He seldom baked at home until we were all quarantined in. “What started off as a way to introduce my new book, Everyone Can Bake, has turned into a channel to connect with each of you and be a part of your homes”, chef Dominique Ansel reveals at www.bakingwithdominique.com.
The World’s Best Pastry Chef by the World’s 50 Best Restaurants awards and “father” of Cronut®, The Cookie Shot, Frozen S’more, Blossoming Hot Chocolate (and more) as well as chef/owner of eponymous bakeries in New York City and Hong Kong, and the recipient of the Ordre du Mérite Agricole, believes that the gift of baking is for everyone, and having the right tools and tips can help anyone discover that talent. So he offers a few baking tips to get you started in the kitchen.
“Everyone can bake”: his tips
First, read the full recipe first. Before you do anything, please read through the recipes from beginning to end. It ensures you won’t run into any surprises. Preparation is the key!
Secondly, invest in a scale. It can be a transition to go from standard measurements to metric, but you won’t regret it. Digital scales are small and affordable, and a lot more accurate. Investing in a scale opens up the range of new recipes you can master (and when you’re ready, a stand mixer will change your baking experience).
Quality of ingredients matters. Recipes are only as good as the ingredients you use. Good quality chocolate, ripe and in-season fruits, whole cream and butter – it’ll make a difference in your final result. Invest in the real thing and the best you can.
Finaly, it’s a science. Don’t forget, there is a chemistry and a balance of proportions when it comes to baking. Reducing sugar or substituting different sweeteners may change the final outcome. If you’re going to indulge in dessert, make it a delicious one, made the right way, with great quality ingredients.
Upgrade your baking game with the Baking at Home With Chef Dominique Ansel video series
From French classics, such as crème brûlée and chocolate soufflé, to croissants, sweet and savory pies, gluten-free treats, and more, every class comes with 5 to 7 segments that total to about 50 minutes of material, featuring every step of the baking process for some of chef Dominique’s favorite recipes; plus your own exclusive downloadable recipe too.