Claire Saffitz is an accomplished American author, video host, and freelance recipe developer. She is well-known for her work as a senior food editor at Bon Appétit magazine, where she spent five years in the test kitchen. Saffitz has also established herself as a popular personality on the Bon Appétit YouTube channel, where she hosts several series, most notably "Gourmet Makes." In this series, she showcases her classical pastry knowledge by reverse engineering popular snack foods and candy to create gourmet versions.
Raised in St. Louis, Missouri, Saffitz later moved to New York City. She earned her undergraduate degree with honors from Harvard University in 2009. Her passion for cooking and pastry led her to study classic French cuisine and pastry at École Grégoire Ferrandi in Paris in 2012. Later, she completed her Masters degree in History at McGill University in 2014, with a focus on culinary History in the Early Modern Era. This diverse educational background has provided her with a unique perspective on the culinary world and inspired her to create innovative and delicious recipes.
Saffitz's debut cookbook, "Dessert Person," was released in October 2020 by Clarkson Potter. This cookbook is a celebration of baking and pastry, offering a wide range of sweet recipes that showcase her passion for desserts. More than just a collection of recipes, "Dessert Person" encourages readers to embrace cooking and eating as fundamental sources of pleasure. Saffitz aims to empower reluctant home bakers by boosting their confidence and inspiring them to approach food with greater joy. Her book serves as a reminder that anyone can be a dessert person, even those who think they're not. With her extensive knowledge, expertise, and enthusiasm for the culinary arts, Claire Saffitz continues to make a significant impact on the food industry and inspire home cooks around the world.