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Permalink Reply by Debbie Malonson on January 16, 2011 at 9:12pm

Thank you i feel better. I bought the cake flour for this cake thinking they must mean cake flour!! Live and learn my favorite motto. thanks again Debbie :)

Paul Cotter said:

Adding raisins would not have caused a problem. If a recipe doesn't specify what kind of flour, they mean all purpose. If they want you to use cake flour, it will specify cake flour. That, plus your expired powder most likely caused your problem.

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Permalink Reply by Julie S on January 16, 2011 at 9:51pm

I agree with Paul. If a recipe calls for a specific specialty item, such as cake flour, it will usually specify. OOD (out-of-date) baking powder is a disaster waiting to happen. The fresher the ingredients, the fresher the dish (or cake in this instance). Happy baking!

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Permalink Reply by jeri c on January 16, 2011 at 11:57pm

I have a great carrot cake posted on my blog on here.... sounds like it might just be the recipe... all recipes are not fantastic.   The one I have posted on here is really yummy.  I got it from a friend and use it all the time!!!

 

http://www.cakeswebake.com/profiles/blogs/carrot-cake-to-die-for

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Permalink Reply by Debbie Malonson on January 17, 2011 at 4:17pm

Thanks for the recipe that sounds delicious. It is very similar to the one I used. As I have said before I am a newbie to baking and decorating cakes - with that said what is the filling for and how is it used?  I can only hope this makes sense to you LOL...

Thanks Julie I will pay more attention to expiration dates on all ingredients!!! Debbie :)

jeri c said:

I have a great carrot cake posted on my blog on here.... sounds like it might just be the recipe... all recipes are not fantastic.   The one I have posted on here is really yummy.  I got it from a friend and use it all the time!!!

 

http://www.cakeswebake.com/profiles/blogs/carrot-cake-to-die-for

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Permalink Reply by denette lynch on January 18, 2011 at 10:23am

I think it is best when you try a new recipe that you follow the directions as written unless you  are an experienced baker.  In full disclosure though I am a cowardly cook and never modify a recipe, if I don't like it I try a different recipe the next time.  But the recipe used the measurements for a reason and if you add 2 extra tsp baking powder it could possibly cause it to rise too much and then fall.  Plus the different flour will change the texture.  Add in old powder and it could have failed for a number of reasons.  Here is how you can test baking powder...

How To Test Baking Powder For Freshness

You found a can of baking powder tucked away in the back of the pantry and you aren’t sure how old it is or whether it’s still good to use in baking. Here’s a quick test for freshness:

Spoonful Of Baking Powder

• Pour a teaspoonful of baking powder into a bowl or small glass.
• Fill the bowl with hot water to cover the baking powder (about 1/4 cup should do it).

If the baking powder begins to bubble happily, it’s fine to use in your recipes.

Tip: For best results, do not dip a wet spoon into the can of baking powder when measuring what you need. The moisture will activate the baking powder left behind in the can and it won’t be as good to use next time. If you see lumps in your baking powder, that’s usually a sign moisture has found its way in.

Did You Know:

• If sealed properly, baking powder can last two years.
• Baking powder is a key part of “kitchen science”, it’s an active ingredient that helps baked goods rise (called a leavening agent).

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Permalink Reply by jeri c on January 20, 2011 at 11:31pm

The filling on my recipe cooks down to a very thick filling.... it is almost like a coconut pecan type filling just without the coconut.... Is a matter of fact... when I make my german chocolate cake I use the same filling recipe and add coconut to it!   Carrot cake can be a bit tougher to do than other cakes.... it is a more dense cake and does not bake up light and fluffy like a lot of cakes.  This recipe is not dry though... just be sure you grease and flour your pans very very well... it is best after is sits for 24 hours. 

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