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A Sweet Plan For the School Holidays

A Sweet Plan For the School Holidays

By: RedmanShop | June 6, 2025

When Fun Meets Flour!

When you’re in the midst of the school holidays, we bet everyone has lined up their break to be filled with fun and excitement. The iPads are charged, outings are booked, the snacks are everywhere… But what happens when the thrill starts to fade? The novelty starts to wear off: You’ve already made two trips to Universal Studios, the last movie turned into an endless Netflix-scrolling session, and the hot Singaporean weather has everyone exhausted. The Mid-Holiday Meltdown is real.

So, what’s next? If you’re looking for a fresh way to spend the day, one that’s fun, meaningful, and maybe even a little delicious, it might be time to try something new! Something that keeps little hands busy, big imaginations engaged, and most importantly, leaves your house smelling like delectable goodness and joy. This holiday deserves a highlight moment, one that will get everyone reminiscing even after classes begin. Like the time they baked a colourful rainbow cake, shaped chocolate animals, or made edible push pops that were too cute to eat!

 

Transforming The Kitchen Into a Classroom!

Imagine the look on their faces when their little fondant bunny starts to take shape, or when the first layers of their push pop cakes stack up taller than expected… The kitchen becomes their creative playground that’s filled with sprinkles, smiles and stories to bring home. In just a few hours, the art of baking turns from something they watch on their phones into something they can actually immerse themselves in.

And once they’re in that space, it’s time to roll up those sleeves and bring out the ingredients… This is when the magic happens!

Because baking is more than just a hobby. It’s a hands-on, screen-free activity that lets your creativity run wild (and yes, your taste buds will thank you too). It’s also a delightful way to teach kids patience, basic math, and a whole lot of confidence. Whether you’re an adventurous kid, a curious teen, or a parent looking for a good bonding experience, just know that a structured baking class will turn your time off into time well spent! So, let’s create something sweet with focus, laughter, and memories.

 

A Taste of Something New

At RedMan, we don’t just care about the quality of our ingredients, we care about creating memorable experiences that stick (like frosting). That’s why our special school holiday baking classes are crafted to give young bakers and their families the chance to create, explore, and most importantly, have fun with each other! From crafting colourful Fondant Creatures to building playful Push Pop Cake, each session blends professional techniques with hands-on joy. Just bring your curiosity, and we’ll bring the piping bags.

Don’t view it as “just a class,” it’s a moment your child will remember. They’re the kind of classes your kids will talk about long after the bakes have been devoured. It’s their very own bakecation, after all!

 

Pick your Baking Adventure

From forest creatures to unicorn cakes, or from safari-themed sweets to playful push pops… RedMan’s school holiday lineup is bursting with imagination! Our baking classes aren’t just about following recipes; they’re mini adventures, hands-on art projects, and confidence boosters rolled into one.

Here’s a sneak peek at what your little bakers can sign up for this school holiday:

 

1. The Push Pop Party

Specially made for joyful hands, our bright and colourful Cake Push Pop Class lets you and your kids build layered desserts in push-up containers they can decorate and take home. Just think of it as an edible crafting activity but with less glitter, and more frosting! Click here to know more.



2. Fondant Fun

Let your imaginations run wild with our fondant-focused workshops. Whether it’s the adorable Forest Sweethearts, the wildly creative Safari Sweethearts, or the dreamy Wafer Artistry: Hopes & Wishes, these classes are perfect for kids who love details, design, and storytelling through sugary goodness. Click here to know more.



3. Unicorns, Dacquoise & Dessert Dreams

Who needs a safari when you can bake one? Wild Safari Dacquoise classes, coupled with the Unicorn Funfetti Cake sessions bring bold colour and striking flavours to the table. These classes are great for slightly older or adventurous bakers who love trying new styles. Create something impressive to show off at the end! Click here to know more.



4. Mini Bake Camps (1-for-1 Combo Classes!)

Why pick just one recipe when you can try them all? RedMan’s Kids Camp Combo classes include baking AND decorating sessions! So you can enjoy and create delicious desserts like brownies, quiches, cupcakes and more. Perfect for younger bakers who want to get their hands (and aprons) messy, no baking experience is needed, just your enthusiasm! Click here to know more.

 

So if your holiday plans are still a little half-baked, consider giving your kids a chance to create something they can be proud of. Whether you join in as a parent or let them explore solo, these baking adventures are more than just fun, they’re confidence-builders, memory-makers, and maybe even the start of a lifelong passion.

Had an exciting time in one of our classes or simply looking for some recipe inspiration to bake with your loved ones? Head over to our Instagram and tag us @phoonhuat to share your sweet creations! With Father’s Day just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to whip up something thoughtful for the dads in your life. Don’t forget to use the hashtag #BakeForDadSG on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok so we can celebrate with you! so we can celebrate with you! RedMan Singapore is always welcoming new baking enthusiasts into our community so hop onto our social media pages and let’s support each other!

