Starred review from November 1, 2023
Food writer and blogger at Apt. 2B Baking Co., Arefi follows her popular Snacking Cakes with a companion book that expands its offerings to cookies, brownies, and bars, in addition to more cakes. It carries on her philosophy of providing simple, anytime recipes that rely on basic pantry ingredients and don't require special equipment. Recipes often include interesting flavor variation notes for changing things up, such as adding cacao nibs, rosemary, and orange zest to the basic shortbread recipe or making it savory with parmesan and spices. There's also a "cravings matrix" index of recipes for chocolatey vs. warm and toasty vs. fruity, depending on one's mood. Recipes include several classics, along with an array of interesting, less-expected bakes such as blueberry swirl blondies, maple espresso cookies, and chocolate-chip snickerdoodle cake. There are some gluten-free and vegan offerings, along with options for adapting others, and Arefi's skill at food styling and photography is on full display in the enticing food photos throughout. VERDICT With tantalizing, approachable recipes that are often quick and use the minimum of bowls, this will be a go-to book for bakers of all levels.--Melissa DeWild
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