To make sure your cakes bake evenly, here are some simple tips I've learned over the years. Let's break it down:

1. Oven Temperature

• Preheat the Oven: Always make sure to preheat your oven well before you put the cake in. This creates a nice, steady heat for baking.
• Check with an Oven Thermometer: Sometimes, ovens can be off by a few degrees. Using an oven thermometer can help you find out if it’s really at the right temperature.

2. Baking Pans

• Pick the Right Pan: Dark pans can soak up more heat, which might make your cake bake too much. Light-colored pans are usually better for even baking.
• Pan Size Matters: Use the correct size pan for your recipe. A pan that's too small can make the batter rise too high and bake unevenly.

3. Batter Leveling

• Spread the Batter Evenly: After you pour the batter into the pan, gently tap the sides or shake it a bit to help the batter spread out evenly.
• Use a Scale: If you're making layer cakes, a kitchen scale can help you divide the batter evenly.

4. Oven Racks

• Place in the Right Spot: Bake your cake in the center of the oven for even heat. Stay away from the top or bottom racks because they can cause uneven baking.
• Turn It Halfway: If your oven has hot spots, rotate the cake halfway through baking to help it cook evenly.

5. Keep an Eye on Time & Test

• Check Early: Start looking at your cake 5-10 minutes before the time it says in the recipe. Use a toothpick to poke the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready.
• Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can make your cake dry, which is a common problem. It's better to pull it out a little early than to let it bake too long.

With these tips, you can say goodbye to uneven baking! Happy baking!