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What Does Baking Soda Do

What Does Baking Soda Do

By: excelfixer | June 3, 2025

Baking soda can serve many purposes. With its slightly bitter and salty taste, it works in conjunction with baking powder to act as a leavening agent in many baked goods. Due to its unique and highly alkaline composition, baking soda can also be used for cleaning, deodorizing, beauty products, insect bite relief, natural mouthwash, weed killer and much more.

We have all encountered baking soda at some point in our lives. The multipurpose and multifunctional, naturally occurring chemical seems to be everywhere. In our pantries, cleaning products, refrigerators, and, of course, recipes. Though baking soda is widely known and utilized, many are still unfamiliar with the core of what it does or to the extent; it is necessary in recipes. Commonly used as a leavening agent in baked goods, baking soda is often confused with its counterpart leavening agent, baking powder.

What’s the difference between baking soda vs baking powder? To understand how baking soda works and why it is unique, we must understand what baking soda really is.

What Is Baking Soda?

Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a naturally occurring crystalline chemical compound but is often found in powder form. Although baking soda is naturally occurring, it is often mined and, through a chemical process, created. Most baking sodas found commercially in the United States come from ore mined in Wyoming. The ore is heated until it turns to soda ash, and then it is combined with carbon dioxide to create the chemical baking soda. That being said, naturally occurring baking soda is also still available and is mined in the form of nahcolite. Nahcolite is the form of sodium bicarbonate that is most natural and has no chemical additives. Bob’s Red Mill is proud to sell natural baking soda that has not been chemically produced.

Baking soda is highly versatile and when used by itself or combined with additional compounds, can lend itself as a remedy for multiple different uses. Valued for its cleaning and baking properties, baking soda has been used for thousands of years. Use of baking soda dates back to Ancient Egypt when it was used as a cleaning and drying agent in the process of mummification. Baking soda became commercially available during the mid-19th century and has since become a staple in most homes, whether it’s in cleaning products, beauty products, or even in a wide range of cooking and baking recipes.

How Does Baking Soda Work?

Baking soda is most commonly used in baking as a leavening agent, hence its name. Before the commercialization of baking soda, biological leavening and fermentation processes were used but less convenient due to the extensive length of time associated with biological leavening. As most have formerly learned through science class and experimental measures, when a base meets an acidic ingredient like buttermilk, sour cream or lemon juice, a chemical reaction occurs. This concept is the same for baking soda as it pertains to baking. When baking soda is mixed with an acid and a liquid, it will create bubbles of carbon dioxide gas that give it a fluffy texture. That being said, baking soda can react without acid if it is warmed above 122°F or subject to long-term heat and humidity. If baking soda is stored within reasonable temperatures (at or below 77°F and 75% humidity), it will keep indefinitely.

Baking soda is generally used as an active ingredient in quick-bake recipes such as cookies, muffins, and pancakes. This is because of the fast-acting chemical reaction associated with baking soda and the acidic counterpart. When baking soda is combined with acid, CO2 gas bubbles are released, creating the “airy” effect in batter and dough. Furthermore, once the dough or batter starts to bake, the carbon dioxide will begin to filter through the dough and expand air that is trapped inside. The sources of acid combined with the baking soda will determine if the dough or batter can be kept in the refrigerator or needs to be baked immediately.

For example, if the sources of acid are dry, such as cream of tartar or cocoa powder, then they can keep longer once combined with baking soda. However, if the acids are wet, such as yogurt or lemon juice, then the resulting batter will need to be used promptly. Baking soda can also provide dough with increased pH levels, which creates a heightened alkalinity. Through the increase in pH, the gluten in the dough becomes weakened, which creates a tender texture for cookies and pastries versus something chewier such as bread. Quantity is an important component, considering the effect baking soda has on baking recipes.

Baking Soda for Household Use

Baking soda is a versatile product that has many household uses simply by itself or when combined with other products. Due to its coarse salt-like nature, baking soda can be used as a scrub of sorts for fruits and vegetables, grills, countertops and even teeth. Commonly added to many kinds of toothpaste, baking soda is a natural powerhouse cleaning product. Baking soda is widely used as a refrigerator deodorant of sorts because some believe it neutralizes lingering odor. Chemically, baking soda reacts in a similar fashion when it is used in baking recipes such as muffins and scones as it does with odors. This is because baking soda is basic and most odors are acidic, and this provides for a similar atmosphere for a neutralizing reaction to occur.

Baking soda and vinegar are not only baking partners in crime, but also stellar cleaning partners, due to their chemical composition. When combined in baking recipes, baking soda and vinegar (or acid) work together harmoniously to create the leavening process of batters and doughs. Similarly, when combined for cleaning purposes, baking soda and vinegar create an abrasive environment that is tough on stains, dirt, and clogged drains. As previously mentioned, when baking soda is heated above 122°F, it creates carbon dioxide. This is what makes baking soda a great fire extinguisher and why it remains one of best ways to put out a grease fire. The increase of carbon dioxide cuts off the fire’s source of oxygen, creating an environment that is not sustainable for the fire.

