The Importance of Folding in Baking

What is folding in baking?

Folding is a mixing method:

1. Light, airy ingredients are incorporated into heavier ingredients by gently moving them from the bottom of the bowl up over the top in a circle motion
2. Light ingredients are stirred vigorously with heavier ingredients

Answer:

The mixing method of gently incorporating light ingredients into heavier ones without deflating air bubbles in a circular motion is known as folding.

The mixing method described where light, airy ingredients are incorporated into heavier ingredients by gently moving them from the bottom of the bowl up over the top in a circular motion is called folding. This technique is used to combine ingredients without deflating the air bubbles that provide structure and lightness to dishes such as mousses, soufflés, and whipped creams.

Folding is a crucial skill in both home cooking and professional baking. Instead of stirring or beating, which can deflate the mixture, folding maintains the delicacy of the preparation. A rubber spatula is typically used for this gentle and effective method, scooping under the heavier mixture and bringing it over the top of the lighter ingredients, turning the bowl gradually until the two are combined.