Mixing methods refer to various techniques used to combine ingredients in cooking and baking. Common methods include stirring, whisking, folding, and beating. Each method affects the texture and consistency of the final product, making it essential to choose the right technique for specific recipes. In baking, for example, creaming butter and sugar creates air pockets, resulting in a light and fluffy texture. Conversely, folding is used to gently combine delicate ingredients, like whipped cream or egg whites, without deflating them. Understanding these methods helps achieve the desired outcome in culinary creations.