Dinara Kasko: Redefining Pastry with 3D Art

In this episode of Flavors Unknown, host Emmanuel Laroche sits down with Dinara Kasko, the Ukrainian pastry artist who’s revolutionized the world of baking. Combining her architectural background with a passion for pastry, Dinara creates breathtaking edible sculptures using cutting-edge 3D printing techniques. Her unique approach has earned her international acclaim, inspiring bakers and artists alike. Dinara shares her incredible journey—from her memories of traditional desserts growing up in Ukraine to her rise to fame as a 3D pastry pioneer. She opens up about how the war in Ukraine forced her to relocate with her family while continuing to innovate and grow her business. You’ll hear how she finds inspiration, manages her creative process, and uses technology like AI to bring her edible designs to life. What you'll learn from Baker Dinara Kasko Memories of Home: Dinara Kasko reflects on her childhood in Ukraine and the influence of her mom’s cooking. (3:11) Traditional Desserts: Discover the classic sweets that shaped Dinara’s early love for baking. (4:54) Before Pastry: Her career path as an architect and designer before diving into the world of baking. (10:34) First Dessert: The story of the first dessert Dinara Kasko ever made. (7:57) The Transition to Pastry: How she turned baking into a full-time career. (8:54) A Quick Rise to Fame: When Dinara’s innovative work captured global attention. (11:03) Architectural Inspiration: How she merges her design expertise with pastry. (12:42) Her 3D Designs: Behind the scenes of her famous molds and intricate creations. (14:53) Sharing Creativity: How Dinara inspires others through her work. (17:17) Creating Unique Molds: The process of turning inspiration into tangible designs. (18:29) AI in Pastry: How technology is expanding her creative possibilities. (20:06) Workload Management: Balancing creativity with running a business. (22:43) The Impact of War: The challenges of maintaining a business amid conflict. (24:27) Leaving Ukraine: Dinara Kasko's decision to relocate for her family’s safety. (27:13) For the Kids: How her children influence her decisions and creativity. (28:22) Advice for Bakers: Dinara’s tips for those looking to follow in her footsteps. (30:15) Gaining Popularity: Her thoughts on building a brand in the pastry world. (31:09) Current Projects: What Dinara is working on next. (32:10) Where to Shop: Find Dinara’s molds and designs online. (34:44) Rental Challenges: The difficulties of securing space for her work. (35:47) Guilty Pleasures: What makes any food irresistible for Dinara. (37:03) Favorite Ingredients: Her two go-to items in the kitchen. (38:34) Pumpkin Spice Thoughts: Her take on the seasonal craze. (39:37) Do What You Love: Dinara’s advice on pursuing passion and creativity. (41:03) I'd like to share a potential educational resource, "Conversations Behind the Kitchen Door", my new book that features dialogues with accomplished culinary leaders from various backgrounds and cultures. It delves into the future of culinary creativity and the hospitality industry, drawing from insights of a restaurant-industry-focused podcast, ‘flavors unknown”. It includes perspectives from renowned chefs and local professionals, making it a valuable resource for those interested in building a career in the culinary industry. Get the book here! Links to most downloaded episodes (click on any picture to listen to the episode) Chef Sheldon Simeon Chef Andy Doubrava Chef Chris Kajioka Chef Suzanne Goin Social media Baker Dinara Kasko Instagram Social media Dinara Moulds Instagram Links mentioned in this episode Dinara Kasko Moulds SUBSCRIBE TO THE ‘FLAVORS UNKNOWN’ NEWSLETTER