Flat cookies can be caused by various factors, and your oven might be one of them!

Possible Reasons for Flat Cookies

• Incorrect Oven Temperature
• Overmixing the Dough
• Insufficient Leavening Agent
• Expired Ingredients
• Wrong Baking Pan
• Humidity Level
• Chilling the Dough

Q&A Section

Q1: How can I tell if my oven temperature is accurate?

A1: You can use an oven thermometer to check the accuracy of your oven’s temperature settings. Preheat the oven and compare the thermometer reading to the set temperature.

Q2: What happens if I overmix the cookie dough?

A2: Overmixing can cause gluten development, resulting in tough cookies that spread too much during baking, leading to flatness.

Q3: Why is the leavening agent important?

A3: The leavening agent, such as baking soda or baking powder, helps cookies rise. If you don’t use enough, cookies may not rise properly, becoming flat.

Q4: How can humidity affect my cookies?

A4: High humidity can add moisture to dry ingredients, affecting the dough’s consistency. This can lead to cookies spreading too much in the oven.

Statistical Table of Contributing Factors

Common Baking Mistakes Mind Map

– Oven Temperature – Too High – Too Low – Mixing Techniques – Overmixing – Undermixing – Ingredients – Freshness – Measurements – Baking Tools – Pans – Sheets – Environmental Factors – Humidity – Altitude

Tips to Avoid Flat Cookies

• Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is correctly calibrated.
• Mix the dough until just combined but not overly.
• Make sure your leavening agents are fresh.
• Consider the impact of humidity; adjust flour as needed.
• Chill your dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.