Ep 18. Honey, I Shrunk the Cake

In this episode of Good Eats, titled "Honey, I Shrunk the Cake," host Alton Brown experiments with making smaller versions of traditional layered cakes. He delves into the science behind baking and discusses how the size of ingredients can affect the outcome of the cake.

Brown begins by explaining why traditional layer cakes can be difficult to bake. They require a long baking time, which can cause the outside of the cake to overcook while the inside remains raw. This also means that the cake is prone to cracking and sinking in the middle. To combat these issues, Brown decides to make smaller layer cakes that bake faster and more evenly.

He first makes a miniature version of a classic vanilla cake, which he calls "Little Cakes." The recipe uses less batter than a traditional layer cake and is baked in a smaller pan for a shorter amount of time. Brown demonstrates how to properly measure and mix the ingredients to ensure a perfect texture and rise. He also discusses the importance of lining the pans with parchment paper to prevent the cakes from sticking.

Next, Brown moves on to making a honey cake, which he calls "Bitty Honey Cakes." This recipe uses honey instead of sugar for sweetness and includes spices like nutmeg and cinnamon for added flavor. Brown discusses the different types of honey available and how their flavor profiles can vary. He also shows how to measure sticky ingredients like honey accurately using a simple trick.

Brown then decides to change things up by making a savory layer cake. He calls this recipe "Cheddar Cakes" and layers together savory ingredients like cheddar cheese and prosciutto. Brown explains how the principles of baking still apply to savory cakes and demonstrates how to properly layer and frost the cake.

Throughout the episode, Brown shares tips and tricks for making the perfect miniature layer cake. He discusses the best types of pans to use, how to properly grease and flour pans, and how to level cakes for easy assembly. He also explains the importance of letting cakes cool completely before frosting them to prevent the frosting from melting or sliding around.

Finally, Brown assembles a towering layer cake made from all his miniature cakes. He shows how to properly stack and frost the little cakes to create an impressive dessert that's perfect for any occasion.

Overall, "Honey, I Shrunk the Cake" is a fun and informative episode that showcases Alton Brown's expertise in baking and science. Whether you're a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this episode is sure to inspire you to try making your own miniature layer cakes at home.