Fantastical Cakes

In this accessible, fun-to-read resource, accomplished pastry chef Bullock-Prado (Bake It Like You Mean It), owner of the Vermont-based baking school Sugar Glider Kitchen, methodically and clearly outlines the tools, ingredients, and techniques necessary for consistent success in baking cakes. Beginning with pans and other equipment, followed by make-ahead recipes, the author presents different methods of mixing and matching batter before addressing fillings and icings. Gorgeous illustrations of breathtaking cakes, such as royal purple velvet mirror glaze cake, double-barreled wedding cake, and a whimsical take on a Swiss roll are a bonus. VERDICT Bullock-Prado is a thoroughly knowledgeable and extremely fun teacher for readers dreaming of taking their baking to the next level, and who are prepared to apply the time and effort required to do so. Those simply preferring to eat cake will also enjoy flipping through these beautifully illustrated pages.--Courtney McDonald, Univ. of Colorado Boulder Lib.