Pastry Live 2014 – Dessert Cup Winners Announced

ATLANTA - Sept. 6, 2014 - PRLog -- On Tuesday, August 26^th, thirteen pastry chefs from across the country competed in the first annual Dessert Cup competition. Asked to craft desserts in a glass, layering multiple flavors and textures together to create the ultimate verrine, many elegant desserts were produced. But Laurent Vals of Laurent Vals Handcrafted Chocolates took first with his "Catalan Verrine."

Chef Laurent Vals’ verrine earned him high marks from the judges for its excellent execution, as it contained well defined layers, and for its overall flavor. Titled "Catalan Verrine,"Chef Val’s creation featured layers of chocolate financier, crunchy hazelnut wafers and apricot compote, all tied complimented by chocolate mousse. The originality and creativity seen in his dessert also curried favor among the judges, decidedly winning him the first place slot.

Also receiving top marks, Chef Ryan Stipp of The Blackthorn Club took second place for his "Mediterranean Reese's Cup," a unique take on the classic Reese’s Cup flavors with components of pistachio, honey and chocolate all neatly layered together. Third place, as well as the “Audience Choice Award,” went to Johnny Wesley of Mr. Peeples Restaurant for his "Smoked Black Forest Cake." A recreation of the traditional dessert, containing rich chocolate cake and chocolate whipped cream mousse, his dessert came with the surprise element of having cherry-wood smoke released from each cup upon serving. Each competitor’s verrines were highly praised by the judging panel for their unique flavor combinations, as well as for overall presentation.

The Dessert Cup, asks chefs to craft desserts in a glass, layering multiple flavors and textures together to create the ultimate verrine. Preparing a set amount of their delicious creations, each chef competes for the “Best Dessert Cup” award, decided by our panel of industry judges. Paying patrons also have a voice in who has the very best concoction as competitors also vie for the “Audience Choice Award.” Pastry Live wishes to congratulate all of the winners, as well as thank each of the competitors for their professionalism, hard work and dedication.

For more details about Pastry Live and the Dessert Cup competition, please contact Event Producer Paul Bodrogi at chef@pastrylive.com or (678) 881-9490. Further information is also available on our website at www.pastrylive.com.