Product Description
The wedding market is a $32 billion business. Experts say that brides-to-be generally buy every book and magazine they can get their hands on when planning a wedding, and yet, remarkably, The Wedding Cake Book is the first cookbook of its kind -- a gorgeous idea book that really shows you how to bake a beautiful wedding cake. There are 30 complete recipes in all, with detailed, step-by-step instructions. A one-of-a-kind resource, with gorgeous photography throughout, The Wedding Cake Book is sure to become a classic cookbook among bakers, and makes the perfect shower gift.Amazon.com Review
Although the wedding cake is usually one of the last detailsengaged couples settle on before the big day, it's just as importantfor setting the tone and style of the celebration as the flowers orthe invitations. An elegant, towering Croquembouchestudded with golden almonds and wrapped in clouds of spun sugar sendsa different message than a rich-looking GiandujaTruffle Cake decorated with fresh fruit and dusted with goldpowder or a WhiteChocolate Satin Apricot Cake adorned with flowers (click to seephotos). Chef Dede Wilson believes that wedding cakes should beaesthetically pleasing, but above all should "reflect the tastes,beliefs, and desires of the bridal couple." With the aim of creatingcakes that taste as good as they look, Wilson lends her expertise andcreative spirit to the marvelous constructions in The Wedding CakeBook.

As much a cookbook as a source of inspiration, TheWedding Cake Book takes bakers--novices and experts alike--step bystep through the process of conceptualizing, baking, assembling, anddecorating wedding cakes of all levels of difficulty. Each recipe pageincludes the components needed to make the pictured cake (layers,fillings, decorating accouterments, equipment); the number ofservings; the level of difficulty (easier, moderate, or complex); andthe recipe and preparation instructions. Other chapters coverfinishing touches, cake accompaniments such as sauces and fillings,equipment, and resources for special ingredients or professionalequipment. Bakers looking for detailed instructions and deliciousrecipes and brides seeking ideas for the perfect cake for theirpostnuptial celebration will find what they're after in The WeddingCake Book. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (54)

Can't go wrong with this book, especially for the first time wedding-cake baker.
I have a fair amount of food service experience but I had never made a wedding cake before.Based on reviews on Amazon, I thought this would be the best resource for me.I was extremely satisfied with this book.The instructions have appropriate detail and are easy to follow.The photos provide lots of ideas for presentation and decoration.If I have one criticism, it is that I would have liked to see more instruction about how to make decorations in butter cream - roses and the like.

I made three tiers and presented them on a floating tray.This enabled me to try many of the recipes in the book.I made a groom cake with the chocolate sour cream cake with ganache frosting and blackberry curd filling.For the bride cake I made the basic white cake with lemon curd and lemon butter cream frosting.And for the bride's young daughter, the smallest tier with the raspberry butter cream variation.I adjusted the recipes for altitude and they came out perfectly.The butter cream recipe is a revelation - it tastes nothing like that nasty confectioner's sugar-based concoction one normally encounters.And yes, you really can reconstitute it after it's been frozen - just be patient!

Dede's recommendations for specialized equipment were also extremely helpful (get the magi-strips, also available on Amazon, they are so worth it).The cakes looked very professional and tasted great.I look forward to trying out more recipes from this book.

Great recipes and instructions!
This book is fantastic! I used this, along with Dede's Wedding Cakes You Can Make to make my brother's wedding cake. My sister-in-law made my wedding cake using these books as well and neither of us have any formal training in cooking/baking. We tried out 4 of the cakes in this book and used variations of 2 of the recipes for the bridal shower, rehearsal dinner, and wedding cake which all got rave reviews from their guests!

The only thing I thought this book was missing that I found useful in Wedding Cakes You Can Make was a chart on amounts of frostings, syrups, fillings needed for each size cake.The Wedding Cake Book has a list of amounts needed for full cakes with certain size tiers, but not for each tier size. I found myself referencing the other book for that info many times.Between these 2 books, I definitely recommend Wedding Cakes You Can Make for beginners.The Wedding Cake Book is easy enough to be followed by beginners, but doesn't include as much instruction on how to plan/construct/decorate/transport a wedding cake. It has some traditional recipes, but also offers more unique recipe options with some unusual flavors.

Note: if you make the Lemon Buttermilk Cake, it came out super tall when I baked it, muffining out of the 6" pans.I ended up using 2/3 the recipe when I made the final cake.

Excellent Wedding Cake Resource
I bought this book several years ago for a friend's wedding and have been using it ever since.I consider myself a hobbyist baker; some training and experience, but nowhere near professional.I have made several wedding cakes for family members and close friends.This book offers a variety of exceptional icing, cake, and filling recipes.While certain cake combinations are recommended and demonstrated, the reader is encourage to mix and match flavors and decorating styles to meet their individual needs.The recommended icing is fantastic; a bit challenging to make at first, but delicious, flexible, and so easy to work with!I have several "wedding cake" books at my disposal, but this one consistently holds the recipe and/or style chosen by the bride.A close runner up (and a better book for beginners) is Wedding Cakes You Can Make: Designing, Baking, and Decorating the Perfect Wedding Cake, also by Dede Wilson.

Perhaps my only criticism of this book is that it overwhelming features round cakes; it does give some recommendations for converting to square cakes, but with the variety of other pan shapes out there, it would be nice to have a little further guidance from this otherwise comprehensive resource.

Overall, if you are looking for pictures of cakes, this is not the book for you (an internet search engine will turn up far more images).If you are looking for delicious, easily adaptable and easy to follow recipes, this is a must have.

The Wedding Cake Book
Jonathan's service is great.good book, arrived a little slowly but due to Christmas mail.

Too many words
Of Dede Wilson's books, this is not my favorite.Truthfully, I'm just not inclined to read this book because there are so few pictures and so many words, and I don't want to read when I'm itching to get baking.I more frequently use Dede Wilson's Wedding Cakes You Can Make.When I can be bothered to read this book, there is some good information, such as the serving size info which is valuable.Some of the recipes are a bit far out which I don't have much call for, so I would say this book might not be best for your first wedding cake book, but might be an OK addition if you already have a couple of cake books. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (8)

Glamour Cakes
This book has great step by step photos and directions for all the cakes featured.Some of the cakes are a bit ambitious but that is why you buy instructional books, to increase your knowledge and to push you to try new things.

gorgeous book
This book is the perfect gift or coffee table book...I can not stop reading it and the recipes are unique and different. Not to mention that Eric Lanlard has to be the most handsome pastry genius going today.BUY THIS BOOK.

