Chef's Blog, Chef's Notes Plus

All About Gelatin

Gelatin is used as a stabilizer in many baking preparations. In small amounts, gelatin adds body, like to a sauce or whipped cream; in greater amounts, it can set a liquid so firmly that it can be sliced or cut into shapes. Using the precise amount of gelatin is crucial: […]

Cakes, Desserts

Chocolate Sabayon

Makes about 4 cups, or enough to fill a 9-inch cake This filling is featured in Chocolate Sabayon Torte. You can also use it to make a dramatic version of a chocolate cream pie: pipe or spoon the sabayon into a fully baked pie or tart crust. Or, serve it […]

Desserts

Diplomat Cream

Makes about 4 cups Diplomat Cream, a blend of pastry cream and whipped cream, can be used as a filling for cream puffs or chocolate éclairs, or as a layer in a trifle or icebox cake. The pastries should be baked and cooled before you make the diplomat cream; once […]

Desserts

Marshmallows

Makes 80 pieces Ingredients 3/4 oz (3 tablespoons; 3 envelopes) powdered gelatin 1/2 cup very cold water 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar 3/4 cup light corn syrup 1/4 cup honey 1/2 cup water 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar, unsifted 1/2 cup cornstarch Directions Stir the gelatin into […]