Ep 5. Cook Like a Pro: Make-Ahead Desserts

In Barefoot Contessa season 24 episode 5, Ina Garten, aka the Barefoot Contessa, shares her tips and tricks for making make-ahead desserts that are delicious and easy to prepare. This episode is part of her Cook Like a Pro series, which aims to help home cooks elevate their skills and confidence in the kitchen.

The episode begins with Ina explaining the benefits of making desserts ahead of time, including having more time to enjoy the company of your guests and reducing the stress of last-minute preparations. She then shares three recipes for make-ahead desserts, each with its own unique flavor and presentation.

The first recipe is for a frozen lemon mousse. Ina shows viewers how to make a tangy lemon curd, then combines it with whipped cream and egg whites to create a light and airy mousse. She then demonstrates how to freeze the mousse in individual serving dishes, making it easy to thaw and serve when needed. Ina also suggests pairing the mousse with fresh berries or a sweet raspberry sauce.

Next, Ina teaches viewers how to make a chocolate-hazelnut torte that's perfect for a special occasion or holiday meal. She starts by making a simple chocolate cake batter, then adds ground hazelnuts for a nutty flavor and texture. After baking the cake, Ina shows how to assemble it with layers of whipped cream and a chocolate-hazelnut spread. The torte can be made up to two days in advance and stored in the refrigerator until serving.

Finally, Ina shares her recipe for a raspberry crumble tart. She starts by making a buttery shortbread crust, then adds a layer of raspberry jam and fresh raspberries. The crumble topping is made with flour, sugar, and butter, then baked until golden brown and crisp. Ina notes that the tart is perfect for serving with vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Throughout the episode, Ina offers tips for making each recipe ahead of time, including how to store them in the refrigerator or freezer and how to reheat or thaw them before serving. She also suggests variations on each recipe, such as using different fruits or flavors for the mousse or adding chopped nuts to the crumble topping.

As always, Ina's warm and welcoming personality shines through in this episode, making viewers feel like they're learning from a trusted friend. Her expertise and attention to detail make even the most complex desserts seem approachable and achievable for home cooks of all levels.

Overall, Barefoot Contessa season 24 episode 5 is a must-watch for anyone who loves desserts or wants to improve their make-ahead cooking skills. Ina's recipes are sure to impress guests and loved ones alike, and her tips and tricks will make preparing desserts ahead of time a breeze.