FIRST COOKING MEMORY

"Growing up, we had a weekly pizza night, and my brother and I would get to shape the dough, spread the sauce, choose toppings and add cheese to ours. It's a memory I've recreated with my children on our pizza nights."

FAVORITE HOLIDAY RITUAL

"Gathering around the table for a big meal with family. And we have certain

Christmas recipes that get made every year. There's a roast turkey, a bûche de Noël, my mom's special herbed rice and, of course, holiday cookies!"

TOP BAKING

TIP Bake cookies one sheet at a time on the middle rack for the most consistent results. "Ovens also tend to have hot spots towards the top and bottom, so baking your cookies on the middle rack is one way to keep them nice and golden," he says.

MUST-HAVE INGREDIENTS

Cocoa powder, vanilla extract ("it really adds so much flavor"), superfine sugar for making meringues and a variety of flours (all-purpose, almond, bread and whole wheat). Kanell also favors European butter, which is richer and creamier than American butter, thanks to more butterfat.