Very inspirational!
I was looking for some ideas for my mother's birthday cake when I came across this book. Having not attended any celebrity birthdays, I was unaware of how ornamental cakes had become.While most of the techniques appear intimidating at first, the step by step instructions are very helpful.I believe that with some basic background and a lot of patience, most people should be able to create the cakes in the book. The photographs of the various cakes have opened my eyes to what is possible in the way of cake decorating.I look forward to my first attempt next week.

Lanlard Delights the Tastebuds and the Eyes!
I must say I disagree with the last review about "imperfect" and "not creative" I find it to be not accurate on many levels.
On my last visit to London, I stopped by the shop of Eric Lanlard,and was thrilled to taste some of his fabulous delectable cakes! Not only is he oneof the most talented in today's scene, he is a pleasure in an industry where so often the ego precedes the talent. With that being said, I was thrilled to see a book by such an amazing patissiere and now I too am able to create my own innovative "Lanlard Inspired" delights for my friends and family!! I found difficult techniques easy to follow here also!
I've even started doing some baking for caterers now, which has enhanced my income, during a difficult time in our economy! If he good enough for Madonna, he's good enough for me. Thank you for a book I don't want on the shelf. It's even "perfect" enough to keep out, so I bought 2! (One is for the coffee table)
Cheers Eric! Simply Gorgeous!!!

Pretty cakes, but not the best choice for inspiration
Glamour Cakes, although full of "pretty" cakes, doesn't offer any new inspiration. The techniques used by this cake designer are the same as those currently being employed by many of the top designers in the industry.I was disappointed at the lack of innovation.I would still be pleased to have this book on my shelf, except that many of the "details" on the photographed cakes were not executed as cleanly/perfectly as they should have been.I found these imperfections to be very distracting. ... Read more

Product Description
What could be better than a phenomenon? The return of a phenomenon. Ten years ago Anne Byrn's The Cake Mix Doctor began its extraordinary run as one of the most popular baking books of all time. Now Anne Byrn is back with the all-new Cake Mix Doctor Returns! From the beloved author who showed home bakers how adding a touch of sweet butter or a dusting of cocoa powder, a dollop of vanilla yogurt or flurry of grated lemon zest could transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. Here are 160 brand-new recipes—that’s right, 160 amazing cake mix recipes—for luscious layer cakes, sheet cakes, brownies, bars, cookies, and more.

And the book is needed more than ever. Today 90 percent of home cooks use prepackaged mixes, while the economy is creating a perfect excuse to let them eat cake—cake equals happiness. And what cakes! 40 layer cakes, from Tiramisu Cake to The Best Red Velvet Cake, Strawberry Refrigerator Cake to Chocolate Swirled Cannoli Cake. 35 sheet cakes. 38 bundt and pound cakes. 16 cupcakes and muffins, plus the cult classic Whoopie Pie. And brownies, bars, and cookies, including Spice Drop Cookies, Angel Food Macaroons, and Chocolate Espresso Biscotti. There's even a wedding cake, a frequent request from the author's passionate online community.

The Cake Mix Doctor is back—just say ahhhhh!
... Read more

Customer Reviews (36)

LOVE IT
I loved the first book she wrote!This was even better.I can't believe how easy it is to just add a few extra ingredients and people think the cake is completely made from scratch!I have them all fooled,that it takes hours to bake these cakes and it doesn't take any extra time at all.

great book for a dessert lover
I have the original Cake-Mix Doctor and when I saw this at the library I checked it out.There were so many recipes I wanted to try that I just had to buy it for myself!There is a huge variety of recipes--not just cakes--and I love the background stories and extra tips that Byrn gives with each one.

Wonderful Cookbook !
The Cake Mix Doctor ReturnsThe Cake Mix Doctor Returns!: With 160 All-New Recipes
I got a copy of The Cake Mix Doctor Returns from our local library and reallyenjoyed the recipes... I rarely buy any cookbook now that recipes are so easy to find on the internet. I was so impressed these fantastic recipes could be on my bookshelf that I decided this was a cookbook I would love to own !!!

Just as Great
This book is just a great if not better than the original Cake Mix Doctor book.Like the original, it is a perfect template to let your creative spirit run wild making flavor and nutritional substitutions to suit your needs.Lots of new information from countless trials and errors make this book very useful to have.A must own!

Duplicative
I decided to get this from the library before purchasing to be sure that it met my needs/expectations.Sadly, there is much duplication and truly not enough "new" to make it worth purchasing if you already have the original Cake Doctor and the Chocolate Cake Doctor.If you just want the entire series and don't mind having only a very few new recipes it is fine. If you don't have either of the first two and are looking for a book using cake mixes it is worth purchasing....you just don't need all three. ... Read more

Product Description
Everything you need to create stunning cake decorations

Cake decorating is an art with specific skills that must be studied and practiced before they can be mastered. Professional Cake Decorating is the first guidebook, reference, and at-your-fingertips resource to the special methods and techniques unique to cake decorating.

Professional Cake Decorating is:

• a comprehensive set of lessons designed to teach the skills needed in cake decorating, including basic, intermediate, and advanced piping skills; hand modeling; and gumpaste flowers
• a powerful tool for making dramatic improvements in the overall look and design of cakes
• a valuable training handbook and resource for bakers and decorators
• a comprehensive reference of successful professional skill sets

Using more than 200 step-by-step and finished cake color photographs, as well as over 125 illustrations, this highly visual book covers a wealth of techniques for cake borders, piped flowers, cake writing and piping, royal icing designs, marzipan fruits and figurines, rolled icing, floral patterns, petit fours, gumpaste floral art and design, and much more. Thorough coverage also includes such foundation skills as making shells, rosettes, reverse shells, zigzags, fleur-de-lis, rope, garlands, scrolls, rosebuds, and other confectionary designs.

