Which baking method involves combining all ingredients at once?

The one-stage method is a baking technique where all ingredients are combined at once, without the need for incremental mixing steps. This method is often utilized for making cakes, muffins, or quick breads, where efficiency is key, and the goal is to maintain a tender texture.

By mixing all the ingredients together in a single step, the process is streamlined, which can be particularly advantageous in a commercial setting where time-saving is crucial. This method encourages uniform distribution of ingredients and helps minimize the incorporation of air, which is often desirable for certain baked goods.

The one-stage method can yield excellent results when the ingredients are carefully measured and combined to ensure that everything blends well without overmixing. It's essential to monitor the mixing process to avoid developing gluten too much, which can happen if the batter is mixed excessively after the initial combining.