How To Divide Cake Batter Evenly
Say goodbye to lopsided layers! Learn how to divide cake batter evenly for baking success!
When dividing your cake batter, accurate measuring is the only way to make sure you end up with identical layers that bake evenly.
Not measuring your cake batter will result in layers that are lopsided and cooked unevenly. While the quantities of batter in each pan might look similar to the eye, chances are they are slightly different.
The last thing you want is one layer being dry and the next layer being moist. There are three main ways to divide cake batter that ensure all pans get equal amounts.
Using a scale
Measuring by weight is the most accurate and precise way to divide cake batter evenly.
- First, weigh the empty bowl in which the cake batter will be going. (Write that number down.)
- Add some cake batter to the bowl, then weigh it again.
- Subtract the weight of the bowl from that number. Now, you know exactly how much the cake batter itself weighs.
- Pour that amount of cake batter into your pan or pans each time.
- Alternatively, weigh the entire batch of cake batter.
- Subtract the weight of the bowl or bowls.
- Divide the total weight of all the cake batter by the number of pans or the number of layers you want. Now you know exactly how much batter will go into each pan or layer.
- Place a pan on the scale, zero the scale, and pour in the specific measurement of cake batter.
Flexible spatulas are great for getting out every last drop of batter, ensuring accurate measurements.
Record all of these weights and measurements in a recipe, so you don’t have to do it again and again.
Using an ice cream scoop
This method of dividing cake batter is great for anyone without a scale. It is the easiest and least messy method. Best of all, there is no math involved!
For this method, transfer the cake batter into pans one scoop at a time. Alternate between pans to make sure none gets left behind. Make sure to level out each scoop to ensure they are as uniform as possible. Don’t forget to track how many scoops are in each pan!
That’s it! The ice cream scoop method is super easy and reliable.
Using a measuring cup
First, figure out how many cups of cake batter you have in total. Then divide that number by the number of pans you will be using or the number of layers you want.
Using liquid measuring cups, transfer the cake batter into pans 1 cup at a time. Alternate between pans to make sure no pan gets left behind. Make sure to level out each cup to ensure they are as uniform as possible.
Essential Tips
- When pouring out cake batter, use a flexible spatula to ensure a perfectly clean scrape. This way, every drop of cake batter will be utilized and measured correctly.
- If you have overfilled or under-filled some pans, scoop out batter one spoonful at a time from the most filled pan.
FAQs
Why is my batter not spreading evenly in the pan?
To ensure an even bake, spread the batter back and forth in the pan with a spatula.
Gently slide the pan back and forth on a flat surface until the batter settles evenly.
How do I prep the pans for baking?
There are many ways to prep cake pans or baking sheets. Head over to my blog post about How to Prepare Cake Pans Without Parchment Paper.
What about when you are finished baking the cake…
Head over to this post where I tell you everything about How To Store Cakes.