Test Kitchen Tips

Our Test Kitchen is full of culinary experts who have picked up plenty of handy tricks and techniques over the years. Check out our favorite cooking tips that’ll make cooking and baking at home easier than ever.

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    How to Prevent (and Fix) a Cracked Cheesecake

    A big fear of every baker is a cracked cheesecake. Our Test Kitchen explains how to avoid these cracks (and...


    How to Store Bread So It Stays Fresh

    Listen up, bakers: here's how to store homemade bread to keep it fresher for longer.


    Can You Freeze Cheesecake to Keep It Fresh?

    Can you freeze cheesecake? You sure can.


    Can You Freeze Muffins? Yes—Here’s How

    Can you freeze muffins? How long will they keep? We answer these questions and more in our simple guide.


    How to Freeze Soup

    Avoid the heartache of freezer burn and mushy leftovers by learning how to freeze soup.


    Everything You Need to Know About Baking in a Dutch Oven

    You can do much more with your Dutch oven than make stews. Try Dutch oven baking, from baking breads to...


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    Salted vs. Unsalted Butter: Which One Should You Buy?

    Does what kind of butter you choose matter when it comes to cooking and baking? We settle the salted vs....


    How to Test Baking Soda and Baking Powder to See If They’re Expired

    When your pancakes come out too flat or your cake doesn't rise, your leavener might have lost its oomph. Here's...

    How to Make Paninis Without a Panini Press

    When you're craving a panini, turn to your handy cast-iron skillet.


    Our Essential Blender Buying Guide

    From chopping and crushing to mixing and puréeing, blenders can do it all. Use our blender buying guide to choose...


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    What Is Cream of Tartar and How Can I Use It?

    Ever wondered what cream of tartar is? We'll tell you what it's made of, its benefits, and how to use...


    What to Look for Before You Buy a Hand Mixer

    Just whip it, whip it real good! That's what you'll be doing with your new kitchen gadget after reading this...


    What to Look for Before You Buy a Coffee Maker

    Not every cup of joe is created equal. Follow our coffee maker buying guide to pick the best brewer...


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    9 Genius Substitutes for Bread Crumbs

    Don't run out to the store for a last-minute ingredient! Use a genius substitute for bread crumbs instead.


    What Is Bisque, Anyway?

    Don't let the fancy French name scare you, because bisque is as simple as it is delicious.


    Venison vs Beef: Which Is Healthier?

    Curious about venison? The naturally lean meat is worth a try. Learn about the benefits of venison vs. beef in...


    Can You Freeze Cauliflower?

    Get the trick to saving and reusing this cruciferous powerhouse by learning how to freeze cauliflower.

    Your Guide to Dry-Aged Beef

    What is dry-aged beef? Why is dry-aged steak so expensive? Here's what you need to know.


    When to Use Low, Medium vs. High: Your Electric Skillet Temperature Guide

    Electric skillets are handy kitchen tools, but their generic settings of low, medium and high can be confusing. Here's a...


    This Is Our Juiciest Turkey Recipe. Here’s Why.

    Looking for the juiciest turkey recipe? Our Test Kitchen has a five-star recipe your family will love, plus plenty of...


    How to Substitute Applesauce for Oil in Baked Goods

    Cut calories and fat from your favorite baked goods with this simple swap.


    How to Reheat Fries (and Other Leftovers) in Your Air Fryer

    Your leftovers deserve an encore! Here's the right way to reheat fries in an air fryer.


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    Christmas Cookies Baking Guide

    Your one-stop shop for Christmas cookie recipes and decorating ideas, plus tips for storing, packaging and mailing Christmas cookies.

    What Is Saffron?

    Saffron is a treasured spice, known for its goldenrod color and rich, distinct flavor. Here's what to know about the...


    Is Your KitchenAid Mixer Leaking Oil? Here’s What to Do.

    Have you noticed oil in the bottom of the mixing bowl, or dripping off the beater? Don't panic!


    Grits vs Polenta: What’s the Difference?

    If you've ever wondered about when to use grits vs. polenta, or when to substitute plain old cornmeal, we've got...


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    10-Second Tricks That Will Instantly Upgrade Your Hummus

    Hummus is a healthy, tasty snack—and it's incredibly easy to jazz up. If you've been wondering how to make hummus...


    Here’s Why You Need a Microplane ASAP

    Tackle multiple tasks with a Microplane to make life easier and save on storage space.


    Your Guide to Pairing Pasta with Sauce

    Each pasta's shape and texture makes a difference in how your meal tastes. We look at the best pasta for...