Cookbooks for bakers

[Gail]

Trying to search for the rum cake on another thread has made me realize what a pitiful selection of baker's references I actually have. Although I've got books on cookies and breads, when it comes to cakes, the cupboard (or bookshelf) is bare! Any suggestions?

[lindrusso]

I received as a gift a book titled "Pies and Tarts" by Carole Walter. I haven't used it much, but it is loaded with information, tips and yummy recipes - a very lovely book. I tried her Lemon Tea Tarts Smothered with Berries and they were delicious.

ANYWAY - I noticed on the jacket cover that she received the James Beard Foundation Best Baking and Dessert Book award for her book called "Great Cakes" - from what I've seen of the pie book, I'll bet this is a good one!

[Beth]

I can recommend Baking with Julia. It may not have the greatest number of recipes, but it's a quality assortment including breads and sweets. I have others that are just cookies, cakes, chocolate, etc. Rose's Christmas Cookies and California Cuinary Academy Cookies are both good. But I also find baking recipes everywhere.....

The Cake Bible is by the same author as Rose's Christmas Cookies. I don't have it, but I have heard good things about it too.

[This message has been edited by Beth (edited 09-16-2000).]

[Mamasue]

Gail,

I have heard good reviews about the Cake Bible by Rose Levy Beranbaum and will be adding this one to my Christmas list.

http://a1204.g.akamai.net/7/1204/1401/00082520011/images.barnesandnoble.com/images/1360000/1367064.gif

[Terri-Lynn2]

Hi Gail,

The Complete Book of Baking by Pillsbury is awesome because it covers so many different areas and they are pretty consistant with their results.

Happy Baking!!

Terri

[JennyLiz]

Ditto on Baking with Julia. I just love to read this one over and over! JennyLiz

[newsomz]

Gail, you might try Maida Heatter's Cakes.. or any of her books for that matter. I have the Cake book and it is excellent. She gives such precice directions it is very, very hard to go wrong. Also, her descriptions at the beginning of each recipe are enough to make anyone's want to bake everyone of her recipes. The Cake book has all sorts of cakes, sweet breads, muffins, gingerbreads and ice creams. I highly recommend it!

Carrie

in fact, i'm making one of her cakes today..

[Vanessa]

Hi Gail!
For cakes I usually use C Light recipes. Now Eating Well dessert Cookbook is pretty good. I also have 365 Great Cakes & pies cookbook & Better Home & Garden-Desserts (cookbook)
Come to think of it I might need to take a look at cake cookbooks soon... http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

[venus]

This is my first time posting on these boards--but they seem great :-)
My favorite baking book is "The Tassajara Bread Book." It's an oldie but goodie. I also like the Betty Crocker cookie book. I don't usually bake alot of cakes--so I'm no help there.

[Gail]

Boy, what an ingrate!

After all you folks were kind enough to offer your suggestions, did I take the time to thank any of you? No.

Shame on me.


Thanks, all. I'll be copying your suggestions down for my next trip to the bookstore and library.

[joanieb]

If you haven't made it to the bookstore yet, the King Arthur 200th Anniversary Cookbook would be an AWESOME addition to your baking collection!