Butter Cream: A Year in a Montreal Pastry School by Denise Roig is a deliciously engaging read that invites readers into the world of French pastry and culinary artistry, set against the backdrop of Montreal. The memoir details Roig’s transformative year at the esteemed Pearson School of Culinary Arts, where she immersed herself in the world of pâte à choux, ganache, and buttercream under the guidance of seasoned chefs and alongside classmates of diverse backgrounds. Roig’s narrative is candid and refreshingly honest; it’s as much about self-discovery as it is about mastering pastry techniques. https://www.facebook.com/denise.roig.author/
Denise Roig’s journey as a writer is as rich and flavorful as the stories she tells. Originally from Los Angeles, she made Montreal her home in 1989 when her twelve-year-old daughter, Ariel, persuaded her to “run away” so Ariel could train with the renowned Cirque du Soleil. While Ariel embraced the world of acrobatics, Denise immersed herself in Montreal’s vibrant culture, writing professionally and teaching story-writing in Quebec high schools for over a decade. Denise’s delectable memoir, Butter Cream blends her love for storytelling with her passion for baking. After a stint as a freelance writer for The National in Abu Dhabi, Denise now resides in Hamilton, Ontario, continuing to bring her unique voice to readers everywhere.
What is particularly poignant in Butter Cream is Roig’s ability to capture the highs and lows of the culinary journey. Far from the glamorous portrayals of pastry on television, Roig’s experience involves intense challenges, with early mornings and exhausting hours of practice, all required to achieve perfection in technique. She presents each chapter as a taste of the struggles and triumphs she encounters, from the complexity of classic French recipes to the moments of self-doubt and camaraderie that keep her going.
Roig’s writing is descriptive and often humorous, making the book not only educational but also deeply entertaining. Her vivid descriptions transport readers into the school kitchen, where they can almost smell the caramelizing sugar and feel the tension of pastry exams. Beyond the culinary insights, Butter Cream reflects the resilience needed to pursue a passion, especially one as demanding as pastry arts.
My favourite treat is Black Forest Cake – not a big hit with my family so whenever I find it, I get a big slice to indulge my sweet tooth. A little more involved recipe, but the holidays are the perfect time to add a little time and love to your dessert. Try Denise’s version in our Recipe section – delectable!
For anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes world of pastry, or simply looking for a well-written memoir that balances humor with honesty, Butter Cream is a treat. Roig’s journey is relatable, inspiring, and full of rich insights into what it truly takes to follow a creative path, even when the going gets tough. Purchase the book at https://www.signature-editions.com/index.php/books/single_title/butter_cream_a_year_in_a_montreal_pastry_school or win a copy in our Giveaway section.
Contents and images used with permission by Signature Editions. https://www.signature-editions.com/index.php/books/single_title/butter_cream_a_year_in_a_montreal_pastry_school
