One of the “perks” of my job is receiving lovely books to review. I’ve been especially delighted to receive two in the post recently. Well – this one actually arrived whilst I was in Venezuela so please do excuse the delay in telling you about it.
Deliciously Decorative Cookies – what a beautiful and inspiring book! I’m going to be honest, I haven’t baked from it yet but after taking a look today I can guarantee we will soon be playing with our cookie cutters and all kinds of icing.
Although cakes make up the mainstay of my work and orders I do love baking cookies – but they are usually of the rugged fruit and nut (and chocolate chip!) variety. I’m looking forward to trying out the cookie recipe in this book which is guaranteed to hold its shape!
Flicking through the colourful pages this afternoon it was impossible to find a favourite or decide which will be the first ones to try but these definitely caught my eye with cupcakes having been the beginning of my business!
And although it’s the wrong end of the year I’d love to make these gorgeous spring bouquets – and eat them!
When The Kitchen is open there will definitely be cookies for sale along with our Cupcakes and Loafkins® – I may not be able to resist baking some samples in the coming days so who knows there may be some on offer quite soon!
Meanwhile I will continue to enjoy reading this beautiful book and deciding which cookies and decorations to try first. It is beautifully illustrated with clear pictures and step by step instructions that seem to be saying “make me!” I love the layout of the book with separate chapters for different ingredients and techniques such as royal icing, chocolate and rice paper.
The author uses many of the moulds and tools that will be familiar to sugarcrafters in new and exciting ways. For those familiar with cake decoration this will encourage experimentation without having to buy lots of new equipment, and is sure to inspire further ideas. For example shaping cookie dough in the silicone moulds more often used with gum paste or fondant icing!
Some designs are aimed at beginners but are nevertheless simply stunning. For those looking to bake large quantities – perhaps as wedding fancies, these would be ideal. Other designs will challenge and engage more experienced bakers so there truly is something for everyone.
This book would make a lovely gift for a keen baker – or a delightful treat for yourself! I genuinely cannot wait to get baking from it and look forward to sharing them with you!
Deliciously Decorative Cookies by Fiona Pearce is published by Apple Press and costs £12.99