Emily Lucchetti is a well-known pastry chef; this isn’t her only book. ‘Star Desserts’ is about 150 recipes from the famous restaurant Jeremiah Tower’s Stars, and it is fabulous.  My copy of ‘Stars Desserts’ is a happy wreck – the pages have separated from the spine, pages are thumbed, creased, stained; and there are sticky notes sprouting everywhere.

That said, you won’t be surprised to hear that I have made every recipe in this book, and I am happy to report – they all work!  Emily’s style is all about focussing on one or two flavors, making simple and effective recipes – you don’t have to be a whiz in the kitchen to accomplish these delicious desserts.  Her directions are explicit and easy to follow, and there are many inviting photos of the results. With the exception of her puddings (not her strong suit), all of these recipes create straight-forward delicious delights -she has a fantastic touch with cookies, squares, and bars – the black & white brownie recipe is superb, her lemon squares simply unbelievable, and russian tea cakes – yum yum!  Another clever dish is gingerbread with warm apple and cider sauvignon – so tasty;  and her coconut macaroons are wonderful.

These are all restaurant quality, yet simple enough for a home baker.  It has been reliable and essential for me, and I think it will be for you too.  Recommended!

Tags: brownies, cookbook, gingerbread, lemon square, recipes, tea cakes

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