Demolition Desserts
by Elizabeth Falkner
Published by Ten Speed Press
Click on book
cover to order
at Amazon.com
Reviewed by Andrea Sisco
I really don’t like to cook nor bake, but I like to study cookbook recipes. And I love to partake in the mouthwatering delicacies that fill pages in good cookbooks–and if it is only desserts, all the better!
Elizabeth Falkner’s Demolition Desserts is fierce and a work of art. Falkner divulges her secrets for creating the most mouth-watering, unique desserts, and you are treated to stunning photographs (not to mention helpful) of the finished product. The only way it could be better is if she delivered the desserts themselves with each copy of the cookbook.
Falkner begins with a section that focuses on ingredients, tools and equipment. It is truly fascinating to read about what ingredients she uses and why. Who knew there were so many different sugars, and the value of good spices. It never occurred to me that the fewer the ingredients, the greater part the flavors play in a dessert.
I love all things sweet, but if it is brown (chocolate), I am in heaven. I love the Chocolate Chip Cookies Straight Up or With Nuts (page 23). And I loved the information on how long the cookies should be cooked if you want soft when cooked, flatter but chewy or flatter and crisp. My husband gravitated immediately to the Tiramisushi. This is one I will make often. My son’s favorite is The Real McCoy Ice Cream Sandwich.
Some other stars are: A Chocolate Tart Named Desire (sound sinful? Oh, my!) Karrot Keiki is to die for and I am still swooning over Lovelova (Persian Strawberry and Saffron Pavlova). The Citizen Shortcake is a winner and the Spanish Quincition will make your mouth water. I could go on and on, but won’t.
This cookbook is so good you MUST buy it. While you’re reading it, feast on the delectable Bananas Foster Cane Split. You’ll have a smile on your face.
This cookbook is on my coffee table because it is not only beautiful, but educational and so interesting. Oh, the illustrations by Falkner’s brother are quirky and so much fun. The directions are concise and easily understandable. It should be in every cook’s kitchen.
Armchair Interviews: Don’t lend this cookbook to anyone! It won’t be returned.