If your oven consistently burns the bottoms of baked goods or food items, there are several steps you can take to address the issue:
Check the oven temperature: Ensure that your oven is calibrated correctly and heating to the set temperature. Use an oven thermometer to verify the accuracy of the temperature displayed on the oven's control panel. If there is a significant discrepancy, you may need to have your oven recalibrated or adjust the temperature accordingly.
Adjust rack position: Move the oven rack to a higher position within the oven. Placing the rack closer to the center or slightly higher can help prevent the bottoms from getting too much direct heat, reducing the risk of burning.
Use a baking sheet or parchment paper: Line the baking sheet or pan with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This provides a barrier between the direct heat of the oven and the bottom of the baked goods, helping to prevent burning.
Insulate the baking sheet or pan: If the bottom of your baked goods is still prone to burning, you can try using a double-layered baking sheet or using an insulated baking pan. These types of pans help distribute heat more evenly and reduce the risk of burning.
Adjust baking time: If your oven tends to run hot, you may need to reduce the baking time slightly. Keep a close eye on your baked goods and check them a few minutes before the recommended baking time to avoid overcooking.
Use a lower oven temperature: If the previous steps don't yield satisfactory results, you can try reducing the oven temperature slightly. Experiment with lowering the temperature by 10-15 degrees Fahrenheit (5-8 degrees Celsius) and see if that helps prevent the bottoms from burning.
Shield the bottoms: For particularly sensitive items, you can create a shield for the bottoms by placing a second baking sheet underneath the one with the food. This acts as a barrier, deflecting some of the direct heat and preventing excessive browning or burning.
Remember, each oven is different, so it may take some experimentation to find the optimal adjustments for your specific oven and the type of food you're baking. It's also worth considering having a professional technician inspect your oven if the problem persists, as there may be an underlying issue with the appliance that requires repair.