Cakes are the edible symbol of life's celebrations, and this comprehensive resource is a celebration of cakes and the love and artistry that go into making them. Tish Boyle, the award-winning author and editor of Chocolatier and Pastry Art &Design magazines, unlocks the secrets to baking great cakes, with nearly 200 irresistible recipes and practical guidance on ingredients, equipment, and techniques.

The Cake Book includes recipes rangingfrom pound cakes and coffee cakes tomeringue, mousse, and ice cream cakes to fillings, frostings, and more. Throughout, color and black-and-white photographs and drawings show you important techniques and spectacular end results. A difficulty rating with each recipe helps you decide which to make, depending on how much time—or ambition—you have. You'll find recipes for traditional favorites, like Deeply Dark Devil's Food Cake and Apple Cake with Maple Frosting, as well as intriguing variations, such as Jasmine and Ginger Plum Upside-Down Cake, Hazelnut Vanilla Cheesecake, and White Chocolate Strawberry Meringue Cake.

Complete with decorating tips and techniques, a troubleshooting table, and a comprehen?sive listing of sources to help you find the best equipment and ingredients, this book is an essential reference you'll always turn to, whether you're new to cake baking or are an accomplished pastry chef looking for fresh ideas, inspiration, and recipes. From simple cakes for everyday get-togethers to layered creations befitting special occasions, The Cake Book will help you bake the perfect cake every time.

"There's something magical about the process of makinga cake from scratch, a process that transforms a few simple ingredients—butter, sugar, flour, and eggs—into culinary artistry."

—Tish Boyle

Tish Boyleis editor in chief of Chocolatier and Pastry Art & Designmagazines. A graduate of Smith College and La Varenne Ecole de Cuisine in Paris, she has been a caterer, pastry chef, and food stylist. She is the author of The Good Cookie and Diner Desserts, and coauthor of Simply Sensational Desserts(IACP Award Winner), Chocolate Passion, and the Grand Finalesseries of books.

Acknowledgments.

1. Introduction.

2. Ingredients for Cakes.

3. Cake-Baking Equipment.

4. Cake-Making Techniques, Tips, and Troubleshooting.

5. Cake Decor.

6. Angel Food, Chiffon, and Sponge Cakes.

7. Pound Cakes and Coffee Cakes.

8. Butter- and Oil-Based Cakes.

9. Fruit-Based Cakes.

10. Flourless Cakes.

11. Cheesecakes.

12. Mousse and Ice Cream Cakes.

13. Meringue Cakes.

14. Fillings and Frostings.

15. Basic Recipes and Accompaniments.

16. Sources.

Index.