BAKING 101

In baking, this mystery is even more pronounced. You make a dough or a batter, put a wet, sticky thing into the oven and eventually remove a mouthwatering solid object that smells so good people will think Betty Crocker has been incarnated in your kitchen. Baking is basic, but it can be tricky. It's one of the more advanced kitchen arts, but you can learn it. Be forewarned right now: Baking can be addicting. I know. I'm a bread junkie. Baking is awesome. And it can be easier, once you learn the basics.

In Baking 101, there is One Big Rule. You can't fudge on it. Unlike other types of cooking, you can't just add a little bit here or substitute a little bit there, until you are pretty advanced.

The One Big Rule is you must measure.

This is probably another factor bakers love. They are kitchen chemists, more than any other kinds of cooks, using measuring spoons and cups instead of test tubes and beakers.

You must measure accurately and have the right tools, for it all to work. You need different measuring cups for liquids and dry ingredients. Flat-topped measuring cups are made to be filled to the top with dry stuff. Liquid measures are usually glass, with more space at the top to eliminate spills, and a pour spout.

Do you need to sift? Only if the recipe recommends doing so, because today's all-purpose flour is pre-sifted. If you do have to sift and you don't have a sifter, use a sieve or strainer.

Why do recipes for baked goods always start out "preheat oven to . . .?" It's because of "oven spring," which is the initial leap that leavenings make when put into a hot oven. If your oven's not hot when you put the pans in, the mixture won't rise like it's supposed to. Most ovens will preheat in 10 to 20 minutes.

You should also prepare baking pans according to the recipe. Cookies with a high fat content may not need to go on a greased surface. You can use a paper towel to smear shortening or butter into pans, and remember to coat those pesky corners well, or you can spray with PAM, one of the greatest inventions of the modern world. Reminder: Some non-stick pans can be ruined if you apply non-stick sprays.