This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Health & Fitness

Tips for Summer Baking

Baking...in the summer?! Just follow my easy-breezy tips and you will be a success!

Summer is FINALLY here! Even with the gorgeous sunshine, blue skies, and easy breezy lifestyle, don't forget to add some delicious baked goods to your next barbecue, party or special event.

Yes, baking seems like such a chore in the summer. Why? Who wants to be inside, next to a hot oven when you could be outside, playing in the sunshine? Some of my favorite baked goods complement any summer meal. Just practice my summer baking tips, and your treats will be the hit of the party!

Keep it cool

Find out what's happening in Redmondwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

This rule applies especially when you're making pie dough, whipped cream, frostings, and rolled-out cookies. Chill your bowl and untensil in the freezer for 15 minutes. Do not mix in the direct sunlight.

Bake in the morning

Find out what's happening in Redmondwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Nothing is SWEETER than baking first thing in the morning—what a way to start your day! Not only is it cooler outside, so is your kitchen. Make sure your turn your oven off right after you are finished.

Storage: Cool, dry, dark place

Make it a habit to ALWAYS store dry goods in a cool, dry, and dark place in your pantry, especially chocolate. You don't want it to melt! I always store my nuts in the freezer, along with my almond meal and xanthan gum.

A special note on frostings/icings/buttercreams

All frostings melt very easily in the summer due to the humidity and heat. If you are bringing a sweet treat that has frosting on it, store it inside and out of the direct light. I even like to put a small fan right next to it, to keep it cool. If it has "melted," toss it away. I love all butter-frostings, but  a little bit of shortening does help stablizie frosting.

My favorite summer baking treats include jalapeño-pepper cornbread to complement juicy pork ribs; cheesey buttermilk biscuits to add to grilled mesquite barbecue chicken; cookies for an easy dessert (just make sure to store them inside, especially if they contain chocolate chunks); and fresh fruit cobbler topped with whipped cream. The best part about baking in the summer: You can bake in the morning, save your treats, then cook in the evening!

Happy Baking! -SC 

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?

More from Redmond