1. The Pastry Chef's Companion by Glenn Rinsky and Laura Halpin Rinsky
This book is the ultimate pastry reference book. It has thousands of definitions as well as flavor combinations and trends, quick reference guides and more. My favorite part of this book is troubleshooting guide to fix common baking and pastry problems. I love having this book around to look up a word from a recipe or when I'm experimenting with flavors. I highly recommend this book.
Buy it here
2. The Cake Bible by Rose Levy Beranbaum
Cake Bible. What more can you say? This book truly is my bible when it comes to all things cake. In this book, Rose explains the science behind baking in incredibly detailed recipes and procedures as well as demonstrates decorating techniques and styles. This book has something to offer bakers of all skill levels. **This was my first cake cookbook ever and is still my favorite.Buy it here
Tools and Gadgets:
1. Progressive Bench Scraper
Want a really smooth and crisp finish to your buttercream cakes? The progressive bench scraper is your answer. Technically it's more of a chopping tool but it is perfect for smoothing buttercream. It has a thin blade and a razor defined edge that smooths buttercream like a dream. Plus it's stainless steel so it's less like to bend or ding (unless you slam it on the table a lot, it's not bullet proof). Buy it here
