HOW TO TEST THE HOT SPOT IN YOUR OVEN
Oven temperatures need to be spot on. To prevent an under- or over- done baked good, get an oven thermometer – it’s the best way to be sure your oven is calibrated correctly. In addition, check your oven for hot spots. Use the bread test:
Place bread slices on the middle rack and bake at 180 C for a few minutes. Check if any get singed, if so, you’ve found the oven’s hot spot. Try to avoid these areas or rotate pans accordingly.
Bake muffins, cakes, and quick breads in the middle (too close to the top or bottom can cause over browning).
Gently close the oven door – a slam can release air bubbles trapped in the batter.
An oven that hasn’t been preheated may not drastically affect a casserole, but it will have an effect on your baking.
Baked goods need that initial blast of heat to activate the leavening. Although it’s tempting, don’t put your pan in before the oven is properly preheated. If it isn’t at the correct temperature, your recipe will take longer to bake and you run the risk of having a dry texture and low volume.
Philip Reineke