Complete with more than three dozen tried-and-tested recipes, Professional Cake Decorating is the only book that places the rewards of thirty years of training, traveling, teaching, and private practice in your hands! It is a must-have for today's bakers, cake decorators, specialty shop owners, and independent cake designers. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (29)

Very pleased
I'm very pleased with their shipping speed. I received my book in two days.The book was in an ok condition it had a frayed egde, but that's ok. You get what u pay.

great book
I found this a very informative book full of photos and easy to read directions. I was pleasantly surprised on how much information was in this book. I would recomend it.

Amazing Lady...
Toba just knows to perfection how to explain step by step to people from around the globe, she gives you all types of measurements and explanations, leaving you without a doubt and wanting to go ahead and work just like her.
Her work is so wonderful, her recipes are the best and the pictures are stunning. Every single time that I want to bake and decorate something really nice, I do it with her books aside.

The Best Teacher there is.
I am a self taught decorator and baker.4 years ago, I decided to take my skills to the next level and worked my way through this book....chapter by chapter....assignment by assignment...taking care not to move on until my work would "pass."Ms. Garrett's book took my own work from being "very good" to excellent.My work has gone from a "hobby" to a career....and I have her to thank for it!I am looking forward to working through her Professional Wedding cakes book.

By far my most treasured cake decorating resource!
I have several books in my collection- most of them pastry/baking books. I will say that this isn't a book for everyday use exactly. I consider this to be more of a professional learning resource. I have taken culinary courses, and I hold a certificate in Baking & Pastry, and I recently finished with my degree in Baking & Pastry. The courses that were offered at my school weren't focused on cake decorating, although I certainly wish that they were. I actually am going to pay a visit to my school and my past Pastry Chef instructor- and I'm bringing this book. It is definitely textbook quality, and it reads exactly like that. I think my Chef instructor will actually consider teaching a course, based on this textbook. Whether or not the school will fund it, is another matter! But that's a whole different topic....

Not all of the skills in this text are foreign to me of course. But I am so excited to get started with these lessons, as I intend to go through the text as if I were actually taking a class, with Toba Garrett. =) I have already used a few of the recipes for buttercream, with excellent results. I have also tried the recipe for modeling chocolate, and completed my first lesson- the chocolate rose. I'm not exactly starting from the beginning of the book with my lessons. ;P I was very pleased with the instructions, recipe and results. The photos that accompany the lessons are incredibly useful. The lessons themselves, are very detailed, step by step instructions. I am very eager to try out many of the recipes, and so glad that I finally have all of my favorites in one book! Not many "cookbooks" have curd recipes, much less pineapple. And as I mentioned the buttercream recipes- awesome. Another thing that I LOVE- The yield is given for every recipe. Well, I could go on and on about what I love about this book- there really isn't anything that I DON'T love!

If you are looking for something to reference everyday, or something that reads easy and has lots of photos, this probably isn't worth the investment. However if you are like me, an aspiring pastry chef, cake artist, and are in this field or are wanting further instruction- this is one awesome reference. As for the price- I justified it by telling myself that ONE culinary course + supplies FAR exceed the $60 price tag. ... Read more

Product Description
Take your cake decorating skills to the next level with this fantastic collection of fun and stylish minicakes ? ideal for beginner sugarcrafters or cupcake experts alike. Over 25 creative minicake designs to suit a wide range of occasions, from nursery bricks and wedding bouquets to funky flowers, cheeky chimps and fairytale castles. With expert sugarcrafting tips and techniques presented in an easy-to-follow step by step format. ... Read more

Product Description
"Create over 40 simple yet incredibly stylish cakes for every occasion, from weddings and anniversaries, to birthdays, christenings and Christmas.

Discover a variety of irresistible cake designs in all colors, shapes and sizes.Includes a wide selection of sweet cupcakes and gorgeous minicakes to make when time is short.

Explore a wide variety of quick and easy sugarcrafting techniques.Beginner and intermediate sugarcrafters will complete the projects with ease, while discovering professional sugarcrafting tricks.

Easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions, simple recipes, and beautiful photography ensure mouthwatering results.Clever packaging ideas are also included to make your cakes look even more desirable." ... Read more

Customer Reviews (15)

Too much fondant
Almost every cake in this book requires the use of fondant (sugarpaste) icing. I don't care for fondant--it looks good but doesn't taste good, in my opinion. I would like to have known that beforehand--I would not have bought it if I'd known.

Disappointed
This book was not what I wanted. On the cover it says you can make 40 cakes, but the cakes here repeat in different colors. I wanted my cakes to be 100% edible so adding the ribbon and jewles is not for me. The cakes look nice and I do like the ideas of the finished product.

My Favorite Cake Book So Far
I have purchased quite a number of Cake decorating Books, for ideas and recipes as well as technique ideas.
This book is by far my favorite. It has wonderful illustrations and easy to understand instructions.
I love the fact that it also gives you ideas for the main cake and then smaller versions with miniature ckes or cupcakes.
Totally Worth It!

Highly recommend this book!
This book is perfect for beginners and intermediate cake decorators who enjoy learning new tips and tricks. The step by step photos and instructions are clear and easy to follow. Not only will you learn a thing or two but it will also give you some great ideas and inspire you to take your cakes to the next level!

