Puff pastry: a Daring baker challenge

voulThe first of the month is now a fun time of anticipation, wondering what new adventure is in store for the Daring Baker challenge. Invariably, it’s something I’d never dream of making on my own, and this was no exception!

The September 2009 Daring Bakers’ challenge was hosted by Steph of A Whisk and a Spoon. She chose the French treat, Vols-au-Vent based on the Puff Pastry recipe by Michel Richard from the cookbook Baking With Julia by Dorie Greenspan.

Now, I’d never heard of Vols-au-Vent before, and couldn’t find a GF recipe out there. But Alt DB’ers to the rescue, and the general suggestion was to try a puff pastry or croissant recipe, and go from there. I used the Better Batter croissant recipe.

It was much easier than I expected, although I made my life much harder than necessary by amessisborndoing 3 turns and rolling out 4 times (moral of the story: read the darn directions!!!) Not only that, but I suspect that 2 turns would have given a better product. The smell was heavenly, and the short ones came out beautifully, but the big cups just didn’t cook through very well, and I didn’t realize until they’d cooled a lot.

heartsI was jazzed to know that indeed, pastries are possible and easier than I thought (note: not easy, just easier) and I will do this again as a croissant. And, of course, flour went everywhere. I mean, everywhere. But it was awesome to have the house smelling so beautifully, and what a treat to have GF puff pastry!

Please see the other DB’ers for their delicious works of wonder, and I can’t wait for our next challenge!

About Cheryl Harris

Life played a funny trick on me. I've studied nutrition for years, and much to my surprise, found out that I could manage many of my health issues via diet. I've been GF for years, and I've got a bunch of allergies and sensitivities. But it definitely doesn't keep me from cooking, baking and enjoying my food. Thanks for stopping by.
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8 Responses to Puff pastry: a Daring baker challenge

  1. Lauren says:

    I’m so glad it worked! They look gorgeous, and puffy =D.

  2. VeggieGirl says:

    FABULOUS pastry work!

  3. Ricki says:

    They look beautiful! My mom used to serve us patty shells with cream of mushroom soup when we were kids. . . ah, memories. 🙂

  4. Pingback: Menu plan Monday–Veggie meals! « Gluten Free Goodness

  5. Esther says:

    Those look really great! Did you use the recipe as given with yeast and all? I tried it do it as the normal recipe and got a pretty good result but I think yours look even better. I’m working on a menu for this week so will post in the other post when I’ve finished it.

  6. Wow! Nice work! The colors are amazing…!!

  7. Pat says:

    It looks beautiful–but for all of us who cannot have dairy or eggs–has anyone had success?

  8. Betty Denton says:

    Going to give this a try my friend is celiac will let you know I go, wish me luck

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