Baking Tip: Measuring Flour

I'm one of those cut corners type people when I'm cooking. I know, right? Me, the one who blogs recipes. But I'm so far from a perfectionist in most areas of my life and cooking is no exception. So for years and years, I have always done the easy thing when measuring flour--even if I knew better. I just put my measuring cup in my flour canister, scoop it in, shake it down to level, and dump it in my bowl. However, this isn't the best way to measure flour. Especially if you're baking cookies, cakes, bars, etc. Its best to use a spoon or a smaller measuring cup to fluff up the flour a bit. After that, scoop it into your measuring cup until it is heaping on the top. Then, use a knife (or similar) and scrape across the top to level it. Do NOT tap it or shake it down. Hopefully, you'll find the same as me--that your baked goods turn out a little better since you aren't putting in more flour than they really need!