Indulgent classic desserts gives us a culinary history from legendary restaurants and famous chefs, it also gives us some insight as to dinner tables of the past. Where the presentation of a dessert was just as alluring as devouring the dessert itself. The lavish display and creating something that resembles art has not been lost.
The author, Gail Monaghan, puts forward dessert recipes from the past. Paris restaurants, Victorian households and street vendors from New Orleans. This cookbook reads more like a who's who of desserts. While adding slightly updated versions however not straying too far from the original recipe. The 70 recipes are adapted for the home cook and range from simple to elaborate. Who can forget the Baked Alaska, Orange Chiffon Cake, Mont Blanc, Melon Surprise, Peach Melba, Soufflés, Flans and Crépes Suzette.
This book is indulgent and nostalgic which is great to have around this time of year. As we tend to entertain and have company pop around more than usual. Depending on what your plans are and what sort of dinner you will be serving, choosing a delicious fancy dessert made by yourself is truly rewarding. - JW