You used 1 8-inch pan for your Red Velvet cake instead of 2 pans How does that affect the baking time?

Using a single 8-inch pan instead of two will significantly affect the baking time for your Red Velvet cake. Here's why:

* Increased Cake Thickness: A single pan means the batter will be much thicker, creating a taller cake. Thicker batter takes longer to cook through.

* Reduced Surface Area: With only one pan, the surface area exposed to heat is reduced. This slows down the baking process.

* Increased Density: The thicker cake will also be denser, making it harder for heat to penetrate and cook the center properly.

Here's what to expect:

* Longer Baking Time: Expect to bake the cake for at least 15-20 minutes longer than the recipe specifies for two 8-inch pans.

* Potential for Undercooked Center: A thick cake can be tricky to bake evenly. You'll need to closely monitor it and be prepared to bake it longer if needed.

Tips for Baking in a Single Pan:

* Lower Oven Temperature: Reduce the oven temperature by 25 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent over-browning the outside while the center remains undercooked.

* Use a Toothpick Test: To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, it's ready. If it's still wet, bake for another 5-10 minutes.

* Consider a Cake Tester: A cake tester is a great tool for determining doneness. It's thinner than a toothpick and can reach the center of the cake more easily.

Important Note: Always refer to your specific recipe for guidance on baking times and temperatures. These are just general guidelines to help you adjust.