Bruno Connet, our Master Baker knows the secrets of the incomparable traditional French bread. Born in the Vallée de La Loire, he developed his expertise in bakeries of Bretagne and central France. In 1988, Québec became his new home. Six years later, Au Pain Doré turned out to be his second home and still is.
Bruno's advise;
your guide to freshness
The Au Pain Doré breads are made from all-natural ingredients and contain no preservatives. Unlike commercial breads that often sacrifice taste for the benefit of preservation, the delicate mixture of flavours of an artisanal bread results in that it should preferably be eaten on the same day of purchase. To longer preserve its valuable qualities, our master baker offers expert advice. With these few simple tips, you can savour the pleasure of a good fresh bread longer. As for the leftovers, Bruno has some ideas for you to enjoy your loaf until the very last crumb..
Freshness tips
For a fresh bread purchased in store
1) If you choose to leave your bread in his paper bag, do not linger. For optimum freshness, enjoy it the same day.
2) Store your bread in a plastic bag. It will retain its freshness throughout the day. Before eating, place it in the oven 3 to 4 minutes. The heat will restore its crispness.
3) To prolong the life of your bread for an extra day, store it in a jute bag. Before serving, again, put it in the oven for a few minutes. Nothing is better to restore a crisp crust.
For a cooked/frozen product available in a plastic bag
A novelty offered by Au Pain Doré Now available in our 12 stores and in some supermarkets, you will find our small breads cooked / frozen in practical plastic bags. Stored in the freezer, they retain their freshness for six months. 1) Do not thaw before using.
2) Take only the desired quantity and close tightly.
Tips and tricks for yesterday's bread
1) After one day, you can place your bread in the freezer until your next craving. When the day comes, put your bread in the oven directly from the freezer. Warm 3 to 4 minutes, serve and enjoy. The crust will be golden and crisp, just the way you like it.
2) A day-old bread makes a sublime ingredient for many recipes. You can find delicious suggestions in our book 50 ans de recettes qui se racontent (available in French only), presently sold in all 12 Au Pain Doré stores. From breakfast to dinner, ideas are numerous and varied:
Appetizers-on toasted baguette (p.47)
French toasts with cider and honeyed acacia (p.29)
Raisins, bananas and cinnamon pudding (p.126)
Soubise Bruschetta (p.48) ... Dips (p.52) Also, use your leftover bread to prepare
Succulent croutons for your salad or your soup;
Homemade bread crumbs for your favourite recipes; Big tasty croutons for your cheese fondue