To prevent your cake from becoming too hard or overbaked on the top, you can follow these tips:
Lower the oven temperature: One of the main reasons cakes develop a hard crust on top is that the oven temperature is too high. Try lowering the temperature by 25°F (about 14°C) from the recommended baking temperature in the recipe. Lowering the heat allows the cake to bake more evenly without the top getting too crusty.
Use a lighter-colored pan: Dark-colored pans absorb more heat and can cause the cake to bake faster and develop a harder crust. Opt for lighter-colored pans, such as aluminum or light-colored non-stick pans, to promote more even baking.
Use a cake strip: A cake strip is a strip of heat-resistant fabric that wraps around the outside of the cake pan. It helps to insulate the sides of the pan, preventing it from getting too hot and ensuring the cake bakes more evenly. You can find cake strips in baking supply stores or make your own by cutting a strip of dampened kitchen towel and securing it around the pan with a safety pin.
Check for doneness early: Start checking your cake for doneness a few minutes before the minimum recommended baking time in the recipe. Insert a toothpick or a thin skewer into the center of the cake; if it comes out with a few moist crumbs clinging to it, the cake is done. If it comes out clean, the cake might be slightly overdone, so you can remove it from the oven immediately.
Tent with foil: If you notice the top of the cake browning too quickly during baking, you can tent it with aluminum foil. Gently place a piece of foil over the top of the cake to shield it from direct heat while allowing it to continue baking.
Bake in the center of the oven: Position your cake in the center rack of the oven. Baking in the center ensures even heat distribution and reduces the likelihood of the top getting too crusty.
By following these tips, you can improve the texture of your cakes and avoid having a hard or overbaked top. Remember that every oven is different, so it's essential to monitor your cake as it bakes and make adjustments as needed.