Red Seal Baker Practice Exam

How is baker's percentage defined?

1. It relates each ingredient to total sugar weight

2. It measures the weight of dough before baking

3. It expresses each ingredient in relation to the total flour weight

4. It compares ingredient costs per batch in baking

The correct answer is: It expresses each ingredient in relation to the total flour weight

Baker's percentage is a standardized way of expressing the ratio of each ingredient in a baking recipe relative to the total weight of flour used. By defining ingredients as a percentage of flour weight, bakers can easily scale recipes up or down while maintaining the same ingredient proportions. This method helps in both recipe consistency and understanding the hydration levels, yeast percentages, and other crucial aspects of the baking process. Using this system, if a recipe calls for 500 grams of flour and 300 grams of water, the water would be expressed as 60% (300 grams of water / 500 grams of flour x 100). This approach aids bakers in making informed decisions when adjusting recipes based on desired outcomes, like dough hydration and texture.