Great Book
I love this book.I worked in a bakery while in graduate school and picked up a few things.Have started doing cakes from home and this is the first cake book I have bought.It is easy to understand while I am not quite new at cake making, making cakes by yourself at home is different than in a bakery, but with this book it seemed less intimidating. The pictures are clear and the instructions and variations are also wonderful.I already made a cake from the book and it was a big hit a a party for a group of 14 year old girls!! Would buy other books from this author! ... Read more

Product Description
Elisa Strauss of Confetti Cakes has created confections as elaborate as a platter of sushi, a wine bottle in a crate, and a designer handbag. Now she focuses her talents on her younger fans with this enchanting collection of cakes, cookies, and cupcakes for kids. Strauss starts readers off with 20 delicious recipes and all the basic techniques needed to complete any project in the book. Then she offers step-by-step instructions for 24 jaw-dropping designs that can become the centerpiece of any celebration. Projects span the imagination--from a charming sock monkey, to an MP3 player, to playful hula gingerbread girls and boys--and will appeal to anyone looking for the perfect way to thrill a child with a delectable, spectacular creation. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (32)

for the kids in me
i'm so excited when i receive the book, the instructions are clear.
also there's drawings to show how the cake is constructed.
i want to make the monster cake just for me on my birthday (selfish me).
i just wish there's a step-by-step picture, because i'm new in cake decorating so sometimes i'm just not sure
but i really love the book

Not so easy i think
Lots of good ideas, and wonderful cakes.But as for a beginner like me, i don't think i'll be able to do any of the cakes.This book has lots of great pictures but not too clear on HOW to instrutions.

Book of best value for money
Elisa Strauss has dazzled me again!She is undeniably talented.Her first book is also a keeper.I prefer her books to Sylvia Weinstock's two books.Her Red Velvet Cake recipe is too die for!I cannot wait to make these cakes for my kids.

Great instructional cake book.
This book is very informative.The examples and instructions are fantastic.
Highly recommend this book.

HOW FUN!!
Had so much fun with this book!!Everything is explained and easy to understand!The recipes can stand on their own feet!! This is a great book for anyone who wants step by step instructions and some foot notes!!Great buy! ... Read more

Product Description
Celebrate special moments such as weddings, anniversaries, Christenings and birthdays with a cake as memorable as the occasion.

Well-known novelty cake designer Lindy Smith offers a comprehensive guide to making a range of beautiful celebration cakes, and guides the reader step by step from baking and carving to icing and adding special finishing touches.

A clear techniques section introduces the wide range of equipment available to today's cake maker, and explains how to make sponge, fruitcake, fondant, buttercream and other recipes required. The 15 projects have easy-to-follow illustrated steps revealing how to create and decorate the cakes. Handy tips for short-cuts and creative variation ideas throughout allow you to tailor each cake to your timescale and taste, resulting in bespoke cakes for any occasion. Handy templates and cutting guides are provided to ensure professional results every time. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (19)

cambio de dirección
Hice un cambio de dirección, los envían productos aquí:

YANETH RIVERO
2012 McElderry ST
BALTIMORE, Maryland 21205-2215
De los Estados Unidos
Teléfono: 4107328701

What a Great Purchase
I loved the book. The ideas are very good and the details on how to make the cakes are very well explained and with nice photos. Lindy Smith is a very creative cake designer indeed.
Taking the opportunity, "look inside the book" approach assures me that the book will meet my expectation.

Wonderful book.
I am having so much fun creating great cakes and my family are are so pleased with the end result of my work.East book to follow.

Cake Decorating
Book was okay.The directions/instructions for creating the cake designs were pretty straightforward and easy to follow.

Celebrate with a cake
Service was great!!!! Was glad to find it on Amazon for I have a person who has it on her Christmas list. ... Read more

Product Description
If you're planning a party and pressed for time, look no further! This collection of striking yet simple cake designs is guaranteed to provide the solution. These eye-catching cakes are surprisingly easy to make. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (33)

Great book!
Every cake in this book is full of wonderful ideas. The instructions are a little vague, but it does have a few sample pictures that help. I don't believe it would help someone just beginning in cake decorating, but if you have any experience it is easy to figure out with the instructions given. Absolutely adorable cakes.

cute book
Very cute book. Lots of colorful cakes but definitely for very young children. Don't know that i'd recommend it for a beginner either.

confusing directions
This book is good for the pictures and ideas.It gives you specific directions on how to make the fondant or 'sugar paste' into the object or character for the cake you choose.But...it is European so we can't find some of the ingredients they ask for.Also, the cake that the recipe in the book makes doesn't taste good at all!

Finally something new!
I have been decorating caked for over 40 years so I find it hard to think up new designs. It was great to see so many originalyet not difficult decorating ideas.

50 Easy Party Cakes---for young children
I enjoy Debbie Brown's cakes and looked forward to obtaining this one.It has a lot of whimsical cakes but I was a little disappointed.Most of the cakes are for very young children and I had hoped for more cakes that could be used for any age.That said, the cakes in this book are a bit easier than in some of her other books.Anyone with a little knowledge of fondant should be able to easily make them.They are all in fondant so if you do not like to work with it I would not recommend this book.As usual, the instructions are generally clear and with sufficient pictures.Although I was disappointed, it was solely because of the age factor.It is an excellent book and, if you are looking for a lot of great ideas for cakes for young children, I would highly recommend it.The star off is solely for not making it clearer that it is a book for young children. ... Read more

Product Description

A slice of rich, moist cake is irresistible. From a tart, sweet lemon sponge or airy angel food cake to a decadent chocolate torte, there is a cake to satisfy every craving. Whether you are searching for a special cake to establish a birthday tradition or are simply looking for a sweet ending to an everyday meal, there are cakes to fit any occasion.

Williams-Sonoma Collection Cake offers more than 35 tantalizing recipes, including updated classics as well as fresh new ideas. For elegant entertaining, make an impressive Rolled Chestnut Cream Cake before your guests arrive, then relax and enjoy the party. When time is short, keep it simple with easy Chocolate-Orange Cupcakes or Espresso Pound Cake. The many delicious recipes inside these pages will inspire you to tempt and dazzle friends and family alike. A chapter devoted to deorating ideas will help you transform any cake into a work of art.

Full-color photographs of each recipe help you easily decide which cake you want to preapare, and photographic side notes throughout the book highlight key techniques and ingredients. In addition, an informative basics section, with tips for both beginning and experienced bakers, makes this book the ideal source to have on hand for creating the perfect cake. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Fabulous Cakes
I've made three cakes from this book; chocolate, birthday cake, and the orange chiffon cake.All three were wonderful, moist, and tender cakes.I was surprised that the author said to cut parchment to fit the bottom but there was no butter-and-flour the pan.I was suspicious but she was right. The Williams-Sonoma are such dependable cookbooks and I am looking forward to making more of Fran Gage's recipes.

