Waiting for the next season of The Great British Bake Off can feel like an eternity.
The tantalizing mix of delicious bakes, charming contestants, and that warm British humor is sorely missed. But don’t fret!
There’s a delicious array of books that can fill the void and keep your culinary spirits high.
Here are some must-reads to make the wait a lot more enjoyable.
Fiction Books with a Baking Twist
The City Baker’s Guide to Country Living by Louise Miller
- Plot: Olivia Rawlings, a talented pastry chef, escapes to a small Vermont town after a flambé mishap at a prestigious Boston dinner club.
- Why Read It: This heartwarming tale of starting over is filled with mouth-watering descriptions of pies and pastries that will remind you of the Bake Off tent.
Bread Alone by Judith Ryan Hendricks
- Plot: Wyn Morrison finds solace and a new beginning in bread baking after her life takes an unexpected turn.
- Why Read It: The detailed bread-making processes and Wyn’s journey to self-discovery make it a compelling and comforting read.
Meet Me at the Cupcake Café by Jenny Colgan
- Plot: Issy Randall, a baking enthusiast, opens her own café after losing her job, with recipes interwoven into the story.
- Why Read It: This delightful story combines romance, personal growth, and delicious cupcake recipes, perfect for GBBO fans.
Non-Fiction Baking Books
Mary Berry’s Baking Bible by Mary Berry
- What It Covers: A comprehensive collection of Mary Berry’s best recipes, ranging from classic cakes to savory bakes.
- Why Read It: Mary Berry is a beloved figure from GBBO. Her timeless recipes and straightforward instructions make baking a joy.
The Great British Bake Off: Big Book of Baking
- What It Covers: A compilation of recipes from the show, including technical challenges and showstoppers.
- Why Read It: This book is a treasure trove of GBBO nostalgia, filled with memorable bakes and tips from the judges.
Paul Hollywood’s Bread by Paul Hollywood
- What It Covers: Detailed bread recipes from the GBBO judge, ranging from simple loaves to elaborate creations.
- Why Read It: Paul Hollywood’s expertise in bread baking is legendary. His book provides insight into making perfect bread, just like on the show.
Inspirational Baking Memoirs
My Life in France by Julia Child
- What It’s About: Julia Child’s years in France, where she discovered her passion for French cooking and baking.
- Why Read It: Julia Child’s infectious enthusiasm and journey to culinary greatness will inspire you to experiment in your own kitchen.
Garlic and Sapphires by Ruth Reichl
- What It’s About: The life of food critic Ruth Reichl, filled with stories of culinary adventures and hidden restaurant gems.
- Why Read It: Reichl’s vivid descriptions of food and her insightful, often humorous storytelling make this a delectable read.
Save Me the Plums by Ruth Reichl
- What It’s About: Reichl’s tenure as editor-in-chief of Gourmet magazine, sharing behind-the-scenes tales and recipes.
- Why Read It: The blend of industry insights and personal anecdotes offers a rich narrative for any food enthusiast.
Cookbooks for the Experimental Baker
Flour Water Salt Yeast by Ken Forkish
- What It Covers: A masterclass in artisan bread and pizza making, with detailed techniques and recipes.
- Why Read It: For those looking to perfect their bread-making skills, this book is an essential guide.
Sourdough: Recipes for Rustic Fermented Breads, Sweets, Savories, and More by Sarah Owens
- What It Covers: Diverse sourdough recipes that extend beyond bread into sweets and savory dishes.
- Why Read It: The innovative use of sourdough in various recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen.
The New Way to Cake by Benjamina Ebuehi
- What It Covers: Contemporary cake recipes with unique flavor combinations from a former GBBO contestant.
- Why Read It: Benjamina’s modern twists on classic cakes will excite any baker looking for fresh ideas.
Cozy Mysteries for a Sweet Escape
The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie by Alan Bradley
- Plot: Young detective Flavia de Luce solves a murder mystery in a quaint English village, with a subplot involving sweets and baking.
- Why Read It: This charming, clever mystery is perfect for fans of baking and British culture.
Chocolate Chip Cookie Murder by Joanne Fluke
- Plot: Baker Hannah Swensen solves murders in her small town, with cookie recipes included.
- Why Read It: The combination of cozy mystery and delicious cookie recipes makes for a delightful and engaging read.
These books offer a delightful mix of fiction, non-fiction, and memoirs that will keep your spirits high while you await the next season of The Great British Bake Off.
Whether you’re in the mood for heartwarming stories, detailed baking guides, or inspiring culinary journeys, there’s something here to satisfy every craving.
So grab a cup of tea, pick up one of these books, and let the baking adventure continue!
Vincent Salera
Founder @ World's Best Story™ amplifier of creativity & fun!
