Claire Saffitz

Claire Saffitz is an American pastry chef, cookbook author, and YouTube personality who rose to fame through her appearances on Bon Appetit’s YouTube channel, particularly the wildly popular series Gourmet Makes. In the series, Saffitz attempted to recreate popular commercial snacks and candies from scratch using gourmet techniques, a concept that resonated with millions of viewers and established her as one of the most beloved figures in online food media.

Saffitz grew up in St. Louis, Missouri, and developed a passion for baking at a young age. She pursued her culinary education rigorously, earning a degree from Harvard University and a pastry degree from the Ecole Gregoire-Ferrandi in Paris. She also holds a master’s degree in French food history and culture from McGill University. Her impressive academic background combined with her technical skill set her apart in the culinary world long before her YouTube fame.

After leaving Bon Appetit in 2020 amid the publication’s workplace controversies, Saffitz launched her own independent YouTube channel, Claire Saffitz x Dessert Person, which has amassed millions of subscribers. She also published her debut cookbook, Dessert Person, in 2020, which became a New York Times bestseller and was widely praised by critics and home bakers alike. Her second cookbook, What’s for Dessert, followed in 2022 and was equally well received.

Saffitz has established herself as one of the most trusted voices in baking and pastry. Her methodical approach to recipe development, combined with her ability to explain complex techniques in accessible terms, has made her a favorite among both amateur and professional bakers. She continues to create content for her YouTube channel, contribute to food publications, and develop new projects in the culinary space.