hints and tips continued

For better baking

Check the ingredients and read the recipe before starting to bake.

Weigh and measure ingredients correctly.

Variations may occur in raw ingredients used so adjust other ingredients and baking times if required.

Preheat oven before starting recipe preparation, this will ensure the correct temperature is achieved before baking starts.

Temperatures and cooking times may vary with some ovens so adjust accordingly. If using a fan forced oven reduce the temperatures in the recipes by 10ºC.

When mixing, start the mixer at a lower speed then gradually increase to the recommended speed in the recipe especially when adding dry ingredients.

When using smaller quantities turn off the mixer from time to time and scrape the bowl with a spatula.

Ensure wire whisk and mixing bowl are clean and free of fats when whipping egg whites as these will impede aeration.

Instead of greasing baking pans or trays, line with baking paper where appropriate. However, a little light greasing in pans will keep the paper in place.

Pre warm a measuring spoon in hot water for easy measuring of golden syrup or honey.

Butter should be softened at room temperature to make creaming butter and sugar easier.

Keep surfaces and ingredients chilled when making, handling or rolling out pastry. Butter for pastry making should be kept refrigerated.

Avoid stretching pastry when rolling out as it will shrink when baking. Use light, even strokes in one direction and avoid pressing down hard on the rolling pin. Where possible, rest pastry in the refrigerator before baking.

Eggs should be at room temperature to give better volume when whipping

Break eggs individually into another container before adding to other ingredients to avoid potential spoilage.

Separate egg whites carefully to avoid inclusion of egg yolks. Egg yolks contain fat and will prevent successful whipping of egg whites.

Rinse beaten egg residue from whisk, beater and mixing bowl or other utensils with cold water immediately after use. Using hot water will set the egg and make removal difficult.

Test if cakes are cooked at the end of baking time by touching the top lightly, the cake will spring back if cooked.

A fine skewer can also be inserted carefully into the centre of the cake, if it comes out clean the cake is cooked.

For crisper results when baking biscuits, remove the baking trays from the oven and place directly onto wire racks. Move the biscuits slightly away from their baked position on the trays and cool completely before removing.

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Breville BEM800 manual For better baking

BEM800 specifications

The Breville BEM800 is a high-quality stand mixer designed for both amateur and professional bakers alike. This versatile kitchen appliance combines powerful performance with sleek aesthetics, making it a valued addition to any culinary space. One of the standout features of the BEM800 is its robust mixing capability, powered by a strong motor that can handle tough doughs and batters with ease.

The mixer features a planetary mixing action, which ensures that ingredients are mixed evenly and thoroughly. This technique involves the mixing bowl rotating in one direction while the beater rotates in the opposite direction, allowing for consistent mixing and eliminating the need to stop and scrape down the bowl frequently.

Another significant characteristic of the Breville BEM800 is its easy-to-use controls. The mixer is equipped with a variable speed selector, enabling users to adjust the mixing speed according to the task at hand. It offers up to 12 different speeds, providing precision whether you are whipping egg whites or kneading bread dough. Additionally, the mixer features an automatic sensor that monitors the load, adjusting the speed when necessary to ensure optimal performance.

The design of the BEM800 also prioritizes user convenience. Its large 5-quart stainless steel mixing bowl can handle substantial batches, making it ideal for larger families or baking enthusiasts. The bowl is equipped with a handle for easy lifting and pouring, further enhancing usability.

Moreover, the Breville BEM800 comes with a variety of attachments, including a flat beater, dough hook, and whisk, catering to various culinary tasks. The attachments are easy to switch out, allowing for quick transitions between tasks without hassle.

The mixer also boasts a tilt-head design, offering easy access to the bowl and attachments. This feature simplifies the process of adding ingredients and removing the bowl for serving or cleaning.

With its combination of powerful performance, user-friendly features, and stylish design, the Breville BEM800 stand mixer is an excellent investment for anyone who enjoys baking and cooking. Whether making simple mixtures or complex bakery items, this mixer delivers consistent results, making every baking endeavor enjoyable and successful. For those who appreciate both form and function in their kitchen appliances, the Breville BEM800 stands out as a top choice.