Baking Soda vs. Baking Powder

Similar to baking soda, baking powder is a leavening agent used in quick-bake recipes. Often confused and mistaken for one another, these two interact within recipes in different ways and are very different in composition. It is important to consider the differences between both baking soda and baking powder when exploring baking recipes. As previously mentioned, baking soda is a leavening agent that, when mixed with acid and liquid, becomes activated and produces CO2 bubbles. Similarly, baking powder is a leavening agent that produces CO2 bubbles. However, the composition is one of the major differences.

Baking powder is composed of baking soda itself, paired with another dry acid, such as cream of tartar. As a result, baking powder has the ability to be single or double acting. Single-acting baking powder performs in a similar way to baking soda that has been combined with an acid. It quickly releases CO2 and creates the leavening process that must be quickly taken advantage of. However, a double-acting baking powder can be activated twice through different means. Once the liquid is added to the baking powder, it becomes activated and produces the CO2 bubbles.

In addition to the first activation, there is a secondary activation that can take place once the solution, or batter, is exposed to heat (placed in the oven). This also creates the ability for an elongated time frame that is not present within the reaction caused with baking soda and acid. This means that because baking powder is activated by liquid and already has the dry acid component (cream of tartar), it can be preserved in the refrigerator longer. This is why items such as cookie dough can remain in the refrigerator, while cake batter must be cooked promptly.

Why Is Baking Soda Important?

Baking soda is an important and fundamental component of most baked goods and many cleaning products for several reasons. It is the driving force behind the desired consistency and taste of most of our quick-bake treats, and the powerhouse cleaning agent in many of our household products. Through the chemical reaction created by combining baking soda with liquid, acid, and heat, carbon dioxide is created. These tiny CO2 gas bubbles allow for soft and airy baked goods such as cookies, pancakes, and cakes. Baking soda also increases pH levels while reducing gluten. This creates less chewy and more tender baked goods. Though baking soda recipes call for seemingly small amounts, it makes all the difference if you don’t have it. Baking soda has become an integral part of baking recipes and household use, and without it, we may not have the ability to get our fast, fresh-baked, tender, and crunchy cookie fix!

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When in Doubt, Just Add Chocolate!

When in Doubt, Just Add Chocolate!

By: RedmanShop | May 28, 2025

A Sweet Survival Guide for the School Holidays

School’s out and the holidays are in! We know everyone has their go-to way of relaxing and spending their school break… But now you’re well into the holidays and you’ve done the park, the puzzles, the movie marathon… You’ve ticked off the usual activities, and are now wondering, “what do I do now?” Don’t worry! RedMan would like to offer you something extra sweet this holiday, the ultimate bakecation experience, just for you.

Because when things start melting down (figuratively), why not melt some chocolate too (literally)? Whether you’re planning to spend the holidays with family, prepping baked treats for a special trip, or simply indulging your sweet cravings, we’ve prepared this baking survival guide to turn your school break into something fun, rich, and ultimately satisfying!

Let’s begin with baking something classic, iconic, and guaranteed to impress.

 

1. Chocolate Lava Cake

A decadent and iconic dessert that’s sure to uplift your holiday blues (or boredom)! Let’s start this chocolate-themed session with one of our favourite bakes: Chocolate Lava Cake! A soft outer sponge with a rich molten chocolate center. It may look ultra fancy, but it’s surprisingly simple and rewarding to bake! A treat that goes by many names: mi-cuit au chocolat, chocolat coulant, lava cake… But honestly, who cares what you call it when it tastes this good? So have fun in the kitchen, and don’t forget the vanilla ice cream when serving! Get the recipe.



2. Non-bake chocolate peanut bars

If you’re ever in need of a tasty chocolate snack without having to turn on the oven, our Non-Bake Chocolate Peanut Bars will surely impress and pack a punch. A creation of sweet and salty goodness, this recipe is perfect for your little siblings to join in on the fun or for busy days when you want something quick. Did we mention that you can prep and store them in the fridge for days (if it lasts that long)? Get the recipe.



3. Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies

For all you gluten-free fanatics, we’ve got your chocolate chip cravings covered! Our Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies check off every requirement a delicious batch needs: soft in the center, crunchy around the edges, and filled with rich chocolate goodness in every bite. Whether you’re baking for yourself or your friends, these cookies are a total crowd-pleaser and perfect for sharing. Not only is this recipe dietary-friendly, but it also elevates the flavour profile of something that looks so simple. Get the recipe



4. Microwave Chocolate Pudding Cake

Shiny on the outside and smooth on the inside, our festive Chocolate Pudding Cake brings a whole lot of holiday fun in every bite. This is one of our favourite recipes to bake as it’s rich, satisfying, and absolutely perfect for chocolate lovers! Easily prepared with just your trusty microwave, they are impressive, equally simple to make and even more fun to share. This is the kind of dessert you can whip up in multiple batches and with minimal fuss! Get the recipe.

