Creative baking, first part: We create our own desserts

Baking can be a fun and creative way to express your art. Whether you're an advanced confectioner or just starting out with baking, you've come to the right place. For both groups of people, we have prepared a series of articles with the main title Creative Baking. The first part is dedicated to ways and concrete examples of how you can create your own desserts. This can serve as inspiration for those of you who want to take your pastry skills to the next level.

1. As a first step, first choose a basic dessert recipe that you like and try to modify it. You can change folders or add new ones. Our recipes also developed this way. Try to get inspired on our website . Here are our ideas for inspiration for specific sweet dishes. Cakes and tarts are the most common subset of desserts and there are countless combinations and flavors to choose from. You can make a simple vanilla cake and add chocolate frosting, enrich the carrot cake with oranges or be more creative with the flavors and try red velvet or add poppy seeds to the lemon cake. You can also make a classic round apple pie with chocolate cream or try something more original, such as a key lime pie. Cookies and other biscuits are also a great choice if you want to experiment and vary the ingredients. You can be creative and prepare them covered in cinnamon sugar or replace the classic butter with peanut butter when preparing them. You can also add vegetables to desserts. You will be surprised that the taste of the cake will not change at all compared to the original version. For example, try adding sweet potatoes, beets or beans to brownies. If you're feeling ambitious, you can even make your own ice cream or sorbet. Here you have options to experiment with different flavors such as mint chocolate or raspberry sorbet.

2. Try new combinations - experiment with different flavor combinations. For example, you can try combining different types of fruit, nuts or spices. You can also try to combine different types of desserts like cakes and ice cream to create a new and unique dessert. For a unique twist on a classic dessert, try adding matcha powder to white chocolate. You can use this combination of flavors, for example, in a cheesecake. The delicate taste of lavender combines beautifully with the sweetness of honey. Consider incorporating this flavor combination directly into a cake or egg white mousse. Ginger and Pear: The warmth of ginger complements the sweetness of ripe pears. You can incorporate this combination of flavors into a cake or crispy pastry. Chili and Chocolate: If you like a little spice in your desserts, consider adding hot chili powder to your chocolate. This combination of flavors works especially well in cakes. If you want to evoke summer, the tropical flavors of coconut and lime can create a refreshing and unique dessert. You can use this combination of flavors in cakes, cupcakes or even sorbet.

3. Try changing the texture of your dessert. You can do this as follows:

A. Add a crunchy component: Incorporating a crunchy element into your dessert can add a nice contrast to a creamy or soft texture. Consider adding toasted nuts, crushed crackers or cereal. For example, you can add a layer of crushed graham crackers to a cheesecake or sprinkle chopped peanuts on ice cream.

B. Create a smooth and creamy texture: You can achieve a smooth and creamy texture by using ingredients such as cream cheese, yogurt or heavy cream. For example, you can make a silky smooth cheesecake using a combination of cream cheese and sour cream.

C. Play with the temperature: Changing the temperature can also affect the texture of your desserts.   Experiment with different baking temperatures, try baking longer at a lower temperature or shorter at a higher temperature.

D. Use a variety of fats: Using a variety of fats, such as coconut or avocado oil instead of butter, can 
change the texture of your desserts and make them healthier alternatives.

E. Try Gelatin: Gelatin can be used to add a soft, smooth texture to your desserts. You can use it to make homemade gummies or panna cotta.

4. New decorating techniques:

Try drizzling melted chocolate or caramel over your desserts for a delicious and decadent touch. Crush your favorite cookies and use them as a topping for desserts. This works especially well with ice cream or pudding. Or add a dollop of whipped cream to desserts and garnish with berries or chocolate shavings for an elegant touch. Those who want to make it easier can use ready-made colored sprinkles and pearls , which add fun and texture to desserts. You can also use themed sprinkles for holidays or special occasions. Now in spring, it is a good choice to bet on edible flowers , such as violets and roses, to add a unique decoration to your desserts. They have a fine structure, a pleasant taste and a captivating aroma. You can either make sugar meringues yourself or buy them ready-made. Apply the meringues to your desserts and use the flambé gun to give them the perfect color and thus taste. If you want to make classic marshmellows a little special, dip them in melted chocolate and decorate with sprinkles, chopped nuts or pieces of candy. You can serve them on their own or use them as a topping for cakes or cookies.