Storing homemade cake or brownie batter overnight can be done with a few simple steps to ensure the batter remains safe to use and yields delicious baked goods the next day. Here's how you should do it:
Transfer to an Airtight Container: After preparing the cake or brownie batter, transfer it to a clean and airtight container. Make sure the container is large enough to hold the entire batch of batter and has a secure lid to prevent any leakage or exposure to air.
Refrigerate the Batter: Place the airtight container with the batter in the refrigerator. The cool temperature of the fridge will slow down the growth of bacteria and keep the batter safe to use for the next day.
Label and Date the Container: To keep track of how long the batter has been stored, label the container with the contents and the date it was prepared.
Use within the Recommended Timeframe: For best results, it's generally recommended to use refrigerated cake or brownie batter within 24 to 48 hours. The leavening agents (baking powder or baking soda) in the batter can lose their effectiveness over time, potentially resulting in less desirable baked goods.
Stir Before Use: Before using the refrigerated batter, give it a gentle stir to make sure the ingredients are well incorporated again.
Adjust Baking Time: Refrigerated batter may need a slightly longer baking time compared to freshly made batter, as it might be slightly chilled. Keep an eye on the baking process and use a toothpick or cake tester to check for doneness.
It's essential to note that not all cake and brownie batters store well overnight. Some batters may contain ingredients that don't hold up as well after refrigeration, leading to changes in texture or consistency. For example, batters with whipped egg whites may deflate and lose their lightness when stored.
If possible, try to bake the cake or brownies shortly after preparing the batter to achieve the best results. However, if you need to prepare the batter ahead of time, follow the steps above to safely store it overnight and enjoy fresh-baked treats the next day.