 
 

Never Stop Learning, Especially in the Kitchen!

If you’re ever looking to level up your baking skills, try something new or just want a fun activity to do with your friends and family, RedMan’s baking classes are a great way to turn your school break into a hands-on bakecation!

RedMan offers a variety of fun, hands-on Baking Classes that are perfect for anyone looking to try something new. Whether you’re a curious beginner or just want to sharpen your skills, these open-level sessions welcome all! With just 4-5 hours and a little curiosity, our expert instructors will guide you through the baking basics and decorating techniques to help you take your treats to the next level.

What if you prefer something quicker, but just as sweet? Our 1–2 hour Kitchen Pod Classes offer bite-sized fun that’s ideal for younger bakers or anyone wanting to squeeze in a light creative session. From animal-themed madeleines to push pop cakes, leave our classes with boxes full of playful-themed bakes to share with your loved ones!

 

The Chocolate Mood Chart: Match Your Mood to the Bake!

Last but not least, we had to end this survival guide with a little game to cure that bakecation boredom! We know that every chocolate treat carries a different vibe so why not pick a bake based on your mood? Whether you’re feeling enthusiastic, sleepy, or outright lazy, this chart will help you find the perfect recipe for it. So, which one are you taking on?

  • Feeling low? → Chocolate Lava Cake (gooey, indulgent, and comforting!)

  • Need to calm your mind? → Crinkle Cookies (soft, repetitive, and relaxing to make)

  • Out of energy? → No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Bars (minimum effort with maximum flavour)

  • Craving something nostalgic? → Chocolate Chip Cookies (classic, cozy, and hard to mess up)

  • Want to impress your friends? → Push Pop Cakes (fun, cute, and customisable)

  • Baking with kids? → Animal-Themed Madeleines (hands-on and creative)

Baked something delicious from our survival guide or looking for more chocolate recipes? Head over to our Instagram and tag us @phoonhuat to share your sweet creations! Don’t forget to use the hashtag #BakeForMumSG on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok so we can cheer you on! RedMan Singapore is always welcoming new baking enthusiasts into our community so hop onto our social media pages and let’s support each other!

 
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The Official Mother’s Day Baking Bingo

The Official Mother’s Day Baking Bingo

By: RedmanShop | May 22, 2025

Because Mum Deserved the Laughs (and the Dessert)

In the spirit of celebrating the amazing women in our lives, we wrapped up this Mother’s Day with something a little extra sweet: the official RedMan Mother’s Day Baking Bingo! A super fun, lighthearted, and very entertaining game that celebrated the sweet (and slightly chaotic) moments that always happen when love, flour, and family mix. After all, we all knew we needed a dessert for this special day, so why not create a fun and loving memory out of it? Inspired by the universal bond of baking with your loved ones, we successfully combined the classic game with the joys of family kitchen moments… So how many squares did you tick off?

 

How Did Your Mother’s Day Baking Bingo Go?

If you joined the fun, you knew the rules were simple: Each player grabbed a copy of the scorecard (below) and for every square, the winner was determined when someone covered 5 of those squares in a vertical, horizontal, or diagonal row!

Don’t worry if you missed it, too! You can still download the printable version of our Bingo sheet and share the fun with your mum.


At the heart of the game was the chance for you and your mum to enjoy yourselves in the kitchen and spend some meaningful time together. Every square ticked off became a sweet and joyful reminder of a special moment shared between the two of you, and we hope those little moments turned into lifelong memories you’ll cherish.

You embraced the chaos, indulged your sweet tooth, and made the most of every moment with her. At the end of the day, every mother deserved the best memories and you had the chance to create some beautiful ones together!

 

Bonus Points: Baked These and Scored Extra Love!

Did you both go all out? Baking one of these meant you automatically checked off a few extra squares!

Other Ways to Celebrate Your Mother’s Love

After you had your fun with Bingo, we have even more to share! We kept the celebration going by capturing the little moments that reflected her love. The sounds, the laughter, the satisfying moments that made you feel at home… We’re proud to say we showcased that feeling in our special satisfying video reel which symbolised a mother’s love language through these lovely baking shots.

Baked something delicious from our Bingo card or looking for more inspiration to surprise your mum again? Head over to our Instagram and tag us @phoonhuat to share your sweet creations! Don’t forget to use the hashtag #BakeForMumSG on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok so we can cheer you on! RedMan Singapore is always welcoming new baking enthusiasts into our community so hop onto our social media pages and let’s support each other!

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5 Bakes to Say I Love You this Mother’s Day

5 Bakes to Say I Love You this Mother’s Day

By: RedmanShop | May 6, 2025

Gift Your Love Through Aromatic Bakes


As we approach Mother’s Day, few things express honour, love, and affection quite like a handcrafted gift from the heart… So why not create something that says her in a single bake?

