Crumbs and Cravings Pastry Perfection logo title wrapped around an image of two loaves of fresh bread

Crumbs & Cravings

From Crumbs to Cravings, we've got it all!

Sourdough Starter: A Journey Into Wild Yeast

Bubbling sourdough starter in a glass jar

Beginning your sourdough journey can be intimidating, but the rewards are endless. Last month, I started my own wild yeast culture and have been amazed at how it's transformed my bread baking. Each loaf feels like a small victory, with its own personality and quirks. The process has taught me patience, intuition, and how to embrace imperfection. If you're thinking about diving in, trust the process, there is nothing quite like the smell of fresh sourdough from your own oven.

Perfect Croissants: Tips from Our Master Baker

Freshly baked golden croissants on a cooling rack

Achieving that perfect flaky, buttery croissant might seem like magic, but it comes down to technique. After 15 years of perfecting my method, I'm sharing my top three secrets. .First, never rush the dough, cold butter and long rests are your best friends. Second, embrace the mess; flour will get everywhere, and that's okay. And third, trust your hands, feel and intuition matter just as much as measurements.

Seasonal Baking: Spring Fruit Tarts

Colorful fruit tart with strawberries, kiwi, and blueberries

Spring brings an abundance of fresh fruits perfect for baking. This week, I experimented with locally sourced strawberries and created a light, refreshing tart that's become an instant hit. The natural sweetness of the berries paired beautifully with a hint of lemon in the custard. It is the kind of dessert that tastes like sunshine on a plate. I will definitely be revisiting this recipe all season long.