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How to Cool a Round Cake

Published in Cake Cooling 3 mins read

Okay, here is how to properly cool a round cake, incorporating information from the provided reference.

Properly cooling your round cake after it comes out of the oven is a crucial step to ensure a great texture and make it easy to handle for decorating.

Why Proper Cooling is Essential

Even after you remove a cake from the oven, it's important to understand that the baking process doesn't instantly stop. As mentioned in the reference, "the cake on the inside of them will continue to bake" while it remains in the hot pan. Cooling helps halt this residual baking, preventing the edges or bottom from becoming overdone or dry while the center is still cooking. It also allows the cake's structure to set, making it less likely to break when you remove it from the pan and handle it.

Steps for Cooling Your Round Cake

Follow these simple steps to cool your round cake effectively:

  1. Initial Cooling in the Pan:

    • Place the hot cake pan on a cooling rack immediately after taking it out of the oven.
    • Let the cake cool in the pan for a specific amount of time, typically between 10 and 20 minutes, depending on the size and density of the cake. Cooling in the pan briefly allows the cake to firm up slightly before being moved.

  2. Transferring to a Cooling Rack:

    • After the initial cooling period in the pan, gently invert the cake onto a cooling rack.
    • Remove the pan. If using parchment paper on the bottom, peel it off carefully.
    • If needed, you can invert the cake again so that the top side is facing up on the rack.
    • Allow the cake to cool completely on the cooling rack. Air circulating around the entire cake helps it cool down faster and more evenly, stopping the residual baking mentioned in the reference.

Tips for Best Results

  • Use a Cooling Rack: Never cool a cake directly on a solid surface like a countertop. A wire rack allows air to circulate underneath, preventing moisture buildup and sogginess.
  • Cool Completely Before Frosting: Attempting to frost a warm cake will result in melted frosting and potentially a damaged cake structure. Ensure the cake is fully cooled, usually for at least 1-2 hours, or until it reaches room temperature.

By following these steps and understanding why you need to remove the cake from the hot pan, you can achieve perfectly cooled round cakes every time.

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