An Oven Side Chat with A True Adirondack Baker

Join Chef Gail and her former student, Marshall, as they discuss whether it is possible to make a pizza as good as a pizzeria. Listen as Marshall describes his many experiments along the way towards his quest to create that special pizza at home.

Learn about the different types of baked goods bakeshop owner Holly Harz makes for her customers with special needs. Listen as Chef Gail and Holly discuss the delicate art of specialty baking which includes: Gluten free, Sugar free, Keto and Paleo.

Join Chef Gail and Holly Harz, a bakery owner in the Adirondacks in New York state, in a conversation about Holly’s business and how she got started.  Learn about the many types of baked goods Holly makes and the wedding cakes she specializes in.

Learn the origins of the holiday fruitcake and why it gets no respect! Chef Gail takes you through a history of this legendary cake, why it ages well, and who is actually still eating it. She then shares her idea and recipe for the perfect fruitcake.

Learn what soaking syrups are and how easy they are to make. Chef Gail explains their versatility in the baking world, and how they can elevate the flavor of your baked goods. Many suggestions how to flavor soaking syrups are discussed, as well as the best techniques to soak your cakes like a pro.

Explore the world of oats. Learn about the different types of oats and how your baking can be affected by which type you use. Ever hear of a groat? Chef Gail will share her knowledge and explain all.

All professions have their own lingo and bakers are no different. Explore some interesting baking terms with Chef Gail and the explanations behind them. Although the terms she discusses just scratch the surface, this episode will leave you wanting more! 

Explore what vital wheat gluten is and how it can improve your yeast breads. Chef Gail delves into the science of gluten to explain exactly how this magical ingredient works, and how it can up your game in creating the best yeast breads ever!

Explore the Reuben sandwich, what it is, and how to construct one. Learn the two possible origins of this eclectic sandwich and how it became so popular. Chef Gail shares her special Reuben Braid recipe so that you, too, can make this famous sandwich for a crowd.

Chef Gail explores the world of still frozen desserts, and specifically, the semifreddo. Learn what a semifreddo is, its’ origins, and how to up your game by creating this posh dessert which is so easy to make. The chef also shares one of her favorite recipes for this simple semifreddo.