Why are my brownies not cooking evenly in the Large Bar Pan?

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Discussion Overview

The thread discusses issues related to baking brownies in the Large Bar Pan, focusing on the experiences of participants with different brownie mixes and baking techniques. Participants share their personal experiences and observations regarding the consistency and cooking times of brownies.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, experienced uneven cooking with brownies using two packages of generic store brand mix, noting they remained gooey despite extended baking time.
  • Another participant questioned the need for two mixes, suggesting that a single mix should suffice if it meets the weight requirement.
  • Several users mention that they typically have no issues using one box of brownie mix in the Large Bar Pan.
  • One participant shared that for cake-like brownies, they have found success by adding an extra egg instead of water, which contrasts with the original poster's approach.
  • Another participant noted that using a larger box of brownie mix could be more economical and effective for the Large Bar Pan.
  • Some participants indicated a preference for name brand mixes, citing better results compared to generic options.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the appropriate quantity of brownie mix to use and the modifications needed for achieving desired results, with no clear consensus emerging on the best approach.

Contextual Notes

Participants shared their baking experiences and preferences, highlighting variations in mix brands and personal techniques without implying any official guidance.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants interested in baking brownies in the Large Bar Pan may find the shared experiences and insights relevant to their own baking practices.

jj16
Gold Member
Messages
168
I have a couple of shows in a couple of weeks. For one of them I'm doing the Black Forest Trifle. I usually don't have problems with basic brownies in the Large Bar Pan but last night I did. I got 2 packages of generic store brand brownie mix. I added the extra water for cake like brownies it said 18-21 minutes @ 350. I did it for that and it was still gooey I did another 5 minutes Still gooey I did it another 15 then it was hard around the edges.

It didn't come very far up on the sides of the pan should I do a third mix?

Thanks

jj16:confused:
 
Out of curiosity, why did you do 2 mixes when the recipe calls for 1. Was the weight on 1 mix not enough? Should be 18 to 21 oz. Also, most mixes I have used it says to make cake-like brownies increase eggs to 3. Nothing about water.

Just wondering...
 
I usually don't have a problem using 1 box of brownie mix in the large bar pan.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #4
Thanks for replying. The mix I used was 10.25 oz. For cake type brownies it says to use 3 tablespoons water and it says nothing about increasing the number of eggs. Is there a particular brand you have had good results with?jj16
 
I see why you are using two boxes, usually a 18-20 oz box works perfect in the bar pan. I usually just use one of the name brands they usually aren't that more expensive to use. Plus if you buy 1 larger box you might save more money that way.
 
Yeah, I use generic too but always the box that equals the same weight as the name brand.
 
jj16 said:
I have a couple of shows in a couple of weeks. For one of them I'm doing the Black Forest Trifle. I usually don't have problems with basic brownies in the Large Bar Pan but last night I did. I got 2 packages of generic store brand brownie mix. I added the extra water for cake like brownies it said 18-21 minutes @ 350. I did it for that and it was still gooey I did another 5 minutes Still gooey I did it another 15 then it was hard around the edges.It didn't come very far up on the sides of the pan should I do a third mix?Thanksjj16:confused:
I think your issue is with the instructions for cake-like brownies. It should have been to leave the water alone and add an extra egg. If you're using 2 small mixes together, use 1 extra egg for both mixes combined (total of 3 eggs). Adding extra water to a mix will greatly increase the time needed to bake out the extra moisture, especially at altitude.Cake and brownie mixes made in the large bar pan will not completely fill the pan, but that's OK. Baking them in a thinner layer reduces the amount of time needed for baking and cooling - which is what you want for a trifle recipe, just to reduce the total time needed to complete the recipe.
 
I usually use Betty C. or Duncan H. and have no problems cooking them in the bar pan -- however, if I make brownies without adding a lot of extra goodies (nuts, etc., etc.) I use the medium bar pan for one large box.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are my brownies not cooking evenly in the Large Bar Pan?

Uneven cooking can occur due to several factors, including oven temperature fluctuations, the placement of the pan in the oven, or the thickness of the brownie batter. Make sure your oven is properly calibrated and consider rotating the pan halfway through baking for more even results.

Is my oven temperature too high or too low for baking brownies in the Large Bar Pan?

If your brownies are not cooking evenly, it might be due to incorrect oven temperature. Use an oven thermometer to check if your oven is heating to the correct temperature. Adjust the temperature as needed to ensure even baking.

Should I adjust the baking time when using the Large Bar Pan for brownies?

Yes, when using the Large Bar Pan, you may need to adjust the baking time. The pan's larger surface area can lead to quicker cooking. Start checking for doneness a few minutes earlier than the recipe suggests.

Can the type of brownie mix affect how evenly they cook in the Large Bar Pan?

Absolutely! Different brownie mixes have varying moisture content and thickness, which can affect cooking times and evenness. For best results, follow the recommended baking instructions for the specific mix you are using.

What can I do to ensure my brownies cook evenly in the Large Bar Pan?

To promote even cooking, spread the brownie batter evenly in the pan, avoid overfilling, and ensure your oven is preheated. Additionally, consider using parchment paper to line the pan, which can help with heat distribution and make for easier removal.

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