What is the process of combining sugar with solid fat called?

The process of combining sugar with solid fat is known as creaming. This method is fundamental in baking, particularly for making cookies and cakes. When sugar is creamed with solid fat, such as butter, the sugar crystals create air pockets in the fat, which helps to incorporate air into the mixture. This incorporation of air is essential for achieving a light and fluffy texture in the final baked product.

During the creaming process, it is important to use room temperature fat for optimal results, as this allows for better mixing and aeration. The creaming step also helps dissolve the sugar, which contributes to the overall structure and sweetness of the baked item. This technique is often foundational for recipes that require a successful rise, as it sets the stage for subsequent ingredients to be added in a way that maintains that light texture.