These splurge-worthy treats may add the WOW factor to your baking

Which premium ingredients are worth the splurge?

The Great Canadian Baking Show bakers share the item that's worth the occasional indulgence to amp up the WOW in their creations. 

Chocolate

Both Candice and Andrew love high-quality chocolate. 

"It is definitely something I splurge on!" says Andrew. "Chocolate is often the star if it is used in a bake, and therefore needs to be the best! It is also so important to know the percent ratio of cacao as it can impact the overall flavour of the bake."

"High-quality chocolate can make a huge difference in the success of tempered chocolate treats," agrees Candice. 

Gold leaf

"You eat with your eyes first and gold leaf just adds the perfect touch of elegance and flair to bakes," says Niv. 

Tricky to use, it adds instant glamour to any dish. 

Vanilla

Camila, Kathy and Rainier all love good vanilla. "There is nothing like seeing the vanilla bean particles in a rich, creamy buttercream," says Rainier. Camila adds, "They elevate the flavour so much, and you can use the leftover husks to make your own vanilla extract." 

"You can taste the difference!" agrees Kathy.

Pistachios

"I love everything pistachio", says Loïc. "[It] comes from my childhood, where my dad would patiently shell them for me. I love pistachio ice cream, pistachio macarons, pistachio dacquoise, pistachio mousse. It pairs well with many other ingredients and has such a unique, nutty depth of flavour."

Not only do they add flavour, but they'll also add a touch of colour and sophistication to your next dish.

Fresh fruit

Sydney likes to include fresh fruits — especially berries, "I love different flavour profiles and textures to come across in my desserts and I absolutely love fresh-tasting treats." 

Even if these ingredients are expensive, she admits, "I can't help but get it if it's going to bring even one person delight! These ingredients are just always delicious and so versatile."

Heather adds that we are so lucky to have the berries, herbs, and wild food that have been used for millennia by the First Nations. "In my opinion, anyone can get chocolate or vanilla anywhere on this planet. Very few are privileged enough to eat our unique, Canadian cuisine, which is what I do my best to celebrate."