Baking

Freshly baked bread loaves

Anders Zorn - Brödbaket

Woman Baking Bread on Saj Oven in Artas, West Bank, Palestine

Baking mold Mari Louvre AO18902

FuneraryModel-BakeryAndBrewery MetropolitanMuseum

Baking is a method of preparing food that uses prolonged dry heat, normally in an oven, but also in hot ashes, or on hot stones. The most common baked item is bread but many other types of foods are baked as well. Heat is gradually transferred "from the surface of cakes, cookies, and pieces of bread to their center. As heat travels through, it transforms batters and doughs into baked goods with a firm dry crust and a softer center".

History

Baking has a long history dating back thousands of years. The earliest evidence of baking was found in ancient Egypt, around 2600 BC, where they were baking bread in cylindrical clay ovens. This process was later adopted by the Romans, who are credited with spreading the art of baking across Europe. During the Middle Ages, baking flourished in Europe, and bakeries became a staple part of many towns and cities. The invention of baking powder in the 19th century made baking more accessible to the general public, as it significantly reduced the time and effort required to produce leavened bread and other baked goods.

Ingredients and Equipment

The basic ingredients used in baking include flour, water, salt, and a leavening agent (such as yeast or baking powder). Other common ingredients include sugar, eggs, and fat (such as butter or oil). These ingredients are mixed together in various proportions to make different types of doughs and batters.

Baking equipment includes items such as ovens, mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, baking pans, and baking sheets. More specialized equipment may include dough blenders, pastry brushes, and rolling pins.

Types of Baked Goods

There are many different types of baked goods, including:

• Bread, including white bread, whole wheat bread, and rye bread
• Cakes, including sponge cakes, butter cakes, and fruit cakes
• Cookies, including chocolate chip cookies, sugar cookies, and oatmeal cookies
• Pastries, including croissants, danishes, and puff pastries
• Pies, including apple pie, pumpkin pie, and pecan pie

Baking Techniques

Baking techniques can vary widely, but some common methods include:

• Creaming - beating together sugar and fat to incorporate air
• Kneading - working dough to develop gluten
• Folding - gently combining ingredients to retain air
• Blind baking - baking a pie crust or pastry without the filling

Health and Nutrition

Baking can be a healthier cooking method than frying due to the lower amount of fat required. However, many baked goods are high in sugar and carbohydrates, which can be a concern for individuals monitoring their dietary intake for health reasons.

Cultural Significance

Baking holds significant cultural importance in many societies. It is often associated with holidays and celebrations, such as Christmas cookies or birthday cakes. Baking traditions can vary greatly from one culture to another, reflecting local ingredients, tastes, and historical influences.