What are vol au vents?

Vol Au Vents are puff pastry shapes that are light and airy and are baked in such a way to leave a cavity in the middle which is ideal for a huge variety of fillings, both savoury and sweet!

Thought to be invented in Paris by the influential chef Antonin Carême, translated literally means “flight of the wind” to describe its lightness. Vol Au Vents can vary in shape and size, from appetiser/snack size (known in France as “Bouchee”) to meal size with the smaller variants being popular in the UK in the 1950s to the 1970s. Vol Au Vents have remained popular due to the versatility, they compliment a huge variety of fillings, from simple quick snack fillings to complicated chef inspired recipes. Although Vol Au Vents weren’t necessarily seen as “in fashion” after the 1980’s a strong following has remained as they are quite simply so versatile and tasty, their popularity has been supressed due to lack of availability and supposed seasonality which is driven by the traditional Christmas buffet.

We are here to change that, we offer our delicious pastry cases all year round, so whether you want to re-live your memories of times gone by, fancy a delicious and flexible snack or have a party to cater for, we can offer the solution for you.