Ben Mervis on The Festive Baker

An expertly curated and extraordinary collection of more than 170 sweet and savory baking recipes to mark festive events, celebrations, and cultural traditions around the worldFor countries and cultures across the globe, special occasions are synonymous with beloved treats: traditional cakes for weddings and birthdays; Bûche de Noël and stollen for Christmas; pumpkin pie for Thanksgiving; date-filled cookies for Eid celebrations; and almond cookies and mooncakes for Lunar New Year._The Festive Baker_ presents more than 170 time-tested recipes for more than 50 celebratory events and holidays.

Organized chronologically by month, with a final chapter on year-round bakes, the book includes tiered cakes, yeasted breads, latticed fruit pies, savory hand pies, cheesy pastries, tarts, cookies, buns, and much more.Home cooks will discover delicious bakes for a variety of occasions – from religious holidays, such as Diwali, Rosh Hashanah, and Easter, to cultural festivities, such as St Patrick’s Day, Día de los Muertos, and midsommar.

Thoroughly researched by food historian and writer Ben Mervis, with contributions from more than 80 bakers around the world, the recipes are accompanied by insightful texts providing historical background and serving suggestions.

Clear directions and expert tips ensure the dishes are accessible to bakers of all skill levels.Filled with gorgeous food photography, _The Festive Baker_ is both an essential reference and a book to treasure, reminding us that marking occasions with a special treat is a tradition that transcends borders.RECIPES INCLUDE: Pecan Pie (Thanksgiving, USA) Büche de Noël (Christmas, France), Hot Cross Buns (Easter, UK), and Ma’amoul (Eid, the Levant), Mooncakes (Mid-Autumn Festival, China), Anzac Biscuits (ANZAC Day, New Zealand and Australia), and St Martin’s Croissants (St Martin’s Day, Poland).