Good
There are pictures of all the recipes, so you can tell if it came out right.

Delicious cakes
I've made several recipes from this book.

The yoghurt cake, the gateaux bisque, the spice cake, the chocolate hazelnut cake, the almond flour cake... they've all turned out delicious!

The recipes are definitely go-tos. Nothing is "healthy". Everything uses sugar, butter and white flour. But I've played around replacing whole wheat flour and cutting the sugar in half and I've never really gotten something inedible out of the experience. All in all this is the first book I go to when I need a delicious, simple cake I know will turn out great.

There are pictures of every single recipe. The book, like all of Williams-Sonoma's books, is well laid out, well explained, straight to the point. I love it.

Disappointing
I returned the book to Williams-Sonoma after I attempted 3 recipes with disappointing results.I wonder how many of the recipes were actually tested in the kitchen.

Excellent Recipes and Good Reference
I have a few of the books in this series.The Cake and Ice Cream books are my favorites.The recipes are outstanding -- well-written and produce great results.The sidebars provide invaluable tips.If you enjoy the science behind cooking -- ala America's Test Kitchen/Cooks Illustrated and Alton Brown, you will enjoy the books in this series.WS, unlike Cooks Illustrated, presents just the winning method.

There is a good range of recipes -- simple birthday and carrot cakes to a very elegant rolled chestnut cream cake.There's enough variety within the recipes so that the user can find a cake for any occassion.The cake basics section is a nice, but short reference section.

This book represents a nice collection of recipies and good reference information -- it's a nice addition to the kitchen library.I know WS just introduced its Mastering series of books, including one on cakes.Those books are intended to be "a cooking class in a book" and break down the basics of cake making for true novices or those who have ploblems getting their cakes to turn out right.For more advanced techniques and/or all the science behind cakes, try The Cake Bible. ... Read more

Product Description
Mich Turner is London’s top cake designer for society and celebrities alike. She has refined a simple and modular approach—start with a dozen basic recipes and let the icing, glazes, and finishing touches be the key to perfecting the design.Here, she focuses on the wedding cake and offers inspiration and guidance to brides-to-be as well as to caterers, chefs, and wedding planners.The cutting of the cake is one of the most cherished memories of any wedding. This portfolio of Mich Turner’s stunning cake designs is organized thematically, from simple sunny cakes redolent of a springtime garden wedding to opulent more autumnalchocolate multi-tiered sculptural cakes.Mich also shows how to present the cake to create drama and a real sense of occasion, including advice on every detail, from the type of tablecloth to use and how best to display candles, flowers, and ribbon. Mich Turner’s wedding cakes are regularly featured in Brides, Vogue, and Harper’s Bazaar, and this book amply demonstrates how to achieve perfection. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

Wedding Cakes
This is a good book with different variants of cake design.
The content is very similar to other editions of the author.
Would be good to see edition with varieties of author's favourite dots and baroque designs.

Elegance Itself in Cake Design
After wearing out my copy of "Spectacular Cakes" over the last five years, I was thrilled to come across this book of "Wedding Cakes" by Mich Turner.

If you are a bride, this book will give you a variety of truly elegant, classic and contemporary designs to choose your dream wedding cake.

If you are an advanced level decorator, comfortable working with fondant, mini cakes, multiple stacking techniques and a variety of mediums (such as chocolate plastique and gum paste), this book will be a treasured addition to your collection.

The styles come from a variety of inspirations, noticably Chanel and fabrics (shoes, jackets, etc).

The author includes in this book the diamond wedding design used to celebrate a royal diamond anniversary. Amazing!

The photography is impeccable and beautiful.

At the end of the book are simple instructions and recipes (for things like Chocolate Plastique, Chocolate Truffle Torte cake and Royal Icing). The book also includes templates for etching your cake sides.

Highly recommended. I love it!

This is a keeper
I am very happy to recommend this book to wedding cake decorators for these reasons...

I first purchased Mich Turners "Spectacular Cakes" and loved that book. So I was really looking forward to see her next work. It has been one of my go-to books for recipes and designs. Although this Wedding Cakes has similar receipes as the Spectacular Cakes book, the cakes featured in her new book are absolutely elegant and gorgeous! If your clients are not in the off the wall type of cake for her wedding, this would be an ideal book to show cakes that are eye-catching and very simple to do.

By the way, her carrot cake is out of this world!! Perfect for a wedding cake, it has that little zing!

Wedding Cakes
I bought this book as a gift for my daughter.She found it interesting and a great reference book.

BEAUTIFUL BOOK
I purchased this book as a part of my continuing ed budget for the year, and I LOVE it! This is a book I can show my brides, and every cake will fit one of them. Some wedding cake books are so out there that I don't even show them to brides, but this one is elegant and well put together. Mich Turner is my new fave decorator! ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (16)

really fun
thought this was a fun book with great ideas. waiting for the opportunity to make one of the designs. Especially like the pole dancer cake.

Flowers
As always I love all of Debbie Browns books, this one is no exception.All here books are top of the line in pictures and instruction.She alway does a great job on giving you something to inspire.Will always buy any book she comes out with!

Excellent
I have not used the book yet.But, i'm looking forward to making a cake that will make people laugh!

Fun cook book with creative party ideas
Creative ideas for party cakes. You will have to work to create these cakes, but its worth it. Recipies are good. Sculpting details are great. Bought both books in the series. Author has more creative cook books.

Naughty Cakes
This book is so much fun. It's naughty but in such a lighthearted fun way. I've tried a couple of the ideas and they were easy and so I had a great time making them. Can't wait to try them all. ... Read more

Product Description
This quirky collection of celebration cakes boasts the unique but easily achievable modelling skills of internationally renowned cake designer and sugercrafter Maisie Parrish. Each design has true character and unique charm and is ideal for a celebration with a difference, from birthday ballerina mice to carol-singing penguins. Each project is accompanied by quick-to-make cupcakes and minicakes to complement the main cake or to make when time is short. With simple sugarcrafting techniques and clear step-by-step photography, designs are ideal for both beginner and intermediate sugarcrafters. Whether creating a single animal topper or a whole singing and dancing theme, this book shows readers how to do it the fun and easy way. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

Adorable characters!
I love this book. The photos are colorful and easy to see details, the font is easy to read, and the directions are thorough. It's great for anyone wanting to make an incredible looking whimsical cake. It really inspires creativity!

