Simply Sensational Desserts: 140 Classics for the Home Baker from New York's Famous Patisserie and Bistro

I first checked this book out of my local library to be sure it was something I could use in my kitchen. It is beautifully photographed and written simply enough that even someone with out a lot of cooking experience can follow the instructions. I have been cooking most of my life, as a hobby and professionally. Most all the ingredients can be found in a large super market, and for some maybe harder to find items there are online shopping resources. Personally, I didn't see anything that I couldn't locate with in my shopping area.Really a good book and I am glad to have it in my collection!

After reading through the entire book and trying out several recipes I have to say I am a bit disappointed. The photos of the desserts do not necessarily match the recipe instructions. For example, the Chocolate Coconut Cake instructs one to sprinkle toasted coconut over the top and sides of the cake but the photograph shows a cake with a sleek coating of ganache on top. This may seem like a picky complaint, but why photograph a dessert that looks different than the recipe outcome? Afterall, this is a book for home cooks not professional pastry chefs. In fairness to Mr. Payard, the book does explain techniques well and is very user friendly.

I've been purchasing books from Amazon for ages. I love cookbooks - but especially books on baking. I've had my eye on this book for a while but I wish I'd bought it earlier. I've used several recipes from the book and they all turn out fantastic -some require a bit of effort - but you will be well rewarded. I made the bunny cake for my son's 3 year old birthday and every single person who tasted the cake raved and raved. Delicious recipes and great instructions. Thank you Mr Payard.

This book is not only a pleasure to look at but the variety of recipes is one that will keep you busy for a very long time. The biographical information on the chef, the facts about what sells best in his famous NYC shop as well as the organization of items is simply fantastic. Even though the first one I baked was the "banana cake" it was actually banana bread with a great variation. It was lighter and moister that the one that I use from one of my other books.The photos are professional and the recipes are easy to use. I will make alot of items from this book.

The book was in excellent shape like brand new

Wonderful gift idea!

good book

Has some of my favorite desserts to make