If you're experiencing a situation where the bottom side of your cake remains uncooked while the top burns in your gas oven with two burners, there are a few possible reasons for this issue:
Uneven heat distribution: Gas ovens, especially those with two burners, can sometimes have uneven heat distribution. The heat may be concentrated more on the top burner, resulting in the top of the cake cooking faster and potentially burning while the bottom remains undercooked. To address this, try placing your cake on a lower oven rack to move it away from the direct heat source. You can also try rotating the cake halfway through baking to promote more even cooking.
Incorrect oven temperature: Gas ovens can have temperature variations and may not always maintain an accurate temperature throughout the baking process. It's essential to use an oven thermometer to ensure that the temperature is set correctly and matches the actual temperature inside the oven. If there's a significant difference, you may need to adjust the temperature accordingly.
Inadequate preheating: Preheating your oven thoroughly is crucial for even baking. Gas ovens can take longer to heat up compared to electric ovens. Make sure you preheat your oven for the recommended duration specified in the recipe to ensure that it reaches the desired temperature before placing the cake inside.
Incorrect baking vessel or positioning: The type of baking pan you use can affect the way heat is distributed. Dark-colored pans tend to absorb more heat, which can result in faster browning or burning. Consider using a lighter-colored or aluminum baking pan, which can help mitigate excessive browning on the top. Additionally, ensure that your cake is positioned in the center of the oven for more even heat exposure.
Oven hot spots: Some gas ovens may have hot spots, areas that tend to be hotter than others. This can cause uneven cooking and lead to the top burning while the bottom remains undercooked. To minimize this, you can try using a baking stone or baking sheet placed on the oven rack to help distribute the heat more evenly.
Insufficient insulation: Gas ovens may not be as well-insulated as electric ovens, which can lead to inconsistent heat distribution. If possible, consider using an oven thermometer with a probe to monitor the temperature at different locations within the oven. This can help you identify any temperature inconsistencies and adjust your baking accordingly.
If you continue to experience issues with uneven baking, it may be helpful to consult a professional technician to ensure that your gas oven is functioning properly and to address any potential issues with heat distribution or calibration.