A Baker's Field Guide to Holiday Candy and Confections

Book excerpt: Bittersweet Chocolate Truffles, Spiced Pumpkin Pecan Fudge, Salt Water Taffy, Italian Nougat . . . there's something for everyone to love in this sweetest addition to the popular Baker's Field Guide series. Author Dede Wilson has gathered seventy-five recipes from around the world in this collection of festive and fun homemade treats to be enjoyed year round. As in the previous books, each delicacy is photographed in full color, and there's a clear description of how the candy should turn out and how each can be stored (she even notes which ones will survive best in the mail). A Baker's Field Guide to Holiday Candy & Confections is arranged chronologically by holiday (including some holidays that you may never have heard of, such as National Licorice Day), to help bakers choose what to make for which occasion. But these sweets should not be saved only for holiday celebrations. Recipes include both classic candies and new twists on old favorites. Parents can make treats from their past (such as Sugarplums and Ribbon Candy) with their kids, as well as more ''adult'' morsels (like Chocolate Walnut Rum Balls) for themselves. Each recipe is broken down into simple, easy-to-follow steps, and the tone is cheerful and encouraging, allowing cooks of all levels to succeed. The creative can try Good Luck Marzipan Pig and Rainbow Chocolate Fish, the romantic can enjoy Champagne and Cherry Heart Lollipops, and everyone will agree that the Star-Shaped Marshmallows taste far better than anything bought in a bag at the grocery store! Armed with this book and a few simple ingredients, bakers everywhere can create unexpected, inspired delights for any occasion.