Question: Whenever I bake cupcakes, they end up with an annoying tall peak on the top of them instead of a nice round surface. What am I doing wrong? — Pat
Answer: When adding batter to cupcake liners, spoon in until cups are two-thirds to three-quarters full. Bake cupcakes in the centre of the oven at 175 C; higher temperatures result in peaked tops.
Do not overmix the batter: baking fluffy, moist cupcakes is all about creating air bubbles in your batter that expand in the oven. When batter is overmixed, the bubbles collapse and the cake becomes heavy. Mix at low speed just until the ingredients are incorporated.
Oh, and one more thing: place all your ingredients on the counter 15 minutes before use. Using ingredients at room temperature makes a big difference in baking the perfect cake or cupcake.
Question: I am disgusted by the number of spiders in my basement. Big, black, ugly spiders crawl into my downstairs bathroom on a weekly basis. Any idea as to how I can make a non-toxic spider repellent?
Also, why do spiders like to make their way into my bathtub? I have found several, and I refuse to share my expensive bubble bath! — Ben
Answer: No need to share your bubble bath! Spiders do not like taking baths, but instead fall into the tub and because the sides are smooth they cannot make their way out.
Many people agree that it is a myth that spiders come up through drain pipes. The reason why you find spiders in the bathroom is that they are thirsty little creatures looking for water.
To repel spiders: In a spray bottle, put 1 tbsp. lemon essential oil (or orange) and fill the remainder of the bottle with water. Spray the edges and corners of the basement. Spiders lick their own feet and do not like citrus smells.
Question: Help! My house is being invaded by ants; my home feels dirty because every few minutes I see an ant run by. Is there anything I can do to get rid of these pests? — Don
Answer: Begin by finding out where the ants are getting in. Do you need to seal doors or windows? Are there cracks in the foundation that need repair? Ants are attracted to food, so if you own pets and pet food sits out all day or is stored in open containers, chances are that you will have ants.
One very simple trick for homeowners without pets is to make a solution of "Ant Away." Combine one cup borax and two tablespoons icing sugar into a bowl or shaker. Place the container in areas away from pets, kids and hungry neighbours, because borax is toxic if ingested. Or sprinkle over concrete cracks outside of doorways. I did this and have not seen an ant since.
If your ant problem continues, spray ant killer or call exterminators before the problem gets out of hand.
Note: Every user assumes all risks of injury or damage resulting from the implementation of any suggestions in this column. Test all products on an inconspicuous area first.
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