One day, Sutton (Champagne & Caviar & Other Delicacies
; Truffles: Ultimate Luxury
) made a gift to the veterinary staff who always took such good care of her elderly cat. Her Caramel-Topped Turtle Brownies caused such "pandemonium" that she was compelled to write this book. Sutton's message is likable: "sweeten your bonds with the important people in your life." She delivers classic comfort-sweets like Chunky Chocolate Chip Cookies, Coconut Layer Cake, Two-Ginger Gingerbread (which uses ground and crystallized ginger) and the Best Hot Fudge Sauce. More sophisticated dessert lovers can try Chocolate Espresso Sandwich Cookies, Sweet Baby Lemon Scones, Ganache-Filled Brown Sugar Bars or Mocha Silk Pie. All the recipes are on the easy side, and Sutton claims, "Many of these recipes, such as the five-minute Brown Sugar Shortbread or the Spicy English Gingersnaps, are simple enough for even the most inexperienced baker." All the treats can be made at least partially in advance, and Sutton adds helpful notes on preparation, storage and shipping. Adorable, candy-colored illustrations are frosting on the cake. (June)
