Desserts

Sweet Phyllo Rolls with Cheese and Jam How can I keep the phyllo rolls from getting soggy? It’s essential to bake them at a high enough temperature—ideally 400°F (200°C)—so the moisture inside evaporates quickly and the outer layers become crisp. Make sure not to overfill the rolls with cheese or jam, and avoid watery fillings. Once baked, cool the rolls on a wire rack to allow steam to escape rather than trapping it at the bottom. Storing phyllo rolls in an airtight container can soften them, so if possible, store them uncovered at room temperature for a few hours before … Read more

Crispy Kadaif Ricotta Tart How can I make this ricotta tart gluten-free? Replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour that contains a binder like xanthan gum. Ensure the kadaif you use is also certified gluten-free, as some brands contain wheat-based ingredients or are produced in facilities with cross-contamination. What is the best way to slice and serve the tart? Chill the tart thoroughly so the filling firms up. Use a sharp, thin-bladed knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between cuts. A springform pan makes unmolding easier, but if using a regular tart pan, ensure the … Read more

Strawberry Jam Cookies (Dairy-Free Linzer-Style Cookies) How can I prevent the jam from leaking out of the cookies? Make sure the cookies are completely cooled before assembling, and don’t overfill them—about 1 teaspoon of jam is enough. Use a thick, high-quality jam rather than one that’s too runny, as thinner jams tend to ooze out more easily. After sandwiching, let the cookies sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes so the jam has time to set slightly. If you notice leakage after baking, it may be due to overbaking the base, making it too brittle to hold the … Read more

Almond Croissant Blondies How can I make these almond croissant blondies gluten-free? Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for structure. Almond flour alone cannot replace the wheat flour in the base, as it lacks binding properties and will result in a greasy or crumbly texture. Be sure the baking soda and other ingredients you use are certified gluten-free. The almond cream portion is already gluten-free, so no changes are needed there. Bake as directed but check doneness carefully, as gluten-free blondies may bake slightly faster. Can I prepare the almond croissant blondies … Read more

3-Ingredient Chocolate Yogurt Bars with Mango How can I make these chocolate yogurt bars dairy-free or vegan? Use a plant-based yogurt such as oat or cashew yogurt, both of which have a creamy texture that freezes well. For the chocolate shell, choose a dairy-free white or dark chocolate—many brands now offer vegan-certified options made without milk solids. Make sure the chocolate melts smoothly and avoid adding water during melting. Can I use frozen mango in chocolate yogurt bars? You can use frozen mango in chocolate yogurt bars, but it should be thawed and drained first. Excess liquid from frozen fruit … Read more

Caramel Pecan Brownies How can I make the caramel pecan brownies dairy-free? Replace the butter with a plant-based butter or a neutral oil such as refined coconut oil. Be sure to choose a dairy-free dark chocolate and milk chocolate substitute—many brands offer vegan versions of both. For the caramel topping, use dairy-free butter and confirm the honey substitute, if needed, aligns with your dietary preference (maple syrup or agave are good options). How do I keep the brownies moist for several days? Let them cool completely before slicing, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Line the … Read more

Gluten Free Chocolate Tart How can I make this gluten free chocolate tart dairy-free? Replace the butter with a plant-based butter that stays firm when cold, such as a soy- or cashew-based stick butter. Avoid margarine spreads, which contain too much water. For the ganache, use full-fat coconut cream or a cashew-based cream alternative in place of heavy cream. Make sure the dark chocolate you use is dairy-free, as some brands include milk fat or whey. When all components are substituted properly, the result is still smooth, rich, and holds its shape well after chilling. Can I use almond flour … Read more

White Chocolate Matcha Balls (Gluten Free) How can I make these matcha balls dairy-free? Replace the white chocolate with a dairy-free version made from cocoa butter and plant-based milk powders. Many vegan white chocolates are now widely available in specialty stores or online. Ensure your cashew or almond butter contains no added milk solids. This adjustment keeps the creamy texture and flavor intact while making the entire recipe suitable for those avoiding dairy. Also, check your matcha powder to ensure it’s pure and not blended with milk powder, which is sometimes added to culinary matcha blends. Can I use coconut … Read more

Vanilla Puffs with Cocoa Crumble and Whipped Ganache How can I make these vanilla puffs ahead of time? Bake the choux shells and let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day. For longer storage, freeze the baked, unfilled shells in a single layer, then transfer to a zip-top bag once frozen. Thaw at room temperature and re-crisp in a 325°F (160°C) oven for 5 to 10 minutes. Prepare the diplomat cream and whipped ganache in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Assemble the … Read more