Baking cookies is a delightful art, but common mistakes can ruin your batch. Let’s explore the top 15 mistakes you might be making.

1. Skipping the Pre-heat

• Not preheating the oven can lead to uneven baking.

2. Incorrect Measurements

• Using a liquid measuring cup for dry ingredients can alter the texture.

3. Using Cold Ingredients

• Cold butter or eggs can affect the creaming process.

4. Overmixing the Dough

• Overmixing can result in tough cookies.

5. Not Chilling the Dough

• Chilling helps prevent spreading during baking.

6. Using Expired Ingredients

• Expired baking powder or soda can lower the leavening effect.

7. Baking on the Wrong Rack

• Using the top rack can cause burnt tops; the middle rack is ideal.

8. Using Dark Pans

• Dark pans absorb heat faster; adjust baking times accordingly.

9. Ignoring Cookie Size

• Uniform cookie size ensures even baking.

10. Not Testing for Doneness

• Cookies can look underdone when they’re actually perfect.

11. Overcrowding the Baking Sheet

• Give cookies room to spread; overcrowding leads to uneven baking.

12. Not Using Parchment Paper

• Parchment paper prevents cookies from sticking and promotes even baking.

13. Forgetting to Rotate the Pan

• Rotating halfway through ensures uniform baking.

14. Undercooking or Overcooking

• Follow timing recommendations closely for the best results.

15. Skipping Quality Ingredients

• Invest in quality butter, flour, and chocolate for tastier cookies.

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Mind Map (Text Format)

• Baking Cookies
  • Common Mistakes
    • Pre-heating
    • Measurements
    • Ingredients
    • Dough Preparation
  • Best Practices
    • Quality Ingredients
    • Even Spacing
    • Testing Doneness