When it comes to baking, using the best ingredients is absolutely essential. Be sure to test whether your baking powder is fresh. Baking powder is a leavening agent that contains a combination of baking soda, an acid (such as cream of tartar), and a moisture absorber (such as cornstarch). Baking powder releases carbon dioxide gas bubbles when mixed with liquid, and this is what causes breads and cakes to rise.
Cookies are generally easy to make and one of the first things a beginning baker makes. There are only six major types of cookies, each with their own particular methods. Below, I have listed all six types (plus a seventh) and some characteristics and tips to help you make each one.
How many times have you reached for the package of brown sugar on the shelf and found it to be hard as a rock? Do you just throw it out and head for the store for a new package? This problem usually happens because the sugar dries out and the added molasses sticks it together like glue. Most brown sugars these days are simply white sugar with some molasses added back in. But how do you fix this problem?
