Convenience Baking

Convenience baking is using some prepared products to create great baked goods with less labor. This allows you to offer a nice variety of creative products even if you are short staffed or your staff does not have the skill required to produce some items. They can also help to reduce labor costs.

Phyllo

Once made or purchased, phyllo is very thin layers of pastry that is used for desserts by layering with fat that is melted and brushed on then layered with dough.

Phyllo – this is the Greek version of strudel dough. It is usually purchased commercially. The thin sheets of pastry are rolled together in a thin plastic covering. When working with you it is best to keep a slightly damp cloth over it to prevent it from drying out. The thin sheet is placed and then melted butter is gently brushed on covering the entire sheet. Another sheet then added and brushed with butter. This continues until the desired amount is reached.

Phyllo Dough Tips

• Thaw 12 hours under refrigeration; room temperature thawing may cause it to stick together.
• Don’t open until necessary—keep covered
• Dries out VERY quickly-immediately cover any portion that is not in use
• Cover dough with a slightly damp towel or saran wrap when not using
• Work on a dry surface
• Work quickly
• Brush sheets lightly with melted butter
• Keep fillings chilled and dry
• Handle delicately—but quickly
• You can refreeze dough in an airtight bag.

Puff Pastry

You can make your own puff pastry, but many bakers purchase it pre-made. This makes it an excellent convenience item

Puff Pastry Tips

• Thaw dough in refrigerator.
• Keep dough chilled.
• Always cut Puff Pastry straight down to prevent layers from sticking together so it will rise properly. Use a very sharp knife.
• Cut up and down, and don’t drag the knife.
• You can brush an egg-wash glaze (1 egg plus 1 tsp. water) over the Puff Pastry before baking to create a rich, golden sheen when baked.
• Cut vents in puff pastry to allow steam to escape.
• Edges should be sealed with water or egg wash to prevent filling leakage.
• Make sure you bake in a hot oven or it will not rise properly. 400 degrees is a typical temperature, but refer to your recipe.
• To make extra-thin, crisp Puff Pastry, try putting a second baking sheet on top of the  puff pastry before baking.

Meringues

Egg whites and sugar are mixed into an airy batter. This is then piped out in various shapes depending on its use. Baked in the oven until dried. Although not a typical pastry it can be used in the same way as some pastries and as layers for cakes.

Some other convenience baking items that you can buy premade finish off with your touch:

• Donuts or Donut Dough
• Cream Puffs
• Cinnamon Rolls
• Biscuit Dough
• Pizza Dough
• Cookie Dough
• Muffin Batter
• Waffle or Cake Mixes
• Premade Cheesecakes or Pies
• Premade frosting, fondant and whipped cream
• Etc.