EASY TO FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS
Looking for ideas on how to make figures for my cake toppers.Like the easy to follow instructions and great fun looking characters that is perfect for me to place it on top of my cakes and serves as a souvenir to the celebrant as a keepsake.

Easy Instructions
This book is written with clear instructions on how to create character cakes.I haven't had the opportunity to make any cakes yet, but I did read through the instructions and they seem to be pretty clear.

Loved it.
The book is wonderful. The author shows step-by-step how to's. Easy to make. Loved it.

Cute!
This book has some great tips in the front of the book for non-experienced decorators and bakers.
The directions are easy to follow, and there are a few great cakes inside that are absolutely adorable! ... Read more

Product Description
When a world-famous shoe designer walked into his surprise birthday party and saw the cake that was waiting for him--a Manolo stiletto perched alluringly next to a tissue-filled shoebox--it was his turn to ogle someone else's talent. The cake, created by Elisa Strauss of Confetti Cakes in New York City, was a sensation. Not only did everyone at the party want to know how it was made, they wanted to know how to create something as dazzling themselves.


This unique book contains projects for every skill level: from gorgeous, sugar-dusted heart cookies to delightful billiard-ball cupcakes, to sculpted cakes in the shape of wine bottles and Chinese takeout boxes, to the extravagantly beautiful, threetiered
embroidery cake showcased on Sex and the City. With delicious recipes, stunning creations for every occasion, suggestions for time-saving shortcuts, and hot tips for fabulous results, all illustrated with gorgeous photographs and easy-to follow diagrams, THE CONFETTI CAKES COOKBOOK is a must-have for the outrageously chic baker in all of us. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (69)

Fun and creative
This book has lots of fun and creative designs with clear instructions on recreating them.Generally easy to follow and implement!

Great learning book
This book is really educational.The pictures are clear and the instructions are easy to follow.This is a must for every cake decorator.

Amazing cakes, but needs better technique descriptions
Elisa is a cake decorating Goddess! What an amazing talent... seriously the sushi cake looks just like the real thing. She offers Hot Tips throughout the book, which are very helpful. They are mostly short-cuts and unwritten rules that she has learned over the years. The only reason I did not give this book 5 stars is because the technique descriptions in the beginning of the book are fairly sparse and not very clear. If you are a beginner, you may want to find another book to supplement this one, or take a class in order to really learn these skills.

Beautiful book, poor recipes
I love Elisa and her cakes.The book is beautiful to look at and is inspiring for your own projects.However, I wish I'd seen the notice about the error in her book for the recipe for her sugar cookies.What a waste of ingredients.I bake all the time and I felt like I should have known something wasn't right just by reading it, but thought I'd follow the instructions since she is the expert.I was very disappointed.I will give them another shot with the proper amount of flour, but I tried the chocolate cake also.It was so inedible, we used the cake as a display at a party and I had to make another cake for eating at the last minute.I doubt I will use any of the recipes in here again.I will use the ideas and apply them to other recipes.

the book to have
this is really the book you want to learn cake decorating
clear instruction, lots of ideas, lots of picture
worth to buy, recommended for yourself
or gift for someone who is a home baker who just want to make something special for the family
... Read more

Product Description
When Duff Goldman, Food Network's "Ace of Cakes," envisioned Charm City Cakes in Baltimore nearly a decade ago, his goal was to make wonderful cakes for friends and family. As word spread about his fabulous creations, his dream grew into a nationally renowned business staffed by a team of talented professionals, including musicians, artists, and creative souls with experience in architectural modeling, graphic design, deejaying, coffee making, performance art, dog walking, sculpture, painting and more.

Aces of Cakes: Inside the World of Charm City Cakes is a celebration of the bakery that started it all. This colorful scrapbook is loaded with stories about Duff's early days as a graffiti artist turned young chef, his successes and hilarious disasters, and the amazing team he built step-by-step. Through candid interviews and profiles and hundreds of photographs, illustrations, and collages, the book shows how energy, inspiration, collaboration, and a bit of luck can conspire to help anyone achieve their creative vision.

Of course, at the center of this stunning book are Charm City's Cakes. From the simple to the breathtakingly complex, Duff shows off some of the bakery's more unusual techniques and tools that shape their famous creations. He also offers a behind-the-scenes look at his Food Network show, shares his most incredible customer stories and requests, and reveals some of the bakery's favorite cake facts and tips--along with a comprehensive episode guide and a monster cake montage featuring seven years' worth of the bakery's astonishing cake creations. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (80)

Great Gift for Ace of Cakes Lovers
I purchased this as a gift for a close family friend. She is in college and a HUGE "Ace of Cakes" fan. The first one sent was mis -placed / -directed in her dorm, so I notified Amazon and they sent another immediately, via overnight, free of charge. That said, she absolutely loved the book! Great stories and pictures.

LOVE THE ACE OF CAKES BOOK
The Ace of Cakes is one of our favorite shows that my kids and I watch together.This book is a coffee table conversation starter - we LOVE IT!

Okay if you want to know about his business
I ordered this book looking for tips and tricks. Sadly the book was mostly about how the business was set up and run. Also the TV show features heavily. there are some tips in there, just not as much as I had expected.

This book is Aces!
Could not put it down.Duff and friends have had amazing lives, and it was a joy to read about their antics.Very well written and interesting.I loved all of the cake photos...just wish they could have been larger!

Ace of Books
Enjoyed reading about Duff, his family and his pals at the bakery.Also loved all the great photos! ... Read more

Product Description

"If you ever bake a cake, this book will become your partner in the kitchen." -- from the foreword by Maida Heatter

This is the classic cake cookbook that enables anyone to make delicious, exquisite cakes. As a writer for food magazines, women's magazines, and newspapers, including The New York Times, Rose Levy Beranbaum's trademark is her ability to reduce the most complex techniques to easy-to-follow recipes. Rose makes baking a joy. This is the definitive work on cakes by the country's top cake baker.

