A Culinary Collaboration with Chef Jessica Castañeda and Central Market

At Texas Olive Ranch, we believe in the power of collaboration and the magic that happens when passionate food lovers come together. Today, we are thrilled to spotlight a unique partnership between the talented Chef Jessica Castañeda and Central Market, bringing you a delicious food haul featuring intentional and sustainable ingredients. Join us as we explore Chef Jessica's culinary journey and her exquisite recipe showcasing Texas Olive Ranch olive oil's rich, sacred, simplistic flavors.

Growing up in Fort Worth, Texas, Chef Jessica Castañeda's love for cooking began early. "I grew up in the kitchen with my grandma and parents, consistently cooking delicious food," she recalls. Even as a little girl, she knew making and baking would become her lifelong passion.

Her culinary journey took off when she landed a prep job at a cafe & bakery that made everything from scratch while still in high school. This experience deepened her love for food and inspired her to pursue culinary school. Gaining knowledge and honing her skills allowed her to elevate her love language of cooking for others. "Food changed my perspective on how I show up to feed others," she says.

Over the years, Chef Jessica has worked in many positions throughout the food and beverage industry, eventually becoming an Executive Chef in Dallas at the young age of 27. Grateful for every learning experience along the way, she gathered up her toolbox and started her own cottage baking business, bringing thoughtfully crafted food, desserts, and beverages to her culinary curious community.

Chef Jessica's food haul at Central Market features a list of intentional and sustainable ingredients for her signature cakes. Highlighting the rich and robust flavors of Texas Olive Ranch olive oil, her recipe includes:

- Texas Olive Ranch Olive Oil: Known for its smooth, fruity flavor and high quality.

- Vanilla Chiffon: A light and airy cake base.

- Strawberry Balsamic Jam: A sweet and tangy spread made with fresh strawberries and balsamic vinegar.

- Strawberry French Buttercream: A rich and creamy frosting with a hint of strawberry flavor.

- Baking Essentials: Flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, eggs, butter or oil, milk or water, and desired flavorings such as vanilla extract.

A Taste of Chef Jessica's Creations

Chef Jessica’s passion for creating delicious, thoughtful food is evident in every bite of her cakes. The combination of Texas Olive Ranch olive oil and other high-quality ingredients from Central Market ensures a delectable experience you won't forget. Here's a sneak peek at her recipe for a Strawberry Vanilla Chiffon Cake.

Strawberry Vanilla Chiffon Cake Recipe:

Ingredients:

- 2 1/4 cups cake flour

- 1 1/2 cups sugar

- 1 tablespoon of baking powder

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- 1/2 cup Texas Olive Ranch olive oil

- 5 large eggs, separated

- 3/4 cup milk

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

- 1 cup strawberry balsamic jam

- 1 batch of strawberry French buttercream

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F—grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Combine the cake flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl.
3. whisk the Texas Olive Ranch olive oil, egg yolks, milk, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until smooth.
5. In another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the batter.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes clean.
7. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Once cooled, spread a layer of strawberry balsamic jam over the top of one cake layer. Top with a layer of strawberry French buttercream.
9. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the cake with the remaining buttercream.

Enjoy your beautifully crafted Strawberry Vanilla Chiffon Cake!

As you recreate  Chef's Jessica delicious Strawberry Vanilla Chiffon Cake, remember the passion and dedication that goes into every step of the culinary journey. Thank you for being a part of this exciting food haul, and stay tuned for more delicious recipes and collaborations!

Stay connected with Chef Jessica and follow @chefjessbakes for all her
culinary adventures as she brings thoughtfully crafted food to her community.