THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Baker turned model, Ann Benjamin is no stranger to Kochiites. As her brand, A’s Chocolate Factory turns three, Ann is adding a new feather to her cap, a dessert
recipe book. An easy-to-bake guide put together after a year of research, Cake & Muffins is being published by Kottayam-based DC books.
“Since I’ve been involved with professional baking for many years, I understand the hard work that goes into putting a decent dessert dish together.
This is partly because the standard recipes and cookbooks require ingredients that are not easily available in the city,” explains the chocolatier.
She adds that her inspiration is fuelled by finding recipes that can be prepared with local ingredients in a hassle-free and time-saving manner.
Featuring an array of desserts including 45 types of cakes, 20 cupcake variants and 35 different frostings, Ann’s 110-page book also includes unassuming recipes such as mug cakes to indulgent treats like cream cheese pound cakes. Here are some awesome guidelines by the author for those planning to bake their own cakes on Valentine’s Day. Rs 135. Details:onlinestore.dcbooks.com
White chocolate cake
A combination of creamy white chocolate whisked with basic ingredients. According to the author, this dessert allows a lot of experimentation in terms of its decoration. Though she recommends a simple frosting made of white chocolate itself to go with it, improvisations here can range from fruit slices to dark chocolate and almond shavings.
Lemon-flavoured strawberry cake
For foodies on the lookout for a cake that isn’t excessively sweet, Ann recommends a lemon-flavoured strawberry cake. With a fresh strawberry puree forming its base, this fluffy dessert is all about celebrating tangy and citrusy flavours. Sprinkle a pinch of lemon zest, and add thin strawberry slices as a final touch.
Pound cake
“Buttery in texture, it is the moist consistency and golden brown crust that makes this one an all-time favourite,” shares Ann. Referring to it as one of the easiest recipes in her book, she elaborates that the dish requires only four base ingredients. “But, if you must have a frosting, cream cheese is one of the items that pairs best with this cake,” she explains.