The Cake Bible shows how to:

Mix a buttery, tender layer cake in under five minutes with perfect results every time

Make the most fabulous chocolate cake you ever imagined with just three ingredients

Find recipes for every major type of cake, from pancakes to four-tiered wedding cakes

Make cakes with less sugar but maximum flavor and texture

Make many low- to no- cholesterol, low-saturated-fat recipes

Customer Reviews (198)

check it out from the library before you buy
...I have tried plenty of recipes that have worked before and I know how to follow directions...yet this book is full of recipes that fail. You absolutely cannot substitute under any circumstance, so if you don't want to use flour that is full of chemicals like "BLEACHED" flour and you substitute it for a more natural unbleached then you will fail...whats odd is that I have tried other recipes which I could substitute for and work just fine. I know she explains the science about it all... but other recipes seem to be more forgiving/flexible and still taste great using half the time to make. I bought the book based on all the great reviews, but am highly disappointed. Next time I'll just use Julia Child's cookbooks as a reliable source.

Knowledge you want
Written by Rose Levy Beranbaum from England the measurements all have both grams and American volume conversion tables. This book teaches you both the how and why,techniques, and tips in baking cakes. She approaches cakes, frosting's and related information in a scientific manner so it is logical and easy to understand. Many tables,variations,templates and explanations of what is meant when a recipe says i.e. stiff, medium or thin consistency of icing or egg whites,etc.
She goes through adornments for cakes, which covers frostings, fillings,fruits & fondants, tempering chocolates, hand modeling, cutout decorations, crystallizing flowers, all the decorating tips. She goes over ingredients and if there is a substitute. Types of flours, sugars, fats, etc... Equipment, volumes of pans, how much cake batter, and frosting needed for different size and shapes of cakes. Also trouble shooting problems with cakes, i.e. cracks or peaks in cakes, course grain or sunken center in cakes etc.. How much cake, feeds how many people. Proper stacking for wedding cakes.
It is a wealth of information and although we have not liked some of the frostings or cakes we have tried, many are wonderful and the information can't be passed up. After reading it through it is now in our book case as a reference book with many highlighted area's and notes. And referred to often.

Lots of recipes
I was looking for something a bit more basic.I was trying to master cakes from scratch but this book has more recipes than actual instruction. The recipes and instructions for making them are great though.

Like Having A Private Teacher
The Cake Bible, as well as all of Rose Levy Beranbaum's books, is a step above any baking book I have ever experienced before.No matter which recipe I bake from this book, the response is always the same...the best cake they have ever eaten.

Although I am new to baking, I now have the confidence of someone with much more experiencebecause I have learned techniques which work..all from Rose Levy Berenbaum.

The author takes you through each recipe and explains how to do a technique and what result to expect.

After baking just a few of the cakes in this book, I was able to apply what I have learned to other recipes with extraordinary results.

In my opinion The Cake Bible is a MUST HAVE for anyone who aspires to baking delicious cakes

Great cake book!
This is a fantastic book with lots of recipes that DO come out correctly IF you follow the directions.I've read the one star reviews, and for those who said their cakes came out dry aren't doing something right.Even a male friend of mine who doesn't cook much looked at the book and thought it was extremely comprehensive.

Yes, you can end up jumping around to complete some recipes, but what's the big deal?Flip a few pages and get over it! ... Read more

Product Description

Full of fun and inspiring ideas for novice or experienced bakers, this guide offers simple instructions for creating decorative enhancements using readily available ingredients. Containing 20 different designs and hints for additional alternatives, the handbook shows how to decorate cupcakes—whether freshly baked using recipes provided or ready-made—for all kinds of occasions and an assortment of guests, including gardeners, knitters, and sun worshippers. From goodies for Easter baskets, Halloween horrors, and Christmas treats to bakery celebrating new babies and the natural world, the beautifully styled photography and step-by-step directions provide the know-how to make impressive cupcake decorating achievable.

Customer Reviews (5)

Not Worth The Money
There were only about two projects in the book really worth doing.The others were to me rather messy and something that my little one could have done.I just wouldn't waste my money on this pamphlet at all.I thought it would have had some really nice cupcake ideas, but it really did disappoint.The best one was on the cover.

Decorated Cup Cakes
This little booklet was smaller ( fewer recipes) than I expected and used a lot of fondant for decoration which I'm not particularly fond of.

Very Good and Affordable
If you want interesting ideas how to decorate cup cakes, this is one very good option. I purchased for my wife, which is very satisfied with the book contents.

not impressed
I was definitely not impressed with this book (and no, i'm not an expert decorator). It had a couple cute ideas but if you're looking for a complete book for a good price this is definitely not it. I've gotten a few other books that were much better written for around the same price as this one. I would have returned it but don't want to deal with the hassle.

So easy even you can do it!
This is a great book for the novice decorator or for kids.It is basic and fun and has lots of cute ideas inside.It would be great to use for kids projects, birthday party ideas, etc ... Read more

Product Description
The Complete Step-by-Step Guide to Cake Decorating contains all the know-how needed to make and decorate cakes that are incredibly simple, yet absolutely stunning. The book contains cakes for all occasions including birthdays, anniversaries, children's parties, christenings, weddings and more.All the most popular methods of icing and decorations are covered, from buttercream, fondant and chocolate to royal icing and marzipan. Detailed, easy-to-follow instructions explain the basics of preparing and using the different types of icing, followed by recipes for imaginative designs. Beginners will pick up the basics fast and experienced cake decorators will find inspirational new ideas. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Great step by step book
Love this book..Step by step you cant go wrong. Pictures go along with the steps...P.Soto, Boston Ma

Awful. For the hobbyist!
This book... Sorry to be so blunt... Is a total crapfest of candy covered monstrosities. 80% of the cakes are covered in candy pieces and many of the pages that require piping for the design offer an alternative "just stick candies on the cake." Yes, the book literally suggests this. It should be titled "Making cakes for kids parties... For dummies." or "How to make a cake that looks like you might know what you are doing." The designs are ALL gaudy except for about 3 cakes, and only a really young child would look right having these cakes at a party. I hate I spent my money on this. I am a Pastry Chef just starting out and I wanted to increase my knowledge and design ideas when it came to decorating cakes and I am glad that I know enough to dismiss many of these designs.

