Product Description

Every once in a while, a cookbook comes along that instantly says "classic." This is one of them. Acclaimed pastry chef Elisabeth Prueitt and master baker Chad Robertson share not only their fabulous recipes, but also the secrets and expertise that transform a delicious homemade treat into a great one. It's no wonder there are lines out the door of Elisabeth and Chad's acclaimed Tartine Bakery. It's been written up in every magazine worth its sugar and spice. Here their bakers' art is transformed into easy-to-follow recipes for the home kitchen. The only thing hard about this cookbook is deciding which recipe to try first: moist Brioche Bread Pudding; luscious Banana Cream Pie; the sweet-tart perfection of Apple Crisp. And the cakes! Billowing chiffon cakes. Creamy Bavarians bursting with seasonal fruits. A luxe Devil's Food Cake. Lemon Pound Cake, Pumpkin Tea Cake. Along with the sweets, cakes, and confections come savory treats, such as terrifically simple Wild Mushroom Tart and Cheddar Cheese Crackers. There's a little something here for breakfast, lunch, tea, supper, hors d'oeuvres and, of course, a whole lot for dessert! Practical advice comes in the form of handy Kitchen Notes. These "hows" and "whys" convey the authors' know-how, whether it's the key to the creamiest quiche (you'll be surprised), the most efficient way to core an apple, or tips for ensuring a flaky crust. Top it off with gorgeous photographs throughout and you have an utterly fresh, inspiring, and invaluable cookbook.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #13960 in Books
• Published on: 2006-08-24
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• 224 pages

About the Author
Pastry chef Elisabeth Prueitt and her husband, renowned baker Chad Robertson, are the co-owners of Tartine Bakery and the Bar Tartine restaurant in San Francisco. Elisabeth's work has appeared in numerous magazines, including Food & Wine, Bon Appétit, and Travel & Leisure, and she has appeared on the television program Martha Stewart Living.

Pastry chef Elisabeth Prueitt and her husband, renowned baker Chad Robertson, are the co-owners of Tartine Bakery and the Bar Tartine restaurant in San Francisco. Elisabeth's work has appeared in numerous magazines, including Food & Wine, Bon Appétit, and Travel & Leisure, and she has appeared on the television program Martha Stewart Living.

France Ruffenach is a San Francisco-based photographer whose work has appeared in magazines and cookbooks including Martha Stewart Living, Real Simple, and Bon Appétit magazines, and in Cupcakes, Everyday Celebrations, and Rosé.

Customer Reviews

Three bad recipes, one disappointed baker
I made the truffles, toffee, and almond rochers. The truffles were not nearly as tasty and creamy as Mark Bittman's two ingredient truffles, nor have they stood up to storage as well. I made the toffee twice, since I messed up the recipe for the first time but still it tasted delicious, only to discover that my mess-up was better than the recipe, which crumbled in a disastrous way. I'm convinced there's too little butter. Only the almond rochers came out halfway decently.

I see other reviewers mostly adore this cookbook. Maybe I chose bad recipes. But I do bake a lot, so I know my way around the kitchen pretty well. And with me, three strikes and you're out.

The Next Best Thing to Being There
After a visit to Tartine (which was well worth the 25 minute wait and the packed dining area), I knew I had to buy this book. It's gorgeous, has dependable recipes, and brings back great memories of a wonderful trip to San Francisco with good friends.

I've received many complements on the desserts I've made from this book. A couple of friends have bought the book on the strength of tasting those creations, despite not having visited Tartine itself.

I have many baking books, but turn to "Tartine" often, especially when I want something classic and a cut above average. It's probably not a beginner's baking book, but if you have some experience, or are a confident beginner, you won't go wrong.

Ah, the perfect book on baking!
All I can say is, Wow. Tartine is not only one of the most delicious bakeries anywhere, but they have created a cookbook that lives up to the food they serve.

The pictures are illustrative and gorgeous. The writing is clear and succinct. But best of all, the recipes are thorough. I love how they give such detailed descriptions and explanations on all of the delicious sweets so that you can recreate them exactly. This book is a joy to read. My highest recommendation (and this comes from someone who has too many cookbooks and bakes too many sweets).