MAGAZINE
Whisking You into Spring
Fresh Bakes, Bright Ideas, and a Slice of Inspiration!
It’s an exciting time for us here in the bakery world, as the weather begins to warm up and the promise of summer is just around the corner. The longer days and sunnier skies have a way of inspiring creativity and I’m personally looking forward to seeing the seasonal bakery products that will reflect the beauty of late spring and early summer. The vibrant colours of fresh fruits, the indulgent richness of seasonal ingredients, and the lighter, brighter flavours always bring something special to the shelves of bakeries.
Spring and summer also bring some of the best industry events and last month, the British Society of Baking held their Spring Conference at the Cotswold Hotel, in Chipping Norton. It was another great conference, featuring a lineup of fantastic speakers and presentations. The conference always brings together a vibrant community of industry professionals, all united by their passion for the art of baking. The discussions were filled with insightful ideas and forward-thinking approaches, highlighting the exciting future of the industry.
Looking ahead, we also have the much-anticipated ABST – the Alliance of Bakery Students and Trainees - Conference, which is being held at Alton Towers, 13th – 15th June. This is another wonderful event that brings together budding bakers, seasoned professionals, and industry leaders. It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn, share, and be inspired by the next generation of bakers who are pushing boundaries and exploring new techniques. The event promises to offer a wealth of knowledge, competitions, and discussions about the future of bakery education and training, and I can’t wait to see what new ideas will come from this action-packed weekend.
As we move through spring and into summer, there are some exciting trends emerging in the bakery world. Seasonal ingredients are, of course, a highlight. Think of the fresh, zingy flavours of berries, citrus, and rhubarb, and the indulgence of rich creams and lighter pastry textures that are perfect for the warmer weather. There’s a definite shift towards incorporating more plant-based, organic and sustainable ingredients, as consumers become increasingly aware of where their food comes from and the impact it has on the environment. Gluten-free and vegan options continue to be on the rise, and bakers are finding creative ways to make these products just as indulgent and satisfying as their traditional counterparts.
Floral and herb-infused baked goods are also gaining popularity, with lavender, rosemary, and basil making their way into everything from breads to cakes. It’s no longer just about the classic, comforting flavours – there’s a growing desire to explore new combinations that surprise and delight the taste buds. The focus on artisan methods and locally sourced ingredients is also on the rise, as consumers continue to seek out authentic, handmade products that reflect the rich tapestry of British baking traditions.
The warmth of the season brings a sense of lightness to many bakers’ creations, with an increasing demand for lighter textures, refreshing flavours, and delicate decorations. It’s a time of balance, where indulgence can meet freshness, and where innovation thrives alongside tradition. From fruity tarts to light, spongy cakes and refreshing drinks, the possibilities are endless. It’s a wonderful time to experiment, embrace new ideas, and celebrate the change in season with an array of tempting, delicious treats.
In closing, I am filled with a sense of anticipation for what lies ahead as we approach the second half of 2025. As we continue to embrace new trends, honour traditional practices, and support the future of the craft, there’s no telling what exciting creations the summer will bring. Whether you’re a baker, a baker-in-training, or a passionate fan of all things sweet and savoury, there’s something for everyone in this season’s issue. Enjoy the journey, and here’s to a summer full of delicious moments.
Happy baking!
