on Reddit shared a fascinating experiment where they baked cookies inside their car amidst record-high temperatures in the southwestern United States. The scorching heat made it nearly impossible to spend time outside, and sitting in a car without air conditioning was dangerous. To illustrate the intensity of the heat, the user posted a series of photos showing the process and the final result of making chocolate-chip cookies under their rear window.
The experiment took place in Phoenix, Arizona, where the daily highs have exceeded 110 degrees Fahrenheit for almost a month. A thermometer placed on the baking tray showed a temperature of 163.6 degrees. To prevent scorching the car’s interior, the user placed a towel under the tray during the four-and-a-half-hour bake.
While the car was undoubtedly hot, it didn’t reach the temperature of a traditional oven. Most standard cookie recipes require baking at 350 degrees. Concerns were raised by commenters regarding the underbaked cookies potentially causing a salmonella risk. However, the user clarified that they used a premade Pillsbury cookie dough designed to be eaten raw. The slow cooking process eliminated the risk of salmonella typically associated with homemade dough using eggs or untreated flour.
So, how did the cookies taste? According to the user, they tasted like regular cookies. The consistency was similar throughout, although slightly softer in the middle compared to oven-baked cookies. If you prefer soft-baked cookies, this baking method might be worth a try, especially if you find yourself in a city with extreme temperatures akin to the bottom rack of an oven.