Cake Clinic

Even the best bakers have problems periodically. If you experience difficulties baking cakes, try to identify the problem, then consult this chart for possible answers.

Cake cracks
Possible Cause: Oven too hot

Cake falls
Possible Causes: Under baking; old leavening; too much or too little liquid; oven not hot enough

Cake is dense and tough
Possible Causes: Over beating after flour is added; not enough fat

Cake crumbles when sliced
Possible Causes: Too much fat; too much sugar

Cake has holes
Possible Causes: Too many or too large eggs; not enough sugar; oven too hot; batter mixed improperly

Cake peaks in the center
Possible causes: Over beating after flour is added; oven too hot