Okay! I'm on my way to becoming a full fledged home baker. I have three of Reinhart's books, and I'm having wonderful success so far....not just because of Reinhart's books, but the fine tuning I'm learning from "The Fresh Loaf". The great quality of Reinhart's formulas is that they work! Now! my quest/question. Who/Which is the definitive dessert author(s)/book(s) for desserts. I lean toward European pastries baking my cakes with Genoise batter, but also appreciate American style Chocolate, Carrot, Quick Bread cakes.......chocolate, coconut cream pies......etc............something that highlights special "chocolate" desserts too! There are so many chocolate type cakes and stuff out there that are so delightful.
I've traveled a bit, and let's just wave the U.S. flag a bit......the U.S. has the best cookies....period
We probably make the best pies also.....I would appreciate a really good pie book, with emphasis with butter instead of shortening/margarine/lard. I might add, that I actually have a great Apple Pie recipe, which took me years to find and make......my quest for the perfect Apple Pie! ! !
Any help would be appreciated. Please, and Thank you very much.