Changing chemical leavening to improve the structural, textural and sensory properties of functional cakes with blackcurrant pomace

Blackcurrant pomace is a by-product with bioactive compounds and dietary fibre, which can be used as ingredient to elaborate bakery products. However, its high content of fibre results in techno-functional problems affecting texture and sensory properties. We hypothesised that the use of different chemical leavening agents can counteract the negative effects of pomace addition improving the quality of the final product. Citric acid, sodium acid pyrophosphate, and glucono-δ-lactone were used as leavening agents in combination with sodium bicarbonate (encapsulated and free). A micro-baking simulation showed the expansion of the bubbles in the batter. In the cakes, the structure, texture, colour and sensory profile were studied. Cakes prepared with pyrophosphate (regardless bicarbonate type) and glucono-δ-lactone (plus free bicarbonate) incorporated more air, which led to bigger gas cells and a softer instrumental texture. These cakes were perceived as brittle and spongy. All the formulations were acceptable according to an untrained sensory panel.