Baking shortcuts
One-bowl-wonders are perfect for barbecues, unexpected guests and busy days. Opt for recipes that require only one bowl to reduce clean-up time. Cakes, brownies and cookies often have one-bowl versions that come together in minutes.
'Mug cakes' can be a life-saver on those nights when your sweet craving isn’t budging. They are the epitome of quick baking. Mix a few ingredients in a mug and microwave for a minute or two. Voila! An instant dessert.
Pre-made pastry used to be frowned upon, but now even top chefs will recommend and admit to using it because the quality is much better. Keep pre-made puff pastry or pie crusts in your freezer. They’re perfect for whipping up quick tarts, turnovers or pies. The possibilities are endless!
Freezer-friendly items are also very useful. You can blend a bag of frozen berries, egg whites and lemon juice to make the lightest and fluffiest mousse, or add frozen berries tossed in flour and sugar, then cover with pastry to form an open turnover tart.
Missing ingredients often stop us in our bid to make desserts - but it doesn't have to stop us from baking. Here are some common substitutions and tips for making do with what you have:
Eggs - if you’re out of eggs, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana per egg. Yogurt and buttermilk are also good substitutes.
Butter - replace butter with an equal amount of margarine, shortening or even oil. For a healthier twist, you can use mashed avocado or Greek yogurt.
Milk - no milk? Use water, juice, or even coffee. Non-dairy milk like almond, soy or oat milk works well too. Add lemon juice and cream to a recipe to replace sour cream.
Flour - if you’re short on all-purpose flour, you can use a combination of other flours you have to hand. Whole wheat flour, almond flour and even oat flour can work - though textures may vary.
Sugar - substitute granulated sugar with brown sugar, honey, maple syrup or even agave nectar. Adjust the liquid content if using a syrup.
0