I come from a family of excellent bakers, but so far my baking experience has been mostly things to come out of a box. I can count on one hand the times I have baked something from scratch, and half of those times my Mom has helped. (I'm 27 years old, so it's about time I learn!)
This book is a very well-rounded, staple baking book that I can see myself using for years. But what makes it stand out from all the other cookbooks and baking books that sit on my shelf, gathering dust?
I no longer feel intimidated to try my hand at baking something from scratch. This book is very good at explaining, in simple terms, the "science" of baking. I am always amazed at why two people can follow the same recipe and have such strikingly different results.
The Test Kitchen baking book claims to "make the mistakes, so you don't have to." It has a great introductory section which explains the importance of: preheating your oven, using the right measuring methods, choosing quality ingredients, using the right equipment, watching your baked goods instead of relying solely on a timer, etc. It also explains the differences between the variety of flours, and why they make a difference in your recipes - as well as many other ingredients. It also goes through a variety of other pantry staples to have on hand, as well as baking pans and other equipment... recommending their favorite brands.
I didn't realize so many things can affect your recipe, like using the wrong temperature of butter. The last time I made cookies with my Mom, she "freaked out" when I added dry ingredients before properly creaming the butter and sugar. I thought she was crazy, but now I understand why proper creaming is important for cookie texture. There are even pictures to show me the under creamed, over creamed, and "just right" level.
It explains basic cooking techniques and shows photos of the process, such as whipping egg whites or melting chocolate.
So, not only does the book equip you with a great set of recipes that have been tested in their home kitchen for ease of use, it also gives you the basics you need when following the recipe, to make sure it turns out well. I think this is what takes it beyond a book that "sits on the shelf" to one I'm ready to dig in and start using. Also, the recipes themselves are great - things Mom and Grandma used to make, not too fancy, but not too basic either. The book isn't dedicated to dessert - there is also a section of pizzas, calzones, breads and breakfast items such as scones and muffins.
I've made many recipes from the America's Test Kitchen Family cookbook, which is laid out just like the Family baking book. Not only is there a photo of most recipes, often there are photographs of the various steps involved. This is so helpful for a new baker in discovering the way things are supposed to look and get a visual picture of some more complicated steps. I think even an old baker can learn a trick or two.
I highly recommend this book for college students, wedding presents, or housewarming gift - or to anyone who aspires to be a better baker. The recipes that are good for beginners are even marked so, giving those "intimidated bakers" in your life a great starting point. There are so many tasty items in here that I can't wait to get baking! So in that respect this book has already done its job.
Thanks, America's Test Kitchen, for inspiring us willing but intimidated chefs and bakers into action!
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Hardcover and bind also
Nothing can beat the tried and true recipes that have been tested for you also with the grades from the tools and gadgets that are used in the kitchen. Any of these books are necessary if you want to cook and know it will turn out right every time! This is becoming my favorite book lately. I keep reaching for it no matter what I am thinking of it is in this book. I like the tabs to separate each section. I made the Lemon Madeleines that were like soft pillows of goodness. The French Macaron was perfect every time and made me feel silly for never having tried it before. It is much easier than most cookies are. Look at the cooks tips again so you will not make a mistake. They know what you are thinking and that is a really good thing. I have made at least half of the pastry section already. It is definitely a go to book for advice, what to do, what went wrong and why. Most of all the recipes work and absolutely taste is a priority with them. You will rely on this book daily. I like the trouble shooting pages, especially since I have family in Denver and you do have to adjust for the altitude! I found that out the hard way. The tips on how to keep your baking staples fresh and for how long. They also have a handy guide to make an EMERGENCY SUBSTITUTION when you just cannot go to the grocery and need an item. Now last but not least The BINDER it allows for your book to lie perfectly without the pages flipping out of place in case you don't have an appropriate stand. Another nice option they thought of. I would highly recommend this book especially nice as a wedding gift or a starting out baker who really wants to learn and won't be overwhelmed with ingredients that are hard to find or a technique because it explains every thing as you can easily understand it when just starting out.
Top reviews from the United States
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Reviewed in the United States on October 26, 2008
Reviewed in the United States on May 14, 2014
Nothing can beat the tried and true recipes that have been tested for you also with the grades from the tools and gadgets that are used in the kitchen. Any of these books are necessary if you want to cook and know it will turn out right every time! This is becoming my favorite book lately. I keep reaching for it no matter what I am thinking of it is in this book. I like the tabs to separate each section. I made the Lemon Madeleines that were like soft pillows of goodness. The French Macaron was perfect every time and made me feel silly for never having tried it before. It is much easier than most cookies are. Look at the cooks tips again so you will not make a mistake. They know what you are thinking and that is a really good thing. I have made at least half of the pastry section already. It is definitely a go to book for advice, what to do, what went wrong and why. Most of all the recipes work and absolutely taste is a priority with them. You will rely on this book daily. I like the trouble shooting pages, especially since I have family in Denver and you do have to adjust for the altitude! I found that out the hard way. The tips on how to keep your baking staples fresh and for how long. They also have a handy guide to make an EMERGENCY SUBSTITUTION when you just cannot go to the grocery and need an item. Now last but not least The BINDER it allows for your book to lie perfectly without the pages flipping out of place in case you don't have an appropriate stand. Another nice option they thought of. I would highly recommend this book especially nice as a wedding gift or a starting out baker who really wants to learn and won't be overwhelmed with ingredients that are hard to find or a technique because it explains every thing as you can easily understand it when just starting out.
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Reviewed in the United States on January 28, 2010
Top reviews from other countries
Lou The Baker
THE MOST AMAZING BAKING BOOK!! I HAVE BEEN LOOKING FOR SOMETHING LIKE THIS FOR YEARS!!!
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on July 30, 2010
Althea Howard
This recipe book has some of THE best recipes. The ginger molasses cookie recipe alone is ...
Reviewed in Canada on June 5, 2018