Here are some helpful solutions for the common causes:
Use a light-colored shiny aluminum baking pan.; dark pans absorb more heat and transfer it to the bars. When using a dark colored baking pan, reduce the oven temperature by 25°F, and/or reduce the baking time.
Most recipes will have a range for the baking times. Always set the timer for the least amount of time and then bake longer only if necessary.
Reduce the oven temperature by 25°F.
Position oven rack in the center of the oven.
Oven thermostats can change over time, requiring temperature adjustments by the baker or calibration by a professional. To assure the correct temperature each time you bake, always use an oven thermometer.
- As altitude increases, liquids and even the moisture in foods evaporate faster. This causes bar cookies to continue to brown a bit more than usual after they have been removed from the oven.
- Reduce oven temperature or baking time.
- Since bar cookies continue to brown a little after removing from the oven, bake to a lighter color than desired. Learn more about High-Altitude Baking.
Use bleached all-purpose flour. It usually contains less protein than either unbleached or bread flour. The more protein a flour has, the darker in color the baked bars will be. Learn more about flour.
