I know how frustrating baking mishaps can be!

Right before Christmas, one of the electronic boards in my oven went out. I don’t fully understand the mechanics, but it was still heating—just not enough. After buying a thermometer to test it, I called my repairman, but not before I ended up with a large sourdough bread order that refused to rise and brown properly. Talk about embarrassing!

Here are some common reasons things might go wrong with your baking project (includes making yogurt, bread, or candy):

➤ Ingredients weren’t weighed

• Measuring by volume can be inaccurate.
• A kitchen scale ensures consistency.

➤ Wrong bakeware

• Glass pans retain more heat than metal leading to uneven baking (also applies to Corning Ware).
• Lightweight, inexpensive metal pans can cause uneven browning and make sticking worse

➤ Oven temperature off

• Many ovens run hotter or cooler than set.
• Use an oven thermometer to check.

➤ Substitutions gone wrong

• Some swaps affect texture and structure.
• Not all ingredients can be replaced 1:1.
• If it's a dietary issue, consider looking for a different recipe.

➤ Watching the clock instead of the food

• Different brands and ingredient origins can affect the outcome.
• Temperature and humidity are just a couple of factors that can impact a recipe.

Baking is part science, part art—every attempt teaches something new. Let me know if you need help troubleshooting! Pictures are always appreciated.

Happy Bakers Speak Up

A reader sent me a letter that truly made my day (seen below). I’m sharing it to remind you why I believe it's worth the time and trouble to create food worth sharing.

"My 'old' bread machine was tucked away collecting dust until I discovered your site. Now I make homemade bread at least weekly & it has become an enjoyable hobby!!! Your rye bread recipe has become a favorite & I have one rising right now, which I will take as a gift to the host who has invited us for dinner."​
— Donna K.

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Happy Baking,

Paula

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