FOOD NEWS
The Brilliant Recipe Reading Hack That Changes The Baking Game
By Betsy Parks
It can be tempting to start baking while reading a recipe for the first time, but you'll likely find yourself stuck on a step while the mixer is running or the timer is ticking.
Instead of winging it, do what professional bakers do and read the recipe backwards at least once before you start to quell the urge to start cooking while unprepared.
Unlike cooking, baking is an exact science, so you can't get away with haphazard measurements. A lot of testing and tasting goes into recipes that work perfectly every time.
A back-to-front reading will let you know exactly what you need before beginning, including equipment, oven temperatures, and possible substitutions or alterations to the recipe.
Work backwards to gather all the pots and pans you'll need, set the oven at the right temperature, prepare any special objects, and measure your ingredients.
This will also give you a better sense of timing, which is especially useful if there are steps that involve extra prep, like whipping cream, making brown butter, or resting dough.