The essential-and accessible-guide to the science of baking

Baking is as much a science as an art. That's why, in addition to mastering basic techniques and recipes, every baker must also learn about the science that underlies the baking craft. Guided by contemporary baking and pastry research and practice, this new edition of Joseph Amendola's invaluable reference gives readers knowledge that they can apply to their own baking-whether it's selecting the right flour, understanding how different leavening agents work, or learning about using new baking ingredients and additives to enhance favorite recipes. Written in a clear, easy-to-understand style, Understanding Baking is an essential companion for anyone who is serious about baking.

Before a pastry chef can create, he or she must understand the basic science underlying baking. The new edition of this invaluable reference provides this information in a concise and accessible way, guided throughout by contemporary baking and pastry research and practice.

'Acknowledgments.

Preface.

Chapter 1: Wheat and Grain Flours.

Chapter 2:Yeast and Chemical Leaveners.

Chapter 3: Sugar and Other Sweeteners.

Chapter 4: Eggs.

Chapter 5: Fats and Oils.

Chapter 6: Milk and Dairy Products.

Chapter 7: Thickeners: Starches, Gelatin and Gums.

Chapter 8: Chocolate.

Chapter 9: Water.

Chapter 10: Salt.

Chapter 11: The Physics of Heat.

Chapter 12: Bread and Other Yeast-Risen Products.

Chapter 13: Laminates.

Chapter 14: Cake Baking.

Chapter 15: Egg Cookery: Custards, Souffles, Meringues, Buttercream and Pate a Choux.

Chapter 16: Pies and Tarts.

Chapter 17: Cookies.

Chapter 18: Sugar Syrups and Candymaking.

Appendix.

High-Altitude Baking.

Metric Conversions and Other Helpful Information.

Weight-Volume Equivalents for Common Ingredients.

Bibliography.

Index.'