The Basic Basics Baking Handbook

The beloved British chef shares her secrets of success and her recipes for cakes, cookies, breads, and more.

Marguerite Patten first became famous during World War II as she helped British cooks make the best of their rations via BBC radio. Her books went on to sell millions of copies and she became one of the first celebrity chefs—though she much preferred to be called a “home economist.”

In this classic book, she presents her tried and tested recipes for cakes large and small, biscuits, breads, pizzas, and pastries. She also discusses equipment, ingredients, basic techniques, and what to do when things go wrong. You’ll find family favorites such as walnut cake, teacakes, and buns but more modern popular cakes such as honey and blueberry muffins. With Marguerite Patten’s expert guidance, even a beginner can discover the pleasures of baking and achieve successful results.