Why does cake burn on outside?

Overbaking: Baking the cake for too long can cause the outside to burn while the inside remains undercooked. Check the cake for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is done.

High oven temperature: Baking the cake at too high a temperature can also cause the outside to burn. Reduce the oven temperature by 25 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for a few minutes longer, if necessary.

Dark or nonstick baking pan: Dark or nonstick baking pans absorb more heat than light-colored pans, which can cause the cake to burn more easily. If using a dark or nonstick pan, reduce the oven temperature by 25 degrees Fahrenheit.

Incorrect pan size: Using a pan that is too small or too large for the amount of batter can also cause the cake to burn. The cake should rise about 1 inch above the rim of the pan.

Uneven heat distribution: If the oven temperature is not evenly distributed, the cake may burn in some spots and remain undercooked in others. Check the oven temperature with an oven thermometer and adjust the oven rack position as necessary.