Paris Boulangerie-Patisserie

The high quality patisseries of Paris are an extraordinary visual treat and their patisserie would be a deadly addiction were it not so rich (and expensive). Unless you employ help in the kitchen, this book should be viewed as a tour of the top Paris cake shops rather than a recipe book . In trying to recreate the gateaux in this book you might lose the will to live. Home bakery is for me half the fun of creation and half the fun seeing it disappear but this book is about art.I've also long held the suspicion that some of the awe inspiring creations are given stability and attenuation of taste by the inclusion of tallow, just as they use lard in their best croissants I think certain all butter patisserie could collapse under its own weight or leave you with heartburn. I will now go into hiding.

Love it. Absolutely mouthwatering recipes, sweet and savoury, and lovely descriptions of each bakery, its history and repertoire.

This book is worth possessing for its sheer beauty alone. The presentation on glossy paper and photographs are glorious, and cannot fail to impress. I haven't yet had the time to test out any of the recipes, but, who cares, the book is a joy to own and a treasure to keep.