Caffeinated Donuts and Bagels

In 2007, North Carolina scientist Dr. Robert Bohannonhas of Onasco developed a way to mask the normal bitterness of caffeine so that it can be used in food and pastry products such as bagels and donuts. "I had the idea for caffeinated pastries several years ago, but the bitter taste of the caffeine would always overwhelm the flavor," said Dr. Bohannon. "I eventually worked with some flavoring experts and designed a method to mask the bitterness, which led to successfully adding the caffeine equivalent of one to two cups of coffee to the food item." Dr. Bohannon approached well-known chains about his invention. He believed it is would be just a matter of time before caffeinated pastries become normal. He patented the idea along with a method of controlling the amount of caffeine contained in the food. A typical cup of coffee contains 50 mg of caffeine. Caffeinated pills contain between 100 to 200 mg per capsule. "Some people get their caffeine from soda, chocolate and other sources besides coffee," said Dr. Bohannon. "The Buzz Donut and the Buzzed Bagel lets them get the caffeine by simply eating a delicious pastry item."

Flavor at the Heart of Traditional Inclusion of Caffeine in Baking

Masking the taste of caffeine is the opposite of caffeine typically appears in baking, which is not as a separate ingredient in baking. Instead, ingredients that contain caffeine, such as coffee or chocolate, are commonly used in baking and pastry-making for their rich flavors and the complexity they can add to a dish.

1. Coffee: Coffee (which contains caffeine) is often used in baking. For instance, it's a common ingredient in cakes, brownies, or cookies where it can be used to enhance and deepen the flavor of chocolate. Coffee can be used in its brewed form, or as instant espresso powder or ground coffee, depending on the recipe. In some recipes, coffee-flavored liqueurs are used.
2. Chocolate: Chocolate contains varying amounts of caffeine, depending on the type of chocolate. Darker chocolates contain more caffeine than milk or white chocolates. Chocolate can be used in baking in many forms including chocolate chips, cocoa powder, or chocolate bars.
3. Matcha: Matcha is a type of powdered green tea that contains caffeine. It's been growing in popularity as a baking ingredient for its vibrant green color, unique flavor, and the gentle energy boost it can provide. It's used in cakes, cookies, and other baked goods.
4. Tea: Some bakers infuse their baked goods with black or green tea, both of which contain caffeine. This can be done by infusing the tea in hot liquid that is part of the recipe, or by incorporating finely ground tea leaves directly into the dough or batter.

While these ingredients do contribute caffeine to the final baked goods, the amount per serving is typically much less than what you'd get in a cup of coffee or tea.

As far as caffeine's effects on the baking process itself, unlike some ingredients like baking soda or yeast, caffeine doesn't react chemically to influence the rise, structure, or texture of baked goods. Its primary role in baking is to contribute flavor.