In fact, the word “Baked” comes from the word “bhog” , which roughly means “drying something out inside an oven.” The word “Bake,” which is derived from the word “blog,” means “drying out something inside an oven.” But did those ancient humans bake delicious bread, desserts, and treats as we know them today? They were actually baking bricks.
Bricks baked in the ovens cooled quickly and eventually led to towns and cities being built!
It’s time to move on, right? Baking in the modern day is both a science and art. It’s both complicated and fun! This extensive guide to baking vocabulary will make your baking experience as easy as possible!
Cake Flour
Cake flour is extra-finely ground, resulting in a lighter, more loosely structured crumb and a fluffy texture. Cake flour is perfect for baked products with a tender texture. Its low gluten content makes it easy to achieve lighter textures when baking delicate sponges and pastries.
All Purpose Flour
The all-purpose flour can be used for baked goods, such as bread, biscuits and pizzas, cookies, muffins, etc. Also, it is used to thicken gravies and sauces. All-purpose flour is often enriched with vitamins and minerals due to the bran removal and the loss of nutrients. Medium gluten content is typical.
Gluten Flour
Gluten is found in wheat flour and is widely used in commercially produced and homemade baked goods. Gluten can also be found in barley, triticale (a cross between wheat & rye), spelled, and rye flour. Gluten gives baked goods a chewy texture and helps the dough rise. It is often used in pizza and bread dough.
Whole wheat Flour
Whole wheat flour contains a lot of fiber, protein, and minerals compared to refined white flour. This versatile flour can be used to make various baked goods and doughs.
Almond Flour
Almond flour contains many of your daily manganese, magnesium, and fiber values. Almond flour also contains no gluten, making it a good option for those with celiac or wheat intolerance. This flour can make everything from macaroons and cookies to bread.
Gluten-Free Flour
What uses does gluten-free flour work best for?
Adding gluten-free flour to bread recipes gives them the protein needed for rising. Bread baked with this mix doesn’t come out as light and fluffy. It could be a better substitute.
Coconut Flour
Coconut flour is gluten-free and made exclusively from coconuts. This flour is rich in MCTs and fiber, which may help maintain blood sugar levels, improve digestion and heart health, and fight certain infections. It’s also delicious and versatile.
Hazelnut Flour
Hazelnut flour works well in pastry, cake, cookies, quick bread, and pie crusts. It can also be used for savory purposes. Combine this nut powder with almond flour to create a delicious nut flavor.
Keep an eye out for our monthly blog on Baking 101, where we debunk baking terminology and help you sound (and look) like a professional when you bake!