From biological mothers to grandmothers to even mother figures in our own lives, it’s important to take a moment and honour the amazing women who have significantly contributed to our growth and well-being. Whilst Mother’s Day is celebrated differently around the world, here at RedMan, we’d like to honour mothers with a special sweet treat!

Whether you’re reading this as a novice baker or someone who simply needs inspiration or even someone who doesn’t really know where the kitchen is, we’re putting a fun twist on this meaningful day. What better way to say, “I love you” when you can bake someone special for her this Mothers’ Day. And just as every mother loves differently, every bake says “I love you” in its own special way. So, which bake do you think would melt your mum’s heart?

1. Soft like a Banana Bread Bake


Versatile, simple yet delicious, a Banana Bread is the perfect gift to bring joy and comfort to mothers who are defined by their warmth and affection. The one where her love language is most likely the act of giving, and this Banana Bread will perfectly resemble that. This recipe represents good memories, good taste and overall simplicity; so commemorate her efforts and gift the love that she deserves. To make it more special for your mum, customise it to your mother’s liking even more… If she loves chocolates, customise your banana bread with chocolate chips or sprinkle a pinch or two of enriching cocoa powder for that elevated flavour! Sweetness will fill the air as you create this flavourful bake for your mum.

If you find this recipe slightly out of your league or way off (let’s be honest), we’ve shared here also, a simpler yet equally special gift idea for you. Why not assemble a whole DIY set filled with ready-to-bake ingredients for your mum? It’s easy: RedMan is currently having a special offer on the Banana Bread Mix – did we mention they’re gluten-free too? Amp up the bread’s flavour profile by adding some 100% Roasted Coffee Beans or a mix of fruits, seeds or nuts. Arrange that with sturdy equipment like a Loaf Pan and you’ve already got yourself a perfect gift set ready to go!

Get the recipe: Banana Bread Cake

2. Strong like a Chocolate Brownies


Whether fudgy, chewy or soft on the inside, Chocolate Brownies are always a go-to for that yummy, simply satisfying bake. One that symbolises adventure and strength, jam-packed in a single square of goodness. We believe a strong woman deserves a delicious bake that never disappoints and Chocolate Brownies do exactly that! This treat is for a mother who leads life with strong morals and loves her children with her trust, strong and stable presence. Now, we’re making it easier than ever to make a batch that your mother will absolutely love!

An alternative gift for you non-bakers is to save some extra time and grab a special Brownie Mix for her baking adventures. Ready-made cake mixes also allow her to get creative and add her own twist to the batter. And remember, crafting the perfect brownies requires the right tools! So pair the mix with a high-quality Spatula and a Square Pan and voilà, you’ve assembled a gift that’s both thoughtful and practical.

Get the recipe: Chocolate Brownie

3. Soothing like a Cream Cheese Tart

 

Soft at the center, solid around the edges. This doesn’t only describe a delicious Cream Cheese Tart but also a woman who may seem tough at first glance, yet has a her heart full of love and care for the people around her. She expresses her love subtly, but her constant support is evident through her powerful presence. This recipe is ideal for those seeking a complex, visually impressive and satisfying taste from the very first. It is truly an underrated gift that’s perfect for someone who leaves a lasting impression and adds a sense of grace wherever she goes.

No need to stress if you’re finding it tricky to perfect this delicious treat, we offer everyone expert-led classes to help you bake tarts like a pro! Better yet, treat your mum to RedMan’s special French Pastry 101 – Tarts class and turn it into a fun bonding experience for the two of you! Once you’re both done baking, showcase your masterpieces on a beautiful Maple Round Cheese Board and take Mother’s Day to a whole new level. Trust us, this gift will get your mum talking to all her friends about her wonderful family.

Get the recipe: Cream Cheese Tart

4. Versatile like a Mochi Rice Cake

 

Mochi Rice Cakes perfectly embody someone who’s gentle at heart, yet powerful in their own way. Striking the right balance between sweetness, complexity and charm, this recipe is specially crafted to be visually appealing as it is sweet, just like her. An ideal gift for a mother who approaches everything with a soft touch that ironically carries a lot of strength; especially in the way she loves. Just like Mochi Rice Cakes, she supports you in every way, in every bite, you’ll be reminded of her unwavering care.

To complement your dessert with something extra special for mum, why not make her a delicious glass of green tea with Hagoromo Matcha Powder! If you’re planning for a memorable bonding experience instead, RedMan offers open-level baking classes to create more loving memories in the kitchen (check out our upcoming ‘Sakura Litchi Pastry’ class). Your thoughtful gift is ready to impress!

