Bake with Benoit Blin: Master Cakes, Pastries and Desserts Like a Professional

Who’s the author? Benoit Blin has been Raymond Blanc’s Head Pastry Chef at the award-winning Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons in Oxfordshire since 1995. A judge and host on Channel 4’s Bake Off: The Professionals, Benoit is passionate about supporting future pastry chefs. In 2005, he was awarded the title of Master of Culinary Arts, the most prestigious pastry accolade in the UK, and in 2009 was recognised as Pastry Chef of the Year.

What’s it about? This cookbook is a masterclass in making cakes, pastries and desserts like a pro, and developing your baking skills and to fully understand the fundamentals of baking.

A selection of foolproof recipes will teach you core techniques at one of three levels: Sweet and Simple, Baking Star, or Bake Like a Pro. Following Benoit’s guidance, you’ll make classic doughs, including puff pastry, choux pastry and brioche, and learn how to create stand-out bakes with perfect texture and flavour.

Try your hand at crispy, buttery palmiers, classic viennoiserie like pain aux raisins and almond croissants, build pies and tarts, and make traditional offerings such as crème brûlée and macarons, as well as impressive desserts for special occasions. With stunning photography throughout and a foreword by Raymond Blanc himself, you will be guided and inspired to create your own baking masterpieces at home.

Recipes we love: Brioche Loaf, Coffee and Cardamom Tiramisu, Blueberry and Kirsch Tartlets, Lemon and Grapefruit Dacquoise and Passion Fruit Doughnuts.

Perfect for: Fans of Bake Off: The Professionals, as well as anyone looking to perfect their cake-making and pastry skills.