HINTS &TIPS

Warm area for rising

Yeast, either when sponging or in the dough, requires warmth to rise.

To create a 'warm area' for dough to rise, place baking tray over a bowl of fairly warm water, place prepared dough item on baking tray, cover loosely with lightly greased thicker-style plastic wrap or a tea towel. Ensure kitchen is warm and free of drafts. Allow the dough to rise until doubled in size.

Alternatively, place the dough into a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap and place in an oven. Fill a medium/large bowl with hot water and place next to the dough. Close the oven door and allow to rise. The heat and moisture creates and ideal environment to proof the dough.

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 (convection oven) reduce the temperatures in the recipes by 20°F (10°C).

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

Ensure wire whip 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 or parchment 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.

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Breville BEM800XL manual Warm area for rising, For Better Baking

BEM800XL specifications

The Breville BEM800XL is an exceptional stand mixer that has gained a reputation for its powerful performance, innovative features, and stylish design. Aimed at both home bakers and culinary enthusiasts, this mixer stands out in a crowded market with its array of noteworthy characteristics.

One of the most striking features of the BEM800XL is its powerful 550-watt motor. This robust motor offers a significant amount of torque, ensuring that even the heaviest doughs can be mixed with ease. The mixing bowl has a capacity of 5-quarts, allowing users to prepare large batches of batter or dough, ideal for baking enthusiasts who enjoy making cakes, breads, and pastries for family or gatherings.

Breville understands that precision is vital in baking. The BEM800XL incorporates a unique planetary mixing action that rotates the mixing head around the bowl while simultaneously spinning on its axis. This ensures thorough and even mixing, reducing the chances of unmixed ingredients. With a 12-speed control, users can select the appropriate speed for their intended recipe, ranging from a slow stir to a fast whip.

One of the standout aspects of the BEM800XL is its easy-to-use interface. It features a digital LCD display with a timer function, allowing users to track their mixing time accurately. This is particularly helpful when working with recipes that require exact mixing durations.

The design of the BEM800XL is another highlight. It features a sturdy die-cast metal construction, ensuring durability and stability during operation. The mixer is equipped with a lift-assisted head that allows for easy access to the mixing bowl, and its stylish aesthetic means it can complement any kitchen décor.

Included with the mixer are several essential attachments, such as a flat beater, dough hook, and wire whip, which ensures versatility in preparing various recipes. Its bowl is also designed for easy cleaning, as it is dishwasher safe, allowing for convenient maintenance.

In summary, the Breville BEM800XL stand mixer is a powerful, stylish, and versatile appliance that meets the needs of both novice and experienced bakers. With its impressive motor, innovative mixing action, user-friendly design, and included attachments, it stands out as a valuable addition to any kitchen, making the art of baking more enjoyable and efficient.