Get the recipe: Mother’s Day Mochi Rice Cake

5. Elegant like a Tiramisu

 

Nothing embodies grace quite like the iconic Italian dessert, Tiramisu. It’s the perfect gift for a woman whose elegance doesn’t diminish the impact she has on those around her. Just like a mother’s love, the Tiramisu’s flavours combine tenderness and sophistication. A dessert that has a harmonious blend of rich flavours and creamy textures, Tiramisu packs a surprising kick that makes it a truly satisfying treat for Mother’s Day.

We know that Tiramisus can be challenging for some, and if baking isn’t your thing, you can still gift her with some decadent Tiramisu Mousse Cake Powder; an equally thoughtful gift that’s sure to bring a smile to her face! For a completed gift set, add an Oval Baking Pan and Silicone Spatula from our RedMan online store. You can explore our complete catalog of high-quality baking equipment and ingredients to add some warmth and personal touch to your Mother’s Day gift!

Get the recipe: Classic Tiramisu

In the end, the role of motherhood encompasses a variety of esteemed qualities that always leave a positive effect for those lucky enough to experience it. We celebrate Mother’s Day this year to commemorate those who have played a significant role in our growth and development and we’re excited to see the special gifts you’ve created for the women who have never left your side!

Baked something delicious for this Mother’s Day that is or isn’t part of the 5 recipes we shared? Take pictures/videos of your sweet creations and tag us @phoonhuat or use the hashtag #BakeForMumSG across Facebook, Instagram & Tiktok so we can cheer you on!

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Bread Making

Bread Making

By: RedmanShop | February 19, 2025

Introduction

Bread comes in various varieties, shapes, and sizes, using multiple dough-making processes. Straight Dough/No Time and Straight Dough Bulk Fermented are the two most common bread-making processes.

Due to their complexity, this guide does not cover other styles, such as Sponge and Dough, Pre-fermented Doughs, and Autolyse. Successfully mastering the two types mentioned will enable you to explore more complex methods later.

Lean Bread

Flour, Salt, Yeast, Water, Sugar, Fat Bread contains little or no sugar or fats.

 

Enriched Bread

Flour, Salt, Yeast, Water, Sugar, Fat
Bread with an increased level of sugar and fats.

Rich Sweet Bread

Flour, Salt, Yeast, Water, Sugar, Fat, Eggs
Bread with higher levels of Sugar, Fats and Eggs to improve softness.

Must Know

All the bread listed can have White or Wholemeal flour as their base or combinations.

Dough Making Methods

Straight Dough/ No Time or Instant dough

Straight Dough means all ingredients are mixed simultaneously to the fully developed stage. “No Time/ Instant” means that the dough does not have a long fermentation time after mixing before processing. After a short rest period, the dough is scaled, rounded, rested, shaped, proofed, and baked. The Baked Bread is available approximately two hours after the weighing, processing, preparation and baking.

Straight Dough / Bulk Fermented

The mixing process is the same as the No Time dough at the mixer stage. The mixed dough is left to stand for its ‘Bulk Fermentation’ period. During this stage, the flour proteins mellow, relax and become more extensible. The length can vary from 45 minutes to two hours or more, depending on yeast levels and the style of bread. The dough is then knocked back (degassed by punching the dough). It is scaled, rounded, rested, shaped, proofed and baked. The Baked Bread is available approximately three to four hours after mixing the dough. The total time will depend on how long the bulk fermentation stage is.

Must Know

Bulk Fermented doughs finish colder and contain less yeast as the longer standing times enable more yeast activity. This activity mellows the flour and lowers the pH resulting in better flavour and a softer internal crumb.

Use of Dough conditioner/ Bread improver

The No Time dough has an added ingredient (Dough conditioner/ bread improver) that quickly mellows the flour proteins as part of the mixing cycle and eliminates the longer fermentation time.

What does this Dough conditioner/ bread improver ingredient do?

Commercial bakers use it in the dough process to strengthen gluten, assist with yeast activity and mellow the gluten quickly. They also contribute to the bread’s shelf life.

Constituents of Dough Conditioner

The dough conditioner/bread improver is the composition of ingredients designed to improve the performance of the flour during the many processing stages and to enhance yeast activity through added yeast foods. These principal components are:

  • Ascorbic Acid (as a dough strengthener)
  • Enzyme Alpha-Amylase (assists fermentation)
  • Emulsifiers work on crumb softness (starch for soft bread) and crust hardness (protein for crusty bread).

Why is the use of a Dough conditioner important?

At the mention of the dough conditioner/ bread improver, many immediately think chemicals can’t be good for us! However, consider them a series of vitamins for the dough designed to enhance its performance and keeping qualities. Humans, after all, take vitamin pills for all sorts of applications and what are they comprised of, if not chemicals?

Ingredients in a Bread Formula

A Basic bread formula consists of Flour, Salt, Yeast and Water. Adding ingredients such as Butter, Eggs, Sugar, Dried fruits and nuts produce softer and moister bread.

