To Sift Or Not To Sift

That is the question. Before having much knowledge about the science behind baking, and way before we started creating our Dessert Experiences, the word "sifted" wasn't that big in our baking vocabulary. At that time, it seemed to be more of a suggestion... like not eating 2 hours before swimming or not going outside with your hair wet (thanks mom). So the cake mix went right into the bowl, or we dumped the flour right into our chocolate chip cookie recipe - not thinking twice about sifting anything.

Sifting Times Have Changed

Now, things are different. If we are baking, then we are sifting.

Why Should You Sift

The main goal of sifting is to aerate the flour. Aerating the flour, by running it through a sifter or sieve, breaks up the flour particles and lumps, resulting in a lighter flour. This lighter flour then absorbs the liquids in the recipe better, resulting in a lighter, and more evenly baked product. Who doesn't want that? Sifting really takes no time at all, and once you get the hang of it, it will be forever in your baking repertoire.

Sifting Tips

One thing that we like to do is put our flour and leavening agents, such as baking soda and baking powder, together in one bowl, and then sift them all together. This helps to ensure that the ingredients are mixed well together, and no one bites down on a lump of baking soda in their treat. If you don't own a sifter, and can't wait one more minute to start sifting, have no fear because a fork is near. Take a fork, or whisk, and run it through the flour for a minute or two. This will also help in aerating your flour enough to produce a tastier dessert.

Get A Sifter

If you have a little more patience (and if you don't, it might be time to start working on it) you should pick up your own sifter for better, and easier, sifting. Our favorite sifter is this hand crank sifter - it's easy to use, and lightweight.

So give sifting a whirl the next time you go to make Great Grandma Angie's Famous Chocolate Cake Recipe. We're confident you'll notice the difference.