On your mark… get set… bake! The holiday season is right around the corner, which means bakers around the nation are preheating their ovens in anticipation of pies and cookies galore. Agate has a book for you, whether you’re a seasoned baker looking to challenge yourself with new techniques, or you’re just picking up a rolling pin for the first time. Keep reading to decide which Agate cookbooks meet your baking needs!
Baking Basics and Beyond
Pat Sinclair
If you’ve ever felt confused or intimidated trying to figure out baking, this book is the perfect primer for you. Baking Basics and Beyond delivers exactly what it says on the cover. Pat Sinclair guides readers through easy-to-approach recipes that are complete with full-color photos. From basics like cookies and brownies to variations like Butterscotch Cashew Blondies or Chai Latte Custards, this book will provide even the most novice bakers with a decent foothold to develop their skills.
Sweet Mornings
Patty Pinner
For the baker looking to broaden their horizons, Sweet Mornings by Patty Pinner houses a wide collection of sweet and savory treats suitable for any breakfast or brunch occasion. Options also cover treats like Blueberry Buttermilk Pancakes if you find yourself needing a break from traditional baking. Many of the recipes were handed down from family and other influential women in Pinner’s life, adding an extra dimension of reminiscence and nostalgia. Plus, there is something rewarding about the first meal of the day being a delicious treat that you’ve made with your own hands.
The Hoosier Mama Book of Pie
Paula Haney
It takes a great deal of skill and patience to make the perfect pie. The recipes in The Hoosier Mama Book of Pie are not for the faint of heart, but if you’re looking for a challenge then look no further! This book will teach you all about pie, from its history and different kinds, to the secrets of making rich filling and flaky, buttery crusts. Plus, it has pie recipes for every season and craving, so bakers can have the perfect pie for every occasion!
The Eli’s Cheesecake Cookbook
Maureen Schulman, Elana Schulman, Jolene Worthington, Tara Lane and Diana Moles
Eli’s Cheesecake is considered one of the most famous Chicago desserts, and with a copy of this book, you can now make these acclaimed cheesecakes at home! In honor of the 40th anniversary of Eli’s Cheesecake, the second edition of this book not only includes more cheesecake recipes, but additional iconic dishes from Eli’s The Place for Steak as well. Be sure to grab a copy to give to the Chicago baker in your life!
Gluten-Free Baking Classics
Annalise G. Roberts
Just because you can’t eat gluten doesn’t mean you have to miss out on all the delicious goods that baking has to offer! Annalise Roberts’ recipes are not only accessible to bakers of all levels, but they’re hardly distinguishable from their gluten-filled counterparts, aside from the ingredients. Whether you are gluten-free yourself, or just looking to experiment with different ingredients, this book makes a fun addition to any cookbook collection.
The Food Allergy Mama’s Baking Book
Kelly Rudnicki
No dairy, no egg, no nut? No problem! This book is perfect for families with food allergies who find it safer to prepare food at home. Dietary restrictions don’t have to take the fun out of baking, as this book provides allergy-safe recipes for all types of classic treats, such as cakes, pies, and cobblers. There are even tips on how to safely navigate classrooms and birthday parties for kids, as well as ideas for ingredient substitutions. This book is an excellent guide for food-allergy mamas everywhere.