Cooking Tips & Food Blog

🥚 Room temperature eggs mix better in batters - take them out 30 minutes before baking, or warm them in a bowl of warm water for 5 minutes

🧈 Softened butter should give to light pressure but still hold its shape - it takes about 1-2 hours at room temperature

🥄 Level measuring cups by running a knife across the top for accuracy - overpacked flour can make baked goods dense and dry

🌡️ Oven thermometers can be off by 25°F - use an oven thermometer for best results, especially for delicate baking

🧂 Taste as you go - it's easier to add more seasoning than to fix over-seasoned food, start with half the recommended amount

🥛 Buttermilk substitute: 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon lemon juice, let sit 5 minutes until it curdles slightly

🍯 When measuring sticky ingredients like honey, spray the measuring cup with cooking spray first for easy release

❄️ Chill your mixing bowl and beaters for 15 minutes before whipping cream for better volume and stability

🔥 Preheat your oven for at least 15-20 minutes before baking - proper temperature is crucial for rising and browning

⏰ Set multiple timers when baking - one for checking doneness 5 minutes early, another for the full time

🧄 Remove garlic germ (green center) from cloves to prevent bitter flavor, especially in raw preparations

🥩 Let meat rest after cooking - it allows juices to redistribute for more tender, flavorful results