Baking a cake in an oven without knowing the temperature can be challenging, as the temperature is a crucial factor in achieving a successful bake. However, if you find yourself without the ability to set a specific temperature, you can try the following general guidelines for baking a cake:
Use a Basic Recipe: Choose a simple cake recipe that doesn't require precise temperature control. A basic sponge cake recipe is a good option as it's more forgiving when it comes to temperature variations.
Preheat the Oven: If your oven doesn't have temperature control, preheat it for about 10-15 minutes to get it as hot as possible. Even though you can't set a specific temperature, this step will help ensure that the oven is heated to some degree.
Check for Readiness: Since you won't have a temperature gauge, you'll need to rely on visual cues to determine if the cake is ready. Keep an eye on the cake as it bakes and look for signs of doneness, such as browning on the top and edges, and a toothpick inserted into the center coming out clean.
Use a Timer: Set a timer based on a rough estimate of the baking time for your chosen recipe. Check the cake's progress frequently as it bakes.
Adjust as Needed: If you notice that the cake is browning too quickly on the outside but remains uncooked in the center, you can try lowering the oven temperature slightly (if your oven allows it) or moving the cake to a different rack within the oven.
Perform a Toothpick Test: To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs clinging to it, the cake is likely done.
Keep Notes: Since you won't have a specific temperature for your first attempt, it's a good idea to take notes about the oven settings you used and the results. This information can help you make adjustments for future bakes.
Please note that baking a cake without precise temperature control is not an ideal situation, and the results may vary. If you plan to bake regularly, consider investing in an oven with temperature control or using a separate oven thermometer to ensure more consistent and successful baking outcomes.