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Understanding Binders in Gluten-Free Baking: Xanthan Gum, Psyllium, and More

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Gluten-free baking has come a long way from the dense, crumbly loaves of the past. At the heart of this transformation lies a deep understanding of how binders work. For pioneers like Jessica Licheri, an expert in gluten-free baking, the use of binders is essential in recreating the elasticity, structure, and softness that gluten provides in traditional baking. This blog explores the role of common and lesser-known binders in gluten-free baking and how each contributes to the final texture and taste of baked goods. What Are Binders in Gluten-Free Baking? In traditional baking, gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, acts as the binder. It creates a web-like structure that traps air and gives baked goods their chewy, elastic texture. In gluten-free baking, we must recreate that structure using alternative ingredients known as "binders." Binder s help hold the dough or batter together, retain moisture, and give structure to the final product. Without them, gluten-fr...

Jessica Licheri: Common Mistakes in Specialty Baking and How to Avoid Them

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 Specialty baking whether gluten-free, dairy-free, or catering to any dietary restriction is as much a science as it is an art. And no one knows this better than Jessica Licheri , a seasoned expert in gluten-free and specialty baking. Through years of experimentation, trial, and triumph, Jessica has not only mastered the art of baking without traditional ingredients but also identified the common pitfalls that can sabotage even the most promising recipes. If you're venturing into the world of specialty baking, learning from Jessica Licheri’s insights can save you time, frustration, and wasted ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most frequent mistakes people make in specialty baking and more importantly, how to avoid them. 1. Ignoring Ingredient Substitution Science One of the first and most frequent mistakes in specialty baking is assuming that any substitute will do. Replacing wheat flour with almond flour or swapping cow’s milk for oat milk might seem straight...

Jessica Licheri: Redefining Flavor as a Gluten-Free Baking Specialist

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In today’s ever-evolving food landscape, the rise of dietary-conscious eating has given birth to a new class of culinary innovators chefs, bakers, and food producers who are not only passionate about taste but also deeply committed to inclusivity and health. Among them, Jessica Licheri founder of Gluten-Free Bakes, stands out as a leading Gluten-Free Baking Specialist who has transformed a personal diagnosis into a professional mission. Her journey is one of resilience, experimentation, and love for flavor all of which shine through in every bite of her baked creations A Diagnosis That Sparked a Journey Jessica’s career began not in a commercial kitchen or culinary institute, but in the personal space of her own life. Diagnosed with gluten sensitivity in her early twenties, Jessica faced a sudden and profound shift in her dietary needs. Like many in her situation,   Jessica Licheri  quickly discovered that the gluten-free alternatives available on the market were often lacki...