Crave: Cupcakes, Cakes, Cookies, and More from an Iconic Bakery

Sisters Jackson and Willoughby, cofounders of the Crave baked good brand, offer up 70 foundational dessert recipes in a debut that is as practical as it is mouthwatering. Baking fundamentals are at the heart of the collection, with step-by-step photo instructions for filling pastry bags and decorating layer cakes or cupcakes. The “Homemade Pantry” section provides instructions for versatile ganaches, custards, sauces, and toppings, cross-referencing each with recipes that call for these building blocks. Buttercream frosting flavors include strawberry and “sweet and toasty” toffee pecan, and the authors provide a crash course in mastering caramel (“not for the faint of heart”). Cakes and cupcakes come in exciting flavors, including pumpkin spice latte with coffee frosting, while cookies and bars draw from the sisters’ childhood favorites, including their aunt Louise’s gingerbread. Elsewhere, Jackson and Willoughby go in-depth on pie pastry technique, with tips for rolling and blind baking. Novice bakers are in good hands with this enthusiastic, user-friendly guide. (May)