Ep 2. Paris-Brest: Pastry Wheel

Zoe Bakes season 3 episode 2, titled "Paris-Brest: Pastry Wheel," is a tantalizing exploration of one of France's most beloved desserts - the Paris-Brest. Expert baker and host Zoe Francois takes viewers on a culinary journey as she shares the secrets to creating this heavenly pastry.

The episode begins with Zoe delving into the history of the Paris-Brest, first created in 1910 to honor a grueling bicycle race through the country's scenic Brittany region. The pastry takes its name and shape from the race, a circular wheel with a hollow center meant to resemble the wheel of a bicycle.

With its signature choux pastry dough and smooth hazelnut cream filling, the Paris-Brest is a delightfully light and airy dessert that perfectly captures the best of sweet French cuisine. Zoe teaches viewers the step-by-step process for creating the choux pastry dough, complete with essential baking tips and techniques along the way.

From there, Zoe demonstrates how to shape the pastry into the classic wheel shape, using a pastry wheel to create the traditional ridges and shape that make the Paris-Brest an instant visual hit. With equal parts precision and creativity, Zoe shows viewers how to create a perfectly executed pastry wheel with all of the decorative touches that make it an instant showstopper.

With the pastry baked, Zoe turns her attention to the filling, whipping up a silky, nutty hazelnut filling that is sure to delight the senses. Using a combination of chopped nuts, mascarpone cheese, and rich chocolate, Zoe shows how to create a deliciously decadent filling that perfectly complements the delicate choux pastry.

Throughout the episode, Zoe shares her insights and expertise in a warm, approachable way that makes even complicated recipes feel accessible and fun. She offers up timesaving tips, creative ideas for small twists on the classic recipe, and plenty of encouragement for bakers at every level.

By the end of the episode, viewers will come away with a deep appreciation for the care and precision that goes into crafting the perfect Paris-Brest, as well as the confidence to try their hand at making it themselves. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just dipping your toes into the world of pastry-making, Zoe Bakes season 3 episode 2 is a must-watch for anyone who loves the art of baking.