What is the ideal baking temperature for most cakes?

The ideal baking temperature for most cakes falls within the range of 325°F to 375°F. This temperature range provides a balance between allowing the cake to rise properly and ensuring it cooks evenly throughout. Baking at this temperature helps achieve the desired texture: cakes baked at too low a temperature may not rise adequately, resulting in a dense, heavy cake, while those baked at too high a temperature may develop a crust too quickly, causing the center to remain undercooked.

In practice, most cake recipes specify this temperature range because it allows for a gradual and even development of the cake’s structure. At these temperatures, you get a nice balance between a golden exterior and a moist, fluffy interior. This is critical for achieving the right flavors and textures that are characteristic of well-baked cakes. Lower temperatures would prolong baking times unnecessarily, while higher temperatures could compromise the cake's quality and taste.