Troubleshooting Guide: How to Fix a Gooey Cake That Won’t Cook

There’s nothing quite as disappointing as spending time and effort baking a cake, only to find it’s gooey and undercooked in the middle, despite the outside appearing perfectly done. This common baking issue can be caused by a variety of factors, from oven temperature inconsistencies to incorrect ingredient proportions. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this troubleshooting guide, we’ll explore the possible reasons why your cake isn’t cooking properly and provide solutions to fix this issue.

Check Your Oven Temperature

One of the most common reasons for a gooey cake is an oven that’s not heating to the correct temperature. An oven that runs too hot can cause the outside of your cake to cook quickly while leaving the inside underdone.

• Use an oven thermometer: This will help you ensure your oven is heating to the correct temperature. If it’s not, you may need to adjust the temperature setting or have your oven serviced.
• Preheat your oven: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before you put your cake in. This ensures a consistent temperature throughout the baking process.

Check Your Ingredient Proportions

Incorrect ingredient proportions can also lead to a cake that won’t cook properly. Too much liquid or not enough flour can result in a gooey texture.

• Follow the recipe: Make sure you’re measuring your ingredients accurately and following the recipe exactly.
• Check your ingredients: Ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh. These ingredients help your cake rise and cook evenly.

Check Your Baking Time and Cake Pan

The size and type of your cake pan, as well as your baking time, can affect how your cake cooks.

• Use the right pan: Dark or non-stick pans can cause your cake to cook faster on the outside. Try using a light-colored or glass pan instead.
• Adjust your baking time: If your cake is consistently undercooked, try increasing your baking time slightly. Remember to test your cake for doneness with a toothpick or cake tester before removing it from the oven.

Remember, baking is both an art and a science. It may take a bit of trial and error to get your cake to come out perfectly. But with these troubleshooting tips, you’ll be well on your way to baking the perfect cake. Happy baking!