The Essential Baking Cookbook

Some of the recipes are very yummy, but there is a tendency for most of the recipes to use a lot of butter, which I don't find to be particularly healthy.

From the basics to fancy, this baking cookbook has got you covered. Although I haven't tried any of their fancy cakes, I've been using this book for over a decade for the basics and it's an indispensable resource. The basics: flaky shortcrust pastry, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread cookies, many kinds of muffins, light, buttery scones, airy croissants, crisp and light baguettes, savory focaccia bread.

This cookbook is great because in addition to the usual clear instructions, it has:

* Descriptions of baking utensils and ingredients
* Troubleshooting w/pictures

Very detailed. One day I will actually learn how to make my own puff pastry.