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Discover essential Holiday Baking Tips From a Professional Baker that will elevate your festive treats and ensure your cookies and pies turn out perfectly every time
During the holidays, many of us put on our baking hats and channel our inner professional bakers. I bake so much that sometimes I feel like I could compete on an episode of America’s Best Baking Champion!
Of course, reality doesn’t always match the expectation. Let’s just say I’ve had my fair share of soggy pie crusts and underbaked cookies, often followed by a frantic Google search for “why does my baking suck today?”
On a more serious note, I’m fortunate to have one of Westchester’s finest bakers in my contact list. Whenever I face a baking challenge, she’s my go-to expert. I realize that not everyone has access to such incredible bakers and chefs. That’s why I’m excited to share some holiday baking tips from a professional baker.
Holiday Baking Tips
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The holiday season is the perfect time to showcase your baking skills and impress family and friends with delicious treats. Professional baker Mariana Gambini, co-owner of Chantilly Patisserie in Bronxville, NY, has shared some insider tips to help you achieve perfect results every time you step into your kitchen. With a passion for baking that began in her native Argentina and flourished after graduating from Johnson and Wales in 2005, Mariana specializes in croissants and breakfast pastries, making her advice particularly valuable for your holiday baking endeavors. |
Q&A
I asked Mariana to answer some of the most commonly searched baking questions. Here is what she says:
How do I make sure my pie crust is flaky?
Answer:
A flaky pie crust can make or break your pie! To be the hit of the party, make sure you gather all of your ingredients prior to starting, and ensure your butter is COLD. Your butter will be distributed evenly, so when it’s time for baking, steam will be released through the dough, creating a delicious flaky pie.
How do I get my cake to rise evenly?
Answer:
To achieve even cake layers, you must preheat your oven! This way, the oven temperature is even, which will allow your cake to bake at the proper time and temperature. If it’s too hot, the cake will most likely rise quickly, burn on the outside, and be underbaked on the inside.
How do I prevent my cookies from burning?
Answer:
Oven temperature control is the key to not burning your cookies! A timer comes in handy to remind you when it’s time to rotate them and to pull them out of the oven! Preheating your oven will ensure that the proper temperature is reached by the time your cookies are ready to be baked.
How do I know when my baked goods are done?
Answer:
The best way to tell when a cake is done is using the good ol’ toothpick trick… if it comes out clean, then it is done!
Cookies are also done when the edges start to caramelize and get a beautiful golden color.
As for pies, it all depends on the filling and topping. Always have a good timer by your side to rotate items and to remember how long items have been in the oven!
How do I store my baked goods so they stay fresh?
Answer:
Certain baked goods are best stored in a Tupperware container on the counter. Some can be frozen for weeks. It’s very important to make sure they are sealed tight to preserve their freshness.
Bonus Baking Tip:
Items with creams should be consumed within 2 days of purchase and kept refrigerated
With these expert tips from Mariana Gambini, you’re now ready to tackle your holiday baking with confidence and flair. Whether you’re perfecting a flaky pie crust or ensuring your cookies come out just right, Mariana’s advice will guide you to success in the kitchen.
Happy baking!