What does a baker or pastry chef do? Pastry chefs rely on their knowledge of how baking works, combined with an innovative and creative mind to make dazzling, mouth-watering, delectable desserts.

  • You’ll research, create, modify, test, develop, and evaluate recipes.
  • You’ll stay on budget (this may take some basic math skills).
  • You may have to be the ingredient purchaser.
  • As you gain more experience, you’ll supervise newer pastry chefs.
  • You’ll do menu planning, creating desserts that compliment the menu.
  • You’re in charge of keeping the kitchen clean and organized.
  • You will need to be able to measure and weigh ingredients.

Pastry chefs are considered bakers, but not all bakers have the technical or creative skills that go into creating pastries.

How to Become a Pastry Chef

Pastry chefs very often train as bakers and then establish their skills through more of a hands-on training process. Whichever culinary program you decide to go through, make sure it’s accredited by the American Culinary Federation Foundation Accrediting Commission. There are other accrediting bodies, but the ACFFAC is the largest. Search for a local pastry chef school.

To become a pastry chef, you’ll:

  • Have a high school diploma or GED.
  • Earn a formal education and get a certificate, diploma, or degree in culinary arts.
  • Some hiring managers prefer an associate’s or bachelor’s degree, so keep that in mind.
  • Go through an apprenticeship through your school program, or
  • Do an apprenticeship in lieu of a more formal education.
  • Consider certification. It’s a voluntary process that is highly recommended.

Find a pastry chef program

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