Baking is the cooking of food by dry heat, typically in an oven. It is a method employed primarily for the preparation of various products, including bread, pastries, cakes, cookies, and other goods. The process involves the use of ingredients such as flour, water, leavening agents, fats, and sugars, which undergo chemical changes when exposed to heat.
Baking requires precise measurements, techniques, and often a specific order of combining ingredients to achieve the desired texture, flavor, and appearance of the final product. The key scientific principle behind baking includes the evaporation of moisture, the caramelization of sugars, and the Maillard reaction, which contributes to browning and flavor development.
While baking is commonly associated with preparing desserts and breads, it is a versatile method that can also be used for cooking proteins and vegetables. The results often depend on factors such as the temperature, time, and humidity during the baking process, making it both an art and a science.
Cookie Season is Back! The much-anticipated Girl Scout cookie season is just around the corner, bringing a sweet wave of excitement to Arlington and Falls Church. Starting on **February 7**…