters

Hint: It has a lot to do with gluten.

Sep 25, 2023
Ultimate Brown Butter Rice Krispies Treats

How we gave a classic childhood treat an adult-approved upgrade

Our Ultimate Brown Butter Rice Krispies Treats live up to their name — here’s why.

Sep 21, 2023
Conchas

Conchas are a colorful, creative canvas

Bakers are using colorful designs and innovative scoring to make new versions of a classic Mexican pastry.

Sep 15, 2023
Starter with dark liquid

Black liquid on top of sourdough starter is totally fine

Don’t throw your starter out! Here’s how to save it instead.

Sep 6, 2023
Ombre cake colored with yellow, orange, pink, and purple frosting

How to make a colorful ombre cake

Ten simple steps to a show-stopping cake.

Sep 4, 2023
Baker pressing finger into proofed bread dough to gauge proofing

What is proofing bread? And how do I get it right?

Mastering your dough’s rise is one crucial step to great bread.

Aug 31, 2023
Buttered Toast Press-In Pie Crust

The best use for stale bread is ... pie crust?

Our Buttered Toast Press-In Pie Crust is an unexpected use for your breadcrumbs.

Aug 24, 2023
Crusty baguette made with irish-style flour

How to shape baguettes

While baguettes can be difficult, with a few tips and tricks you can make beautiful bread.

Aug 7, 2023
Platter of different types of meringues

Things bakers know: Store your meringues in the freezer (!)

How to make sure your meringues stay crunchy, not soggy.

Aug 3, 2023
Baker using hands to fold bread dough

What does folding bread dough mean, exactly?

A foundational technique, explained.

Jul 31, 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
Baker brushing simple syrup cake soak onto round cake layer

A cake soak is the easiest way to upgrade your cakes

A little liquid can take your cakes a long way.

Jul 24, 2023
Pie crust dough made in a stand mixer.

Why you should make pie crust in a stand mixer

Stand-mixer pie crust is quick, easy — and every bit as good as handmade.

Jul 19, 2023
Beginning to fold rolled-out pie dough in half

Things bakers know: This is the easiest way to transfer pie dough 

Folding is the secret to moving delicate dough without tears.

Jul 11, 2023