The phrase 'as easy as pie' is misleading. While the ingredients are simple (fat, flour and liquid) it can be very tricky to create a flaky and flavorful crust. In fact, most of us will mess it up the first two or three times we do it—or spend years baking an 'okay' pie and wonder why it never tastes the way Grandma used to make it. This article reveals some secrets to a … [Read more...] about 7 tips for better piecrusts
baking tips
Basics of making bar cookies
Bar cookies are a great 'first recipe' for someone who's baking for the first time. They're one of the easiest cookies to make, in terms of preparation: you just pour the cookie dough into the pan, and shove it in a preheated oven. Even now, after more than a decade of baking, I prefer making bar cookies when I'm tired or running short on time. I don't have to shape the … [Read more...] about Basics of making bar cookies
Basics of making refrigerator cookies
I love making refrigerator cookies, especially during the holidays when I bake in bulk. The advantage of refrigerator cookies is that you can mix the ingredients ahead of time, and then store the dough in the refrigerator for as long as two weeks. I can just bake a fresh batch of cookies when I need them, or place the dough in a jar and give as a gift. Refrigerator cookies are … [Read more...] about Basics of making refrigerator cookies
Baking Secrets of Professional Chefs
What's the secret to a perfect cake? While it starts with getting a good recipe (and perfecting it according to your preferences) there are a few little tricks that can help enhance the quality of your cake's texture, appearance and taste. Try one of these tips the next time you decide to bake a cake. Here are some industry secrets from professional bakers. Like all of … [Read more...] about Baking Secrets of Professional Chefs
7 Secrets to Baking Perfect Cookies
Mmmmmm… Nothing beats homemade, freshly baked cookies. You just can't get the same flavor and texture from the 'commercial' stuff. Plus, when you make your own, you can control the ingredients. You can double the chocolate chips, or adjust the recipe to make cookies rich and chewy, or thin and crisp. Here are some baking tips to help you make perfect cookies each and every … [Read more...] about 7 Secrets to Baking Perfect Cookies