In the Oven- Summer Edition

If you’re reading this, I must thank you in advance of writing this post because only the most dedicated of readers would be here right now. To say that I have been neglecting my blog lately is an understatement. But really, I haven’t been. Let me explain…

See, I’ve been working part-time at a bakery this summer. I felt like there were a lot of gaps in my knowledge and my posts were starting to feel uninspired and repetitive. I wanted to break up my regular baking routine, but I also wanted to know what it was really like to work as a pastry chef and if it could possibly be a career path for me. The good news is that I learned a lot. Tons. I made a lot of macarons, cakes, and cookies and learned new techniques and flavor combinations. I also got to learn the “why” and not just the “how” of certain recipes. The Science behind the recipes and the way ingredients function and react with each other the way they do has always been interesting to me. Being able to apply that knowledge is what makes me a better baker (and blogger).

But, I also know that I do not want to be a professional baker. It is hard, physical, and repetitive work. Carrying out someone else’s vision is not as satisfying as carrying out your own. For someone who loves small batch baking, making a batch of 300 cookies is less fun than making a batch of 30 (or 6). Using a 60 quart mixer is back breaking work. If you’re wondering how big a 60 quart mixer is, your standard home Kitchen-Aid mixer 5 quarts. I’m pretty sure I can fit in a 60 quart mixing bowl!

I am not saying this to dissuade anyone from being a pastry chef or going to culinary school. I’m just saying that at this point in my life, it’s just not for me. This summer has confirmed for me that the job I want is the job I already have, and I’m really grateful for that. However, I have really missed blogging and I’m ready to get back into it. Sometimes disconnecting for a while and experiencing life is necessary, and I feel refreshed and inspired to share new things on this space. Check back soon for some fun and exciting posts!