Roland Mesnier was the White House pastry chef for 25 years, serving five presidents.
- Died: August 26, 2022 (Who else died on August 26?)
- Details of death: Died at an assisted living facility in Burke, Virginia of complications from cancer at the age of 78.
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Presidential desserts
A native of France, Mesnier began working as a professional pastry chef as a teen, working in France and West Germany. He was first hired as the White House pastry chef in 1979 by First Lady Rosalynn Carter. While the Carters chose Mesnier for his ability to make healthier modifications to desserts, he was also known for his decadent creations. Mesnier went on to serve as pastry chef under presidents Ronald Reagan (1911–2004), George H.W. Bush (1924–2018), Bill Clinton, and George W. Bush before his retirement in 2004. He was the longest tenured chef ever to work in the White House; during his 25 years there, he created memorable desserts including a gingerbread White House that became an annual holiday tradition. Mesnier was especially known for his spun sugar creations. In 2002, he chaired the U.S. World Pastry Cup team, which became the first and only U.S. team ever to win gold at the event.
Mesnier on his memorable desserts
“President Carter loved my chocolate dome cake covered with dark chocolate and nuts, and on President Reagan’s birthday, he always requested what he called his ‘crunch cake’ with almond meringue with a chocolate and hazelnut filling.” —from a 2015 interview for Erin Bakes
Tributes to Roland Mesnier
Full obituary: The Washington Post
