No, it is not necessary to have the gas stove on while baking. In fact, gas stoves are designed to provide a separate heat source from the oven. The oven and stove (cooktop) are typically two distinct components in a gas range.
When baking in a gas oven, you do not need to turn on the gas stove (cooktop) burners. The oven operates independently and is heated by a gas burner located at the bottom or sometimes at the back of the oven. The heat generated by this burner circulates inside the oven, creating a consistent temperature for baking.
The gas stove burners on the cooktop are used for cooking on pots and pans, not for baking. Keeping them off while baking is not only unnecessary but also safer and more energy-efficient.
To bake using a gas oven:
Preheat the oven to the desired baking temperature. The temperature setting will be on the oven control panel.
Prepare your baking dish or sheet with the ingredients.
Once the oven reaches the desired temperature, place the baking dish inside the oven on the designated rack.
Close the oven door and allow the baking process to proceed as per your recipe.
If the recipe calls for specific temperature adjustments during baking, use the oven's control panel to make those changes.
When the baking time is complete, turn off the oven using the control panel and carefully remove the baked goods from the oven.
Remember that gas ovens can be very efficient for baking, but it's crucial to follow the recipe's instructions and make any necessary adjustments based on your oven's behavior to achieve the best results.