Flour – Bread – Wholemeal

High protein flour containing gluten level suitable for bread making. Gluten is the protein in the flour, which gives the dough structure. When you mix flour and water and knead it, you form the gluten (Think chewing gum, which gluten texture is like). The protein level for bread flour is, on average, 12-14%.

You can make 100% wholemeal bread or a mixture with white flour. Singapore’s 20% Wholemeal and 80% White ratio is a typical bread style. In other countries, the balance may be different. Wholemeal flour is now more acceptable to the consumer due to its fine particle size that does not have large bran particles.

Salt

Salt provides flavour, assists in gluten development, and controls fermentation rate (Yeast activity). The trend is towards sea salt instead of common table salt.

Yeast

  • Fresh compressed or Instant Active dried (used directly into the dough)
  • Active Dried yeast (requires rehydration in warm water before its use)
  • Instant Frozen dough yeast, available to commercial bakers

It is a living organism that helps the bread rise; it brings flavour and aroma to many types of bread, depending on the length of fermentation.

  • Yeast produces Carbon Dioxide CO2 as part of the fermentation stage, and a by-product of this is alcohol which brings flavours.
  • Longer fermentation times result in the development of organic acids, which also provide flavour.
  • Yeast is temperature sensitive, requiring water temperatures as a controller.
  • Yeast is also sugar sensitive, with two types available in specific dough types.

Yeast Packaging

  • Low Sugar – White packaging
  • High Sugar – Gold packaging

You will find that as there are many manufacturers, it pays to check the wording on the pack to get the correct one.

Water

Hydrates the flour to form a dough during mixing. The amount will depend on the dough type and flour protein content. Bread flour will hold more water than Plain flour, for example. The water temperature is vital as this will affect the dough temperature after mixing (Finished Dough Temperature).

Regular tap water is acceptable; sometimes, you may need to chill it before using it. While in temperate climates, you will need warmer water during the cooler months.

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Asian Soft Sweet Bread

Asian Soft Sweet Bread

By: RedmanShop | February 19, 2025

History

This is a uniquely Asian style of making bread attributed to the Japanese (Yudane) and Chinese (Tang Zhong), producing a much softer crumb after baking. The key is mixing the flour with boiling water (water roux), resulting in the pre-gelatinisation of the starch, which gives the finished products a unique softness.

Several methods are used for starch cooking, all achieving a similar result.

  1. Add boiling water (1 part) to a set amount of flour (1 part), mix it to a paste and leave it covered in a chiller overnight. The following recipe uses this method.
  2. Another way is to warm water in a pan, slowly add the flour, and cook it by stirring until the starch gels and you have a smooth slurry. Allow this to cool and then it is used in the final mixing.

High Sugar Yeast

Note that the dough’s sugar levels are 12% of the flour weight, so you must use a high sugar yeast in this recipe.

Equipment

Weighing scales, medium size mixing bowl, saucepan, spatula, dough scraper, measuring jug, dusting flour, dry cloth or plastic sheeting, baking tray, suitable loaf pans and cooling wire.

Note

The Sweet Bun recipe is the base for all of the products in this section.

Dough Application

The basic dough can produce a range of products of different weights and shapes that will enable you to create a wide variety. Sweet Bun filling recipes are at the bottom of this section.

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How to use the oven?

How to use the oven?

By: RedmanShop | February 19, 2025

The cake batter is in the tin, or the bread has risen. Now is the moment of truth on how to bake the item successfully.

Home baking ovens have developed over the years. They have changed from the early conventional ovens to Microwave / Convection ovens and then on to the more common fan-forced Convention oven and lately the Combi stream-type ovens. However, whatever type you use to bake, it is crucial to understand the settings and how to use them. The following explanations will focus on the fan-forced Convection type, which is the most common.

Oven Control Components

The control features of the oven setting are displayed as diagrams similar to those below.

Convectional ovens provide a more consistent type of heat through the fan function, which distributes the heat more effectively than prior oven types, which relied on conduction, radiation and convection. The baking is done at a lower temperature setting of approximately 10 °C than in a traditional oven. The baking process is a trial-and-error activity as you become familiar with your oven, so don’t think everything will be perfect if you follow the recipe, which says to bake at 200°C for 20 minutes. Two unexpected outcomes could occur: the item is over-baked, as the oven temperature is too high. Or underbaked, where the oven temperature is too low or not baked long enough.

How to set an Oven

Preheating :The oven needs preheating before use, and this will take approx. 20 minutes. What temperature do I set for preheating? 200°C is the most common.

Why do I need to preheat the oven? : Successful baking requires a baking chamber that has an amount of stored energy. The temperature will drop when placing items in the oven; if not preheated sufficiently, the necessary chemical reactions will not occur.

What settings do I use? : If baking bread, use the top and bottom settings as you want intense heat. If baking a cake, use the fan setting to heat the oven.

Recommended Baking Temperature

Butter Cake

The recipe states 190°C : Set the temperature to 200°C while preparing the batter for the oven. Before placing the cake in the oven, change the temperature to 190°C. Open the oven door, place your cake into position, and close the door.

