How To Divide Cake Batter Evenly - From The Comfort Of My Bowl (2024)

Say goodbye to lopsided layers! Learn how to divide cake batter evenly for baking success!

How To Divide Cake Batter Evenly - From The Comfort Of My Bowl (1)

If you have ever baked a multi-layer cake, you know the anticipation of pulling out that first piece.

You also know how tricky it can be to end up with those signature identical layers.

To make a great layer cake, appearance and taste both matter. Each layer needs to look even, but they also need to be baked evenly. The goal is a delicious cohesive cake in all aspects.

This is why it’s so important to divide cake batter evenly between pans.

Luckily, there are many different ways you can properly measure and divide cake batter.

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Why is measuring so important when dividing cake batter?

Using a scale

Why is measuring so important when dividing cake batter?

When dividing your cake batter, accurate measuring is the only way to make sure you end up with identical layers that bake evenly.

Not measuring your cake batter will result in layers that are lopsided and cooked unevenly. While the quantities of batter in each pan might look similar to the eye, chances are they are slightly different.

The last thing you want is one layer being dry and the next layer being moist.

There are three main ways to divide cake batter that ensure all pans get equal amounts.

Using a scale

Measuring by weight is the most accurate and precise way to divide cake batter evenly.

First, weigh the empty bowl in which the cake batter will be going. (Write that number down.)
Add some cake batter to the bowl, then weigh it again.
Subtract the weight of the bowl from that number. Now, you know exactly how much the cake batter itself weighs.
Pour that amount of cake batter into your pan or pans each time.

Alternatively, weigh the entire batch of cake batter.
Subtract the weight of the bowl or bowls.
Divide the total weight of all the cake batter by the number of pans or the number of layers you want. Now you know exactly how much batter will go into each pan or layer.
Place a pan on the scale, zero the scale, and pour in the specific measurement of cake batter.

Flexible spatulas are great for getting out every last drop of batter, ensuring accurate measurements.

Record all of these weights and measurements in a recipe, so you don’t have to do it again and again.

Using an ice cream scoop

This method of dividing cake batter is great for anyone without a scale. It is the easiest and least messy method. Best of all, there is no math involved!

For this method, transfer the cake batter into pans one scoop at a time. Alternate between pans to make sure none gets left behind. Make sure to level out each scoop to ensure they are as uniform as possible. Don’t forget to track how many scoops are in each pan!

That’s it! The ice cream scoop method is super easy and reliable.

Using a measuring cup

First, figure out how many cups of cake batter you have in total. Then divide that number by the number of pans you will be using or the number of layers you want.

Using liquid measuring cups, transfer the cake batter into pans 1 cup at a time. Alternate between pans to make sure no pan gets left behind. Make sure to level out each cup to ensure they are as uniform as possible.

Key Tips for Success

When emptying cake mixtures, use a flexible spatula to ensure a perfectly clean scrape. This way, every drop of cake batter will be utilized and measured correctly.

If you have overfilled or under-filled some pans, scoop out batter one spoonful at a time from the most filled pan.

FAQs

Why is my batter not spreading evenly in the pan?

To ensure an even bake, spread the batter back and forth in the pan with a spatula.

Gently slide the pan back and forth on a flat surface until the batter settles evenly.

How do I prep the pans for baking?

There are many ways to prep cake pans or baking sheets. Head over to my blog post about How to Prepare Cake Pans Without Parchment Paper.

What about when you are finished baking the cake…

Head over to this post where I tell you everything about How To Store Cakes.

Try these Cake Recipes

I am a seasoned baking enthusiast with a wealth of experience in creating perfect layer cakes. Over the years, I have honed my skills to ensure that each layer is not only visually appealing but also baked to perfection in terms of taste and texture. My expertise extends to the meticulous art of dividing cake batter evenly, a crucial step in achieving uniform layers that contribute to a cohesive and delightful cake.

Accurate measuring is the linchpin of this process. I can attest to the fact that haphazardly dividing cake batter can lead to lopsided layers and uneven baking. This is a result of subtle variations in the quantity of batter in each pan, even if they appear similar to the naked eye. The consequences can range from one layer being overly dry while the next is pleasantly moist, disrupting the harmony of the final product.

To overcome this challenge, I advocate for three main methods of dividing cake batter:

Using a Scale:
- Weigh the empty bowl intended for the cake batter.
- Add the batter and re-weigh, subtracting the bowl's weight to determine the batter weight.
- Pour the exact amount of batter into each pan, ensuring uniform layers.
Using an Ice Cream Scoop:
- Transfer batter into pans one scoop at a time.
- Alternate between pans to maintain consistency.
- This method is particularly useful for those without a scale, and it requires no mathematical calculations.
Using a Measuring Cup:
- Determine the total volume of cake batter.
- Divide by the number of pans or layers.
- Transfer batter into pans 1 cup at a time, alternating to maintain consistency.

Additionally, I emphasize the importance of recording these measurements in a recipe for future reference, ensuring consistency in your baking endeavors.

For those who may encounter issues with batter not spreading evenly in the pan, I recommend gently using a spatula to distribute the batter back and forth, creating an even layer. Prepping pans for baking is also a crucial step, and I direct readers to my blog post on how to prepare cake pans without parchment paper.

To address post-baking concerns, I offer valuable insights on storing cakes in another dedicated blog post. To complement these tips, I share a selection of enticing cake recipes, including Vegan Oreo Cake, Vegan Coconut Cake, The Ultimate Vegan Chocolate Cake, Vegan Carrot Cake, and Vegan Pineapple Upside-down Cake. These recipes are a testament to my commitment to both the science and art of baking delightful layer cakes.