How to make one of the best vanilla slices in the state

The vanilla slice is an Aussie icon, so what goes into making the best? The chef behind one of the top 5 in Queensland shares his tips and tricks and why you have to try this version.

• Last days to vote: Qld’s 100 best places to eat

What goes into making one of the best vanilla slices in the state?

Top-notch ingredients and a whole lot of passion, if you ask the pastry team at Rise Bakery in Brisbane’s Hamilton and Sanctuary Cove on the Gold Coast.

The patisserie’s multi-layered custard creation has been named one of the top five vanilla slices in Queensland in this year’s delicious. 100 Best of the Best.

The list of eats and treats was compiled by nominations from the public, chefs, foodies and food writers, with Rise’s French-style mille feuille topping the table, alongside sweets from Brisbane venues Christian Jacques Bakery and Flour and Chocolate, Redcliffe favourite Preece’s at the Jetty, and The Wonky Loaf on the Sunshine Coast.

Adrien Marcinowski and Maxime Bournazel with vanilla slices at their Rise Bakery in Hamilton. Picture: Lyndon Mechielsen

“Maxime (Bournazel) and I make our mille feuille fresh daily,” said Rise Bakery chef-owner Adrien Marcinowski.

“Every element is handmade from scratch, from our pastry made using French butter to our crème pat, which uses real vanilla beans sourced from Papua New Guinea.”

Mr Marcinowski who trained in pastry in France said the signature ingredient of his vanilla slice was the bitter orange liqueur Grand Marnier, which is mixed into the crème pat to give a subtle citrus flavour.

“We only use the finest ingredients in our mille feuille and all our dishes, from the French butter that’s the essence of our viennoiseries and pastries to local ingredients wherever possible, which can offer superior quality while supporting local businesses,” he said.

But whether Rise’s vanilla slice is the best in Queensland is now up to you?

We’re asking readers to vote for their favourite from our top five at delicious100.com.au, with the winner to be announced at the end of the week.

Readers can also vote in the 19 other categories, including best pies, fish and chips, doughnuts and burgers.