Pastry vs. Dessert – Why French Pastries Are More Than Just Sweet Treats
When you think of something sweet, the word “dessert” might come to mind — cake, pie, cookies, maybe ice cream. But in French baking, there’s a clear difference between desserts and pastries. At Baudry Bakery, we specialize in authentic French pastries in Cincinnati, and we believe it’s important to understand what sets a pastry apart.
In this article, we’ll explore the real meaning of artisan pastry, how it differs from your everyday dessert, and why French pastries are more than just sweets — they’re an experience, a tradition, and a craft.
What Is a Dessert?
A dessert is any sweet food served at the end of a meal. In American culture, this includes:
- Cakes and pies
- Cookies and brownies
- Ice cream
- Puddings and custards
Desserts are often sweet, rich, and designed to satisfy a sugar craving. They can be homemade, boxed, or store-bought — and while they’re delicious, they’re usually comfort food.
What Is a Pastry?
A pastry, especially in the French tradition, is something else entirely. It’s not just about being sweet — it’s about:
- Technique
- Precision
- Ingredients
- Craftsmanship
French pastries include:
- Croissants
- Éclairs
- Tartlets
- Sablé cookies
- Madeleines
- Choux-based pastries like cream puffs and Paris-Brest
These treats are layered, delicate, and balanced, often using ingredients like real butter, high-quality flour, European chocolate, and fresh fruit.
Pastry vs. Dessert – The Key Differences
Let’s break it down even further.
1. Technique and Time
Pastries often require more steps, time, and care. For example:
- A croissant takes 2–3 days to prepare due to lamination (layering butter into dough).
- Tartlets involve making pastry shells, preparing custards or frangipane, and topping with fruit.
- Choux dough (used in éclairs) must be cooked on the stove before baking — and then filled and glazed.
Desserts, on the other hand, can be simpler — mix, bake, serve.
2. Ingredients
French pastries use:
- Cultured European butter
- Vanilla bean, not extract
- Real chocolate and cream
- Fresh, local, or seasonal fruits
- Minimal artificial flavors
Most mass-market desserts rely on shortcuts like margarine, corn syrup, or boxed mixes.
3. Presentation and Purpose
A French pastry is as beautiful as it is delicious. It’s designed to be:
- Elegant
- Balanced in flavor
- Visually appealing
- Light, not overly sweet
Pastries are often part of afternoon tea, café culture, or formal celebrations — not just dinner endings.
Why Baudry Bakery Focuses on French Pastry, Not Just Dessert
At Baudry Bakery, we don’t make cakes, cupcakes, or American-style desserts. Our focus is on small-batch artisan pastries — and here’s why:
Authenticity Matters
Our founder trained in France and brings that same standard to every bake. Whether it’s a sablé cookie or a seasonal fruit tartlet, we aim to create pastries that transport you to Paris — even from Cincinnati.
Each Item Is Crafted, Not Just Baked
- Croissants take 3 days to make.
- Éclairs are filled and glazed by hand every morning.
- Tartlets use locally grown fruit paired with house-made fillings.
You won’t find our pastries in plastic containers or freezer aisles — because they don’t belong there.
Our Customers Know the Difference
“This isn’t just dessert — it’s a real treat.”
“Light, flaky, and not too sweet. You can tell it’s made the right way.”
“It’s like something I had in France.”
That’s what artisan pastry should feel like.
Where to Find French Pastries in Cincinnati
You can enjoy Baudry’s artisan pastries at:
Hyde Park Farmers’ Market (Sundays)
Montgomery Farmers’ Market (Saturdays)
Special local events and pop-ups
baudrybakery.com for updates and pre-orders
Every week’s menu is limited, so we recommend visiting early — especially for croissants and tartlets.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to sweet treats, not all are created equal. French pastries are not just desserts — they’re craftsmanship in edible form. At Baudry Bakery, we celebrate that difference by creating authentic, elegant pastries that honor French technique and tradition.
So the next time you’re searching for “french pastries in Cincinnati”, skip the cupcake counter and come try the real thing — flaky, buttery, balanced, and unforgettable.
Explore the full experience at baudrybakery.com or find us at your neighborhood market.