Don't be fooled by the pretty picture on the cover. The simplicity of that cake is not an art. It's a scapegoat in this case.

It's as good as it seems
This book is great, it has good and practical recepies and decoration tips. I love all the techniques that it contains.

GREAT CAKE DECORATING BOOK
THIS BOOK IS EASY TO FOLLOW STEP BY STEP DECORATING FROM THIS BOOK I LEARN LOTS OF THINGS THAT I DIDNT KNOW HOW TO DO I DIDNT EVEN KNOW HOW TO START TILL I GOT THIS BOOK I LEARNED ALOT .

Very Pleased
This book is very helpful for first-time cake decorators.I tried a few of the techniques used in the book and was very happy with the results. ... Read more

Product Description
Easy cake and cupcake decorating ideas to make any occasion special



With Betty Crocker Decorating Cakes and Cupcakes, you can turn a delicious cake into a work of edible art! Even if you're a beginning baker, you can make a Ladybug or Butterfly Cake for a picnic, a Bib or Bootie Cake for a baby shower, a Train, Teddy Bear, Kitty Cat or Purse birthday cake for a young child, or a Baseball Cap or Flip Flops masterpiece for a tween. You'll learn step by step how to create and decorate all kinds of delicious cakes for all kinds of events:
* Festive holiday cakes like New Year's Cake, Leprechaun Village Cake, Firecracker Cake, Black Cat Cake, Turkey Gobbler Cake or a Holiday Pinecone Cake
* Celebration creations like an exquisite Classic White Wedding Cake or whimsical Wedding Cupcakes, an Anniversary Cake, a Mother's Day Hat Cake, a Father's Day Hawaiian Shirt Cake, a Star of David Cake and more


Inside, you'll find everything from basic cake-baking tips and delicious recipes (including many that can be made with cake mix and ready-to-spread frosting) to detailed illustrations showing how to add the decorative finishing touches. The simple yet innovative decorating techniques and ideas here will make decorating a piece of cake!

For more great ideas visit BettyCrocker.com ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

A great resource
This book is great for those who would like to decorate and make fun things, but may be a little intimidated.The creations are easy and fabulous.I gave it to my daughter and she's already sharing it with friends.I highly recommend this book.

Decorating with candy
I was disappointed in this book. It looked cute and I thought it would have some great ideas for cupcakes - specifically for Valentine's Day & my son's birthday. Most of the decorating in this book is using candy instead of frosting which isn't my thing. If you want easy decorating using candies, this book is for you. If you are wanting to expand your cake decorating library, maybe pick another book.

Fantastic Book
Sure this book is basic but it is fabulous for those of us who are not the best decorators....bakers....etc.There are many books out there that I am afraid to attempt the ideas but this one is GREAT!!Thanks Betty Crocker. I am so excited to make so many of the cakes and cupcakes in this book.

Not what it seems
The cover of this book excited me, but when I received it, the decorations and ideas were very basic and child-like. It was disappointing as the cover gave an indication of exactly what I was looking for, but the insides failed to ignite! Good recipes for frosting etc, but unfortunately not as good as it looked!

dissapointed
I thought this book would have some really nice looking ideas and info.It is a "cute" book more for beginners... I wasn't happy with the substance. ... Read more

Product Description
A classic layer cake has always been the best party pleaser, but this cookbook takes dessert to a whole new level. Sky High celebrates the triple-layer cake in all its glorious incarnations with more than 40 decadent and delicious recipes. The wide range of flavors will appeal to anyone with a sweet tooth. The book features such delights as Boston Cream Pie, Mile-High Devil's Food Cake, and Key West Cake. There are even three astonishingly beautiful (and totally do-able) wedding cakes! From luscious chocolate creations to drizzled caramel confections, take simple layer cakes to new heights with Sky High. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (19)

Fantastic book!
This is a great book, with lots of inspiration for those that like to build bigger cakes. I enjoy that there are original recipes along with more traditional butter cakes.

Beautiful and delicious!
This cake cookbook is one of the best I now own... the cakes range from classic to innovative and creative, the recipes are easy to follow and I love the fact that there are wedding cake recipes!

Great for the home baker making birthday cakes and those who want to take it up a notch.

Tasty Cakes
I bought this book hoping for a good vanilla/chocolate batter recipe for a friends wedding. I ended up making two of the cake recipes in it: Lemon-Blueberry Cake & Tiramisu Wedding Cake. They were amazing!! Everything from scratch, tasted delicious, & easy to follow. They were a big hit & got rave reviews. I will definitely be using this book a lot!

Every recipe I do from this book comes out AWESOME!
I love baking and cake decorating and this one is by far my favorite book. Everything I try from this book comes out great. I trust this book so bad I did my daughter's 1 year old birthday using a recipe I haven't tried before because I knew it was going to be great - and it did get great review from my guests. Also, I have bought this book multiple times as a gift for friends. I highly recommend Sky High.

A great visual read, but double check recipes...
I was so excited to get this book.I am known as quite the cake baker in my family and I knew this would be the best addition yet to my library of cake books.I chose the coconut cake as my first recipe to make and followed it to a T.I took the yummy smelling cakes out of the oven, allowed them to cool the recommended 10-15 minutes and flipped them over to remove from the pans.All three completely disengrated.I had a pile of warm cake pieces.It couldn't be salvaged.Determined.I re-read the recipe and noticed the cake had no real binder.It called for 5 egg WHITES.I decided to try the recipe again, only I added 3 egg whites and 2 whole eggs.I also swapped out 1 cup of cake flour for regular all purpose.I baked it and it turned out perfectly.The cake was still very very moist, yet held its form nicely and was very easy to ice.

So while I do recommend this book, it appears some of the recipes may be trial and error. ... Read more