Cakes
Tunnels: vertical holes through the crumb
2 likely causes, sorted by where the problem lives. Work down the list and change one variable at a time.
Likely causes
- techniqueOver-mixing developed too much gluten, which channels the gas upward.
- equipmentOven too hot.
What to change
- Mix only until combined.
- Lower the temperature.
Read it with the four domains in mind
FormulaThe recipe itself: ratios, quantities, and ingredient choice.
TechniqueWhat you did: mixing, shaping, timing, handling.
EnvironmentThe room: temperature, humidity, altitude, storage.
EquipmentThe gear: oven calibration, pans, mixer, tools.
Adapted from the master symptom matrices in Environmental Variables & Troubleshooting. General sourcing across these tables: Figoni (2011); Gisslen (2016); Corriher (2008); McGee (2004); Modernist Bread (2017); King Arthur Baking technical guides; BAKERpedia.
Other cakes symptoms
Sunken centre
Domed or cracked top
Dry crumb
Dense and heavy
Coarse, open crumb
Overflowed the pan
Stuck to the pan
Soapy, bitter, or metallic taste
Sour taste
Cakes & Sponges · Pan Size Calculator · The full troubleshooting method · All 50 symptoms