Effect of microwave and conventional baking on yellow cakes.

The quality of yellow butter cakes was adversely affected by microwave cookery. Conventional cakes consistently received the highest sensory ratings. Cakes baked on a carousel in the microwave oven were evaluated as being equal or superior to cakes baked in the microwave without a carousel. Sensory evaluations for appearance and flavor were significantly higher, and values for shear resistance were significantly lower, indicating greater tenderness, for cakes baked in the microwave oven with a carousel compared to those manually turned. Although cakes baked in a conventional oven were superior in appearance, tenderness, mouth feel, flavor, and texture, cakes baked in the microwave oven were considered satisfactory.