Dorie Greenspan is providing members of our Baking Club a glimpse into the kitchens of home bakers in France, with her thorough instructions and heartening narratives in July’s book of the month, Baking Chez Moi.
Luckily, she took the pressure off of readers quickly, stating that in a country like France where elegant pastries can be found in nearly every street corner patisserie, the true French home baker is not compelled to compete with the professionals. (WHEW!)
Dorie confides that her friends aren’t baking fancy pastries at home, but rustic, simple treats that any home baker can replicate. With her reassurance and regular presence in the Club, members jumped into Baking Chez Moi with both feet, and have been pleasantly rewarded for their efforts!
Monita Sen chose the Rhubarb Upside-Down Brown Sugar Cake, stating “This cake, in my opinion really sparkles when served with fresh strawberries, as recommended by Greenspan. She also suggests a side of fluffy whipped cream, but I wasn't in the mood for anything to come between me, my candy-like rhubarb, and the berries.”
Other popular everyday creations so far, this month have included tarts, like the Cherry Crumb Tart, and MANY varieties of loaf cakes!
Of course, there are also a couple of recipes that push us out of our comfort zone.
Anna Hashizuma wrote, “I've fallen in love with cannelés over the past year but I never thought I could make them. One of those 'leave it to the pastry chefs' moments. I'm so glad I found this group I've had the courage to experiment! This recipe is a winner!”
Anna’s excitement was met with resounding pride from Dorie in her response on Facebook: “This makes me so happy—three cheers for you and your beautiful cannelés!”
If you have been intimidated by French baking, it is not too late—let Dorie (and our Baking Club members) guide you!
Head over to Facebook to join in or over here for more information on how to participate. You can also catch up with the Baking Club on Instagram, using the hashtag #f52bakingclub—keep scrolling for a few more samples of what members have been whipping up lately.
Hope you will join us soon, we can’t wait to bake with you!!
See what other Food52 readers are saying.