Leavened Doughs

Appears in
Patisserie: A Masterclass in Classic and Contemporary Patisserie

By William Curley and Suzue Curley

Published 2014

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There are two main methods for making fermented doughs: the straight or direct method and the preferment method.

For the Brioche and Beignet Alsacienne, I use a straight dough method. This is the simplest way of making fermented doughs. The flour, salt, yeast and liquids are brought together in a mixing bowl and kneaded until smooth and elastic, then the soft butter is added gradually until incorporated and kneaded again until it is elastic.

For the Pâte à Savarin, I use a Polish pre-ferment method where the yeast, milk and some of the flour are mixed together and allowed to develop at room temperature. This particular method adds to the flavour and crumb characteristics of the baked dough.