Preppy Kitchen’s John Kanell on pursuing his dream
April 22, 2020
Social distancing doesn’t stop Live to Eat! This week I chatted with a kindred spirit of mine, John Kanell.
John Kanell is the creator of Preppy Kitchen, tempting us with drool worthy pics and videos on his blog, YouTube and Instagram. John has made gorgeous cakes for multiple celebrities, including Reese Witherspoon, and his work has been featured on Good Morning America, People Magazine and Better Homes & Gardens, just to name a few. As a former middle school math and science teacher, John understands the importance of precision and preparation in baking, and his goal is to help you “see that you can be successful and amazing.” His delicious recipes will certainly add a little positivity to your day, and most importantly, your kitchen!
- In this episode, we discuss:
- :: Advice for novice bakers
- :: ALL the buttercreams
- :: John’s life before Preppy Kitchen
- :: How to find zen moments in baking and cake decorating
- :: Why John keeps the flubs in his videos
Wanna try making your own French buttercream? Get John’s dreamy recipe below!
Thanks for listening today!
Preppy Kitchen’s French Buttercream
A creamy, custardy yolk-based buttercream that’s too dreamy not to make!
ingredients:
- ½ cup granulated sugar (100g)
- 3 tbsp water (45mL)
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1 cup unsalted butter (227g), room temperature and cubed
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (5mL)
- Pinch of salt optional
Combine sugar and water in a medium saucepan. Heat over low heat while stirring until sugar dissolves. Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a boil.
Put egg yolks in a stand-mixer fitted with a whisk attachment and beat until thick and foamy.
Cook the sugar and water syrup until it reaches 240° F. Immediately remove from heat. With mixer running, SLOWLY drizzle hot syrup into bowl with yolks.
Continue mixing until the bottom of the bowl is cool to the touch and the yolk mixture has cooled to room temperature.
Add in butter one cube at a time allowing each piece to incorporate before adding the next. Add vanilla and salt. Continue mixing until buttercream is smooth and creamy. (About 5-6 minutes.)