Soulful Baker

Book excerpt: Baking became a form of therapy for Julie when her mother, who taught her to bake, was diagnosed with dementia. They began baking together again, and Julie started her Instagram account as a way to document this precious time. Her devoted followers regularly send supportive messages and photos of their own bakes. Her effortless style and amazing skills encourage everyday bakers to aspire to go ‘one step beyond’ and create something beautiful and imaginative. Using natural and colorful ingredients, considered decoration, and beautiful pastry designs, Julie Jones provides ideas on how to make bakes that beg to be presented in a way that feeds your soul as well as your stomach. Across the 175+, heavily illustrated pages, you’ll find chapters on: Fruit Tarts and Pies, containing recipes like apple rose tart and plum and frangipane tart, plus pastry decoration techniques Cakes, Bakes and Treats, with dipped lemon madeleines and muddle cake, as well as tips for getting cream fillings right every time Bread and Yeasted Dough, with trampoline bread and grissini Chocolate, including a stunning triple chocolate celebration cake and chocolate ganache Desserts, with delizia di limone and a meringue sharing nest wreath ​Weekend Breakfast and Brunch, with banana, pecan, and chocolate muffins and fluffy pancakes.