When baking a cake from scratch in disposable tin should you decrease the cooking time and by how much?

Yes, you should generally decrease the cooking time for a cake baked in a disposable tin. However, the exact amount of time reduction can vary depending on several factors:

Factors affecting cooking time:

* Tin size and shape: Smaller tins heat up faster, requiring less cooking time.

* Cake recipe: Some recipes are denser than others and need longer cooking times.

* Oven temperature: Higher temperatures mean faster cooking times.

* Your specific oven: Some ovens run hotter or cooler than others.

General guidelines:

* Start with a 10-15% reduction in cooking time: This is a good starting point for most cakes.

* Check for doneness early: Use a toothpick or cake tester to see if the cake is done. It should come out clean.

* Adjust as needed: If the cake is browning too quickly or seems undercooked, adjust the oven temperature or cooking time accordingly.

Important notes:

* Never rely solely on the recipe's time: Recipes are often written for standard metal pans.

* Use a thermometer: For best results, use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature.

* Don't overbake: An overbaked cake will be dry and crumbly.

Tips:

* Grease and flour the tin thoroughly: This helps prevent sticking.

* Use a baking sheet under the tin: This helps distribute heat evenly.

* Cool the cake in the tin for a few minutes before inverting: This helps prevent it from falling apart.

By following these tips, you can ensure your cake bakes perfectly in a disposable tin!