What makes cake moist?

1. Ingredients:

* Fat: Butter, oil, or shortening contribute to the cake's tenderness and moisture. They trap moisture within the cake structure.

* Sugar: Sugar not only adds sweetness but also helps retain moisture.

* Eggs: Eggs act as binding agents, contributing to both structure and moisture. Their protein helps hold in the liquids.

* Liquid: Water, milk, or other liquids are essential for hydration. They interact with the flour to form gluten, which creates the structure of the cake.

2. Techniques:

* Mixing: Overmixing can lead to tough cakes, as it develops too much gluten. The right mixing technique ensures a balance of gluten development for structure and airy texture.

* Baking Time and Temperature: Baking for the correct time and temperature is crucial. Overbaking can dry out the cake, while underbaking can leave it undercooked and gummy.

* Cooling: Allowing the cake to cool completely before frosting or cutting helps prevent condensation, which can make the cake soggy.

3. Other Factors:

* Flour Type: Cake flour has a lower protein content, resulting in a more tender and moist crumb.

* Additives: Adding ingredients like yogurt or sour cream can increase moisture.

* Frosting: A thick frosting can help seal in moisture and prevent the cake from drying out.

Specific Ways to Achieve Moist Cakes:

* Use quality ingredients: Fresh eggs, good-quality butter, and fresh milk make a big difference.

* Measure ingredients accurately: This ensures the right ratios of dry and wet ingredients.

* Don't overmix: Overmixing develops too much gluten, leading to a tough cake.

* Add a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice: This helps to tenderize the gluten.

* Use a cake pan with the correct size: A pan that's too small will lead to over-baking, while a pan that's too large will result in a cake that's too thin.

* Test for doneness: Use a toothpick or cake tester to check if the center of the cake is cooked.

* Cool completely: This prevents condensation from making the cake soggy.

By understanding these factors and techniques, you can consistently bake moist and delicious cakes.