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Michelle Polzine head shot - Bon Appétit

Michelle Polzine

Michelle Polzine is the owner and chef of 20th Century Café. She was nominated for the James Beard 2019 Outstanding Pastry Chef and is the author of Baking at the 20th Century Cafe.

Recipes

Esterházy Schnitten (Hazelnut-­Vanilla Layer Cake)

The variations of this Hungarian cake are endless, but this one is made with ground hazelnuts lightened with meringue.
Recipes

Dobos Torta

This impressive pastry, sometimes spelled Dobos torte, is among the most famous cakes from the Austro-­Hungarian Empire.
Recipes

Hot Butterscotch

This luscious drink gives hot chocolate a run for its money. Really caramelizing the sugar keeps the drink from tasting cloyingly sweet. Add a glug of good rum or skip it as desired.
Recipes

Grated Shortbread Bars With Rose Jam

These delicate jam-filled bar cookies are made with dough that you freeze and then grate into the pan. They have a delightful light and crumbly texture.