One Sentence Summary:
A comprehensive guide to creating delectable cakes by using boxed cake mixes as a base and adding additional ingredients to achieve unique and flavorful results.
Book Genre:
Cookbook / Culinary Reference Guide
Main Topic of the Book:
Transforming basic boxed cake mixes into delicious and creative desserts by adding simple and easily accessible ingredients.
Key Ideas:
- Discover the versatility and convenience of using boxed cake mixes as a starting point for creating delicious and unique cakes.
- Learn how to enhance and personalize cake mixes with additional ingredients such as fresh fruits, nuts, chocolate, and spices.
- Find solutions to common baking problems and tips for successful cake decoration and presentation.
- Explore a wide variety of cake flavors, from classics like vanilla and chocolate, to more adventurous options like pumpkin and chocolate swirl.
Main Parts of the Book and a Short Summary:
- Introduction: Provides an overview of the concept of using cake mixes as a base for creating delicious desserts, as well as an introduction to the author’s personal connection to cake mixes.
- Part 1: The Basics of Cake Mix Baking: A comprehensive guide to the different types of cake mixes and their key ingredients, as well as tips for proper measuring, mixing, and baking.
- Part 2: Favorite Cakes: Features a wide variety of cake recipes, from classic flavors to more unique combinations, each with a quick and easy icing recipe.
- Part 3: Party Cakes: Includes recipes for celebration cakes, such as birthday and wedding cakes, as well as tips for making themed cakes and special occasion desserts.
- Part 4: Cupcakes and Cake Bars: Provides recipes for cupcakes and bar-shaped cakes, perfect for individual servings or sharing with a group.
- Part 5: Bundt Cakes and Pound Cakes: Focuses on recipes for bundt and pound cakes, as well as variations on classics like banana and lemon pound cake.
- Part 6: Specialty Cakes and Pies: Features recipes for unique and creative cakes, such as Red Velvet Cheesecake and Lemon Coconut Cream Cake, as well as tips for making perfect pie crusts.
- Part 7: Frostings, Fillings, and Glazes: A comprehensive guide to frosting, filling, and glazing cakes, including tips for successful decorating and presentation.
- Appendix: Includes conversion charts for preparing different pan sizes, as well as a list of resources for cake baking and decorating supplies.
Key Takeaways:
- Using boxed cake mixes can save time and effort while still providing delicious and creative cake options.
- Additional ingredients can easily enhance the flavor and texture of cake mixes.
- Tips for successful cake decorating and presentation can elevate the appearance of any cake.
- Cakes can be customized to fit individual tastes and preferences with the addition of simple ingredients.
Author’s Background and Qualifications:
Anne Byrn is a bestselling cookbook author and former editor of American Home Cooking magazine. She has published several cake-themed cookbooks, including “The Cake Mix Doctor” and has made numerous media appearances as a cake baking and decorating expert. Byrn has also been featured in popular magazines such as Cooking Light and Southern Living.
Target Audience:
This book is aimed at home cooks of all levels who are interested in creating unique and flavorful cakes using boxed cake mixes as a base.
Publisher and First Publication Date:
“The Cake Mix Doctor” was first published in 1999 by Workman Publishing Co, Inc.