James McNair's Cakes

By James McNair

Book Overview

A book of cake baking, including angel food, pound cake, upside-down cake and other classics, with James' own variations. Some are childhood favourites, others reflect current food trends. Home bakers are encouraged to create their own combinations with a selection of frosting, fillings and glazes. Accompanied by 40 colour photos.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0811817687
• ISBN13: 9780811817684
• Release Date: April 1999
• Publisher: Chronicle Books (CA)
• Length: 130 Pages
• Weight: 1.16 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 8.8" x 8.0"

Customer Reviews

Basic, informative & helpful...

I am an avid baker, cakes especially, and this book is the perfect guide for anyone who is either a pro or a beginner looking to become serious with a cake pan. For beginners, the beginning of this book is a true kitchen campanion, explaining the obvious and not so obvious points of baking a cake in abundant but very helpful detail. Both the practical and scientific aspects of baking are touched upon in very easy to understand terms. For pros, the recipies are quite satisfying. Every step from pre-heating the oven through measuring ingredients through embellishing and serving is explained for beginners, while many taste and flavor variations are offered for those who are looking for more of a challenge. I highly suggest this book for anyone looking to start or to expand a knowledge of cake baking. My only minor complaint is that it doesn't offer any advice for perfecting cupcakes, especially using some of the great batters on these pages. But regardless, you'll really refer to this book time and time again.

Best Cakes Around

Beautifully photographed and so far I have only made 2 of the cakes and my guests raved about them. One was the white cake and the other was the fantastic coffee cake which was a major hit. I am anxious to try the carrot cake next. I found his introduction very helpful and he has some great hints on how to make the very best cake.

Best Cake-Only Collection I've Seen

This book contains everything from the basics of cake-making to fanciful decoration and frosting techniques. In between are about 2 dozen recipes for cakes of all types.Be warned that none are simple to make, though instructions are well laid out for those with baking experienced. I've especially liked the carrot and lemon cakes, so far.