What does self raising flour contain that makes successful cakes?

Self-raising flour contains two key ingredients that make cakes rise beautifully:

* Baking powder: This is a chemical leavening agent. When mixed with moisture, baking powder releases carbon dioxide gas, which creates tiny bubbles in the batter. These bubbles expand when heated, causing the cake to rise.

* Salt: This is added to balance the sweetness of the cake and enhance the flavor. It also helps to strengthen the gluten structure, which contributes to a more stable cake.

Self-raising flour is convenient for baking cakes because it eliminates the need to add baking powder separately. However, it's important to note that the amount of baking powder in self-raising flour can vary depending on the brand. It's always a good idea to check the label to see the exact amount of baking powder included.

If you don't have self-raising flour, you can make your own by mixing plain flour with baking powder. The general rule is to use 1 teaspoon of baking powder per 100g of flour.

However, it's worth noting that for some recipes, especially those with a high sugar content, using self-raising flour can result in a cake that rises too quickly and then collapses in the middle. In these cases, it might be better to use plain flour and add the baking powder yourself, adjusting the amount to suit the recipe.