Making the perfect loaf cake

For a loaf cake to rise to its optimum height, leave the batter overnight in the refrigerator just before baking. Then dip a triangular scraper (or similar object) in a little melted butter and make an incision ½–¾ in. (1–2 cm) deep in a line down the center from one end to the other. This will result in a nicely risen cake with a good crust. When you remove it from the oven, leave it for a few minutes in the pan before you turn it out onto its side to cool. This will ensure that it remains straight, and it’s a method that works whether your loaf pans have straight or inclined sides.