How should you adjust the oven temperature when scaling up a large cake or casserole recipe to a bigger size – should it remain the same or change? Why do some recommendations suggest a slightly lower temperature for significantly larger or thicker baked goods?

Question

Should you change the oven temp for a larger cake? Find out why some recipes recommend a lower temperature for bigger or thicker baked goods.

Answer 1

When scaling up a cake or casserole recipe to a larger size, it's generally recommended to slightly lower the oven temperature by about 25°F (15°C). This helps ensure even cooking and prevents the outside from burning before the inside is fully cooked.

Detailed Explanation:

When you increase the size of a cake or casserole, you're essentially increasing its mass and thickness. This means it takes longer for the heat to penetrate to the center of the dish. If you maintain the original temperature, the outer edges will cook much faster than the center, potentially leading to a burnt exterior and an undercooked interior.

Lowering the oven temperature allows the heat to penetrate more gently and evenly throughout the larger mass. This gives the center more time to cook before the outside becomes overdone. The exact reduction in temperature may vary depending on the recipe and the degree of scaling, but a general guideline is to reduce the temperature by 25°F (15°C). You may also need to increase the baking time, so keep a close eye on the dish and test for doneness using a toothpick or skewer inserted into the center. If it comes out clean, the dish is ready.

Here's a breakdown of the process:

1. Determine the scale factor: Calculate how much larger the new recipe is compared to the original.
2. Reduce the oven temperature: Lower the oven temperature by approximately 25°F (15°C).
3. Monitor the baking time: Expect to increase the baking time. Start checking for doneness about halfway through the original baking time and continue checking every 10-15 minutes.
4. Test for doneness: Insert a toothpick or skewer into the center of the dish. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the dish is done.

Pro Tip:

Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is accurately calibrated. Many ovens fluctuate in temperature, which can significantly impact baking results, especially when dealing with larger recipes. An accurate oven thermometer will help you maintain the correct temperature and achieve consistent results.