Do you need cornstarch in cake recipes?

Cornstarch is not a necessary ingredient in all cake recipes. It serves a specific purpose and is often used, but not always required.

Here's why you might use cornstarch in a cake recipe:

* Tenderness: Cornstarch helps create a softer, more tender crumb in cakes. This is especially helpful for cakes with a high proportion of flour, like pound cakes.

* Moisture Retention: Cornstarch absorbs moisture, preventing the cake from drying out too quickly.

* Glossy Finish: When added to frostings or icings, cornstarch helps create a smooth, glossy finish.

When cornstarch is not necessary:

* Cakes with high fat content: Cakes like chiffon or angel food cake already have a soft and tender crumb due to their high egg white and oil content. Adding cornstarch would be unnecessary.

* Cakes with a dense crumb: Some cakes, like pound cake, have a naturally dense crumb. While cornstarch can improve tenderness, it's not strictly necessary.

Ultimately, whether or not you need cornstarch in a cake recipe depends on the specific recipe and the desired texture.

If you're unsure, it's always a good idea to consult the recipe instructions.