Yes, a toaster oven can bake a cake. Many toaster ovens are equipped with baking functions, allowing them to perform similar tasks to a conventional oven, just on a smaller scale. Baking a cake in a toaster oven is a practical option, especially if you don't have access to a regular oven or if you're looking to save energy for smaller baking projects.
Here are some tips for baking a cake in a toaster oven:
Check the Size: Make sure the cake pan you use fits comfortably within the toaster oven without touching the walls or the heating elements. It's best to use a smaller cake pan that fits the toaster oven's interior.
Preheat the Toaster Oven: Just like a regular oven, preheat the toaster oven to the temperature specified in your cake recipe. Some toaster ovens have a preheat indicator that will let you know when it's ready.
Baking Time: The baking time may be slightly different from a regular oven due to the toaster oven's smaller size and different heat distribution. Keep a close eye on the cake while it bakes and use a toothpick or cake tester to check for doneness.
Temperature Adjustment: If you find that your cake is browning too quickly on the top or the edges, consider reducing the temperature slightly to avoid overcooking.
Rack Position: Place the cake pan on the appropriate rack position, usually the center position, to ensure even baking.
Rotate the Pan: Depending on your toaster oven's heat distribution, you may want to rotate the cake pan once during baking to ensure even cooking.
Use a Timer: Toaster ovens usually have built-in timers, so set one to keep track of your cake's baking time.
Remember that toaster ovens can vary in size and performance, so the results may differ from using a conventional oven. But with some practice and adjustments, you can successfully bake a cake in a toaster oven.