For Valentine’s Day, we wanted to take a moment to give some LOVE to a few special people.
You may have been under the impression that Chef Lauren and Chef Katharine are miracle workers, it’s simply not the case (well, maybe they work mini-miracles with their irresistible flavors…let’s just go with that). However, the thousands of French Macarons and hundreds of Cookies and Brownies that fly out of the bakery each week are not produced by only two bakers. The Panna Dolce family is a huge one: comprised of special helpers (thanks to our friends and moms!), delivery gurus, and super-duper-talented interns. We’re going to take some time to recognize a few very special interns who willingly donate their time and baking skills to Panna Dolce nearly everyday.
Michelle, Le Premier Macaron Mama
Our very first intern, Michelle, a California native and graduate of The French Pastry School, Chicago, IL, knocked on our door a year ago. Unknowing of who we were, Michelle knew she loved the little French Macaron pastry. We took her in as an apprentice and after one week, she was piping out perfect little Macaron shells like a pro. Her passion and knowledge took Panna Dolce to the next level, helping us achieve uncharted production levels. A month ago, Michelle moved to her Southern California home to pursue her dreams of being a pastry chef. We miss her dearly and wish her the very best of luck. Michelle: you were our very favorite pastry-hipster…keep rockin’
Lindsay, Intern-ational Dough-nator Extroidinaire
A 2011 graduate of the The French Pastry School in Chicago, IL, Lindsay’s deep love for French Macarons led her to Panna Dolce. Lindsay mastered the art of French Macaron piping very early on, in fact, she has piped and baked over 10,000 Macarons! Go, Lindsay, Go! Lindsay is skilled at more than just Macaron-making.Tarts, breads, and delectable cookies are just a few of Lindsay’s specialties. Thank you, Lindsay for being a passionate, skilled, and all-around awesome at what you do for PD! We heart the hell outta you!
Stephen, Pipin’ Hot Pastry Papa
Enthusiastic is the best word to describe Stephen! A passion for food, baking, and fun drove Stephen to the Panna Dolce kitchen. A graduate of Boston College, Stephen has always had a passion for fine cuisine and sweet pastry. Whether he’s baking for Panna Dolce, or baking breads at home, Stephen truly keeps on the pulse of the pastry industry. Stephen’s knowledge of flavor trends is invaluable, our team appreciates all of his guidance and technical knowledge! Stephen: you pipe every Macaron as if it’s one of your little babies, so for that, you are the “Pastry-Papa”!
We love all of our interns, THANK YOU and Happy Valentine’s Day!
Love,
Katharine and Lauren