Baking

Baking is a cooking method that uses dry heat, typically in an oven, to prepare food. This process involves the transformation of ingredients, usually including flour, water, and other elements like sugar, fats, and leavening agents, into a cooked product. Common baked goods include bread, cakes, cookies, pastries, and pies. During baking, the heat causes physical and chemical changes, such as the evaporation of moisture, caramelization of sugars, and the reactions between proteins and starches, resulting in the desired textures and flavors. Baking is often characterized by its precise measurements and techniques, as the balance of ingredients and the baking time and temperature significantly affect the final outcome. It is both an art and a science, requiring creativity and technical skills.