When baking cookies how to stop the bottom from not burning when cooking spray and wax paper work?

It sounds like you're having trouble with your cookies burning on the bottom even when using cooking spray and wax paper. Here's a breakdown of why that might be happening and how to fix it:

Understanding the Problem

* Heat Distribution: Even ovens can have hot spots, meaning certain areas are hotter than others. This can lead to uneven baking and burning.

* Oven Temperature: If your oven runs hot, even a few degrees higher than the recipe calls for can cause burning.

* Cookie Sheet Material: Darker metal cookie sheets absorb more heat and can make cookies burn faster.

* Cookie Thickness: Thicker cookies can take longer to bake through, potentially burning on the bottom before the center is cooked.

* Too Much Fat: Excessive butter or oil can create a "greasy" bottom that can burn easily.

* Baking Time: Overbaking is a common cause of burnt bottoms.

Solutions to Prevent Burnt Bottoms

1. Adjust Your Oven Temperature: Calibrate your oven with an oven thermometer. If it runs hot, adjust the temperature down by 5-10 degrees.

2. Use a Baking Sheet with Proper Heat Distribution:

* Light-colored metal: Aluminum or light-colored stainless steel sheets distribute heat more evenly.

* Silicone baking mats: These are non-stick and provide good heat distribution.

3. Reduce the Amount of Fat: If your recipe calls for a lot of butter or oil, try reducing it by a tablespoon or two.

4. Use a Cooling Rack: After baking, transfer your cookies to a cooling rack to allow air circulation and prevent steam from accumulating, which can make the bottoms soggy.

5. Check for Doneness Early: Cookies are done when they are set around the edges and slightly soft in the center. Start checking them a minute or two before the recipe's recommended baking time.

6. Rotate the Baking Sheet: Midway through baking, rotate the cookie sheet 180 degrees to ensure even baking.

7. Avoid Overcrowding: Don't overcrowd the baking sheet. Cookies need space to bake evenly.

Additional Tips:

* Parchment Paper: While wax paper can work, parchment paper is generally considered a better option for baking cookies. It's more heat-resistant and less likely to stick.

* Cooling Time: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. This helps them set.

Experiment and Find Your Solution: Baking is an art! Pay attention to your oven and make adjustments as needed. You'll find the perfect baking technique for your cookies over time.