Tiny, Bitter, Brown Specks In Cake
Decorating By bellabiaggio Updated 11 May 2009 , 2:32am by soygurl
I just made the vanilla cake from Mermaid Bakery. This has happened to me before, but I am not sure why. There are tiny brown specks on the bottom and sides of the cake. At first, I thought that they were burnt sugar granules, but then I picked one out with the tip of a knife and tasted it, to be sure. I was surprised at how bitter it was. Then I thought that it was baking powder? I think that I have removed them all, there weren't many, but enough for me to question it.
Has this happend to anyone else? I usually spray with Bakers Joy or Pam. Today, I made two cakes, used both kinds on separate pans and it happened on both.
Thanks so much for any help 
Thanks for getting back to me. Yes, I sifted the baking powder with the flour and salt. I used a newer container of Calumet brand. Hmmmm.
There's nothing in the recipe that's not in most other recipes that would cause this if you're sure it's not the baking soda, which does have a strong bitter taste on its own. Are you adding any flavorings?
I hate to suggest this, especially since you've eaten one. But could the bag of flour you're using have come to you with flour bugs in it? here's a link to info on them
don't click here if you're squeamish
Yikes! That's disturbing. I only used pure vanilla, so no odd flavors added in. Thanks for the alternative idea, I really hope that is not it. They don't appear to be bug-like, more like brown/black non-pareils. No appendages, at least. Thanks again!
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