How to read a recipe before you start

Read the ingredients and the entire method before turning on the oven. Look for hidden time: resting dough, chilling mixtures or bringing ingredients to room temperature.

Check what you need

Check the pan size, equipment and quantities. Weigh ingredients where possible and set them out in the order you will use them.

Notice the checkpoints

Words such as golden, soft and thickened help you judge progress alongside the timer. Use both the stated time and the appearance described in the recipe.