Why set it to 200°C and then reduce it to 190°C? : Successful baking requires a baking chamber that has an amount of stored energy. The temperature will drop when placing items in the oven; if not preheated sufficiently, the necessary chemical reactions will not occur.

Bread Baking

Recipes state 225°C for baking bread : The initial setting would be at 250°C to have the oven hot and ready for baking. Heat the oven for at least 30 minutes before baking to build up the heat.

Recipes say 225°C; why set it at 250°C? : The baking temperature is 225°C. You preheat to 250°C. Before running the oven, reset the thermostat to 225°C. This allows for a drop in heat when you are loading. When you fill the oven, it will automatically drop, but setting it at 225˚C means it will not fall below this.

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Dairy Cream

Dairy Cream

Dairy cream comes from the fat content of cow’s milk which is pasteurised and homogenised. It comes in the following categories, which relate to the minimum fat content of the product.

Cooking cream for sauces, soups

Whipping cream has applications in general baking and decoration.

Thickened cream
Containing a thickener (vegetable gums, gelatine, alginates) for stability. Used for general baking, mousse and decoration.

Double cream
High-fat content cream that whips well and holds its shape. Ganache cream fillings, mousse cake and decoration

Cream Cheese (made from a combination of milk and cream)
The cream is formed by adding Lactic acid, which thickens the mixture. Baked and non-baked cheesecakes, as a filling for bread and bagels

Crème Fraiche
The cream is produced with a bacterial culture, resulting in a lightly sour taste: soups, accompaniment with scones and baked goods.

Sour Cream
The cream uses a bacterial culture containing Lactic Acid, which sours and thickens the cream: cheesecakes, muffin batters, and fillings.

Milk Fat Content
18% – 20%
35%
35% – 38%
43% – 45%
33% – 34%
28%
12% – 16%

Preparation for Whipping Cream

The cream needs chilling before whipping, as do the mixing bowl and whisk attachment. These actions will ensure the cream whips quickly and remain firm.

Note

Generally, the thickened dairy cream will suit most applications.

Storage

Dairy cream requires refrigeration at 4°C and has a shelf life of up to 180 days when packaged in aseptic cartons (meaning it is free from microorganisms). Once opened, it is best (safest) to use it within three days.

Must Know

Dairy cream is not suitable for freezing in its liquid form as the fats will separate upon thawing, making it unsuitable for use.

Non-Dairy Whipping Cream

Dairy-free whipping cream is an oil-in-water emulsion that can whip to a stable foam. The composition comprises vegetable oil (Palm Oil being most common), milk proteins, sugars, water, emulsifiers and stabilisers. The advantage of this type of cream is its stability when whipped. It also yields a lighter and greater volume when compared to dairy cream. Preparation is the same as for Dairy cream.

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Milk

Milk

By: RedmanShop | February 19, 2025

Fresh Milk

Liquid milk, full cream and skim are available for use in baking. All milk is Pasteurised (harmful bacteria destroyed by heat) and Homogenised (fat particles are made smaller by forcing the milk through a series of fine sieves) to increase shelf life, allows the milk to be frozen, thawed and used, kept refrigerated at 4°C.

Ultra-High-Temperature Milk UHT

The milk is heated to a temperature of 120°C and held for several seconds to destroy harmful bacteria. This milk does not require refrigeration until it is opened. Unopened, it has up to six months of shelf life. This type of milk has a slight caramel taste due to the longer heating process; the colour will also be darker than regular milk. Once opened, the shelf life is 5 days.

Milk Powders

The two types are Full Cream and Skimmed. Skimmed milk is best for baking as it has more lactose content than will assist in the browning of the crust. The reconstitution rate ranges between 10% to 15% of the liquid medium. Add up to 150g of milk powder to one litre of water. Commercial bread makers will use skimmed milk powder when making milk bread as it is more economical than liquid milk. Bakers milk powder is heated to denature the protein so it will not interfere with the gluten development when making bread.

Storage

Milk Powders are hygroscopic (attract moisture) and are best stored in airtight containers to prevent lumping.

Alternative Milk

Current trends have a range of new products targeted at the healthy alternative market. Oat, Almond, Soybean, Hazelnut, Cashew, Rice, and a range of plant-based milk find application in coffee shops and homes as an alternative to Cow’s milk. The author has limited experience with such products in baking but expects they will perform similarly to Cow’s milk when fat content and other component levels are equivalent.

Cheeses

For its flavour and colour in the grated or block form, Cheddar cheese adds colour in its grated form and finds applications across all bakery products – mozzarella as a topping on pizza. Cottage and Ricotta cheeses are also famous in bakery products as an accompaniment to fillings. Cottage cheese is used in a Spanakopita, a Greek cheese and spinach pie. In contrast, Ricotta cheese is used in the famous Italian baked cheesecake or as a traditional filling for Italian Cannoli.

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