Optimization of Baking of Rice Cakes in Infrared–Microwave Combination Oven by Response Surface Methodology

In this study, response surface methodology was used to design gluten-free cakes made from rice flour to be baked in infrared-microwave combination oven. Two types of cake formulations containing different types of gums were used in the experiments, which were xanthan gum and xanthan–guar gum blend. The independent variables were emulsifier content (0, 3, and 6% of flour weight), upper halogen lamp power (50, 60, and 70%), and baking time (7, 7.5, and 8 min). Specific volume, surface color change, firmness and weight loss of the cakes were determined for optimization. Cakes formulated with xanthan gum had better quality characteristics than cakes containing xanthan–guar gum blend. Cakes formulated with xanthan gum and 5.28% emulsifier and baked using 60% halogen lamp power for 7 min had the most acceptable quality.