Yes, you can add unboiled milk to a cake recipe, but it is essential to understand the potential consequences and make adjustments to the recipe accordingly.
Most cake recipes call for either milk or another liquid, such as water or buttermilk. The milk serves to add moisture and richness to the cake. Using unboiled milk means that the milk will not be heated before incorporating it into the batter.
Here are a few considerations when using unboiled milk in a cake recipe:
Food Safety: Unboiled milk carries a risk of bacterial contamination, especially if it is raw milk. If you are using raw milk, there is a higher chance of harmful bacteria present, such as E. coli or Salmonella. To minimize the risk, consider using pasteurized milk, which has been heat-treated to kill harmful bacteria.
Recipe Modification: When using unboiled milk in a cake recipe, you may want to make some adjustments to account for the extra moisture. The presence of unboiled milk might make the cake slightly denser or affect the texture. It's best to experiment with small adjustments to the liquid and dry ingredient ratios to achieve the desired consistency.
Temperature: Using unboiled milk may affect the overall baking time and temperature. Monitor the cake closely while baking to ensure it cooks evenly and doesn't become overcooked or undercooked.
Risks of Spoilage: Because unboiled milk is not pasteurized, the cake may have a shorter shelf life compared to cakes made with pasteurized milk. It's best to consume the cake within a reasonable time and store it properly to prevent spoilage.
To minimize the risks associated with using unboiled milk, some bakers prefer to use alternatives like pasteurized milk, buttermilk, or other liquid options when making cakes. These alternatives provide the same moisture and richness while reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses.
Ultimately, if you decide to use unboiled milk in a cake recipe, do so with caution, and it's advisable to be aware of potential food safety issues and make any necessary adjustments to the recipe.