Ep 3. Black and White Desserts

In Cook's Country from America's Test Kitchen season 7 episode 3, titled "Black and White Desserts," the team explores the world of classic black and white desserts. Hosts Bridget Lancaster and Julia Collin Davison start by shedding light on the history of black and white cookies and how they have become a beloved treat across the United States.

The first dish the team prepares is a classic Marble Bundt Cake. To achieve the perfect marbled look, they use a combination of cocoa powder and chocolate chips. They also use cake flour for a finer crumb and a tender texture. For the frosting, they create a swirled design using both vanilla and chocolate buttercream. The end result is a beautifully marbled cake with rich chocolate and vanilla flavors.

Next up is a recipe for classic Black and White Cookies. The team explains that the key to achieving the perfect cookie texture is to use cake flour, which has a lower protein content than all-purpose flour. They also recommend using a glaze instead of traditional frosting to get the signature flat and shiny surface of black and white cookies. The glaze is made with confectioners' sugar, corn syrup, and vanilla and chocolate extracts.

For a twist on the classic cookie, the team makes a Black and White Ice Cream Sandwich. They start by making the cookies using the same recipe as before. For the ice cream filling, they create a rich and creamy vanilla base with a touch of corn syrup for enhanced texture. To add the chocolate element, they melt bittersweet chocolate and swirl it into the vanilla ice cream. The finished product is a delicious and indulgent treat that combines the best of both worlds - cookies and ice cream.

Moving on to a more elegant dessert, the team creates a Black and White Pavlova. They start by making a meringue base using egg whites and sugar, which is then baked in the oven until crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. To create the black and white look, they drizzle melted dark and white chocolate over the meringue. The finishing touch is a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries.

Finally, the team ventures outside the realm of baked goods and creates a Black and White Chocolate Mousse. To achieve the perfect airy and light texture, they whisk together egg yolks and sugar until pale and fluffy, then fold in whipped cream and melted dark and white chocolate. The result is a decadent and creamy dessert that showcases the contrast between dark and white chocolate.

Overall, "Black and White Desserts" is an episode full of classic and elegant treats that highlight the beauty of contrast. Whether you prefer baked goods like Bundt cakes and cookies or creamy desserts like ice cream sandwiches and mousses, this episode has something for everyone.