Pastry chef and food scientist, Ann Reardon, has been sharing the secrets and tricks behind her culinary creations for years through her YouTube channel and website. This is her first cookbook, a collection of impressive and indulgent sweet treats. It features a broad range of classic and modern desserts that are as much a work of art as for consumption.

Some of my favourite recipes include Red Velvet Cake Shake, The Best Chocolate Cake, Spiral Chocolate Caramel Domes, Emoji Surprise Inside Dessert, Macaron Chocolate Tart, The Croquembouche and a Giant Ice Cream Sandwich. There are even desserts disguised as avocadoes, coconuts and cheese boards.

This is a comprehensive and detailed cookbook. The recipes are more than just a set of instructions and a nice image. It also includes explanations for why certain steps are taken. Most of these recipes are challenging and complex. Ann Reardon’s science background clearly helps her create these visually stunning desserts.

Crazy Sweet Creations is probably not for everyone. These recipes are time consuming with quite a lot of ingredients and steps. Plus, most of them require patience, experience or kitchen confidence, but are a perfect gift for experienced bakers.

Reviewed by Amber Sawyer